outside of getting to know the seller/Buyer best you can...
COD is the best Method i have found..(with insurance)...its the safest way for buyer and seller.
I have sold and purchased using COD..... I Purchased a blower last week COD..No issues..
Also if you have a regular delivery guy that knows you..he will let you peek in the package beforehand if your Buying..(not policy i'm sure) but its the facts of it... 8)
the good thing for the seller is the package will not be left with buyer unless certified funds are produced.
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Bjuice..
"I'M YOUR HUCKLEBERRY ! "