My problem is that many sellers want to deal locally. Therefore I want to lay a charge on a company/somebody to act in my place as if I were a local buyer. So the seller won't be troubled with the distance.
OK, here is how I have worked it out in the past. There are 2 ways to get this done.
1. Contact the Manager/owner of the local United Parcel Service store and ask him to be your agent in the transaction. Explain to him the item you are expecting, how to verify the condition and operation to confirm it is what you are paying for. Ask him what the fees will be to package and ship the item to along with a reasonable fee for his services. Then contact your seller to deliver and pick up his payment from the manager. You will have to send the manager the full amount up front. The advantage here is that you are working with a reputable business owner and have some kind of recourse if the transaction falls through.
2. Contact a member of the local prospecting club or GPAA chapter. Preferably an officer like president, vice-president, or Secretary/Treasurer. Because they share experience they might even be more likely to assist you.
In either case, be sure to keep thorough email and contact records as evidence so you can get your funds back.
I have used both of these methods with success. The last time, I bought an antique/collectable garrett MD from Missouri and had it sent to me here in Idaho. This was the #2 method. Sent him an extra $60 so he and his wife could have dinner out.
BUT, always beware of Craigslist! even though it might seem like a bargain there might be danger. Here locally we ask to do transactions in the police parking lot. They have cameras 24hrs and a criminal is less likely to agree to meet you there.
Always protect yourself.
Good luck and happy shopping.
