Tips for how to sell an item online...

S

Sheriff Gotcha

New member
I was just curious about something and wanted to cross all my I's and dot all my T's...

I was looking to sell a conversion kit and if I recall correctly, I received it at my doorstep without the use of an FFL, therefore would it be plausible to assume that I can ship it without the use of an FFL on my end? Can I just walk into the post office and ship this box or do I have to use UPS?

As well, how does the money situation on the sellers end work? Do I agree to terms with someone then wait until I have money in hand before shipping the item? I've never sold anything online before.

Also, what is an acceptable form of payment that is scam proof? I was thinking a money order. Is that what everyone else uses? I've only ever bought items with a CC so I am unsure how it works the other way around.

Is all this common knowledge and I am just thick for not grasping it before hand?

Thanks in advance for any help concerning this topic.
 
Presumably, you are referring to a "conversion kit" as in a kit to convert a firearm to another calibre using an existing frame or receiver, e.g. a CZ Kadet kit or a Colt .22 conversion kit for a 1911. That would not constitute a firearm under Federal law, does not need an FFL to handle it, and is not restricted from being sent through USPS.

As far as money is concerned, yes, by all means, get the money FIRST in certified funds; A USPS money order is best. A personal check would have to be held until cleared before you ship the item.
 
When I sell stuff, I take Postal Money Orders or a personal check. The buyer must be prepared to wait up to 2 weeks for cleared funds if they choose to use a personal check. Usually, however, I can confirm clearance within 3-4 days of deposit - I make a copy of front and back of the check for my records.

Yes, seller never ships before receiving cleared funds. Once you have the PMO or cleared funds in hand, you should ship out within 24 hours. Anything longer than this, you should first clear with the buyer. Folks expect to get their item shipped immediately, especially if they went through the trouble of getting you a PMO.

Make sure you charge enough to cover shipping. Personally, I just charge for shipping; not for "boxing" or "handling". Your parts can be shipped via USPS or any other method you desire.
 
Do not accept PayPal, the receiving party just has to claim it never arrived or some such thing and they will take the funds back, leaving you in the lurch.

Do get signature delivery.

Do wait for clearance of funds, and then a bit more, there are fake money orders and accounts out there that will show up as a deposit for days until the bank figures it out.

Don't worry about the time lag between getting paid and shipping the goods, it's expected by any honest buyer and not an issue to 98% of us.

Do enjoy the experience, it's kind of fun to sell your stuff yourself.

Do pack it well to ensure safe delivery.
 
PayPal is just fine. If you have signature confirmation, that's all you need to show Paypal that you did your part. Just factor in their fees with the transaction.
 
Have done it several times w/o a problem.

I have sold both guns and gun accessories using the well known sites.

I have always gotten the funds as a postal money order or bank money order. Always shipped within 24 hours and provided tracking info to the buyer. (Knock on wood for the future) but I have never had a problem and always received thank you confirmation from the buyer.

The only problem I ever had was getting a "receiving FFL" to fax me a signed copy of his license. Found out he hadn't handled a transfer before. After talking to him and the buyer the situation was resolved and all was well.
 
Be VERY careful using Paypal as they are anti gun and if they feel it is something that violates their warped view, they will freeze your account and hold the money

Better off with a USPSMO
 
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