My vinyl friend David Schofield, operator of www.vinylrecordslive.co.uk has made up a 'common sense' list for all buyers of vinyl records. Thanks David, it all makes perfect sense!
How to make sure you are buying records safely on the net.
Unfortunately buying records safely in the net can be a bit of a lottery. How often have you heard of friends being fooled by unscrupulous individuals saying they are recommended dealers? Here are 9 simple and straightforward ideas to ensure it doesn’t happen to you.
1. Before buying from someone who represents themselves as a record dealer, ask for references - and check them! Anyone who says they are a dealer would not have a problem with supplying references - so don't hesitate in asking for them!
2. Check the dealer's return policy and make sure that you may return damaged or mis-graded product within a reasonable amount of time. Don't expect a dealer to accept returns weeks after the fact or accept returns simply because you don't like the record you ordered.
3. Pay by credit card. All credit cards companies offer recourse these days.
4. If not paying by card - use PayPal. I find it invaluable in these days as it provides a wonderful audit trail.
5. Dealers who have their own websites are a safer bet than those who don't. Setting up shop on the net indicates a degree of permanence and commitment.
6. If you still have some doubts, ask that your package be shipped COD. Don't expect the dealer, however, to pay the COD charges.
7. Always buy postal insurance. This small investment is prudent. Don't assume the dealer will automatically mail with insurance, always specify it.
8. Always request recorded delivery. You will have to sign for the package on delivery so ensuring the dealer cannot simply say "but …I did post it". This will protect both you and the dealer, as, again, it provides a wonderful audit trail.
9. Don't forget to ensure the dealer packages your prized records correctly! Any decent dealer wouldn't think twice - but I once bought a record from Ebay before I knew better, and it came in a normal envelope - it was not surprising that by the time it reached me it was no good!
Written by David Schofield
http://www.vinylrecordslive.co.uk/
All things Vinyl: How do you care for records - appraise albums, values of records. All the best Valve amplifiers and ‘old’ record decks. Discography of the best music available on Vinyl Records
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