Safety Tips: Buying Vinyl Records Online
Dont get ripped off when shopping for vinyl records online. I know it sounds easier said than done but it's important to be alert and follow certain percautions when buying vinyl LPs on the internet or on eBay. Here are some tips to get you started with your vintage vinyl records search:
1) If you are looking to buy vinyl LP records from a dealer, ask them for references and check to make sure they are legit.
2) Review their return policy to insure that damaged or misadvertised product can be returned within a reasonable amount of time.
3) Don't be hesistant to ask for a phone number and speak with the seller or dealer. You could even ask them to play some of the record for you over the phone. If they are legit and want the sale, they will have no problems doing this for you!
4) Paying by credit card. If you get ripped off atleast you can contact your credit card company and advise them that you've been defrauded. If there is no option for credit card, payment by check is better than payment by money order because it is easier to trace.
5) Dealers or sellers who have a permanent home on the net like a webpage or e-store are safer than some guy in a forum with an email address and a paypal account. If it smells fishy, it's gotta be!
6) When sending checks or money orders, use your postal system rather than UPS or FedEx and never use someone elses FedEx shipper number to send funds! If there is urgency for the purchase spend the extra few bucks and use express mail or certified mail, and be sure to ask for a return receipt from the dealer.
7) When using the postal service to send payment, always buy insurance. It is worth the change spent for your piece of mind.
8) Make sure your vinyl records are packaged properly using the appropriate mailers and pads. Shredded paper, styrofoam peanuts, etc. No reputable dealer will stinge on the packaging and thats a fact!
Hopefully this tip sheet will help your vinyl record buying experience to be a good one. If there is any advise I can give personally it is don't buy anything from anyone if you have any doubt in your mind. If your doubts cannot be resolved by the seller in a timely manner, you need to bring your business elsewhere!
Long live vinyl!
MrBlue
www.mrbluereviews.com
www.myspace.com/basementtheory