Best way to pay by money order?

RandomEvent · #1 01-08-2008, 11:33 PM

Ok, if I wanna get something on eBay, and only money order/cashiers checks are the only payment options, what's the fastest and most efficient/safe way to go? USPS money order? Your bank?

bongomania · #2 01-08-2008, 11:37 PM

USPS- it's cheap, like $.85 compared to the $3.00 a bank will charge, and everyone accepts and respects the USPS M.O. The ones from 7-11's or other corner stores are usually viewed with suspicion, they're easy to forge.

DigMe · #3 01-09-2008, 06:21 AM

yeah, USPS...and you might consider mailing it with signature confirmation or delivery confirmation.

bc

PSPookie · #4 01-09-2008, 06:52 AM

I always wonder a bit at the people on ebay who insist on money orders.

I'm suposed to trust them, but they don't trust me.

I don't know. The M.O. only sellers always strike me as being shady people who believe the rest of the world thinks /acts as they do.

Just my .02

Phalex · #5 01-09-2008, 07:22 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by PSPookie

I always wonder a bit at the people on ebay who insist on money orders.

I'm suposed to trust them, but they don't trust me.

I don't know. The M.O. only sellers always strike me as being shady people who believe the rest of the world thinks /acts as they do.

Just my .02

Same here. Money order only sounds like a potential rip off to me.

IanStephenson · #6 01-09-2008, 07:57 AM

+1...

I can understand people not wanting paypal (though they're probably loosing out, as paypal will get you more bids - it's just easier), but if they won't take a regular cheque/check then there's something fishy going on.

Ian

RandomEvent · #7 01-09-2008, 11:35 AM

Well, has anyone had success with these types of transactions? There's a bass I really want on eBay right now, but the guy only takes money orders. His feedback is 100%, and it's spaced apart enough and detailed enough to look legit. Plus he has answered both of my questions in a timely manner. I'm thinking it should work out, but I'd like opinions here first.

MakiSupaStar · #8 01-09-2008, 11:37 AM

Ask Spanky to check it out for you.

Pilgrim · #9 01-09-2008, 11:40 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by IanStephenson

+1...

I can understand people not wanting paypal (though they're probably loosing out, as paypal will get you more bids - it's just easier), but if they won't take a regular cheque/check then there's something fishy going on.

Ian

I respectfully disagree. As a seller, I prefer Paypal, but if not, then I will ONLY accept USPS money orders or cashier's checks. There are way too many flakes and people who never balance their checkbook for me to accept a personal check. It's not an insult to the person, it's merely a rational business decision.

If you don't have the cash to pay for the money order or cashier's check, why should I take a chance on you? The additional cost is regrettable but an expense of doing business.

That said, it frustrates me when people don't take Paypal. The percentage Paypal takes is less than most credit card vendors where people do business every day. Those folks need to get into the late 20th century.

However - the account my wife and I have at our bank provides cashier's checks at no charge (minimum balance required) - so if Paypal isn't an option, I go to the bank and save some money. If your bank offers a similar deal, it may be worth checking out.

PSPookie · #10 01-09-2008, 01:51 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by RandomEvent

but the guy only takes Paypal.

I am confused. I thought you were asking about money orders.

DigMe · #11 01-09-2008, 03:23 PM

USPS money order, IMO, is the most reliable payment method if one won't take Paypal and I can DEFINITELY understand people not wanting to accept Paypal...both Ebay and Paypal have gotten so expensive to use!

brad

RandomEvent · #12 01-09-2008, 06:09 PM

Sorry, I just messed up typing.

Indiana Mike · #13 01-09-2008, 08:37 PM

If you pay with a USPS money order and send it to the seller via USPS and they rip you off , does that constitute mail fraud?

http://www.ftc.gov/bcp/conline/pubs/...mailorder.shtm

Quote:

Didn’t Get What You Ordered?
Legitimate businesses appreciate feedback. Check the offer for the delivery time frame, usually 6 to 8 weeks, and then contact the company.

Please wait 2 weeks after contacting them before contacting us. When a delivery time is not specified, a Federal Trade Commission rule mandates fulfillment within 30 days, unless you applied for first-time credit with the company.

For more information on compliance rules for businesses, click here to read the Federal Trade Commission Mail or Telephone Order Merchandise Rules.

If so you would have the long arm of the law on your side .