Any Drawbacks to COD

Avguygeorge, this site is still safer than Ebay, but not as safe as it used to be when I first joined (Sept 2000) IMHO. I see you've been a member longer than me. As AudiogoN and the internet in general become more established and recognized, the seedy underworld element has become more entrenched as well.

I'm more careful with dealings today then 4 years ago, it seems there are so many more scammers now. There are still many fine members here, one just has to be more careful nowadays. That of course is just my 2 cents.

John

Any drawbacks to selling and shipping COD?

Yes, the buyer can change his/her mind, refuse delivery, and stick you with shipping charges both ways. You item also has twice as much chance to be damaged in transit.

One option that I've read before that seems to make sense to me, is to have the buyer pay double the shipping + a little 'safety fee' up front, before shipping COD.
For instance, if I'm selling a $2000 preamp and shipping is $40 ($2040), I would ask the buyer for a $100 MO non-refundable deposit. I then would ship the preamp COD for $1940. If the buyer refuses delivery, I re-list and sell the item again, and keep the $100 for shipping/services rendered.

I've over 150 transactions between AudiogoN/Ebay, and never used COD as a seller or buyer. However, this solution I've seen from previous threads seems fair for both parties, IMHO.

Cheers,
John