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| spotted: Bargain! |
1. Check the sellers feedback
While this is self-explanatory, you shouldn't just look at the percentage rating next to their name, but also read their feedback. Some stores have fake feedback- although eBay is very good in regulating such things, especially eBay sellers with stores based in Asia should be thoroughly checked before you order that 'Chanel' bag. I wouldn't trust someone that scores less than 90% and prefer the pristine score of 100% when it comes to pricy items. But some 25ml bottle of castor oil? 95% positive feedback will suffice.
2. Check postage and import fees, taxes or duties
The safest bet is to buy from an eBay member in your country, or even city. When I got my 3.1 Phillip Lim Pashli off eBay, I met the seller at a shopping mall where I could verify the bag's authenticity. Not only did I save import duties, taxes and postage, but I could examine the item before handing over the money. You don't want to be hit with unexpected costs upon your much wanted parcel's arrival. Let your bargain stay one by calculating those additional costs before placing your bid. Ebay also lets you filter search results so that you'll only see items within a certain radius.
3.Know what you're buying
Let's say you're after a Louis Vuitton Handbag, maybe a Speedy. How does the logo align? What does the lining look like? Is there an authenticity number embossed or embroidered somewhere, and where is it? How much does it weigh? It's always worth going to the designer boutique to check out how the item feels and looks. Talk to a sales assistant, and don't be shy to admit that you're wanting to buy one of their items off eBay. Another option is googling 'How to spot a fake speedy' 'How to spot a fake Rolex' or whatevr the item might be.
4. Use pay-pal for all transactions
PayPal has a great buyer-protection system, which is valid up to 180 days after you've purchased your item. You can only use this when using PayPal, although eBay offers some kind of buyer protection as well, I have found theirs to be more reliable. You must return the item to the sellers address as listed on PayPal, provide a tracking number and then.. wait. It took longer than 6 weeks to get my money back- but I did get it back!
5. Common sense.
This is a rule for life, not only online shopping: If something seems to good to be true, it probably is. Communicate with the seller regarding more pictures, better prices or certified authenticity. If they're not willing to get an authentication certificate, don't believe them solely because they seem nice. Look at pictures the seller took of the actual item- not the ones they uploaded from the designer's lookbook. Never shy back from requesting more images, and if the quality is unsatisfactory, refrain from buying the item. After all eBay is full of people that need to get rid of stuff to cash up- chances are that you'll find the same pair of shoes/handbag/gown from a different, honest seller sooner than you think.