Understand the item and the seller Confirm authenticity Consider escrow for high-priced items Know the details for overseas transactions

Here are some tips to help you buy with confidence.

Understand the item and the seller

• Read the item description carefully. 

• Compare the item to similar items. 

• Look at the item's condition in pictures and the item description. Be realistic about used or older items.

• Read the details about postage and payment options. 

• Be careful if an item is listed very far below the manufacturer's suggested retail price, or if the listing has a significantly delayed postage time. 

• Check the item is legal and allowed according to our rules for listing.

• Look at the seller's Feedback.

• Read the seller's answers to questions about their item and terms of sale. To ask the seller a question, go to the listing and click the Ask a question link.

• Look at the seller's policies on postage, payments, and returns.

• View the seller's other items.

• Here's more about knowing your seller.

Confirm authenticity

• When buying collectibles, be sure that the item is authentic. You can get advice about items like sports memorabilia, coins, stamps, and jewellery from experts such as third-party authentication services. 

• Some item listings may contain certification information.  

Consider escrow for high-priced items

• Popular higher-priced items (such as computers, jewellery, and electronics) can be a high fraud risk. You might consider using a reputable escrow service such as Escrow.com

Know the details for overseas transactions

• Other countries may have different rules than yours.  

• Allow additional time to receive your item.

• Here's more about buying globally.