How To

How to Stay Safe When Conducting Business on Craigslist

By Julie Mayfield, eHow Member Rating
Rate: (7 Ratings)

Buying and selling on Craigslist is free and is a great way to buy or sell things that are difficult to ship, like furniture. But because it involves face to face transactions, you'll want to take precautions to make sure you're staying safe when conducting your Craigslist business.

Difficulty: Easy
Instructions
  1. Step 1

    Use the buddy system.

    Always have someone with you when you meet up with potential buyers and sellers. This is especially true for women. And don't have your kids with you when you conduct Craigslist business.

  2. Step 2

    Keep it public.

    As often as possible, meet your potential buyer or seller in a busy, public location during the day.

  3. Step 3

    Don't give out your address.

    Unless you're advertising a garage sale or place of business don't give out your address unless you can absolutely avoid it.

  4. Step 4

    Use a cell phone number.

    If you need to speak with a buyer or seller by phone, give them your cell phone number.

  5. Step 5

    Sell furniture, etc. from outside your home.

    If you're selling a piece of furniture or other item that you cannot take to a public location, move that furniture to the garage, driveway, covered porch to avoid having to let anyone in your house to see the item.

  6. Step 6

    Trust your instincts.

    If you get a bad feeling from a phone call, email, or other communication, end the transaction immediately. Don't worry that you're being paranoid. Trust your instincts.

  7. Step 7

    Never put a Craigslist transaction before your safety.

    Don't take chances. It's simply not worth it.

  8. Step 8

    Use the buddy system.

    Yes, this is a repeat of Step 1 because it bears repeating. Never conduct Craigslist business alone! It's an inconvenience at times but always have someone with you!

Comments  

pianistic said

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on 7/23/2008 Great idea for an article.

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on 7/23/2008 Good tips.

acole said

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on 7/21/2008 Good info.

oneloved said

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on 7/21/2008 Good tips!

LilacGirl said

Flag This Comment

on 7/20/2008 Great advice!

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