I bought my Singer Ultralock off ebay, including shipping it was about $150 Canadian. I didn't have any problems and the person I bought it from did have a good feedback rating and described to me how he/she would pack the item, which was perfect. Just make sure it comes with: Foot pedal, Manual.
I was told sewing machines should be shipped with the needle and pressure foot down with a piece of fabric between the foot and bed, My serger came this way too. It works just fine.
Maybe ask the seller if the auction doesn't specify , if they have tested the unit with thread and fabric......just because the motor runs doesn't mean there are no problems.
Good feedback is better than high feedback, and read the comments for indications of how well the seller packs and ships. For any comments with a link to the item, look to see what was sold. You want 99% positive feedback or better. Get questions asked and answered before you bid. Find out the return policy, pay with Paypal or a credit card.
I've bought my last two machines through TP and feel I got a better price than eBay because I've watched eBay prior to, and since buying the overlocker, and last month a sewing/embroidery machine.
AusPost post offices won't always accept sewing machines due to their weight/size/etc......some PO's will and some won't, so if the seller's PO is one that won't accept them, try this can also be cheaper over longer distances, but well worth comparing shipping costs.
As you mentioned, check the eBay seller's feedback but I'd also suggest you ask that they pack the machine in it's original box with polystyrene moulded packaging which prevents any movement. Apparently the original box from the last machine I bought wasn't available and although there were lots of 'airbags' around the machine, the box used was a popcorn box so a very lightweight cardboard and I don't know how the machine didn't fall through the bottom. Just shows that AusPost does take care of parcels these days. Make sure you pay for insurance to cover replacement of the machine in case the unexpected happens, it's worth the few extra $$$'s for peace of mind.
In most cases it's the buyer. And, unfortunately, in most cases the seller will not accept responsibility for the package once it's out of their hands; it's up to the buyer to pay additional insurance.
The biggest pain is if the item arrives broken or damaged. Some sellers are a PITA about dealing with this, but they HAVE to because most shippers require the sender to initiate the claim (receiver of package can't do anything). I won't buy any more sewing machines through eBay unless I can pick them up or arrange for a pony-express setup because of the crap I've had to deal with when a machine arrives broken or even worse, if it's NOT as described.....
-Irene
-------------- You only live once, but if you do it right, once is enough.=20
Generally the buyer - although some dealers (eg Graham Forsdyke) include it in the overall price - this is a good deal if you're in the US buying a featherweight from him, but not so good if you're in the UK. Read the listing carefully, and if in any doubt, *ask*
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