If I list something that is collection only

[saltire]

Should I put down cash on collection only as a payment option, or paypal and cash only. obviously I won't want cheque as it might not clear and the person will have my item

Paypal, cash and postal order are all safe. Bankers draft is too, isn't it?

I've never used a bankers draft. If it involves giving out bank details I wouldn't use it!
Will list it with postal order, cash or paypal then anhd see how I get on

don't accept paypal. they can collect then go home and take the money back. You will have no proof they have collected

Have them sign and date a printout of the item to prove that they collected it.

paypal wouldn't accept that I'm afraid

Can this paypal refund also happen with something delivered through royal mail (non-signature) and the buyer claims never to have received it? Or will paypal accept proof of posting?

If a buyer files an item not received with paypal and you have not sent it trackable or have not sent it to the verified paypal address they can and will give the money back to the buyer. I've not had it happen to me but I believe that they will also charge you a £6 handling fee for the priviledge of taking your money.

This does happen a lot.

A lot of sellers put on their listings something like - "I am not responsible for items lost or damaged in the post. I always obtain proof of posting so that you can make a claim" - this is an open invitation to buyers for them buy, pay by paypal then to claim item not received and get a full refund. the seller will soon learn that they are in fact responsible and if only they didn't inform everyone that that they don't send 'trackable'

blimey, that is outrageous, considering how much fees paypal charges sellers. Now I know why some sellers don't accept paypal.

Saltire - not sure if you have noticed but each and every cheque you write have your bank account no and sort code on!