Tips and tricks
Here are some tips to stay safe on Garage.Market:
Protect your privacy
- Don't share your financial information (example: PayPal login and password, bank account info) with buyers or sellers.
- If you're selling electronics, make sure you've cleared any personal information from the device.
Meet in a safe location
- If you're meeting up with someone to buy or sell something, we recommend going to a public place.
Verify the item in person
- If you're buying an item, make sure it's what you want before you pay for it. For high-value items (example: watches, luxury bags), you can request a certificate of authenticity or proof of purchase.
- If you're not satisfied with an item's condition or have doubts about its authenticity, you can decline to complete the purchase. If the seller offers to ship the item rather than meeting in person, keep in mind that you won't have the chance to verify it.
Use cash or person-to-person payment methods
- Buyers and sellers should offer or accept cash or person-to-person payments (example: PayPal, Venmo).
- If you choose to pay electronically using wire transfer or money order solutions, avoid payment links, and log in directly through the payment method's website.
- Keep in mind that cashier and certified checks can be counterfeit. Transactions are between the buyer and seller only, and no third-party guarantee should be involved.
Don't buy or sell recalled items
- In many places, it's illegal to sell recalled items. If you're unsure whether the item you're buying or selling has been recalled, look on the website of the item's manufacturer for this information.
Watch out for counterfeit items
- It's illegal to sell counterfeit items in most countries, and counterfeits aren't allowed on Garage.Market. We recommend that you review any items you buy to make sure that they're genuine.