When should you insure items?

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Security is key when you’re sending valuables through the mail. Whether you are sending jewelry, antiques or just expensive clothing, getting insurance provides that security. Insure your package only for what its contents are worth; you’re only covered for the actual value at the time and place of mailing.

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Is insurance for the buyer or the seller?

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Insurance is for the SENDER/SELLER.  When mailing an auction item, it remains the property of the sender until it is actually delivered.  The United States Postal Service is a third party and NOT liable for loss or damage during shipping.  It is the responsiblity of the seller to ensure that items are delivered as described.  Once an item is placed in the buyer's mailbox, it is considered DELIVERED and becomes the property of the buyer.

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How does insurance help reduce losses due to chargeback claims?

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Item not delivered.
Some chargebacks are initiated prematurely by buyers. This can be avoided by giving your buyers realistic delivery dates. Also, ship packages with tracking numbers and signature confirmation, to provide proof that the items were received. In addition, consider purchasing postal insurance, so you can be reimbursed if the package is lost.

Item did not meet expectations.
Chargebacks can be triggered by disappointed customers. Make sure you describe items as accurately as possible. Include clear images and, if necessary, measurements, so buyers have a good understanding of the product.

Item damaged.
Even if your return policy states all sales are final and no returns are accepted, credit card companies may allow chargebacks for defective merchandise. Purchasing insurance when you mail the item can help mitigate losses.

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Can a seller purchase insurance, even if the buyer chooses not to purchase it?

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Yes, insurance is for the seller - not the buyer.  Even if a seller claims that they are not responsible for loss or damage if the buyer refuses to purchase insurance, the seller is responsible for delivering items as described. 

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When would I file a claim?

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Insured Mail claims can be filed between 21 and 180 days from the mailing date.  If all the required documentation was submitted and the claim is payable, a payment is usually issued within 30 days.  If the seller did not properly pack an item, which becomes damaged, the claim is NOT payable. If a seller has any questions about how to properly pack an item, ask the retail clerk at the post office.

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Buyers Beware!

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Just because you paid for insurance, there's no way to force the seller to actually purchase it.  Some sellers self-insure their items or use some other third-party service.  If the seller requires the buyer to purchase insurance, the seller can not self-insure.  Oh . . And if the claim is approved, there is no way to force the seller to send the refund to you - as the insurance is for the seller.  If you feel that you are being scammed, report it to your local post office and/or law enforcement agency as soon as possible.  Of course, you should also report it to eBay-PayPal . . . 

MORE INFORMATION CAN BE FOUND ON THE USPS WEBSITE and YOUR LOCAL POST OFFICE.

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On a good note . . .  the vast majority of sellers are friendly and honest.

On a great note . . .  the vast majority of buyers are freindly and honest.