Can someone help me with a safe shipping question?

[Lisa]

Hi- I have a large piece of furnature up for auction on ebay.  I just posted local 'pick up  only' becuase i have no idea how to ship such a large item.  It's a hutch with a starting bid of $800.   I have a question from a buyer who asks if they arrange shipment and pay for it, if I will allow the itme to be shipped to CA.  I don't see why not, but I'm concerned about how that works?  How can i protect myself if I say "yes?"  Will paypal transaction that 'clear' solve the problem?  Can I end up shipping it and then he/she stops the transaction on paypal?  I checked the buyer history and it appears that they have a good payment history, lengthy time on ebay, etc... Please help.  I need to send him a note back. T hanks.  

[Allibeau]

What are you allowing shipping time on? Do they want to hold payment until it ships?

I would only ship the product if you get paid first, I have sold cars in the past which require special pick ups.

I was paid in advance and the buyer is responsible for shipping cost / transit time etc.

Don't ship without getting payment.

Also make sure you have good pictures of the item before shipping, (all sides) and when the company that is shipping it picks the item up take pictures of how they wrap, secure the item for shipping. This covers you if the buyer says item was damaged.

Good luck!