Buy my frist toolbox/using craiglist

[98ssuck]

I need some advice on the process of my first real toolbox off craiglist. The box is semi local. So I have discussed with the seller which day is good for both of us for me to come pick it up. The date is not for over a week so they asked for a 10% deposit to hold it, which I paypaled to them. But that's where I am stuck I have never bought anything from a individual where I have to pick it up. I have no idea what to expect. I am wondering what the warning signs are of place that I should just turn and run. This is also going to be my frist toolbox, a snap-on kr550. Besides obvious rust and dents is there anything to checking before buying it?

 

[ianguilly]

All drawers pull out fine, no missing trim, working locks, or550 is a good heavy box.

 

[Givl Reggin]

Don't go alone, if something doesn't feel/look right get outta there! It's better to lose your down payment than your life.

 

[Lookin4'67Galaxieconv]

You shouldn't have given a stranger money to buy something you haven't seen. Remember that in the future. As for what you should look for, that the box is straight, the drawers open and close as they should, and there hasn't been some homemade repair trying to cover up something. I'm assuming you're prepared to write off the money if you don't like the box.

 

[gsingh]

I don't like the idea of giving money to some total stranger. Make sure the locks work, slides are fine.

 

[dandan111]

I would go pay and take it home. No way would I give a deposit.

 

[98ssuck]

I used paypal for the deposit so I am 100% I could get it back. I am not worried about it.

 

[BDT/NWMN]

Write up a bill of sale with the box serial number, price, and his name and location... Should be signed by both of you.... Bring some padding and straps to secure the box, and a buddy to help load it... and +++ posts 2,3,4

 

[devilsnight]

Good stuff posted above. But really, Craigslist is person to person, cash in hand, never send someone money from a CL add. Your just looking to get screwed. And definately don't go alone. take a friend with you, at least you'll have some help loading it. Good luck with your new box, hope it works out for you!

 

[bmxr4life87]

Bring a firearm and also bring a friend with a firearm

 

[F-Bobby]

Bring a firearm and also bring a friend with a firearm

LOL Yeah this is my kinda thinking.

Everyone else has already said everything I would have. Drawers and locks are the big ones. It's gonna be functional.

 

[bluebolt]

Guys, he's in Canada, he just needs to worry about a male moose that thinks his car is a female moose.

Seriously a deposit for that item is reasonable. You are asking him to hold it for over a week, I as a seller would ask the same.

For anyone in a similar situation I would suggest the following.

Talk to them on the phone, not just email. Get their full name and address and HOME phone number. Google map satellite the address. Cross check the name and adresss using the internet phone lookup.

Bring a friend. You need him to help load anyways. Do it in the daytime if possible. For smaller items you may consider meeting at a gas station or other public place.

 

[dfreeman616]

bluebolt has best comments so far i think, i agree about the deposit.