Buying and Selling Used Trombone and Other Musical Instruments on Craigslist: A Guide to Safe Transactions
Buying and selling used musical instruments on Craigslist can be a convenient and rewarding experience, but it’s important to approach it with caution. Over the years, we’ve bought and sold all sorts of items on Craigslist—everything from bikes and furniture to auto parts, horse tack, and even a ping pong table. One of the more interesting items we’ve purchased? A used trombone.
For the most part, Craigslist transactions are positive, especially when you meet people from your community. If you’re a bargain hunter or just looking for a great deal on used brass instruments, Craigslist can be a treasure trove of options. However, as with any marketplace, there are always a few bad apples. In this post, we'll share some tips on how to buy an instrument from someone on Craigslist, as well as how to avoid common Craigslist scams that can catch unsuspecting buyers off guard.
Why Craigslist?
Craigslist is an attractive platform for buying and selling used musical instruments for several reasons. It's free to use, and you can often find a good deal. Whether you're upgrading your instrument or trying to sell a used trombone, the process is generally straightforward. Plus, many sellers are motivated to make a quick sale, which can work out in your favor as a buyer.
How to Buy an Instrument on Craigslist Safely
When purchasing a used trombone or any musical instrument on Craigslist, there are a few steps you can take to protect yourself and ensure a smooth transaction:
- Do Your Research: Before contacting a seller, research the value of the instrument you're interested in. This helps you determine if the price is reasonable or if it’s too good to be true. A high-quality used trombone may still be affordable, but if the price seems suspiciously low, proceed with caution.
- Ask for Details and Photos: Always ask for clear pictures of the instrument, including close-ups of any wear and tear, as well as any serial numbers or brand markings. A reputable seller should be willing to provide this information.
- Inspect in Person: Never commit to purchasing a musical instrument, especially something as specific as a used trombone, without inspecting it in person. Ensure the instrument plays well and that there are no hidden defects.
- Trust Your Instincts: If something feels off or too good to be true, it probably is. It’s important to trust your gut when buying a used brass instrument.
Craigslist Scams: Seller Beware
While the majority of Craigslist transactions are legitimate, it's always wise to be on the lookout for potential scams. Here are some common Craigslist used musical instrument scams to be aware of:
- Fake Listings: Some sellers post fake ads to lure in unsuspecting buyers. These can often involve photos copied from other listings or stock images. If the seller isn’t willing to meet in person or provide additional pictures, it’s a red flag.
- Too Good to Be True Prices: If the price of a used trombone seems unrealistically low, be cautious. Scammers often lure buyers with deep discounts and then disappear when it’s time for payment.
- Payment Scams: Some scammers ask for money through unsafe methods, such as wire transfers or gift cards. Always insist on paying via safe methods like cash, PayPal, or Venmo.
Real-Life Scam Example: How Scammers Operate
Here's an example of an email I received from a potential scammer when I was selling a used trombone on Craigslist:
*“Thanks for the prompt response, I am quite satisfied with the condition. I am also interested and I will like to make an instant purchase, so kindly end the advert on Craigslist. I do not mind adding an extra $25 for you to close the advert on Craigslist so that I can be rest assured that I am the prospective buyer. I would have loved to come take a look, but I am a very busy man. I am very sure you understand. I will also want you to know that I will be paying via Certified Check, and it will be sent to you via courier service due to the distance. You don't need to bother about the shipment, as that has been taken care of... So I will need you to provide me with the following information to facilitate the mailing of the check.
- Full Name on the check
- Address where payment will be sent to (not P.O. Box, because my courier service does not deliver to P.O. Box)
- City
- State
- Zip Code
- Phone Number
Once again, I will like to remind you that you will not be responsible for shipping, as I will have my mover come over as soon as you have cashed the check.
Have a Nice and Rewarding Day Ahead.”*
Notice the key red flags in this message:
- Asking to end the Craigslist ad early: This is a common tactic used by scammers to avoid other potential buyers.
- Offering extra money: They often add a little extra, like $25, to make the deal sound more enticing.
- Payment via Certified Check: Scammers frequently promise to pay via check, often sending more than the asking price, and asking for personal details like your address and phone number.
- Avoiding an in-person meeting: They make excuses about being “too busy” to meet or inspect the item.
If you ever receive a similar message, it's best to walk away. Always insist on meeting in person, and never provide your personal details or agree to ship an item before receiving full payment.
My Personal Craigslist Rule: A Phone Call
One of my personal rules when buying or selling items on Craigslist is that I will not do business with anyone who refuses to talk on the phone. This simple rule has filtered out 99% of the problems I’ve encountered, and it’s a great way to confirm the legitimacy of the buyer or seller. If someone can’t take the time to chat on the phone, that’s usually a sign that they’re not serious or that something’s off.
Final Thoughts: Enjoy the Hunt, but Stay Safe
Buying and selling on Craigslist can be a fun and rewarding experience. It’s a great way to find deals on used brass instruments, like a used trombone, and connect with others in your community. By taking a few precautions—researching the instrument, meeting in person, and using safe payment methods—you can avoid most of the scams that sometimes crop up.
We hope that you find these tips useful!
