WWMD:Paying for and shipping large (expensive) item

[AKturnanburn]

So I think I found a good deal on a sled in WA state. I have the shipping all figured out but I'm not sure, logistically, the best way to carry out the transaction. Do I send dudeman a money order (for 8k frikkin$'s) and hope all goes well? do I use paypal and cover the extra $200 worth of charges? maybe a check and wait till the sled comes to let it clear? I've done several forum type transactions and everytime its gone smoothly, but this is a little higher risk and I need some advice on the best action to take.

I don't really know anyone well enough in tacoma to oversee the deal and I'd rather not have to fly down there just for this.

I remember brett having some questions about this too but I think he got some help from a bud.

[str8line]

Is it brand new? If not get a ton of close up photos. Also, try to get a fellow maggot to go to the guys house and start it. Have them make sure the sled is cold when they start it. Other than that you'll pretty much have to go on gut instinct regarding the guys trustworthiness. If you have one iota of doubt don't do it.

[AKturnanburn]

it only has 600miles on it and I have seen several photos which look fine. good Idea on the closer up ones though. are there any PNW mags that wanna go check this thing out for me? (its worth a couple days of schralpin the gnar and some brews in AK)

kinda like this...