Springfield, VA
Quoted from Petes0281:Hello all. New Pinsider here, but long time pinball player. I currently own Tales of the Arabian nights and it's my 1st pinball machine I've ever had. I browse around the forums a lot and see people wanting to trade pins. I wanted to ask what are the best practices in trading games? I'm sure there are scammers out there. How are ya'll making sure transactions go smooth? Obviously if it's local you can just drive, unload, pack up and go, but what about out of state trades? What are most people doing? Any tips and advice to share based on your experiences? Thanks to everyone in advance!
Hi Pete, welcome to Pinside!
I love trading. If you put out the trade feelers, you kind of open yourself up to a game you may not have been thinking about. With a TOTAN, the good news is that you have a very desirable game.
Start a trade thread. Take lots of pictures, highlight everything good and bad. Don’t hide anything broken. Be honest and forthright. List the games on your wishlist.
Once you’re in communication with someone and you come to an agreement, you can (1) take your game and swap at their house, (2) they can come to you and swap at your house or (3) meet in the middle and do a parking lot swap. Do not ship games with a trade. Do it in person.
Make sure the person you’re talking to is as honest as you’ve been. Check their post history. Honestly, being a new member, the other person may be wary of you. Meet somewhere public, especially if cash is trading hands. Don’t be afraid to talk on the phone and trade pictures.
Be patient, see what’s out there and have fun!
