PayPal the company is trustworthy
However you are dealing with third parties who are sellers or buyers — and those third parties can be good or they can be a problem.
There are many terms and conditions that can affect whether your transaction with a seller or a buyer is covered by PayPal protection. Do not assume that PayPal will automatically protect you if the other party commits fraud. Read and understand the PayPal terms before entering into transactions.
Purchase protection https://cms.paypal.com/ca/cgi-bin/?cmd=_render-content&content_ID=security/safe_online_shopping
Seller Protection https://cms.paypal.com/ca/cgi-bin/?cmd=_render-content&content_ID=security/seller_protection_learn_more
When shipping goods ALWAYS insist on insurance, ALWAYS ship only to the PayPal verified address for the buyer, and ALWAYS require signature on delivery. No exceptions.
Do not use PayPal for goods that are picked up in person – only ship with proof of delivery. Taking a digital photo of the goods before shipping could help in settling damage claims.
When buying goods, insist that the seller send it by an insured, trackable method. If you have an issue with a seller, you need to file a dispute within 45 days. Do not let the seller talk you into waiting – you can always cancel the dispute if the goods show up, but you can’t do anything after the expiry of the dispute period.
International: If you are purchasing cross-border, realize that you the buyer will be responsible for all import duties, taxes and customs brokerage fees. These fees can add up quickly, do your research before bidding. Often the best method is to have it shipped by parcel post, registered and with insurance, as the post office doesn’t tack on large brokerage service charges as some couriers do. A cross border package needs to be declared accurately for customs, with the actual purchase price. Do not permit the seller to understate the price, and conversely, do not permit them to insure the package for an inflated amount (hoping for a windfall if it is lost or damaged). You could be charged tax and duties based on the inflated insured value, and it is difficult or impossible to get that money back.