we use Paypal whenever we can, without being a member (verified with a bank account) for super fast payment which all sellers like - however, if a seller does not accept PayPal we know they will accept a Bank Money (like a cashiers check) which to us is free.

As for shipping, we figure it into our bid, and as for insurance, never have taken it and NEVER have had a problem, if a seller has insurance included we backoff because in our experience when the package arrives there has been no insurance paid for.

We also tend to buy from fellow chippers which seems to make a big difference in attitude.