I've recently used the automated label/postage shipping feature, and it works like a dream! FAST, same postage as at USPS, and you can even request a free pick-up. Once the label is printed, I believe it marks the item as "shipped". FAR EASIER THAN MAILING A CHECK, OR GETTING A MONEY ORDER - but, if you are the seller, you have to use a lot of caution with expensive items (I always wait a few days, just to be sure a fraud chargeback isn't lurking)...

I'm no expert; these are just my recent experiences. Sorry about your big loss - really not cool; but there are bad people out there...