Keep photos, packaging and documents until everything is verified

Do not immediately discard the records associated with the purchase.

Until the gear has been fully checked, keep:

• the listing or its key details;
• the conversation;
• proof of payment;
• tracking information;
• photographs supplied by the seller;
• packaging, especially if it shows damage;
• any documents or serial information.

Once everything is confirmed, you can decide what to archive long term.

For valuable gear, retaining the serial number, receipt and modification history can also be useful for maintenance, insurance or future resale.