In most cases when you are buying a laptop online (either new or used), chances are that you will get the notebook shipped to you.

Usually it is shipped in a box with bubble wrap or those foam wormies or some combination thereof.  Now, when you pay for your shipping, you have the option to insure it.  I would definitely suggest it.

Let me tell you a story about the value of insuring a laptop purchased online:

A few years ago, I bought a laptop online on ebay. At this time it was my second laptop that I bought on there and I was confident that I would get what I paid for it. The total cost for the notebook and some accessories including shipping and insurance was $1250. I waited patiently until the package arrived to try out my new baby.

When the packaged was delivered, I madly opened it. Plugging the laptop in and turning it on, there was a problem. A big problem. The screen, which according to the auction ad was good, was visibly damaged. Damaged to the point where I could see it. Do you think I was happy with my damaged $1200 investment No. I made a quick call to the shipping company complaining that my package arrived damaged.

They had to send someone out to verify that my package was indeed damaged as well as verify that it was packaged appropriately. After a couple of weeks of corresponding back and forth between the shipping company and the person I bought the laptop from, eventually I received a cheque for $1200.

Had I not used the insurance, I would have had a broken laptop. So make sure, if you do buy online, purchase shipping insurance. You won't regret it.