Platform-by-platform
StockX & GOAT (Exchange)
Every item is authenticated before delivery. The seller ships to the platform, experts verify condition and authenticity, then it ships to you. If it fails, the transaction is cancelled and you’re refunded. In SPRD, these quotes show a green shield icon. This is the safest way to buy.eBay
Two layers of protection:- Authenticity Guarantee (AG) — For sneakers over $100, eBay routes items through a third-party authenticator before delivery. Same concept as StockX/GOAT. In SPRD, AG listings show a green shield. AG shipping is included in the buyer cost breakdown.
- Money Back Guarantee — All eBay purchases are covered. If the item doesn’t match the listing (wrong item, fake, damaged), you can return it for a full refund. This applies even to non-AG listings.
eBay AG only applies to sneakers over $100 in eligible categories. Below that threshold, you still have Money Back Guarantee but no physical authentication.
Mercari
Mercari holds payment until you confirm the item. You have 3 days after delivery to inspect and either accept or open a return. No physical authentication, but the hold period gives you time to verify.Depop
Buyer protection via Depop Payments. If the item is significantly not as described, you can open a dispute. No authentication service.Grailed
Buyer protection through PayPal. File a dispute if the item is fake or not as described. No platform authentication, but Grailed’s community is authentication-aware — sellers often include LegitApp certificates.Reddit & Facebook
No platform protection. Transactions are direct (PayPal, Venmo, Zelle). PayPal Goods & Services offers some dispute protection, but Friends & Family does not.Self-authentication
For P2P purchases or high-value items without platform authentication, use a third-party service.LegitApp
The most common option for sneakers and streetwear.Collect photos
Clear photos of the box label, size tag, insole, outsole, and stitching details. If using a forwarding service, request their photo inspection.
Other services
| Service | Best for | Cost |
|---|---|---|
| LegitApp | Sneakers, streetwear | $3-5 |
| CheckCheck | Sneakers | $3-5 |
| Entrupy | Luxury goods, handbags | $10+ (requires device) |
When to authenticate yourself
- Always for P2P purchases (Reddit, Facebook) over $100
- Recommended for eBay non-AG listings from low-feedback sellers
- Not needed for StockX, GOAT, or eBay AG — the platform handles it
When selling
- On StockX/GOAT — The platform re-authenticates, but verifying before listing protects you from unknowingly selling a fake
- On P2P platforms — Share your LegitApp certificate in the listing. Authenticated items sell faster and at higher prices
Trust badges in SPRD
- Green shield — Platform-authenticated (StockX, GOAT, eBay AG)
- Amber check — Top seller with strong track record
- No badge — New or unverified seller