Bewenched - 6:45 pm on Nov 2, 2007 (gmt 0)

Here are the steps we take:

Verify with the credit card company that the following are correct:
1 billing address
2 name on card
3 CVV number is correct

Amex will actually call the customer with the phone number they have on file to verify that they actually placed the order. In the past we had a situation where it all matched, however the customer did not make the purchase, but their grandson did with out their permission.

Also be aware that if the card is a "secondary" card on the account that the primary card holder CAN file a chargeback claiming that they did not "authorize" the charge. We were screwed on that one.

We've also had everything match, it shipped to the billing address however the person that placed the order (once they got the tracking #) had the package rerouted with fedex, which cost us an additional 5.00 fee on top of the chargeback fee AND cost of the item.

Verify that they are shipping to the billing address in your system.
Ship ups or fedex with "DIRECT SIGNATURE" required, but this doesn't totally guarantee it. They can deny that it is their signature.

You can have the customer fax you a copy of their drivers license with a signature on the page.

When in doubt, request money order or western union payment.

Sometimes you have to go with your gut feeling because the CC companies are NOT out to protect you. They are out to protect the customer and their own money.