Thanks, I'll post an update on whether or not I am successful in placing an order with trade assurance/CC.
Edit: They got back to me and I am seeing if a deal can be made through trade assurance. Will update later on.
" trade assurance", what exactly is it?
Trade assurance is an escrow service that is either pre-shipment or post-shipment. The post version gives you 14 days after receiving the item to file a claim if it is not as described. I have not filed a claim before but that's the idea anyway.
That seller never responded once I said no to moving the transaction off of alibaba. Likely scam. All of the similar listings were the same.