Just an idea that might reduce some problems.
1. Negotiate all the details before agreeing to a trade, i.e. ship date, exact details of the cigars to be traded etc.
2. Exchange telephone #s as well as e-mail addresses.
3. In case of a problem, make three seperate attempts to contact the other party (on 3 seperate days).
4. Only after three seperate resolution attempts should anything be posted. The initial posting should be limited to the facts. No flaming until you have some solid evidence that it's warranted.
This probably seems very anal-retentive to some of you. On the other hand, I haven't had any problems with trades (yet).
Maybe some of you have better ideas. Anyway, I think trading should be an enjoyable experience, a way to try new cigars or get more of your favorites without having to plunk down cash. It's also a way to get to know others. I've enjoyed interacting with SteveS, Danny, Xibbumbero and others through trades. If trading is stressful, it's better to just buy retail.
And that is the end of JR's Manifesto on this subject.