Safe pickup spots
Updated September 30, 2026
For small and mid-size items, meet where there are people, lights, and cameras. These staffed public locations are good choices during their open hours. Park near the entrance and do the exchange there.
None of these agencies has told us it runs an official “safe exchange zone” for online sales. They are simply staffed, public places. If you're unsure, call the non-emergency number first. In an emergency, call 911.
Ocean Isle Beach Police Department111 Causeway Drive, Ocean Isle Beach, NC 28469Mon–Fri, 9 a.m.–5 p.m. · Non-emergency 910-579-4221Open in Maps
Sunset Beach Police Department700 Sunset Blvd. N., Sunset Beach, NC 28468Weekdays (call ahead) · Non-emergency 910-253-7490Open in Maps
Brunswick County Sheriff's Office — Calabash Substation10176 Beach Drive, Calabash, NC 28467Mon–Fri, 8:30 a.m.–5 p.m.Open in Maps
Brunswick County Sheriff's Office — Ash/Waccamaw Substation5841 Waccamaw School Rd NW, Ash, NC 28420Mon–Fri, 8:30 a.m.–5 p.m.Open in Maps
Brunswick County Sheriff's Office — Main Office70 Stamp Act Drive, Bolivia, NC 28422Mon–Fri, 8:30 a.m.–5 p.m. (lobby)Open in Maps
Brunswick County Sheriff's Office — Leland Substation121 Town Hall Dr, Leland, NC 28451Mon–Fri, 8 a.m.–4 p.m.Open in Maps
Big items (boats, trailers, RVs, furniture)
- Meet in daylight and bring a friend.
- For vehicles, trailers, and boats, check the title and VIN or hull number against the seller's ID before paying.
- If the item has to be picked up at a home, the seller can share the address privately once you've agreed on a time.
Every sale
- See the item before you pay. Never send deposits, gift cards, crypto, or verification codes.
- Be wary of “my cousin will pick it up” and overpayment stories.
- More tips on our safety page.
Know another public meet-up spot we should add? Tell us and we'll confirm it with the agency.