I am in UK and often I find stuff cheaper in US even with higher shipping costs
What is the safest way to send payment without seller ripping you off by not sending the goods

I would say Paypal.. Thats what I use.. Use to work with checks and MO but rather use Paypal now for 100 percent of transactions I do.

Go with Paypal using your credit card (Mastercard preferrably). Your CC company will always side with you in the unlikely event that you are robbed.