Sounds like it could be a decent deal, IF the truck is in good shape. But yea the carfax and vin check would be a good start. If that checks out, go see it in person.
Things to look for person:
-Obviously scratch and dents in the body
-check body line gaps, such as between hood/fenders, door lines, gap between cab/bed, tailgate/bed, Etc. (Looking at these can be a sign if its been off-road hard or in a wreck).
-look at the tow hooks, are they scratched up? (Could mean a recovery)
-open the hood look at the bolts (the ones going along fender line directly under hood line) that connect the front fenders to frame/body. (Looking at these bolts could show that the fender has been removed at one point, or they don't line up exactly in they're original position signaling a possible wreck)
-look over the shocks, are they leaking oil, or does the truck sag badly to one corner.
And that's just a start, then you would want to check out the motor and go for a test drive.
I'm sure there's more you could look at, but essentially if you go over everything thoroughly, you should be fine.
Just reread your post stating you can't see it in person. I would have the guy send as many pictures as possible to you, if he really wants to sell it, he will take a close up picture of anything you want. But i would not send any money until you see it in person.
