A person can be very successful using eBay; however, here are some simple guidelines to maximize earning potential. The seller’s tools on eBay makes setting up an auction very easy, and the fees for inserting items are quite reasonable.
Taking Good Pictures and Lots of Them
Pictures will sell an item, the more pictures and views of an item, the higher the chance of getting a bid.
- Take Clear Pictures
- Make sure Pictures are not too dark, or too bright
- Use a bland background
Cover a surface with a sheet or a plain tablecloth to provide a blank canvas for a picture. Taking a picture of clothing on a mannequin is a better illustration of how the item would look when worn rather than just showing it on a hanger, although both options will work.
Be Descriptive and Accurate
When listing an item make sure to fit in as many necessary details as possible. Describe if the item as new, like new, used, or well used.
- List the color of the item accurately
- Note the size or measurements of the item
- Describe the texture and degree of wear on clothing
- Note scratches or rips on media items
- Add extra details that the buyer should know about
Buyers appreciate a detailed and truthful account of something they are looking at. It’s also very good for a seller's reputation if the item is described well and the buyer finds it matches this description upon its arrival.
Keeping in Communication
Check back a few times a day on active auctions, be sure to check any personal email accounts for any alerts from eBay as well. If buyers have any questions, try to answer them as quickly as possible. People are usually impressed if a seller gets back to them in a timely manner. Good communication is a big plus to buyers when dealing with auctions.
Shipping and Handling
Shipping can be tricky and can cost a little (or sometimes a lot) of the net profit if this process isn’t handled correctly. The very first thing that should be decided is where you will ship to, the item can be kept domestic, or choose to allow international shipping. Keep in mind that international shipping can be quite expensive. Take the item to the post office, this requires a little extra work but it’s worth it in the end. Using the automated machine, or the post office workers, weigh the item in the package that it would ship in.
Some areas shipping may cost more or less than others, depending on distance or other factors, choose a place that is far from the selling location to judge the standard shipping rate. Remember to take into account any extra costs, such as packing tape, labels, stamps, boxes, envelopes etc. Be sure the shipping is reasonable. Buyers are not as likely to bid on an item with unreasonable shipping costs.
Using these tips and guidelines can make a first eBay experience as a seller a positive one. Selling on eBay is a learning process, but it gets easier to handle the more a person sells.
Sarah Stabenow - I am currently an undergrad college student. I am currently working toward two different bachelors, Psychology and Journalism. I hope to ...
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