Many people who are trying to start an eBay
business spend a great deal of time trying to figure
out which items sell the best on eBay. Many of these
people have elaborate systems for determining this
information, and many others purchase expensive
courses that teach them how to find this information
as well. None of that is necessary. Everything you
need to know is right in front of you – on the eBay
website!
Take a look at any category, and you will see the
word ‘hot’ beside some items. These items are not
marked as hot sellers randomly – there is a method
to the madness! Items only get marked as hot when
there have been more than thirty bids placed on
the item. All you have to do is wonder around the eBay
website for a while to find an item that will do well.
However, most power sellers will agree that there is
more to figuring out which items sell best than this.
In fact, they claim that it is a science. A great way
to start your search for items that will result in a
successful auction in the future is to do research on
the auctions that were successful in the past. You
can view old listings that have completed at:
http://listings.ebay.com .
A new way to determine what items sell best on
eBay is ‘eBay Marketplace Research.’ Marketplace
Research will allow you to view important statistical
information on the buying trends at eBay. This
product contains all of the data one could possibly
ever need to determine how well – or how poorly –
an item will do in an eBay auction. There is a small
fee for using the eBay Marketplace Research tools,
however.
Another tool that will be very useful in your quest for
finding hot selling items for your eBay auctions is the
listing of popular eBay search terms that is found on
the site. This list can be found at:
http://popular.ebay.com/ . This list is divided into
categories, which will make it easier to determine
how popular your potential item may be.
Don’t make the mistake of thinking that an item will
do poorly, or that it will do well without doing your
homework on the item first. Some of the strangest
things sell for the highest prices, while items that
would sell quickly in any other environment just sit
there. Almost any eBay Power Seller will tell you
that the key to a successful auction rests in the
amount of research you put into the items you
hope to sell.
Sunday, August 1, 2010
Saturday, February 27, 2010
eBay Users: The Importance of Knowing and Following All eBay Rules
Are you an eBay member? If so, do you consider yourself to be a relatively new eBay member? If you have just recently started buying or selling on eBay within the past few months you may be. As time passes, you will likely become more aware of how eBay works. For instance, if you are an eBay seller, you may find new ways to improve your eBay listings or if you are an eBay buyer, you may find new ways to get great deals. One thing that you will likely do, overtime, is learn more about eBay’s rules.
As you likely already know, eBay is considered one of the world’s most popular online marketplaces. eBay gives internet users, like you, the option to buy and sell online. While giving all internet users the ability to buy and sell is nice, it can make for some problems, particularly concerning security or inappropriate content. That is why eBay, like all other online marketplaces, has developed a set of rules or guidelines that you must follow, whether you are an eBay buyer or an eBay seller. You should not only familiarize yourself with those rules, if you haven’t already done so, but you also need to follow them.
If you are an eBay seller, one of the most important eBay rules that you need to abide by is prohibited items. Although just about anything can be sold on eBay, there are a few restrictions. For instance, alcohol, drugs, pornography, and stolen merchandise are just a few of the many items that all eBay sellers, including you, are prohibited from selling. Another eBay rule that you must follow, as an eBay seller, is to pay all of your eBay fees on time. eBay has a set pay schedule, which you will be notified of in advance. To be able to keep on making a profit selling merchandise on eBay, you will want to make sure that you pay your eBay fees on time.
If you are an eBay buyer, instead of an eBay seller, you will also have to know and abide by all eBay rules. One of those rules is bidding only on items that you intend to buy. If you place a bid on an eBay auction or if you agree to buy an item listed in a “Buy It Now,” listing format, you must do so. That rule is stated in eBay’s guidelines. If you do not feel that you can pay for the items that you bid on or agreed to pay for, it is best if you stay away from eBay for the time being. Another eBay rule that you must follow is being honest with your purchases. If you don’t receive an eBay purchase, it is fine to report that, but give it a few extra days for your item to arrive. Although eBay scams are often associated with sellers, many buyers are beginning to stir up trouble. This involves reporting that they had not received an item, when they actually did; thus resulting in a refund, as well as the purchased item.
In most cases, you will find that it is relatively easy to get caught breaking eBay’s rules. That is why it is advised that you not only know all of eBay’s rules, but that you also abide by them. Should you not, you may end up suffering the consequences. One of those consequences involves having your eBay account temporarily suspended or even permanently suspended. In rare, but serious cases, the authorities may be contacted or legal action may be taken against you. In all honesty, the action taken depends on the parties involved.
Despite the varied consequences for breaking eBay’s rules, it is extremely important that you take the time to examine all of eBay, including the sites rules, restrictions, and guidelines, before you get yourself into trouble that is difficult to get out of. For more information on eBay’s rules, visit their help center, speak to an experienced eBay user, or try and contact eBay’s customer service department.
As you likely already know, eBay is considered one of the world’s most popular online marketplaces. eBay gives internet users, like you, the option to buy and sell online. While giving all internet users the ability to buy and sell is nice, it can make for some problems, particularly concerning security or inappropriate content. That is why eBay, like all other online marketplaces, has developed a set of rules or guidelines that you must follow, whether you are an eBay buyer or an eBay seller. You should not only familiarize yourself with those rules, if you haven’t already done so, but you also need to follow them.
If you are an eBay seller, one of the most important eBay rules that you need to abide by is prohibited items. Although just about anything can be sold on eBay, there are a few restrictions. For instance, alcohol, drugs, pornography, and stolen merchandise are just a few of the many items that all eBay sellers, including you, are prohibited from selling. Another eBay rule that you must follow, as an eBay seller, is to pay all of your eBay fees on time. eBay has a set pay schedule, which you will be notified of in advance. To be able to keep on making a profit selling merchandise on eBay, you will want to make sure that you pay your eBay fees on time.
If you are an eBay buyer, instead of an eBay seller, you will also have to know and abide by all eBay rules. One of those rules is bidding only on items that you intend to buy. If you place a bid on an eBay auction or if you agree to buy an item listed in a “Buy It Now,” listing format, you must do so. That rule is stated in eBay’s guidelines. If you do not feel that you can pay for the items that you bid on or agreed to pay for, it is best if you stay away from eBay for the time being. Another eBay rule that you must follow is being honest with your purchases. If you don’t receive an eBay purchase, it is fine to report that, but give it a few extra days for your item to arrive. Although eBay scams are often associated with sellers, many buyers are beginning to stir up trouble. This involves reporting that they had not received an item, when they actually did; thus resulting in a refund, as well as the purchased item.
In most cases, you will find that it is relatively easy to get caught breaking eBay’s rules. That is why it is advised that you not only know all of eBay’s rules, but that you also abide by them. Should you not, you may end up suffering the consequences. One of those consequences involves having your eBay account temporarily suspended or even permanently suspended. In rare, but serious cases, the authorities may be contacted or legal action may be taken against you. In all honesty, the action taken depends on the parties involved.
Despite the varied consequences for breaking eBay’s rules, it is extremely important that you take the time to examine all of eBay, including the sites rules, restrictions, and guidelines, before you get yourself into trouble that is difficult to get out of. For more information on eBay’s rules, visit their help center, speak to an experienced eBay user, or try and contact eBay’s customer service department.
Pros and Cons of Selling on eBay
Are you interested in becoming an eBay seller? If you are, you are definitely not alone, as eBay has become a relatively quick and easy way to make money online. Each day, a large number of individuals use eBay to make extra money from home and a few lucky ones are even able to make enough money to support themselves or their families. Before you jump on the eBay selling bandwagon, you are advised to take a few minutes and examine the pros and cons of selling on eBay.
One of the many pros, or plus sides, to selling on eBay is the fact that is it is relatively easy to do. Once you create an eBay account, you can start listing items that you have in your possession for sale right away. When doing so, it is also easy to do. eBay has a step-by-step process for listing items for sale, in traditional auction formats or buy it now formats. In fact, eBay also has a program that lets you compile your auctions, with pictures and descriptions, when you aren’t even connected to the internet. As soon as you connect to the internet, you can begin to upload your listings and have them start right away.
Another one of the many pros to selling on eBay is that just about anyone can do it. You don’t have to have big fancy, expensive items to sell on eBay. In fact, a large number of those selling on eBay are just selling items that are taking up space in their homes; items they don’t want anymore. If you are interesting in becoming an eBay seller, but you aren’t sure as to how much you can depend on eBay for income, you may want to think about testing the waters. You can do this by listing the items have you have around your home for sale. Items that tend to sell relatively well are lots, or groups, of toys and infant clothing.
While there are a number of pros, or plus sides, to selling on eBay, there are also a number of cons, or downsides, to doing so as well. One of the biggest cons or downsides to selling on eBay is the competition. As it was previously mentioned, a large number of internet users have started using eBay to make extra money or even make a living. This is what leads to multiple auction listings for the exact same items. While this is nice for the eBay buyers, it can hurt you as a seller. When the supplier is higher than the demand, you may not make as much money off of your items as you had originally hoped to, if they even sell at all.
Another downside to selling on eBay is the fees associated with doing so. In recent years, eBay has redone their fee structure, often to raise their fees. Although these fees are still considered relatively low, they could put a damper on your profits, which alone are sometimes hard to come by. Of course, there are ways that you can the most out of eBay fees. For instance, if you have a “hot seller,” you could start your auction out at a low price, as the fees are less for doing so; however, you are taking a gamble, as you never have any guarantees as for how much your items will sell for. Perhaps, the unknown is one of the biggest downsides to selling on eBay; you never really know if you are going to make money or even if you will end up losing money.
As you likely already know, the decision as to whether or not you want to become an eBay seller is yours to make, but, when making your decision, you are advised to keep the above mentioned points in mind. With a relatively equal amount of pros and cons, you may be wondering what your best option is. For more accurate information, you may want to think about testing the eBay seller waters, as you are able to sell whenever you want, with no minimum auction requirements.
One of the many pros, or plus sides, to selling on eBay is the fact that is it is relatively easy to do. Once you create an eBay account, you can start listing items that you have in your possession for sale right away. When doing so, it is also easy to do. eBay has a step-by-step process for listing items for sale, in traditional auction formats or buy it now formats. In fact, eBay also has a program that lets you compile your auctions, with pictures and descriptions, when you aren’t even connected to the internet. As soon as you connect to the internet, you can begin to upload your listings and have them start right away.
Another one of the many pros to selling on eBay is that just about anyone can do it. You don’t have to have big fancy, expensive items to sell on eBay. In fact, a large number of those selling on eBay are just selling items that are taking up space in their homes; items they don’t want anymore. If you are interesting in becoming an eBay seller, but you aren’t sure as to how much you can depend on eBay for income, you may want to think about testing the waters. You can do this by listing the items have you have around your home for sale. Items that tend to sell relatively well are lots, or groups, of toys and infant clothing.
While there are a number of pros, or plus sides, to selling on eBay, there are also a number of cons, or downsides, to doing so as well. One of the biggest cons or downsides to selling on eBay is the competition. As it was previously mentioned, a large number of internet users have started using eBay to make extra money or even make a living. This is what leads to multiple auction listings for the exact same items. While this is nice for the eBay buyers, it can hurt you as a seller. When the supplier is higher than the demand, you may not make as much money off of your items as you had originally hoped to, if they even sell at all.
Another downside to selling on eBay is the fees associated with doing so. In recent years, eBay has redone their fee structure, often to raise their fees. Although these fees are still considered relatively low, they could put a damper on your profits, which alone are sometimes hard to come by. Of course, there are ways that you can the most out of eBay fees. For instance, if you have a “hot seller,” you could start your auction out at a low price, as the fees are less for doing so; however, you are taking a gamble, as you never have any guarantees as for how much your items will sell for. Perhaps, the unknown is one of the biggest downsides to selling on eBay; you never really know if you are going to make money or even if you will end up losing money.
As you likely already know, the decision as to whether or not you want to become an eBay seller is yours to make, but, when making your decision, you are advised to keep the above mentioned points in mind. With a relatively equal amount of pros and cons, you may be wondering what your best option is. For more accurate information, you may want to think about testing the eBay seller waters, as you are able to sell whenever you want, with no minimum auction requirements.
Pros and Cons of Shopping on eBay
Are you a relatively new fan of online shopping? If you are, you may have not yet had the chance to examine eBay. Even if you have never shopped on eBay, there is a good chance that you already know exactly what it is. eBay is an online auction website that allows internet users to sell items that they own, but not longer need or want to have. This is what makes eBay the largest online market place, as just about anyone can buy or sell there. However, with just about anything else you find online, shopping on eBay has its pros and it cons.
One of the biggest pros to shopping on eBay is the large selection of products that you will have to choose from. You can find just about anything on eBay, within reason of course. It is not uncommon to find cars for sale, baby toys, clothing, home décor items, computers, gaming consoles, and much more. Items found on eBay can be purchased in either new or used conditions. It is also important to note that many eBay sellers end up selling the same or similar items. For you, this also enables you to compare prices; to get the best deals.
Another pro to shopping on eBay is that it is relatively easy to do. Once you have registered for a free account with eBay, you are able to start shopping on eBay. When shopping on eBay, you can easily find what you are looking for. In fact, that is another pro of shopping on eBay; the ease of finding what you want. With a simple eBay search or even an advanced search, you could find a number of products that fit the description as to what you are looking for. By viewing those items, you can then decide if you want to purchase them or not.
Speaking of making purchases on eBay, you will also find that it is easy to do. As stated above, eBay allows internet users to post items for sale that they no longer need or want. While still following eBay’s rules, these sellers have a little bit of flexibility, such as how much money they want to charge for their products, as well as what methods of payment they accept. Although some eBay sellers are limited on the methods of payment that they accept, you will find that most are fairly flexible. For instance, common forms of accepted payments of eBay include PayPal, money orders, and personal checks; making it easy and safe to buy on eBay.
Although there are a number of pros to shopping on eBay, it is also important to mention the cons, as there are some of those as well. One of the biggest cons or downsides to shopping on eBay is that eBay is home to a number of scammers. While eBay works hard to eliminate these scams and shield buyers, like you, from them, there are some that get past security. With that in mind, if you proceed with caution, you should be able to safely shop eBay, without any problems. The few eBay scams that you will want to be on the lookout for involves sellers that advertise they have products that they don’t really have, sellers who claim products are in excellent condition when they are not, and others along those lines.
In connection with eBay scams, another downside to eBay is that just about anyone can become an eBay seller. This means that someone who has every intention of taking your money, but not delivering a product can register for an account with eBay and start selling. Of course, eBay catches onto these sellers pretty quickly and, most of the time, their accounts are disabled. With keeping that in mind, you just need to watch who you do business with. Be on the lookout for any sellers with a large number of negative feedback ratings or sellers who are new to eBay.
As you can see, there are a number of pros and cons to doing your shopping with eBay. For the most part, most eBay buyers have a positive experience with eBay. If you watch what you are doing, namely what you choose to buy and from whom, you should also be able to have a positive experience on eBay; one that will likely bring you back for more shopping.
One of the biggest pros to shopping on eBay is the large selection of products that you will have to choose from. You can find just about anything on eBay, within reason of course. It is not uncommon to find cars for sale, baby toys, clothing, home décor items, computers, gaming consoles, and much more. Items found on eBay can be purchased in either new or used conditions. It is also important to note that many eBay sellers end up selling the same or similar items. For you, this also enables you to compare prices; to get the best deals.
Another pro to shopping on eBay is that it is relatively easy to do. Once you have registered for a free account with eBay, you are able to start shopping on eBay. When shopping on eBay, you can easily find what you are looking for. In fact, that is another pro of shopping on eBay; the ease of finding what you want. With a simple eBay search or even an advanced search, you could find a number of products that fit the description as to what you are looking for. By viewing those items, you can then decide if you want to purchase them or not.
Speaking of making purchases on eBay, you will also find that it is easy to do. As stated above, eBay allows internet users to post items for sale that they no longer need or want. While still following eBay’s rules, these sellers have a little bit of flexibility, such as how much money they want to charge for their products, as well as what methods of payment they accept. Although some eBay sellers are limited on the methods of payment that they accept, you will find that most are fairly flexible. For instance, common forms of accepted payments of eBay include PayPal, money orders, and personal checks; making it easy and safe to buy on eBay.
Although there are a number of pros to shopping on eBay, it is also important to mention the cons, as there are some of those as well. One of the biggest cons or downsides to shopping on eBay is that eBay is home to a number of scammers. While eBay works hard to eliminate these scams and shield buyers, like you, from them, there are some that get past security. With that in mind, if you proceed with caution, you should be able to safely shop eBay, without any problems. The few eBay scams that you will want to be on the lookout for involves sellers that advertise they have products that they don’t really have, sellers who claim products are in excellent condition when they are not, and others along those lines.
In connection with eBay scams, another downside to eBay is that just about anyone can become an eBay seller. This means that someone who has every intention of taking your money, but not delivering a product can register for an account with eBay and start selling. Of course, eBay catches onto these sellers pretty quickly and, most of the time, their accounts are disabled. With keeping that in mind, you just need to watch who you do business with. Be on the lookout for any sellers with a large number of negative feedback ratings or sellers who are new to eBay.
As you can see, there are a number of pros and cons to doing your shopping with eBay. For the most part, most eBay buyers have a positive experience with eBay. If you watch what you are doing, namely what you choose to buy and from whom, you should also be able to have a positive experience on eBay; one that will likely bring you back for more shopping.
Thursday, February 11, 2010
Why You Should at Least Explore eBay
Are you interested in doing more of your shopping online? In the past, a large number of consumers were worried about doing so; however, as online security continues to improve, more consumers are finding themselves shopping online. If you are interested in becoming one of those individuals, you will want to examine eBay.
When it comes to shopping on eBay, there are a number of first time eBay users who are worried about security, among other things. Of course, there are always internet scams that can be found on eBay, but, for the most part, you should be able shop on eBay without any concerns. If you are still wondering whether or not eBay is right for you, you may want to think about at least exploring the site.
When it comes to exploring the eBay site, you will want to examine it as a whole. For instance, if you are wondering about eBay’s security, you may want to visit eBay’s help center. There you can find information for first time eBay users, just like you. You can review eBay’s policies, as well as information on how they handle eBay scams, should you end up falling victim to one. eBay, like many other online websites, has a customer service department. Should you have any questions that you can’t find answers to on the eBay website, you may want to think about contacting their customer service department.
In addition to safety and security, there are a number of potential eBay users who wonder about what they can buy on eBay. The good news is that you can easily find out what is for sale on eBay, without even having to create an eBay account. If you are looking for something in particular, you can perform an eBay search with the item of your interest. If you are just looking to explore the site, you can also browse through the unlimited number of eBay selling categories. Just a few of these categories include home and garden, baby, clothing, entertainment, and much more.
Another question commonly asked, by new eBay users, is the methods of accepted payments. As you likely already know, eBay is actually an online auction website. This online auction website allows other internet users to post items that they have for sale. For this reason, you will find that different methods of payment are accepted. In all honesty, it depends on the seller and their own personal preference. Despite a possible variance among many eBay sellers, PayPal, personal checks, and money orders are often acceptable forms of payment. To get an idea of the payments available, you are urged to click on active auctions. Towards the bottom of the auction listing page, you should see the accepted forms of payment outlined, from that particularly seller.
As it was previously mentioned, you can easily explore eBay without having to register for an account. If you like what you see and if you want to start shopping on eBay, you will need to register an account with them. As a buyer, your account is free. Within a few minutes at the most, you could be bidding on the products that you want to own. You may even be able to find listings that are known as “Buy It Now,” listings. These listings enable to you to make your purchase right at that moment, without competition from other eBay buyers. To get started today, visit eBay.com.
When it comes to shopping on eBay, there are a number of first time eBay users who are worried about security, among other things. Of course, there are always internet scams that can be found on eBay, but, for the most part, you should be able shop on eBay without any concerns. If you are still wondering whether or not eBay is right for you, you may want to think about at least exploring the site.
When it comes to exploring the eBay site, you will want to examine it as a whole. For instance, if you are wondering about eBay’s security, you may want to visit eBay’s help center. There you can find information for first time eBay users, just like you. You can review eBay’s policies, as well as information on how they handle eBay scams, should you end up falling victim to one. eBay, like many other online websites, has a customer service department. Should you have any questions that you can’t find answers to on the eBay website, you may want to think about contacting their customer service department.
In addition to safety and security, there are a number of potential eBay users who wonder about what they can buy on eBay. The good news is that you can easily find out what is for sale on eBay, without even having to create an eBay account. If you are looking for something in particular, you can perform an eBay search with the item of your interest. If you are just looking to explore the site, you can also browse through the unlimited number of eBay selling categories. Just a few of these categories include home and garden, baby, clothing, entertainment, and much more.
Another question commonly asked, by new eBay users, is the methods of accepted payments. As you likely already know, eBay is actually an online auction website. This online auction website allows other internet users to post items that they have for sale. For this reason, you will find that different methods of payment are accepted. In all honesty, it depends on the seller and their own personal preference. Despite a possible variance among many eBay sellers, PayPal, personal checks, and money orders are often acceptable forms of payment. To get an idea of the payments available, you are urged to click on active auctions. Towards the bottom of the auction listing page, you should see the accepted forms of payment outlined, from that particularly seller.
As it was previously mentioned, you can easily explore eBay without having to register for an account. If you like what you see and if you want to start shopping on eBay, you will need to register an account with them. As a buyer, your account is free. Within a few minutes at the most, you could be bidding on the products that you want to own. You may even be able to find listings that are known as “Buy It Now,” listings. These listings enable to you to make your purchase right at that moment, without competition from other eBay buyers. To get started today, visit eBay.com.
Using the eBay Security and Resolution Center
Whether you are an eBay buyer or a seller, problems
may arise at some point. That is why the eBay
Security and Resolution Center was created. Even
if you have never had a problem on eBay, and you
don’t expect to, a visit to this eBay resource can be
very enlightening, and it may even help you to
protect yourself in all of your online activities.
If you do not receive an item that you bought from
eBay, this is where it is reported. The same is true
if you sold and shipped an item and did not receive
payment for it. But there are many other ways to
use the security center as well. You can learn how
to protect yourself from identity theft, how to protect
your eBay account and the eBay guidelines that
are designed to make everyone’s buying and selling
experience safe and enjoyable.
If you are an eBay seller, you will learn how to
become a trusted seller, which will ultimately bring
you more profits. There is something for everyone at
the eBay Security and Resolution Center – even if
you have never had a security problem at eBay.
may arise at some point. That is why the eBay
Security and Resolution Center was created. Even
if you have never had a problem on eBay, and you
don’t expect to, a visit to this eBay resource can be
very enlightening, and it may even help you to
protect yourself in all of your online activities.
If you do not receive an item that you bought from
eBay, this is where it is reported. The same is true
if you sold and shipped an item and did not receive
payment for it. But there are many other ways to
use the security center as well. You can learn how
to protect yourself from identity theft, how to protect
your eBay account and the eBay guidelines that
are designed to make everyone’s buying and selling
experience safe and enjoyable.
If you are an eBay seller, you will learn how to
become a trusted seller, which will ultimately bring
you more profits. There is something for everyone at
the eBay Security and Resolution Center – even if
you have never had a security problem at eBay.
Tips on Making Money on eBay, Not Losing It
Are you interested in becoming an eBay seller or are you a relatively new eBay seller? If so, you may still be learning the ins and outs of eBay. Selling on eBay is a great way to make money on the side or even enough to support yourself, but you have to be successful at what you do. Unfortunately, it can take time to fully learn the ins and outs of eBay, particularly how to become a profitable eBay seller, until now. Below some helpful tips are outlined; tips that you won’t necessarily find explained on eBay.
eBay sellers are all required to pay fees to list their items for sale on eBay. You are charged two separate fees, a listing fee or insertion fee and a final value fee. For the final value fee, you are charged a percentage of the price that your item sold for. The insertion fee or listing fee is figured out a little bit differently. Instead of being charged a percentage, you are charged a set amount. For instance, at the current moment, it costs .20 to list an item up to .99 cents and .40 to list an item for sale between $1.00 and $9.99, and the fee scale continues up in a similar fashion. Please remember that this is just a sample. eBay regularly changes their fees; therefore, you are urged not to rely on the aforementioned fee samples.
Although eBay sellers must pay the eBay fees mentioned above, many do not take the time to thoroughly understand those fees. You are advised against doing that, as it may end up costing you money. For instance, many of the price ranges for eBay’s insertion fee scale ends at .99 cents. For you, this is a great opportunity to save money, but you must know how to do so. As stated above, if you list one of your items at $9.99, the sample insertion fee would be only .40 cents. Did you know that if you listed your item for $10.00, your insertion fee could jump up to around .60 cents! An extra .20 cents just for a penny is pretty expensive, especially if you list a number of eBay auctions that way. Before listing items for sale on eBay again, examine eBay insertion fee sale and see how you can easily save money, sometimes by just shaving a few cents off your asking price.
It has often been said that to be a successful eBay seller, you need to have good product descriptions and clear digital pictures of the item or items that you are selling. Of course, having a number of pictures in your eBay listings is a great way to increase your chances of making a sale, but it can be expensive doing so. eBay allows sellers to post one picture for free. Additional pictures can be purchased for a small fee, but that small fee can add up overtime. For that reason, many eBay sellers limit the number of pictures they put in their auctions; however, you do not want to do this. Instead, you will want to examine photo sharing sites. Photo sharing websites, like PhotoBucket are a nice, fee way to add more pictures to your eBay auctions. Register with a photo sharing site, like PhotoBucket, follow the instructions and you should be saving money in no time at all.
The above mentioned ways are just a few of the many ways that you can save money on eBay, not lose it. In all honesty, you should do a little bit of research first. Using the internet is a great way to research selling on eBay, as many other eBay users will share their money making secrets with you, free of charge.
eBay sellers are all required to pay fees to list their items for sale on eBay. You are charged two separate fees, a listing fee or insertion fee and a final value fee. For the final value fee, you are charged a percentage of the price that your item sold for. The insertion fee or listing fee is figured out a little bit differently. Instead of being charged a percentage, you are charged a set amount. For instance, at the current moment, it costs .20 to list an item up to .99 cents and .40 to list an item for sale between $1.00 and $9.99, and the fee scale continues up in a similar fashion. Please remember that this is just a sample. eBay regularly changes their fees; therefore, you are urged not to rely on the aforementioned fee samples.
Although eBay sellers must pay the eBay fees mentioned above, many do not take the time to thoroughly understand those fees. You are advised against doing that, as it may end up costing you money. For instance, many of the price ranges for eBay’s insertion fee scale ends at .99 cents. For you, this is a great opportunity to save money, but you must know how to do so. As stated above, if you list one of your items at $9.99, the sample insertion fee would be only .40 cents. Did you know that if you listed your item for $10.00, your insertion fee could jump up to around .60 cents! An extra .20 cents just for a penny is pretty expensive, especially if you list a number of eBay auctions that way. Before listing items for sale on eBay again, examine eBay insertion fee sale and see how you can easily save money, sometimes by just shaving a few cents off your asking price.
It has often been said that to be a successful eBay seller, you need to have good product descriptions and clear digital pictures of the item or items that you are selling. Of course, having a number of pictures in your eBay listings is a great way to increase your chances of making a sale, but it can be expensive doing so. eBay allows sellers to post one picture for free. Additional pictures can be purchased for a small fee, but that small fee can add up overtime. For that reason, many eBay sellers limit the number of pictures they put in their auctions; however, you do not want to do this. Instead, you will want to examine photo sharing sites. Photo sharing websites, like PhotoBucket are a nice, fee way to add more pictures to your eBay auctions. Register with a photo sharing site, like PhotoBucket, follow the instructions and you should be saving money in no time at all.
The above mentioned ways are just a few of the many ways that you can save money on eBay, not lose it. In all honesty, you should do a little bit of research first. Using the internet is a great way to research selling on eBay, as many other eBay users will share their money making secrets with you, free of charge.
The eBay Trading Assistants Program
If you excel at eBay auctions, you might want to
consider an additional source of revenue as well. The
eBay Trading Assistant Program will allow you to
sell items for other eBay members on consignment.
Being successful at your own auctions is the key
to becoming a successful trading assistant for other
people.
Often, newcomers simply don’t know how to make
their items sell. Many people who are auctioning off
a one time big ticket item, such as cars or real
estate, will often employ the services of an eBay
Trading Assistant. Items such as these can add
up to very big commissions for serious trading
assistants! Usually, trading assistants are
responsible for every aspect of the auction,
including shipping the product to the customer and
collecting payment. For high ticket items, the person
who hires
Trading Assistants get access to trading assistant
marketing materials which are quite helpful. In order
to become an approved trading assistant, you must
have sold at least ten items in the last ninety days,
have a feedback score of at least 100 with 97%
positive feedback or higher, and your eBay account
must be in good standing.
consider an additional source of revenue as well. The
eBay Trading Assistant Program will allow you to
sell items for other eBay members on consignment.
Being successful at your own auctions is the key
to becoming a successful trading assistant for other
people.
Often, newcomers simply don’t know how to make
their items sell. Many people who are auctioning off
a one time big ticket item, such as cars or real
estate, will often employ the services of an eBay
Trading Assistant. Items such as these can add
up to very big commissions for serious trading
assistants! Usually, trading assistants are
responsible for every aspect of the auction,
including shipping the product to the customer and
collecting payment. For high ticket items, the person
who hires
Trading Assistants get access to trading assistant
marketing materials which are quite helpful. In order
to become an approved trading assistant, you must
have sold at least ten items in the last ninety days,
have a feedback score of at least 100 with 97%
positive feedback or higher, and your eBay account
must be in good standing.
The eBay Shipping Center
eBay wants to help sellers with every aspect of their
eBay business. The eBay shipping center was
created to help ensure that you get your items to
your customers in a timely manner, in the most
efficient and economical way possible.
The eBay shipping center will help you print shipping
labels, help you figure shipping costs, and even help
you with International shipping. Shipping information
for all of the major shipping companies, including the
USPS can be found through the shipping center. You
can even purchase insurance for packages that will
be shipped by the USPS directly through the shipping
center.
One of the greatest features of the eBay Shipping
Center is the ability to order free co-branded shipping
boxes for USPS shipments. These boxes are
delivered to you, at no cost! This will cut a great deal
of your shipping expenses because you won’t have to
purchase your own boxes! There is also a great video
that will teach you how to save time and money on
your shipping, and whether you are a buyer or a
seller, you can easily track your packages through
the eBay shipping center as well.
eBay business. The eBay shipping center was
created to help ensure that you get your items to
your customers in a timely manner, in the most
efficient and economical way possible.
The eBay shipping center will help you print shipping
labels, help you figure shipping costs, and even help
you with International shipping. Shipping information
for all of the major shipping companies, including the
USPS can be found through the shipping center. You
can even purchase insurance for packages that will
be shipped by the USPS directly through the shipping
center.
One of the greatest features of the eBay Shipping
Center is the ability to order free co-branded shipping
boxes for USPS shipments. These boxes are
delivered to you, at no cost! This will cut a great deal
of your shipping expenses because you won’t have to
purchase your own boxes! There is also a great video
that will teach you how to save time and money on
your shipping, and whether you are a buyer or a
seller, you can easily track your packages through
the eBay shipping center as well.
The eBay Item Listing Rules
Because eBay is such a huge marketplace, with
members from all walks of life, in almost every single
country around the world, it is no wonder that there
are many scammers lurking about. In order to better
protect the buyers, eBay has specific rules
concerning the items that can be auctioned off on
the site. These rules must be followed, or the
person posting the item for auction can be banned
from the site.
Even though there are numerous categories, items
that are put up for auction really only fall into one of
four categories at eBay: Prohibited, Questionable,
Potentially Infringing, and Approved. Approved is the
simplest category to define and understand. An
approved item is any item that does not fall into one
of the other three categories. That is fairly simple,
right?
After the ‘approved’ category, however, it starts to
get a little harder to understand – with the exception
of prohibited items. A prohibited item may not be
auctioned on eBay for any reason, under any
circumstances. Prohibited items include alcohol,
drugs, animals, tobacco, human remains or body
parts of any type, lottery tickets, and
governmental property. There is quite a bit more
on the list, and that list can be viewed at the
eBay website.
Questionable items are those that are not prohibited,
but are not necessarily infringing. Adult material falls
under the ‘questionable’ category. Tickets of any
type may also be questionable. Law enforcement
related equipment, as well as guns, knives, and
other weapons are questionable items. Artifacts,
food items, batteries, all hazardous chemicals
and materials are also on the list of
questionable items. You can auction questionable
items at eBay, as long as those items meet certain
conditions.
Potentially Infringing items are those that violate
copyrights, trademarks, and other legal rights. These
items are almost always some type of media, such
as software, DVDs, and CDs, but the list contains
other items as well, such as counterfeit items and
illegal recordings. You can find out more about
‘potentially infringing’ items at the eBay website
as well.
If you are unsure as to which category your item falls
into, you should contact eBay with this question
before setting up the auction. As a buyer, you
should carefully consider the consequences of
purchasing items that fall under one of the three
categories above. In some cases, it may be very
illegal to have some of those items in your
possession – no matter how they were obtained.
Before making such a purchase, or bidding on such
an item, you should find out more details about the
item in question, and then get some legal advice.
members from all walks of life, in almost every single
country around the world, it is no wonder that there
are many scammers lurking about. In order to better
protect the buyers, eBay has specific rules
concerning the items that can be auctioned off on
the site. These rules must be followed, or the
person posting the item for auction can be banned
from the site.
Even though there are numerous categories, items
that are put up for auction really only fall into one of
four categories at eBay: Prohibited, Questionable,
Potentially Infringing, and Approved. Approved is the
simplest category to define and understand. An
approved item is any item that does not fall into one
of the other three categories. That is fairly simple,
right?
After the ‘approved’ category, however, it starts to
get a little harder to understand – with the exception
of prohibited items. A prohibited item may not be
auctioned on eBay for any reason, under any
circumstances. Prohibited items include alcohol,
drugs, animals, tobacco, human remains or body
parts of any type, lottery tickets, and
governmental property. There is quite a bit more
on the list, and that list can be viewed at the
eBay website.
Questionable items are those that are not prohibited,
but are not necessarily infringing. Adult material falls
under the ‘questionable’ category. Tickets of any
type may also be questionable. Law enforcement
related equipment, as well as guns, knives, and
other weapons are questionable items. Artifacts,
food items, batteries, all hazardous chemicals
and materials are also on the list of
questionable items. You can auction questionable
items at eBay, as long as those items meet certain
conditions.
Potentially Infringing items are those that violate
copyrights, trademarks, and other legal rights. These
items are almost always some type of media, such
as software, DVDs, and CDs, but the list contains
other items as well, such as counterfeit items and
illegal recordings. You can find out more about
‘potentially infringing’ items at the eBay website
as well.
If you are unsure as to which category your item falls
into, you should contact eBay with this question
before setting up the auction. As a buyer, you
should carefully consider the consequences of
purchasing items that fall under one of the three
categories above. In some cases, it may be very
illegal to have some of those items in your
possession – no matter how they were obtained.
Before making such a purchase, or bidding on such
an item, you should find out more details about the
item in question, and then get some legal advice.
Thursday, January 28, 2010
Why You Should at Least Explore eBay
Are you interested in doing more of your shopping online? In the past, a large number of consumers were worried about doing so; however, as online security continues to improve, more consumers are finding themselves shopping online. If you are interested in becoming one of those individuals, you will want to examine eBay.
When it comes to shopping on eBay, there are a number of first time eBay users who are worried about security, among other things. Of course, there are always internet scams that can be found on eBay, but, for the most part, you should be able shop on eBay without any concerns. If you are still wondering whether or not eBay is right for you, you may want to think about at least exploring the site.
When it comes to exploring the eBay site, you will want to examine it as a whole. For instance, if you are wondering about eBay’s security, you may want to visit eBay’s help center. There you can find information for first time eBay users, just like you. You can review eBay’s policies, as well as information on how they handle eBay scams, should you end up falling victim to one. eBay, like many other online websites, has a customer service department. Should you have any questions that you can’t find answers to on the eBay website, you may want to think about contacting their customer service department.
In addition to safety and security, there are a number of potential eBay users who wonder about what they can buy on eBay. The good news is that you can easily find out what is for sale on eBay, without even having to create an eBay account. If you are looking for something in particular, you can perform an eBay search with the item of your interest. If you are just looking to explore the site, you can also browse through the unlimited number of eBay selling categories. Just a few of these categories include home and garden, baby, clothing, entertainment, and much more.
Another question commonly asked, by new eBay users, is the methods of accepted payments. As you likely already know, eBay is actually an online auction website. This online auction website allows other internet users to post items that they have for sale. For this reason, you will find that different methods of payment are accepted. In all honesty, it depends on the seller and their own personal preference. Despite a possible variance among many eBay sellers, PayPal, personal checks, and money orders are often acceptable forms of payment. To get an idea of the payments available, you are urged to click on active auctions. Towards the bottom of the auction listing page, you should see the accepted forms of payment outlined, from that particularly seller.
As it was previously mentioned, you can easily explore eBay without having to register for an account. If you like what you see and if you want to start shopping on eBay, you will need to register an account with them. As a buyer, your account is free. Within a few minutes at the most, you could be bidding on the products that you want to own. You may even be able to find listings that are known as “Buy It Now,” listings. These listings enable to you to make your purchase right at that moment, without competition from other eBay buyers. To get started today, visit eBay.com.
When it comes to shopping on eBay, there are a number of first time eBay users who are worried about security, among other things. Of course, there are always internet scams that can be found on eBay, but, for the most part, you should be able shop on eBay without any concerns. If you are still wondering whether or not eBay is right for you, you may want to think about at least exploring the site.
When it comes to exploring the eBay site, you will want to examine it as a whole. For instance, if you are wondering about eBay’s security, you may want to visit eBay’s help center. There you can find information for first time eBay users, just like you. You can review eBay’s policies, as well as information on how they handle eBay scams, should you end up falling victim to one. eBay, like many other online websites, has a customer service department. Should you have any questions that you can’t find answers to on the eBay website, you may want to think about contacting their customer service department.
In addition to safety and security, there are a number of potential eBay users who wonder about what they can buy on eBay. The good news is that you can easily find out what is for sale on eBay, without even having to create an eBay account. If you are looking for something in particular, you can perform an eBay search with the item of your interest. If you are just looking to explore the site, you can also browse through the unlimited number of eBay selling categories. Just a few of these categories include home and garden, baby, clothing, entertainment, and much more.
Another question commonly asked, by new eBay users, is the methods of accepted payments. As you likely already know, eBay is actually an online auction website. This online auction website allows other internet users to post items that they have for sale. For this reason, you will find that different methods of payment are accepted. In all honesty, it depends on the seller and their own personal preference. Despite a possible variance among many eBay sellers, PayPal, personal checks, and money orders are often acceptable forms of payment. To get an idea of the payments available, you are urged to click on active auctions. Towards the bottom of the auction listing page, you should see the accepted forms of payment outlined, from that particularly seller.
As it was previously mentioned, you can easily explore eBay without having to register for an account. If you like what you see and if you want to start shopping on eBay, you will need to register an account with them. As a buyer, your account is free. Within a few minutes at the most, you could be bidding on the products that you want to own. You may even be able to find listings that are known as “Buy It Now,” listings. These listings enable to you to make your purchase right at that moment, without competition from other eBay buyers. To get started today, visit eBay.com.
Using the eBay Security and Resolution Center
Whether you are an eBay buyer or a seller, problems
may arise at some point. That is why the eBay
Security and Resolution Center was created. Even
if you have never had a problem on eBay, and you
don’t expect to, a visit to this eBay resource can be
very enlightening, and it may even help you to
protect yourself in all of your online activities.
If you do not receive an item that you bought from
eBay, this is where it is reported. The same is true
if you sold and shipped an item and did not receive
payment for it. But there are many other ways to
use the security center as well. You can learn how
to protect yourself from identity theft, how to protect
your eBay account and the eBay guidelines that
are designed to make everyone’s buying and selling
experience safe and enjoyable.
If you are an eBay seller, you will learn how to
become a trusted seller, which will ultimately bring
you more profits. There is something for everyone at
the eBay Security and Resolution Center – even if
you have never had a security problem at eBay.
may arise at some point. That is why the eBay
Security and Resolution Center was created. Even
if you have never had a problem on eBay, and you
don’t expect to, a visit to this eBay resource can be
very enlightening, and it may even help you to
protect yourself in all of your online activities.
If you do not receive an item that you bought from
eBay, this is where it is reported. The same is true
if you sold and shipped an item and did not receive
payment for it. But there are many other ways to
use the security center as well. You can learn how
to protect yourself from identity theft, how to protect
your eBay account and the eBay guidelines that
are designed to make everyone’s buying and selling
experience safe and enjoyable.
If you are an eBay seller, you will learn how to
become a trusted seller, which will ultimately bring
you more profits. There is something for everyone at
the eBay Security and Resolution Center – even if
you have never had a security problem at eBay.
Sunday, January 17, 2010
Shipping eBay Items to Customers
If you stock the products that you sell on eBay, as
opposed to drop shipping, you probably spend a
great deal of time and money shipping items to your
customers. If you are a big success on eBay, this
could quickly become a problem. Organize your
shipping practices before they get out of control!
Keep stamps, packing materials, and boxes on
hand. You can have these items delivered to you,
which will save you a lot of time. Use large padded
envelopes instead of boxes whenever possible. These
envelopes are easier to handle, and usually cheaper to
purchase. Furthermore, they often weigh just a little
less than cardboard boxes do, which will save a bit of
money on the postage. Purchase stamps and packing
materials online. Not only will you save time, you will
save money as well.
If you ship a lot of packages, purchasing your own
set of postage scales will increase your efficiency –
the expense will more than pay for itself. Other items
you should invest in include a rubber stamp, label
printing software, a good printer, and labels. Either
use a stamp for the return label, or keep a large
stock of pre-printed return labels. All you need is a
plan and a little bit of organization to successfully
ship your eBay items.
opposed to drop shipping, you probably spend a
great deal of time and money shipping items to your
customers. If you are a big success on eBay, this
could quickly become a problem. Organize your
shipping practices before they get out of control!
Keep stamps, packing materials, and boxes on
hand. You can have these items delivered to you,
which will save you a lot of time. Use large padded
envelopes instead of boxes whenever possible. These
envelopes are easier to handle, and usually cheaper to
purchase. Furthermore, they often weigh just a little
less than cardboard boxes do, which will save a bit of
money on the postage. Purchase stamps and packing
materials online. Not only will you save time, you will
save money as well.
If you ship a lot of packages, purchasing your own
set of postage scales will increase your efficiency –
the expense will more than pay for itself. Other items
you should invest in include a rubber stamp, label
printing software, a good printer, and labels. Either
use a stamp for the return label, or keep a large
stock of pre-printed return labels. All you need is a
plan and a little bit of organization to successfully
ship your eBay items.
Tuesday, January 12, 2010
Why You Should Become an eBay Seller
Are you currently looking for ways to make money online? If you are, you may have come across eBay. eBay is known as an online auction website. What is nice about eBay is that just about anyone can become an eBay seller, including you. What does this mean for you? Essentially, it means that if you have items to sell, you can do so on eBay; while making money at the same time. So, if you are currently looking for ways to make money online, you are urged to examine becoming an eBay seller, as there are a number of reasons as to why you should.
Perhaps, the greatest reason as to why you should become an eBay seller is because there are no minimum auction requirements. For you, this means that you could just test the waters if you wanted to. If you were unsure as to whether or not you should rely on eBay to make money, you may want to sell a few items that you no longer need and see how it goes. Should you like the eBay selling experience, you could continue on. However, if you were not satisfied with the results, you could stop selling on eBay right away. eBay is flexible to all sellers, particularly those just getting started.
Another reason why you should become an eBay seller is because it is easy to do. eBay has a relatively easy learning curve. When listing an auction or selling an item on eBay, you are given step-by-step instructions on how you list your items and get your auctions up and running. As long as you follow the instructions provided to you by eBay, you could have your items listed online in a matter of minutes. It has been said that those with minimal computer experience are also able to sell on eBay, without any problems.
Speaking of the items that you want to sell on eBay, you will find that you can sell just about anything on eBay, within reason. There are only a few restrictions, which include inappropriate content and such. For a detailed list of prohibited eBay items, you will want to visit eBay’s help center. Despite a few restrictions, there are a large number of items that can be sold on eBay. These items include real estate, vehicles, clothing, toys, movies, books, gaming consoles, computers, beauty items, and much more. Whether you are looking to sell something that you have in your home, something you bought from a yard sale or a thrift store, or something that can be dropped shipped from another company, you should be able to do so online with eBay.
The ability to make a profit is another one of the many reasons as to why you should become an eBay seller. What is nice about eBay is that they let you set your own price for your auctions. In fact, if you would rather outright sell your products, instead of selling them in a bidding auction, you can do so with “Buy It Now,” listings. The ability to set your own prices is one the many reasons why you should check out eBay. Having the ability to set your own prices increases your chances of being able to make a profit on eBay.
If you would like to become an eBay seller, and as previously mentioned there are a number of reasons as to why you should, you will want to register for a free eBay account. Although your eBay account is free, it will cost a small amount of money to sell items on eBay. Your eBay selling fees will all depend on how much you list your items for, as well as how much they sell for. Despite having to pay small fees, eBay is more than worth your time. The least that you should do is give it a shot. As previously mentioned, if your eBay selling experience doesn’t go as well as you had originally hoped for, you can stop and look for other online money making opportunities.
Perhaps, the greatest reason as to why you should become an eBay seller is because there are no minimum auction requirements. For you, this means that you could just test the waters if you wanted to. If you were unsure as to whether or not you should rely on eBay to make money, you may want to sell a few items that you no longer need and see how it goes. Should you like the eBay selling experience, you could continue on. However, if you were not satisfied with the results, you could stop selling on eBay right away. eBay is flexible to all sellers, particularly those just getting started.
Another reason why you should become an eBay seller is because it is easy to do. eBay has a relatively easy learning curve. When listing an auction or selling an item on eBay, you are given step-by-step instructions on how you list your items and get your auctions up and running. As long as you follow the instructions provided to you by eBay, you could have your items listed online in a matter of minutes. It has been said that those with minimal computer experience are also able to sell on eBay, without any problems.
Speaking of the items that you want to sell on eBay, you will find that you can sell just about anything on eBay, within reason. There are only a few restrictions, which include inappropriate content and such. For a detailed list of prohibited eBay items, you will want to visit eBay’s help center. Despite a few restrictions, there are a large number of items that can be sold on eBay. These items include real estate, vehicles, clothing, toys, movies, books, gaming consoles, computers, beauty items, and much more. Whether you are looking to sell something that you have in your home, something you bought from a yard sale or a thrift store, or something that can be dropped shipped from another company, you should be able to do so online with eBay.
The ability to make a profit is another one of the many reasons as to why you should become an eBay seller. What is nice about eBay is that they let you set your own price for your auctions. In fact, if you would rather outright sell your products, instead of selling them in a bidding auction, you can do so with “Buy It Now,” listings. The ability to set your own prices is one the many reasons why you should check out eBay. Having the ability to set your own prices increases your chances of being able to make a profit on eBay.
If you would like to become an eBay seller, and as previously mentioned there are a number of reasons as to why you should, you will want to register for a free eBay account. Although your eBay account is free, it will cost a small amount of money to sell items on eBay. Your eBay selling fees will all depend on how much you list your items for, as well as how much they sell for. Despite having to pay small fees, eBay is more than worth your time. The least that you should do is give it a shot. As previously mentioned, if your eBay selling experience doesn’t go as well as you had originally hoped for, you can stop and look for other online money making opportunities.
Thursday, January 7, 2010
You Can Sell Anything on eBay
Over 100 million people are members of eBay.
Through eBay, you can buy items in almost any
category that you can imagine – at great prices.
You can also sell almost anything you can
imagine on eBay – people often sell items that have
absolutely no real value for very high prices. There
are limits, however, to what can be bought and sold.
eBay does not allow certain items to be auctioned
through their website. Services are one type of ‘item’
that cannot be auctioned – simply because it is not
an item. Some seller’s blatantly ignore this however.
The sell of other items is illegal, even if it isn’t being
sold through eBay. eBay restricts the sale of any
type of item that is considered ‘illegal for sale’ in any
other selling format. Illegal items such as satellite
descramblers are forbidden as well.
Anything that is copyrighted - such as copies of
DVDs, CDs, or software - may not be sold through
eBay auctions. You can, however, sell a DVD, CD,
or any software that you bought legitimately…as
long as you are not just selling a copy that you
made of these types of items. eBay does not allow
the sale of ‘replicas.’ A replica is a knockoff version
of designer items, such as purses, dresses, shoes,
or sunglasses that look identical to those that have
designer labels.
Items that are regulated by the state or federal
government are forbidden on eBay. These items
include alcoholic beverages, weapons and firearms,
all tobacco products, and both prescription and
illegal drugs. There are small exceptions to this rule,
however. If you have a collectable, such as a tin that
contains tobacco, you may sell that item if the
package has never been opened, and if you state the
contents of the package are not meant for
consumption. There are other conditions that must be
met as well when selling these types of collectables.
Any type or breed of animal or reptile may not be
sold through an eBay auction. This includes animals
that were once living, and are now stuffed and
mounted. This rule may also apply to items that are
taken from endangered species, such as Ivory. When
it comes to these types of items, when in doubt,
don’t.
Tickets may be sold, but it is illegal to sell tickets
for a higher price than you originally paid for them.
This is called ticket scalping, and it is illegal.
Lottery tickets are also banned from eBay
auctions, as well as raffle tickets. Again, if you are
not sure if your item is eligible for an eBay auction,
either don’t put it up for auction, or contact eBay to
get an answer one way or the other. Don’t risk
breaking the law!
Through eBay, you can buy items in almost any
category that you can imagine – at great prices.
You can also sell almost anything you can
imagine on eBay – people often sell items that have
absolutely no real value for very high prices. There
are limits, however, to what can be bought and sold.
eBay does not allow certain items to be auctioned
through their website. Services are one type of ‘item’
that cannot be auctioned – simply because it is not
an item. Some seller’s blatantly ignore this however.
The sell of other items is illegal, even if it isn’t being
sold through eBay. eBay restricts the sale of any
type of item that is considered ‘illegal for sale’ in any
other selling format. Illegal items such as satellite
descramblers are forbidden as well.
Anything that is copyrighted - such as copies of
DVDs, CDs, or software - may not be sold through
eBay auctions. You can, however, sell a DVD, CD,
or any software that you bought legitimately…as
long as you are not just selling a copy that you
made of these types of items. eBay does not allow
the sale of ‘replicas.’ A replica is a knockoff version
of designer items, such as purses, dresses, shoes,
or sunglasses that look identical to those that have
designer labels.
Items that are regulated by the state or federal
government are forbidden on eBay. These items
include alcoholic beverages, weapons and firearms,
all tobacco products, and both prescription and
illegal drugs. There are small exceptions to this rule,
however. If you have a collectable, such as a tin that
contains tobacco, you may sell that item if the
package has never been opened, and if you state the
contents of the package are not meant for
consumption. There are other conditions that must be
met as well when selling these types of collectables.
Any type or breed of animal or reptile may not be
sold through an eBay auction. This includes animals
that were once living, and are now stuffed and
mounted. This rule may also apply to items that are
taken from endangered species, such as Ivory. When
it comes to these types of items, when in doubt,
don’t.
Tickets may be sold, but it is illegal to sell tickets
for a higher price than you originally paid for them.
This is called ticket scalping, and it is illegal.
Lottery tickets are also banned from eBay
auctions, as well as raffle tickets. Again, if you are
not sure if your item is eligible for an eBay auction,
either don’t put it up for auction, or contact eBay to
get an answer one way or the other. Don’t risk
breaking the law!
eBay and Customer Service
If you are running an eBay business, you may not
realize that the need for great customer service still
exists – even for online auctions. When a buyer
receives quality customer service from you, they
will potentially do one of two things – or both. They
will give you great feedback, and they may look for
more of your auctions in the future. If you hope to
make a living from eBay, you have to stop thinking
of it as an ‘auction’ and start running it like a
‘business.’
If you owned a brick and mortar business, how
would you treat your customer while they were
standing at your counter, waiting for you to finish
ringing up their order? You would be helpful and
respectful of course! You would do everything that
you could to guarantee that customers return to
your establishment in the future. You would bend
over backwards to make sure that their buying
experience with you was both satisfactory and
enjoyable. Why would you do any less at the
close of one of your eBay auctions?
First, act quickly at the close of your auctions.
Contact the winner, and congratulate them. Describe
the item they have won and how the item will be
shipped – even if this information is already part of
the description for the auction. Remind them of their
winning bid amount, and give them payment options
and instructions. Let them know when the item will
be shipped.
Close your email by thanking them for participating
in your auction. You might even take this opportunity
to tell them about other open auctions that you have
as well. Think of this contact with the winner as a
conversation that you are having with a customer
who is standing at your counter in that imaginary
brick and mortar store.
Once the payment and shipping details have been
taken care of, contact your buyer again. Let them
know when the item was shipped – the exact date
and time – and when it is expected to arrive on their
end. During this contact, let them know that if they
have any problems or questions, that they should
contact you through the eBay site. If they do
contact you in the future, make sure that you
answer promptly, and that you do all that you can
to make them happy with their purchase – even if
it means issuing a refund.
Yes. You should be open to issuing refunds,
depending on what the item is. Furthermore, you
should issue refunds promptly. Of course, it is
reasonable to expect the buyer to return the item to
you, at your expense, before the refund is issued –
but once you receive the item, issue the refund
promptly. This is just good business!
realize that the need for great customer service still
exists – even for online auctions. When a buyer
receives quality customer service from you, they
will potentially do one of two things – or both. They
will give you great feedback, and they may look for
more of your auctions in the future. If you hope to
make a living from eBay, you have to stop thinking
of it as an ‘auction’ and start running it like a
‘business.’
If you owned a brick and mortar business, how
would you treat your customer while they were
standing at your counter, waiting for you to finish
ringing up their order? You would be helpful and
respectful of course! You would do everything that
you could to guarantee that customers return to
your establishment in the future. You would bend
over backwards to make sure that their buying
experience with you was both satisfactory and
enjoyable. Why would you do any less at the
close of one of your eBay auctions?
First, act quickly at the close of your auctions.
Contact the winner, and congratulate them. Describe
the item they have won and how the item will be
shipped – even if this information is already part of
the description for the auction. Remind them of their
winning bid amount, and give them payment options
and instructions. Let them know when the item will
be shipped.
Close your email by thanking them for participating
in your auction. You might even take this opportunity
to tell them about other open auctions that you have
as well. Think of this contact with the winner as a
conversation that you are having with a customer
who is standing at your counter in that imaginary
brick and mortar store.
Once the payment and shipping details have been
taken care of, contact your buyer again. Let them
know when the item was shipped – the exact date
and time – and when it is expected to arrive on their
end. During this contact, let them know that if they
have any problems or questions, that they should
contact you through the eBay site. If they do
contact you in the future, make sure that you
answer promptly, and that you do all that you can
to make them happy with their purchase – even if
it means issuing a refund.
Yes. You should be open to issuing refunds,
depending on what the item is. Furthermore, you
should issue refunds promptly. Of course, it is
reasonable to expect the buyer to return the item to
you, at your expense, before the refund is issued –
but once you receive the item, issue the refund
promptly. This is just good business!
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