Selling your unwanted stuff on eBay is a great way to make extra money. But everyone else seems to be doing it and customer ratings can make or break you. How do you maximise your chances of making a sale?
Annie Wood has been selling on eBay for over 10 years and still has a 100% rating after more than 1,300 transactions. As someone who has run everything from a lolly tray at school to a fashion pop-up, she has made and learned from her fair share of mistakes. Here are Annie’s top tips for cracking the eBay market.
Do your research
Why sell something on eBay if it’s only going to go for a dollar? Your treasure might be someone else’s trash or there could be an over-supply. By searching for it in Completed Listings you can see what it has sold for previously. This is an option in Advanced Search.
Timing is everything
If you decide to sell by Auction, list it for 10 days starting on a Thursday night at about 8.30pm. That way it runs over two full weekends, a good time for idle internet shopping. Buy It Now is really good for stuff that you know has value and there is less risk of you losing money. Also make sure your listing doesn’t end just before pay day.
Be accurate
Take really good photos. Provide up to 12 if you can. Be very detailed in your write-up and avoid typos!. If you find an official product listing on eBay, you can choose to Sell One Like This and use all that wording.
You should take photos of and disclose any product faults including tears, stains and scratches. Check coats inside and out for torn pockets, loose seams and lost buttons. A damaged product can end up costing you more money and your ratings will take a hit.
Know what’s on the table
Ebay prohibits items like used make up. Some used cosmetics can be sold but there are restrictions. And if you’re a newbie seller, stay away from designer bags, smartphones and other electronics. Ebay is very strict about fakes and “I didn’t know” is not a valid excuse.
Pricing your postage
Check the dimensions of your package so you price postage accurately. There is a big price difference between large letter size and a small parcel. Don’t lose out but don’t overcharge. Your buyers are often spoilt for choice with sellers offering free postage.