Selling on Ebay - Three Things to Watch

Watch out for these 3 things when selling on Ebay:

My girlfriend and I sell things on Ebay and we’ve learned some lessons along the way.
We’re not power sellers but we’ve done almost 200 sales with minimal trouble. Here’s how:

1. Expectations are everything

First things first, people don’t read your product post, not all of it anyway. They won’t read all your shipping rules and costs. Often, they will “watch” it or they will just bid on it (especially new ebay users). This can result in annoyed customers when it comes time to pay or when they realize how long it takes to get their item. Especially at Christmas – users don’t always understand that basic shipping might not get their item in time during holidays.

What do you do?

We tend to avoid posting shipping rates. Tell them to e-mail you in the post. Make sure that’s written as high as possible – even under the product headline. Then go on to describe the product. That way if they like your setup, they likely will buy your product. Often the product isn’t the difference maker – it’s your shipping information and pricing that makes the difference – especially with used items or bulk items.

2. Take lots of pictures – and be descriptive

Of course you only get one default picture – but adding one is a good idea, especially for used items. And, if your product is in fair condition – describe what “fair condition” means. Not everyone has the same idea in mind. We’ve come across a couple of disputes this way so it pays to be very clear about the product’s condition. In fact, it helps sell the product as buyers prefer honestly over vague/fluffy hype.

3. Shipping is the difference maker

A lot of sellers use shipping as a way of adding revenue. Don’t do this. If you want loyal, returning users – set the shipping price fairly. And if you provided a quote that was a little high, refund them the minor difference. It’s a small cost and it makes you an extraordinary seller, and unlike 99 per cent of your competition.

And, if you can deliver a product or set up local pick up – do it. Even if you have three eyes and no hygiene to speak of, local pick up is one of the easiest and most inexpensive ways of making a sale.

These things have helped us along the way – no matter what we’re selling – from used video games to beauty products to stuffed bears.