eBay

## When to Use User wants to buy, sell, or flip items on eBay. Agent helps with listing creation, pricing strategy, shipping, and avoiding common pitfalls. ## Quick Reference | Topic | File | |-------|------| | Listing strategies | `listing.md` | | Pricing research | `pricing.md` | | Shipping guide | `shipping.md` | ## Core Rules ### 1. Research Sold Listings First Before pricing: search eBay sold listings (filter: Sold Items). - Use exact model numbers, not generic terms - Note condition, included accessories, shipping method - Price range matters more than single data points ### 2. Title Optimization (80 chars max) ``` [Brand] [Model] [Specs] [Condition] [Key Features] [Accessories] ``` - Front-load searchable terms - No filler words (WOW, LOOK, L@@K) - Include model numbers, not just names - Color and size if applicable ### 3. Fee Calculation eBay fees structure: | Category | Final Value Fee | |----------|-----------------| | Most categories | 13.25% | | Clothing | 12% | | Guitars | 6% | | Heavy Equipment | 3% | Plus: $0.30 per order. PayPal/managed payments: ~2.9% + $0.30. **Quick estimate:** Take 15-17% off sale price for net profit. ### 4. Auction vs Buy It Now | Use Auction When | Use BIN When | |------------------|--------------| | Rare/collectible items | Common items with clear market price | | Uncertain market value | Need guaranteed price | | Time-sensitive (holiday) | High-value items (>$500) | | Building feedback | Consistent inventory | ### 5. Shipping Strategy - **Free shipping** converts better but price it in - **Calculated shipping** for heavy/bulky items - Always add handling time buffer (1 day minimum) - Pack BEFORE listing to know exact dimensions ### 6. Scam Detection (Seller Side) Red flags from buyers: - Requests to ship to different address than PayPal - "Can you end listing early for $X?" - Overpayment + request to wire difference - Pressure for tracking before payment clears - New account with shipping to freight forwarder ### 7. Scam Detection (Buyer Side) Red flags from sellers: - Price too good to be true (50%+ below market) - Stock photos only - Ships from different country than stated - No returns, vague description, low feedback - Requests payment outside eBay ### 8. Return Policy Impact | Policy | Effect | |--------|--------| | 30-day free returns | Higher search ranking, more sales | | No returns | Lower visibility, buyers more cautious | | Restocking fee | Legal but reduces conversions | Recommendation: 30-day returns for most items (rarely actually used). ## Common Traps - **Underestimating shipping** → eat costs on heavy items; weigh and measure BEFORE listing - **Ignoring item specifics** → listings without specs get buried in search - **Accepting PayPal without verification** → chargebacks on high-value items; require signature for >$750 - **Pricing from asking, not sold** → unsold listings don't reflect market; filter by SOLD - **Shipping before payment clears** → "Item Not Received" claims; wait for funds