How To Sell on eBay

Click on the “Sell” tab at the top of the page. Type in exactly what you’re selling and choose a specific category for your auction. You’ll pay a fee if you choose more than one category. If you have a seasonal item, wait until the right time of year to sell it.

Title your auction and write a detailed – and honest – item description. Include related keywords to optimize search results. Mention problems or flaws – failing to do so could lead to negative feedback, which will make it harder for you to sell in the future.

Using a digital camera, snap several sharp, well-lit photos of your item and save them onto your computer. Then, click the “Add a photo” button to upload to your seller page.

Estimate your shipping costs using eBay’s shipping calculator or a shipping web site’s calculator. These tools can help determine how much you should insure the item for, and explain tracking options like signature confirmation.

Set the opening bid. When determining your starting price, research similar auctions to gauge a range, but remember – lower is usually better. Auctions that start at $1 or even 1 cent typically garner more traffic. But, If you want at least a certain amount for the item, set a reserve price that the highest bidder must reach.

Choose the length of time for your auction to remain open. Most sellers keep their items up for five to seven days. Avoid ending your auction on a Friday evening or Saturday, when many potential buyers aren’t in front of their computers.

Select a payment method. Checks and money orders are common, but using PayPal, a service that allows funds to be deposited directly into a bank account, is the most popular. You can sign up for a free PayPal account at www.paypal.com.

Proofread and double-check all the information on your seller page and hit the submit button. During the course of your auction, promptly answer emails from potential bidders.

Once your auction has ended, and after you’ve received payment, promptly ship the item. If it’s fragile, be sure to use plenty of packaging materials. Keep the tracking number in a place where you can find it.

You’ve completed your eBay sale. Thank your buyer, leave some positive feedback, and head to your closet to scrounge up another item for the auction block.