Keep track of all expenses for when you do your taxes. Separate inventory receipts from receipts for shipping supplies or other things. Keep track of mileage when going to stores or the post office to deduct as a business expense. If you dedicate a room or space in your home exclusively for your reselling business, you can also deduct that square footage as a business expense. All eBay fees and any other subscriptions are business expenses.
I put everything down in my business checking account bank register that is linked to eBay. I write down when I draw out cash for thrift sales and I write down what I spend at each thrift sale and have the thrift sale owner initial it, so I have proof of the cash purchase. I do save receipts for all goodwill and thrift store and country auction purchases also. but at the end of the year I only have to go to my check book registers for most of my expenses.
@@lisalutterbach6843 You can open up a separate checking account just for your reselling business and register that with eBay. That keeps your business stuff separate from your household stuff.
@Vicki Olson how do you know how much to save to pay for taxes at end of year, and how much is your profit and you are bringing in? Also do you need a reseller license?
One of the three best bits of advice I can give to new sellers is no.1, above all, be consistent....treat this like a real business, as if there were a boss hovering over your shoulder making sure you are being productive. Set yourself a time to work, and a small goal, lets say, to list 3 items a day, every day. Use drafts so you can get a bit ahead. That way, if that guy or gal in your life wants you to take time off and go play for a day or two, all you have to do is list three of your drafts where all the work is already done, and you can still maintain that consistency of 3 a day or whatever number you set for yourself. The more consistent you are, the higher you get with eBay's algorythms. When you get more practiced in listing your items you will better know how long it takes you to list three items and if you want to start listing more....it all depends on how much you want to work and how much money you want to make. My second bit of advice is...put a certain percentage, 10-20%, of your sales away so that when you find 150 pieces of anchor hocking forest green charm glassware for $150 on facebook marketplace, you can go get them. You have to buy it when it is there. Had I not put away that %, I would not have been able to get that great deal or those 120 vintage honey pots for $100, etc. 3 is this: when you list your item, and start packing your listed items into boxes that you can put on your shelves, number those boxes and make a special note right on your listing page that tells you your inventory number, and what box the item is in. My line that I put that information in tells me my listing inventory number...(I have a paper inventory list), the box number the item is stored in, the photo file numbers, (so if a photo goes bad on ebay, I can easily find it and reload it), the actual weight of the item, and the estimated shipping weight of the packaged item as well as the size box I intend to use. When an item sells, I go to my inventory list and hilight it in a brightly colored hilighter, and change the price if I had to give a discount. I really enjoy looking at my inventory lists and seeing everything that has sold and over time, seeing each page fill up with color from those hilighters!
Oh, and one more thing....set goals...little ones, that you can measure step by step, with larger goals beyond those little ones. Goals must be conceivable, achievable and measurable. You might set a goal to get 50 items in your eBay store. When you know you are getting close, set another, higher goal and reward yourself when you reach each goal....it might be something simple, such as treating yourself to a coffee at your local restaurant, or giving yourself an hour to take a leisurely bubble bath. Never be afraid to reach for the stars....if you only get to the moon, you are still a winner!!!
That’s really great advice I definitely don’t do that and I have a lot of items that are really great perfect condition brand new in boxes that I could sell and I just know I need to do it consistently appreciate that secondly white shipping where do you have your own scale at home how do you estimate shipping I’ve been burned on shipping before work cost a lot more and I feel like that’s been my biggest stressor any advice on shipping nowadays and skills to buy best ways to estimate shipping etc.
@@Timetraveler1111MN I am using an old antique kitchen scale and because I have a very small home with just a living room kitchen combo, a bedroom, bathroom and front 3 season porch, I have it on my kitchen table. I weigh each item at the same time I am photographing it and measuring it. Because I have already measured it, I can tell what size of box I will need to ship it in. For small items that fit in 6 by 5 by 5 boxes I don't worry about having 2 inches of padding between the item and the inside of the box but I do follow that rule for larger items. I know what each size box I use weighs and if I forget, I weigh the item with the folded box and then estimate the weight of the padding. It takes trial and error but I would estimate shipping higher rather than lower as your customers will really appreciate a suprise partial shipping refund if you have overestimated. I have a spot in my listing discription, a line that is just for me, that tells me what size box I have decided to use and the weight of the item plus the estimated shipping weight. I also put in my own inventory number and the number of the storage box I have stored the item in. That way, when I sell something I can look at my listing and know I have to go to box 125 to find the item. I have a map of my storage unit that shows where each box is, as because of having different sizes they are not always in order.
1) Get ready to go to work as if you were going to the office. Doing so definitely goes hand in hand with being productive. 2) Get a scale - Shipping can and will eat your lunch. Have appropriate items you need for shipping, boxes, bubble wrap, tissue paper, news print... 3) Provide the customers as many pictures as you can and let the item speak for itself. My descriptions are simple and I let my pictures describe the item.
Ma'am you are spot on!! Like you I have been selling full time for about 10 years now. Of course you know we didn't have TH-cam back then so we had to wing it or trial by error. I still sell suits and sport coats as my bread and butter because that my forte. I know suit! I sold high end suit retail for 20 years and I know expensive brands to look for. Any damage I can repair myself (which is a plus) I also sell high end dress shirts, golf clothing, shorts, jeans and shoes. 90% mens 10% women'sI live in a city where I don't have a problem finding high end items so I only sell on ebay because that works for me. I finally reached 100k and I'm good with that. Like you said good weeks bad weeks. Bad week for me is $1500 a week and that's nothing to sneeze at. I try to do $2500 plus a week and with my big ticket items I can do that. I love what I do and wouldn't trade it for the world. Last year I spend 6 month in bed recovering from chemo and radiation and still made close to 80k. Where else could I have done that? You are spot on and love hearing people that parallel my sales model. Thanks for this video and keep up the good work. BTW Im from Austin and live in Houston!
My advice to make sure you’re selling, at least, some items you really like yourself. I find, I’m much more excited to list, take the pics, etc off things I think are beautiful and have value. Yes, generally, we must sell things we’re not all that crazy about, as well, but I’m the most happy selling things i personally like!🎉❤
I find if I stick to just stuff I like, I limit myself. I limit both my sales and my ability to learn about other things and doing the research and learning is one of my favorite things to do. It constantly amazes me what people get excited about in my store, and their enthusiasm is contagious.!!!.
Here's me responding to a 2 year old comment. 😂 Hi everyone! I just wanted to say that I was watching a picker and wondering why they were getting little profit stuff and then I started thinking about it. It dawned on me it's like waitressing that every $2, $5, $10 tip adds up. Since I'm a beginner I thought it was actually a great strategy (for now).
When you start, don't focus too much on the items you have already listed, focus on listing more items. I found that if I only had a few items listed I would ask myself "Why aren't these items selling right now? There are similar items selling for those prices. Should I lower the price?" Putting your time into listing more items will give you more opportunities for sales. Go back and review items maybe 3 months after they have been listed
Thank you for your insight. I have been selling for 2 years and I am finally getting the hang of it. I have not broke even yet but I am selling more. I started out clothing and shoes but I soon realized it was not the way to make money this way. I still have clothes and shoes from 2 years ago. I have bee concentrating on hardgoods purchased from estate sales. I will take pictures (Ii use my IPHONE) one day, enter as many drafts I can the next and then list 2-3 things a day. EBAY seems to like this because I have been getting more sales when I list every day. I use list perfect also. I watch you every day. Love it!
I first started reselling back before eBay even existed. I was working, so it was just for fun. I consigned things I found at yard sales to a local auction house. Mostly, I bought things for myself. At some point, about 15-17 years ago, I began selling books on Amazon part time, which I did until about a year ago. About 13 years ago, I was unable to work, but was helping out with a friend's estate, clearing out her house. In exchange, I got to sell some of estate items on eBay as my pay. I did well, and learned a lot, but also got burned really bad by one customer and wasn't able to sell on eBay for some time. I abandoned my eBay account, but it kept ticking along, nothing sold, but it was still listed. I had diversified employment, working several part-time jobs, then the pandemic hit. My highest paying job evaporated when they terminated everyone nationwide in March of 2020. About a year ago, The Niche Lady's videos started showing up in my TH-cam feed. I became interested in selling again and contemplated starting up on eBay again, selling off my own things that had been in storage for many years. Then in Last June, I lost another job. After about a week, I decided to become a full time reseller for the first time and pulled the trigger on July 1, starting listing on eBay again. I started with more than 300 feedbacks on my old account, so have not had to worry about the scammers. I got unemployment until September, so was able to buy enough things to keep me listing through winter, and then some. I signed up with List Perfectly and started crosslisting on Poshmark, then Mercari. Recently, I started promoting my listings on Instagram. I want to sell on Etsy, but cannot afford to pay for listings right now, as I have had to live off of my profits. Because of the pandemic, my credit cards are all maxxed out and I no longer have any savings. I list almost every day, and just reached 600 listings on eBay a couple of days ago. My goal is to have 1500 listings by the end of the year. Another goal is to have $3000 in sales per month by the end of the year. I sell anything that will make money, but find myself specializing in costume jewelry (especially lucite and bakelite bangles), vintage items, handmade and artisanal items, art, distressed jeans (especially overalls, Carhartts in particular), and more. My death pile is huge as I was given an entire estates worth of clothing and books to work my way through. I am applying to sell on WhatNot as I want to get rid of my online bookstore inventory, and it may be a way to get followers. It seems to be the happening thing that a lot of resellers are trying and you get paid very fast. I am learning all the time, including from you. This winter has been really tough and eBay is very different than when I was selling there 13 years ago. I am doing this all on my own. I am interested in doing a TH-cam channel, but do not have the time right now. Maybe I never will. I am 62 years old and single and love working from home. I also love the hunt, but don't do it that often because I have such a large death pile and not much money. I do like it, hard as it is.
I am your age too. Sold books on Amazon over a decade ago just to thin out my personal stash. Now I'm looking at resale again. Picked up some classic books but first need to buy a new printer ....I'm guessing I'll need to print shipping labels but not sure how the new systems work. I watch a "nurse flipper" who also shares many tips and for a monthly fee she shops in your area to help find good items. I work full time at home, so my time to do this is limited too. Dont give up.
Great advice....Find what works for you and keep learning from others etc....After all it's your business and your the boss....I just retired 12/31/2022 at 66 and so thankful for all those that take time to give free advice....Had a She Shed build and getting things in order to start Reselling and making my own jewelry....:)
Margaret, your jewelry unboxing videos with all the fun little songs about the sassy tassles, etc. helped me get through the worst of the whole Covid thing. Eternally grateful.
I ultimately want to sell full time and stop working for someone else . My sister started me on reselling last year when she was working from home full time and. Making over $1000 a month . So now with little effort daily I’m making about $300-400 a month. Your so encouraging to watch. Wishing you continued success .
Wish I had someone that I could speak with about the business. Ebay is not helpful. I am getting scam offers for products because I am new, and it is frustrating. I asked Ebay why they don't have tutorials, but no answer was forthcoming. So now I watch hundreds of videos to try and learn. Thanks for taking the time to explain.
TH-camr resellers made it looks easy but learning how to comp an item before selling, learning sell thru rates and not to blinding list everything I think sell without research can discourage many new resellers.... It's so much learning, researching, understanding the systems, even how to list is challenging. So many things to know before starting.... Like shipping, photograph, wording, organizing, storage space etc. It's true it will take work and time, everyone needs to find a "business model" that work for them. That being said, I only had drafted what to list on eBay, even though I have done eBay 10+ yrs ago selling spring cleaning items and FB Market place. As a buyer, I want value and decent price for everything I get... I'm trying to think like potential buyers, either really good value or something unique that ppl want to buy. I will definitely start listing this week, lol.
Thanks for this! I'm thinking of trying to resell small suff part-time and it was nice to hear your advice about just jumping in and not overthinking which can be really crippling. Thanks for the great tips! 🙂
I wish I'd made sure I fully understood eBay's fee system. For example, I never really understood that 'out of stock' sales affected your service metrics (eBay should really do a better job of informing their sellers) which in turn affects your final value fee. You might expect to pay 10.9% of the sale in final value fees, but you might actually be paying 14.9% or 16.9%. It's crucial that you understand EXACTLY what's coming in and what's going out; otherwise, you could find yourself running an eBay store for months and wondering where the heck all the additional profit is going!? The best thing you can do, whilst it may be somewhat laborious, is craft a half-decent (well thought out and seriously considered) business plan, and set yourself well-defined goals that you can measure your progress against.
Great words of wisdom! Thanks, I needed this today since my sales have been very low. I used to make my own items (still do) but I sure wish I had discovered reselling way sooner.
Just now thinking about getting in all this, and so enjoyed a couple of these videos and definitely will watch more to help me get started. You explain things very clearly. I really like your teaching style.
What a great source of information you are. I’m getting ready to retire in June of next year and I’m thinking of starting an eBay business. Thank you so much for sharing.
Game store auctions and library book sales are good resources for my own product inventory, since my husband and I are there buying for our own collections at those events, and so we can describe items knowledgeably when we "destash". I reuse shipping materials a lot, but have way too many boxes in my basement, and do still have to buy things like tape and bubble wrap. I embraced "Paypal only" when I could generate shipping labels through Paypal, and have gotten used to eBay Managed Payments this past year (love how easy it is to generate shipping labels online & have the tracking information automatically attached to the sold items!). I still have a day job, but sell on eBay part-time, which provides our family's entertainment budget.
Hey Texas Gal. Great points. I just started reselling. More specifically on Ebay, OfferUp & FB Marketplace. You're right. It's just a matter of learning as you go, making mistakes & learning from others. New follower here.
Weigh item, proper packing size, don't be afraid to sell for a higher price than your comfortable with (even retail stores do, so what if it goes to clearance, as long as you make a profit), and organize (or you can and will have death piles, and lose track of items you have listed). Research (prices, cleaning/deodorize (items that smell will cost you)
I been on ebay 20+ years and I sell hard goods. My advice keep all funds separate from your personal income. Learn shipping & don't buy to list, list to sell & be willing to let stuff move even if you have to break even if you have had it listed a long period and list list list. That's my working platform.
New to reselling and cross listing has me feeling a bit nervous but I know it will give me a better chance too be successful . Right now I'm just reselling things I like or find a bit quirky... Love your videos Margaret you are wonderful!❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️ P.S. listing is my life right now lol.
I can't think of anything I wish I knew beforehand, because just hearing or reading the information wouldn't have sunk it in for me. I learn best from doing, and especially from making mistakes. That said, I didn't learn EVERYTHING from first-hand experience; lots of it came from asking for information on Ebay's wonderful Community forums, from Facebook groups, and/or TH-cam videos like yours! But I tended to learn all those things on an as-needed basis, like when I ran into the need to know. EDIT: Ooooo, I thought of one. I wish I knew what a (overall) bad source storage units are. Not saying I haven't found some great things in them, but stepping back from the 5 units I've won, as a whole they were more backbreaking work and hardship than they were worth. Once in a while I'm still tempted to try to get a really good one, but luckily there are enough OTHER, very good, sourcing types to keep me distracted from that 'mystery treasure box' fantasy.
So much fun. Shipping is the biggest headache. I love watching your videos and getting Inspiration on my TH-cam Vids and what to resell. Thank You! 😊 😊 😊
I love how you explained selling and your approach to do what is comfortable. The one thing I wish I would have known better when I started was what items to buy. Still learning that, so I just comp the items now to see if it's worth picking up.
Really helpful video! I've been selling a little on eBay for about 18 months and am severely technologically challenged (been at home caring for family member for 23 years, so have totally missed the "technological revolution" which many learn at work), but sales are good and feedback is excellent . When Ebay changed me to "Managed Payments", it seemed like the "end of the universe" ....... I would quite happily have thrown my computer out of the window, several times, and I sulked for 3 months before listing another item! Really, I just needed to "get back on my bicycle"! What I wish I had learnt? 1. It's okay to make mistakes, mistakes are learning .... and, this is hard .... so be kind to yourself ...... celebrate when you "got it right"! Margaret - Have been watching for approximately 3 years. Fortunately, your videos have not only informed me greatly, but also reaffirmed that actually I was already quite knowledgable about jewellery and am now, even more so. Combined with your excellent computer / Ebay tuition means I may be able to provide myself with an income. In addition, your videos are just great fun to watch. Thank you so much. Liz x
Hi Nita, When eBay started, it's sellers used an original 'selling system' as set up by Ebay, which occasionally had little updates and everybody used. Then, approximately 2020, eBay did a 'mega update' and improved and updated to a whole new selling system; everything looked different, which was just too much for me. It is better, provides much more information to the seller eg. If you are looking for solds on eBay, it will provide solds from the past 90 days whereas in Managed Payments, solds are provided for the previous 12 months. It also gives analytical information about how you 'as an individual', which is useful if you are trying to run a business because you can then react and adjust accordingly to improve your sales. Initially, eBay started gradually to transition it's Business Sellers across to Managed Payments, with the intention to eventually moving all sellers across and removing the old system. Many of the initial glitches with Managed Payments, which many complained about, are being resolved. Eg. Now If you sell an item, the payment will now be in your account within 24 - 48 hours compared to end of the month (which obviously caused issues, especially for small sellers). So, if starting to use Managed Payments this would be my advice ..... What
Eek... pressed wrong button!!! My advice... 1. Watch 'How to ..Managed Payments' videos.... but ensure recently dated '. Watch several. 2. Be kind to yourself. I do now like it, but as not very technically minded, was wary about 'breaking it' or accidentally pressing a button that would cost me money which I could I'll afford?! That's not going to happen! So, ensure your computer has had all recent updates. (I was using an older one which caused issues when trying to update photos to my listings) Also, ensure there is enough 'memory' space for your computer to work comfortably. Again, mine was an older computer whose memory was 'choc-a-bloc' so it kept crashing! I don't actually own a computer, but have managed to borrow a 'more up to date' one from family. 3. With Managed Payments, all information is neatly laid out on a front page, in sections so easy to access. Initially, I couldn't find my 'solds' under the Listings title, but simply press 'show more' (?!) and 'up they pop'! You can access eBay advisers and other users about queries, via web chat, but also speak 'in person' (in my experience, usually takes 2-3 mins wait time). As I know I don't find navigating computers easily, I always speak to an actual person and explain that I struggle with technology and ask them to 'go slow' - they are fabulously patient and helpful. Anyway, in my view is Managed Payments are good. Sorry this is so lengthy but hope it is helpful, Liz
Come up with an inventory system that works for you. It may seem like you know where everything is when you have 100 items. But once you have more it can be difficult to remember exactly where everything is.
I started selling on eBay 23 years ago. Mostly just unwanted stuff I had at home. Then I started buying stuff at flea markets and yard sales. Not intending to sell the sell the stuff I bought, at first, anyway. When I got tired of looking at it, I would sell it. The main thing I learned. Is what might be trash to you, could be treasure for someone else! Although times have changed, you'll never know what someone will pay for something, until you list it for sale. Some of the oddest, strangest things I listed, sold for the most money. People collect all kinds of things too...
Hi Margaret. Thank you so much for being willing to be transparent, and to give great advice to those of us thinking about selling from home. I design jewelry and am a graphic designer. Seems like the Lord God led me to watch you today. Thank you for home schooling your children! God bless you, your family and business. Patti
I’m about to start selling on Ebay as soon as my debit card comes (I had to open a bank account) and your videos have been super helpful. Thank you, my goal is 200 a week too cause that’s what I was making taking care of my grandma until she passed away in April and now my husband is struggling. I have such bad anxiety I just can’t work normal jobs ahhh.
New to your channel and on the verge of retiring (4 months). Planning on online selling of small antiques and collectibles. I've been following Crazy Lamp Lady for a while, but you are in my home state. I so appreciate your videos on selling on ebay. Thanks for all the wonderful tips. I had been wondering about best platform to sell on as a newbie. Looks like ebay will be best way to get my feet wet. Thanks again, Ivy. (P.S. my middle name is Margaret😊)
I caught on fairly quickly -- but didn't know at first -- to look at SOLD vs. ASKING PRICES, when checking for comps. What took me longer was learning what a sell-through rate is and how to calculate it, why it's important, etc. This is vital info if you don't want to be sitting on your inventory forever. I just stumbled upon your video and enjoyed it. Lots of good info, well presented. I've now subscribed to your channel. Looking forward to seeing more of your work.
Great video, it made me a new subscriber! I've been doing this for about a year now - currently as a side hustle, but working towards making it my main source of income. I've hit some hurdles, but I'm always learning and you had some very good advice - especially the stuff about diversifying. I haven't really looked into other platforms besides eBay, so it sounds like I need to start doing that. Thanks!
Yes! Shipping (which is in constant change) - it took several sales where I ate my profit :( But it's part of the education process - I took about 18 months off, am getting back into it and holy moly have things changed in terms of shipping (knew there were increases, but it's been quite an eye opener) -
@@bunchielove6893 if you offer free shipping but don’t calculate the costs correctly, you could lose money when it came time to actually ship. For example, if I was selling a pair of shoes with free shipping and THOUGHT they’d be under a pound, I’d price it with First Class Shipping costs in mind. When it came time to ship, I find out it’s actually over a pound, and now has to go via Priority Mail to a state across the country. It could be a huge jump in price, and it eats into any profit I was expecting. As a new seller, I recommend weighing your items before posting so you’re aware of what the shipping costs might be, especially if you offer free shipping.
That I needed room for hundreds of things. It's been about 8 months and I'm being told, consistent sales will not happen until I have at least 300 items listed.
New sellers will be slow at first - eBay waits to see if you will be a responsible seller, so make sure to avoid defects. Listing every day & ending/relisting anything over 2-3 months old also helps. Have a competitive price and make sure there is demand for what you have listed, look at sold comps - if there are only a few or no sales in the last quarter, look for something that sells more frequently. Sales patterns are strange right now … it’s slower than usual …
Hi. Just discovered your channel. I moved to Houston from Upstate New York. So glad to see we are "neighbors". Just started selling. Great tips! I'm great at shopping but dragging my feet on posting. I just did my 1st listing on eBay. Yikes
Yes, decline any odd request and block the buyer (it’s in the Help topics). You can call eBay Customer Service for help doing anything in eBay. Sometimes the CS people aren’t that good, I try to call mornings Eastern time. But sometimes that’s faster than looking for a YT video on the topic.
I am just starting and have a bunch of jewelry inventory. I haven't decided where I want to start. As far as postage which is the best platform to sell on ? Which is the easiest to start on. I am old and wish I would have started when I was younger. But I guess better late than never.
Hey! Great video. I’m still trying to figure out the shipping thing but it’s getting there. I’m manually uploading to 2 or 3 sites to cross post. Have you ever had somebody buy the same item from 2 different places? That would stress me out lol
great video! lot of good advice and ideas shipping shipping shipping styles, ways and sizes and rates! omg person would be a millionaire to do a basic video for Canada !
I like your style I would be that type of seller I’m just subscribed and binge watching to get idea. I lost my job a year again and having the hardest time finding my type of work so started thinking of selling online hoping maybe I can bring in so type of income to get me by I see and craft so was hoping maybe something like that?
Does List Perfectly do importing of listings already created? Definitely wouldn't want to list 340 items all over again. Lol. I heard of a free crosslister called Flyp but haven't tried it yet. I might this weekend. I only do reselling as a hobby right now so not much time during the week besides getting packages shipped out.
Shipping TOTALLY petrifies me!! I want to start reselling art glass and dishes, but I'm terrified that it (aka, shipping costs) will defeat the purpose ($$$) ;)
Dont be scared. Buy lots of bubble wrap. When I ship glass in an odd shape, I build the bubble wrap around the item, starting with a part that sticks out or off the piece, bubble wrap that, then build the bubble wrap out from there till its all engulfed. Make sure that the peanuts or wrapping is between the item and the side of the box so the item is "floating" inside the box so if the box gets bumped it wont hit the item. Watch videos on this platform in shipping glassware or odd items. There are some good tutorials. Also, dont be afraid of increasing the weight in the listing. For a one pound item, I will list it as 4 pounds. You have to compensate the price for the materials and boxes. Or, lower the poundage and increase the price of the item. Either way its gotta be paid by the buyer.
Start with small items - it gets easier once you see how it works. Have boxes, bubble wrap and peanuts on hand before you start listing. When you do the listing for an item, put it on the scale with a box & add a few ounces for cushion (more ounces for larger items). You want 2”+ padding on all sides for breakables - at least 2 layers of bubble plus peanuts. Fill up all empty space in the box so the item doesn’t move at all when you shake the closed box. With smaller items, often you can use just bubble wrap but peanuts are best for filling space with breakables. You can also use paper for fill but it weighs more. When I started eBay, I used up miscellaneous packing material that I had saved from my own purchases. Any foam or cushion could work, like pool noodles, paper egg cartons (clean only), foam padding, etc.
Put an iso in your area for used packaging materials on Facebook,peanuts -bubble wrap -boxes etc. I went to a local health food store. And ask, instead of your package material going into land fill can I come once a week and pick up? . I get tons of bubble wrap and more boxes than I can use. Get a good scale for weight. When Measures boxes measure up.. if it is 12 1/2 it’s 13 inches. Also give people choices. eBay is my side hustle for 22 years.
Hopefully by now someone told her what brick and mortar actually means… a real store like Walmart,target, sears, and actual building made with brick and mortar. Walmart is a brick and mortar retail outlet. They’re a lot online nowadays.
Have been researching to starting reselling? How do you figure out if you offer free shipping or not? Where do you get supplies on the cheap? Just looking to start part time selling locally for me sucks…
I just started resellling myself. I watched so many videos and thought I had a good handle on it...Wrong. LOL I figured out that as a new seller, it is best to not do free shipping yet. I did try it at first, but trying to work the cost into the price of the item made me feel like my items were way over priced and wouldn't sell. I've also been confused by the whole shipping thing, so that made it harder to figure out. Luckily I'm picking it up pretty quickly, but I still don't want to give free shipping. If your item is priced right, they won't mind the shipping. And you won't get thrown for a loop when someone across the country buys something and the shipping is a LOT more then expected. You WILL want to get a scale, HUGE help. I'm weird and save boxes & packing material from things I buy. I don't know why other then maybe I knew I'd do this....Lawd. So I use some that I already have and I get the free supplies from the post office website. Be careful of the ones that say priority because those MUST ship priority. But I have found that some of them fit inside of poly mailers and that works great for me. Box it up, bag the box, and ship it out. I bought some poly mailers from an eBay seller, you can find great deals on them. I also haven't had to buy bubble wrap yet, but I've seen a lot of resellers use American Bubble Boy. My biggest thing that I wish I'd known before starting is that eBay will severely limit your listing amount if you are new to eBay. And by that I mean if you don't have any feedback from buying or selling, you are considered a risk. I'd been on eBay for years, but had 0 feedback; because of this, eBay limited me to 5 listings or $500 a month to start out. I couldn't understand how in the heck I was supposed to do anything with that small amount. I listed the 5 I was allowed and got a friend to buy one of my items, I also purchased a scale & warranty from another eBay seller and left feedback for them which they reciprocated for me. So now I had 2 positive feedbacks and a purchase under my belt. Then (on advice from other sellers) I called eBay and asked them if something could be done about the limit. They asked me a few questions, I believe to figure out if I was a serious seller, and then they raised my limit to 100 or $5000 a month. Still not as much as I want, but soooo much better then 5. I'm planning to ask them to up it again next month after I get back from a little vacation.
I Love Your Video's ... but me and a friend sell on Ebay but we have not gotten any sales for a full two weeks now! Do you know what's going on and why we are not getting any sales on Ebay??
Iam just starting but google lens everything.not sure eBay is working, Shopify? How many platforms and best ones just starting out.any advise is welcome
Can someone tell me how much inventory I should aim at keeping? And when I say this I mean what dollar amount? I’ve been piddling with selling on eBay for years but I’ve always held a full time job. As of December I am going to be losing my good job and I’m truly scared. I want to try to ramp up my eBay because my unemployment just isn’t going to pay my bills. So im looking at doing this seriously. And I thought you could tell me when you started how much money did you start out with and how do you know how much to reinvest and how much to keep back for living expenses? I’m grateful for any advice in this area.
My very first listing sold right away. I was not prepared plus I accidently listed it wrong in the description. I thought I had corrected it. I wish I had known more about listing and I had a hard time getting g my postage label printed. I gave the buyer a partial refund and let him keep the product but he hacked me and went after me with a vengeance.
I am so thankful for finding you! I must have got lucky, you pooped up! I have a several questions, but one mainly. How do you know or can you know if you are going to buy a big ticket item, that it is safe to pay for and you are going to receive it. This mainly pertains to FB Marketplace? I would really appreciate if you could give me some advice.
@@TexasGalTreasures Thanks, Just thinking about all your 💡. I have been thinking about doing this type of thing for myself. At the moment your video came on I am looking at making a rather large FB MP purchase. Kinda concerned. Just thought I would ask. Thanks.
Just new to your videos. I'm really enjoying all you are sharing. I'm trying to learn how to sell effectively on Ebay. Question: I have a half dozen purses that I picked up at a yard sale. Was told they are genuine Coach. I'm learning about what to look for to verify that, but when I list on Ebay, do I need to have them authenticated in order to sell there, or can I list as not verified as genuine?? Any suggestions or if you have a video to share would be much appreciated : )
Great information, I appreciate all of it. I am still fairly new and trying to get into a rhythm. Just curious, If I am shipping a Large dinner plate 11" diameter, what box would you use?
Would you recommend selling fine jewellery on Ebay as like a retailer? I was doing really well selling handmade jewellery on Etsy until they changed their tax policies, so im in search of a new platform.
I am going to be starting to sell some items on eBay.... I wish I knew how to keep track of inventory and cost and profit and what I need to put to the side for federal taxes when it comes to tax time. I have always worked corporate America, so having to track and crunch the numbers is my biggest fear. Do you have any suggestions? I can not afford my own CPA at this time. I am actually in the transition to possibly being on disability for fibromyalgia. So, If I start making bigger money... will that effect my eligibility for disability?
I just wish I had discovered reselling on EBay 10 years ago. I might have had great success with it. Today, there are too many sellers out there all competing for the same few buyers. Yep, too much competition. Plus, too many people are making videos giving away their business secrets, adding to the congestion just to pick up a few bucks on TH-cam. Sigh.
With my spouse and myself it's easy: we throw it all into a big pool. X amount gets saved, we budget the rest, and a little is pocket money. Expenses beyond that are planned. We talk about anything over about $100. More freedom for here and there
I personally think that she shouldn’t feel so bad to get money from the “breadwinner” as she is serving as not only a homemaker but also a full time teacher, potentially a private tutor etc for their children. It’s awesome that she has found such great ways to bring in extra money for her family.
Keep track of all expenses for when you do your taxes. Separate inventory receipts from receipts for shipping supplies or other things. Keep track of mileage when going to stores or the post office to deduct as a business expense. If you dedicate a room or space in your home exclusively for your reselling business, you can also deduct that square footage as a business expense. All eBay fees and any other subscriptions are business expenses.
I put everything down in my business checking account bank register that is linked to eBay. I write down when I draw out cash for thrift sales and I write down what I spend at each thrift sale and have the thrift sale owner initial it, so I have proof of the cash purchase. I do save receipts for all goodwill and thrift store and country auction purchases also. but at the end of the year I only have to go to my check book registers for most of my expenses.
Awesome advice Thank you!!!
What is a business checking account linked to ebay? My payments just toy regular checking account0
@@lisalutterbach6843 You can open up a separate checking account just for your reselling business and register that with eBay. That keeps your business stuff separate from your household stuff.
@Vicki Olson how do you know how much to save to pay for taxes at end of year, and how much is your profit and you are bringing in? Also do you need a reseller license?
One of the three best bits of advice I can give to new sellers is no.1, above all, be consistent....treat this like a real business, as if there were a boss hovering over your shoulder making sure you are being productive. Set yourself a time to work, and a small goal, lets say, to list 3 items a day, every day. Use drafts so you can get a bit ahead. That way, if that guy or gal in your life wants you to take time off and go play for a day or two, all you have to do is list three of your drafts where all the work is already done, and you can still maintain that consistency of 3 a day or whatever number you set for yourself. The more consistent you are, the higher you get with eBay's algorythms. When you get more practiced in listing your items you will better know how long it takes you to list three items and if you want to start listing more....it all depends on how much you want to work and how much money you want to make. My second bit of advice is...put a certain percentage, 10-20%, of your sales away so that when you find 150 pieces of anchor hocking forest green charm glassware for $150 on facebook marketplace, you can go get them. You have to buy it when it is there. Had I not put away that %, I would not have been able to get that great deal or those 120 vintage honey pots for $100, etc. 3 is this: when you list your item, and start packing your listed items into boxes that you can put on your shelves, number those boxes and make a special note right on your listing page that tells you your inventory number, and what box the item is in. My line that I put that information in tells me my listing inventory number...(I have a paper inventory list), the box number the item is stored in, the photo file numbers, (so if a photo goes bad on ebay, I can easily find it and reload it), the actual weight of the item, and the estimated shipping weight of the packaged item as well as the size box I intend to use. When an item sells, I go to my inventory list and hilight it in a brightly colored hilighter, and change the price if I had to give a discount. I really enjoy looking at my inventory lists and seeing everything that has sold and over time, seeing each page fill up with color from those hilighters!
Oh, and one more thing....set goals...little ones, that you can measure step by step, with larger goals beyond those little ones. Goals must be conceivable, achievable and measurable. You might set a goal to get 50 items in your eBay store. When you know you are getting close, set another, higher goal and reward yourself when you reach each goal....it might be something simple, such as treating yourself to a coffee at your local restaurant, or giving yourself an hour to take a leisurely bubble bath. Never be afraid to reach for the stars....if you only get to the moon, you are still a winner!!!
Thanks!
Thank you so much
That’s really great advice I definitely don’t do that and I have a lot of items that are really great perfect condition brand new in boxes that I could sell and I just know I need to do it consistently appreciate that secondly white shipping where do you have your own scale at home how do you estimate shipping I’ve been burned on shipping before work cost a lot more and I feel like that’s been my biggest stressor any advice on shipping nowadays and skills to buy best ways to estimate shipping etc.
@@Timetraveler1111MN I am using an old antique kitchen scale and because I have a very small home with just a living room kitchen combo, a bedroom, bathroom and front 3 season porch, I have it on my kitchen table. I weigh each item at the same time I am photographing it and measuring it. Because I have already measured it, I can tell what size of box I will need to ship it in. For small items that fit in 6 by 5 by 5 boxes I don't worry about having 2 inches of padding between the item and the inside of the box but I do follow that rule for larger items. I know what each size box I use weighs and if I forget, I weigh the item with the folded box and then estimate the weight of the padding. It takes trial and error but I would estimate shipping higher rather than lower as your customers will really appreciate a suprise partial shipping refund if you have overestimated. I have a spot in my listing discription, a line that is just for me, that tells me what size box I have decided to use and the weight of the item plus the estimated shipping weight. I also put in my own inventory number and the number of the storage box I have stored the item in. That way, when I sell something I can look at my listing and know I have to go to box 125 to find the item. I have a map of my storage unit that shows where each box is, as because of having different sizes they are not always in order.
1) Get ready to go to work as if you were going to the office. Doing so definitely goes hand in hand with being productive.
2) Get a scale - Shipping can and will eat your lunch. Have appropriate items you need for shipping, boxes, bubble wrap, tissue paper, news print...
3) Provide the customers as many pictures as you can and let the item speak for itself. My descriptions are simple and I let my pictures describe the item.
thanks
#3 infuriates me on eBay. I see a solitary photo and ... next!
Ma'am you are spot on!! Like you I have been selling full time for about 10 years now. Of course you know we didn't have TH-cam back then so we had to wing it or trial by error. I still sell suits and sport coats as my bread and butter because that my forte. I know suit! I sold high end suit retail for 20 years and I know expensive brands to look for. Any damage I can repair myself (which is a plus) I also sell high end dress shirts, golf clothing, shorts, jeans and shoes. 90% mens 10% women'sI live in a city where I don't have a problem finding high end items so I only sell on ebay because that works for me. I finally reached 100k and I'm good with that. Like you said good weeks bad weeks. Bad week for me is $1500 a week and that's nothing to sneeze at. I try to do $2500 plus a week and with my big ticket items I can do that. I love what I do and wouldn't trade it for the world. Last year I spend 6 month in bed recovering from chemo and radiation and still made close to 80k. Where else could I have done that? You are spot on and love hearing people that parallel my sales model. Thanks for this video and keep up the good work. BTW Im from Austin and live in Houston!
My advice to make sure you’re selling, at least, some items you really like yourself. I find, I’m much more excited to list, take the pics, etc off things I think are beautiful and have value. Yes, generally, we must sell things we’re not all that crazy about, as well, but I’m the most happy selling things i personally like!🎉❤
That is very true. I sort of use some stock to decorate my house.
I find if I stick to just stuff I like, I limit myself. I limit both my sales and my ability to learn about other things and doing the research and learning is one of my favorite things to do. It constantly amazes me what people get excited about in my store, and their enthusiasm is contagious.!!!.
I only sell items I find interesting myself.
Having worked as a waitress, I can compare the effort put into a 10 dollar sale vs a 10 dollar tip. The sale is easier.
I love that mentality!
Here's me responding to a 2 year old comment. 😂 Hi everyone! I just wanted to say that I was watching a picker and wondering why they were getting little profit stuff and then I started thinking about it. It dawned on me it's like waitressing that every $2, $5, $10 tip adds up. Since I'm a beginner I thought it was actually a great strategy (for now).
When you start, don't focus too much on the items you have already listed, focus on listing more items. I found that if I only had a few items listed I would ask myself "Why aren't these items selling right now? There are similar items selling for those prices. Should I lower the price?" Putting your time into listing more items will give you more opportunities for sales. Go back and review items maybe 3 months after they have been listed
I needed to hear this!
Thank you for your insight. I have been selling for 2 years and I am finally getting the hang of it. I have not broke even yet but I am selling more. I started out clothing and shoes but I soon realized it was not the way to make money this way. I still have clothes and shoes from 2 years ago. I have bee concentrating on hardgoods purchased from estate sales. I will take pictures (Ii use my IPHONE) one day, enter as many drafts I can the next and then list 2-3 things a day. EBAY seems to like this because I have been getting more sales when I list every day. I use list perfect also. I watch you every day. Love it!
I first started reselling back before eBay even existed. I was working, so it was just for fun. I consigned things I found at yard sales to a local auction house. Mostly, I bought things for myself. At some point, about 15-17 years ago, I began selling books on Amazon part time, which I did until about a year ago. About 13 years ago, I was unable to work, but was helping out with a friend's estate, clearing out her house. In exchange, I got to sell some of estate items on eBay as my pay. I did well, and learned a lot, but also got burned really bad by one customer and wasn't able to sell on eBay for some time. I abandoned my eBay account, but it kept ticking along, nothing sold, but it was still listed. I had diversified employment, working several part-time jobs, then the pandemic hit. My highest paying job evaporated when they terminated everyone nationwide in March of 2020. About a year ago, The Niche Lady's videos started showing up in my TH-cam feed. I became interested in selling again and contemplated starting up on eBay again, selling off my own things that had been in storage for many years. Then in Last June, I lost another job. After about a week, I decided to become a full time reseller for the first time and pulled the trigger on July 1, starting listing on eBay again. I started with more than 300 feedbacks on my old account, so have not had to worry about the scammers. I got unemployment until September, so was able to buy enough things to keep me listing through winter, and then some. I signed up with List Perfectly and started crosslisting on Poshmark, then Mercari. Recently, I started promoting my listings on Instagram. I want to sell on Etsy, but cannot afford to pay for listings right now, as I have had to live off of my profits. Because of the pandemic, my credit cards are all maxxed out and I no longer have any savings. I list almost every day, and just reached 600 listings on eBay a couple of days ago. My goal is to have 1500 listings by the end of the year. Another goal is to have $3000 in sales per month by the end of the year. I sell anything that will make money, but find myself specializing in costume jewelry (especially lucite and bakelite bangles), vintage items, handmade and artisanal items, art, distressed jeans (especially overalls, Carhartts in particular), and more. My death pile is huge as I was given an entire estates worth of clothing and books to work my way through. I am applying to sell on WhatNot as I want to get rid of my online bookstore inventory, and it may be a way to get followers. It seems to be the happening thing that a lot of resellers are trying and you get paid very fast. I am learning all the time, including from you. This winter has been really tough and eBay is very different than when I was selling there 13 years ago. I am doing this all on my own. I am interested in doing a TH-cam channel, but do not have the time right now. Maybe I never will. I am 62 years old and single and love working from home. I also love the hunt, but don't do it that often because I have such a large death pile and not much money. I do like it, hard as it is.
I am your age too. Sold books on Amazon over a decade ago just to thin out my personal stash. Now I'm looking at resale again. Picked up some classic books but first need to buy a new printer ....I'm guessing I'll need to print shipping labels but not sure how the new systems work. I watch a "nurse flipper" who also shares many tips and for a monthly fee she shops in your area to help find good items. I work full time at home, so my time to do this is limited too. Dont give up.
Great advice....Find what works for you and keep learning from others etc....After all it's your business and your the boss....I just retired 12/31/2022 at 66 and so thankful for all those that take time to give free advice....Had a She Shed build and getting things in order to start Reselling and making my own jewelry....:)
Margaret, your jewelry unboxing videos with all the fun little songs about the sassy tassles, etc. helped me get through the worst of the whole Covid thing. Eternally grateful.
Same! I love the songs!
I'm so glad!
Thanks Margaret. Fear has held me back for too long and your videos are helping me calm down and focus on the goals I have around reselling.
I ultimately want to sell full time and stop working for someone else . My sister started me on reselling last year when she was working from home full time and. Making over $1000 a month . So now with little effort daily I’m making about $300-400 a month. Your so encouraging to watch. Wishing you continued success .
Thank you!
Wish I had someone that I could speak with about the business. Ebay is not helpful. I am getting scam offers for products because I am new, and it is frustrating. I asked Ebay why they don't have tutorials, but no answer was forthcoming. So now I watch hundreds of videos to try and learn. Thanks for taking the time to explain.
Great video,.I'm new to selling on eBay, about a month, iv only sold 7 items,.but not giving up
TH-camr resellers made it looks easy but learning how to comp an item before selling, learning sell thru rates and not to blinding list everything I think sell without research can discourage many new resellers.... It's so much learning, researching, understanding the systems, even how to list is challenging. So many things to know before starting.... Like shipping, photograph, wording, organizing, storage space etc. It's true it will take work and time, everyone needs to find a "business model" that work for them. That being said, I only had drafted what to list on eBay, even though I have done eBay 10+ yrs ago selling spring cleaning items and FB Market place. As a buyer, I want value and decent price for everything I get... I'm trying to think like potential buyers, either really good value or something unique that ppl want to buy. I will definitely start listing this week, lol.
Thank you so ,uch for taking the time to share the ins and outs. I am new to this so you were extremely helpful. Best!
Thanks for this! I'm thinking of trying to resell small suff part-time and it was nice to hear your advice about just jumping in and not overthinking which can be really crippling. Thanks for the great tips! 🙂
I wish I'd made sure I fully understood eBay's fee system. For example, I never really understood that 'out of stock' sales affected your service metrics (eBay should really do a better job of informing their sellers) which in turn affects your final value fee. You might expect to pay 10.9% of the sale in final value fees, but you might actually be paying 14.9% or 16.9%. It's crucial that you understand EXACTLY what's coming in and what's going out; otherwise, you could find yourself running an eBay store for months and wondering where the heck all the additional profit is going!? The best thing you can do, whilst it may be somewhat laborious, is craft a half-decent (well thought out and seriously considered) business plan, and set yourself well-defined goals that you can measure your progress against.
Great words of wisdom! Thanks, I needed this today since my sales have been very low. I used to make my own items (still do) but I sure wish I had discovered reselling way sooner.
Just now thinking about getting in all this, and so enjoyed a couple of these videos and definitely will watch more to help me get started. You explain things very clearly. I really like your teaching style.
Since I sell everything, Im always learning something new about shipping even tho I've been selling for a long time.
One of the best tutorial videos over eBay selling. Worth it to subscribe
Hey @sararunyan, Thanks so much for watching!
What a great source of information you are. I’m getting ready to retire in June of next year and I’m thinking of starting an eBay business. Thank you so much for sharing.
I have a hard time with the measuring and packaging still I’m just learning
Game store auctions and library book sales are good resources for my own product inventory, since my husband and I are there buying for our own collections at those events, and so we can describe items knowledgeably when we "destash". I reuse shipping materials a lot, but have way too many boxes in my basement, and do still have to buy things like tape and bubble wrap. I embraced "Paypal only" when I could generate shipping labels through Paypal, and have gotten used to eBay Managed Payments this past year (love how easy it is to generate shipping labels online & have the tracking information automatically attached to the sold items!). I still have a day job, but sell on eBay part-time, which provides our family's entertainment budget.
Hey Texas Gal. Great points. I just started reselling. More specifically on Ebay, OfferUp & FB Marketplace. You're right. It's just a matter of learning as you go, making mistakes & learning from others. New follower here.
Weigh item, proper packing size, don't be afraid to sell for a higher price than your comfortable with (even retail stores do, so what if it goes to clearance, as long as you make a profit), and organize (or you can and will have death piles, and lose track of items you have listed).
Research (prices, cleaning/deodorize (items that smell will cost you)
I been on ebay 20+ years and I sell hard goods. My advice keep all funds separate from your personal income. Learn shipping & don't buy to list, list to sell & be willing to let stuff move even if you have to break even if you have had it listed a long period and list list list. That's my working platform.
New to reselling and cross listing has me feeling a bit nervous but I know it will give me a better chance too be successful . Right now I'm just reselling things I like or find a bit quirky... Love your videos Margaret you are wonderful!❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️ P.S. listing is my life right now lol.
I can't think of anything I wish I knew beforehand, because just hearing or reading the information wouldn't have sunk it in for me. I learn best from doing, and especially from making mistakes.
That said, I didn't learn EVERYTHING from first-hand experience; lots of it came from asking for information on Ebay's wonderful Community forums, from Facebook groups, and/or TH-cam videos like yours! But I tended to learn all those things on an as-needed basis, like when I ran into the need to know.
EDIT: Ooooo, I thought of one. I wish I knew what a (overall) bad source storage units are. Not saying I haven't found some great things in them, but stepping back from the 5 units I've won, as a whole they were more backbreaking work and hardship than they were worth. Once in a while I'm still tempted to try to get a really good one, but luckily there are enough OTHER, very good, sourcing types to keep me distracted from that 'mystery treasure box' fantasy.
I also sell designer bags in my jewelry closet. I also have a "random eclectic" lower price closet.
So much fun. Shipping is the biggest headache. I love watching your videos and getting Inspiration on my TH-cam Vids and what to resell. Thank You! 😊 😊 😊
I love how you explained selling and your approach to do what is comfortable. The one thing I wish I would have known better when I started was what items to buy. Still learning that, so I just comp the items now to see if it's worth picking up.
Really helpful video! I've been selling a little on eBay for about 18 months and am severely technologically challenged (been at home caring for family member for 23 years, so have totally missed the "technological revolution" which many learn at work), but sales are good and feedback is excellent . When Ebay changed me to "Managed Payments", it seemed like the "end of the universe" ....... I would quite happily have thrown my computer out of the window, several times, and I sulked for 3 months before listing another item! Really, I just needed to "get back on my bicycle"!
What I wish I had learnt?
1. It's okay to make mistakes, mistakes are learning .... and, this is hard .... so be kind to yourself ...... celebrate when you "got it right"!
Margaret - Have been watching for approximately 3 years. Fortunately, your videos have not only informed me greatly, but also reaffirmed that actually I was already quite knowledgable about jewellery and am now, even more so. Combined with your excellent computer / Ebay tuition means I may be able to provide myself with an income. In addition, your videos are just great fun to watch. Thank you so much. Liz x
Elizabeth, what is "managed payments"? I have yet to begin listing the 'stuff' I've bought. Too many horror stories regarding Ebay rules.
Hi Nita,
When eBay started, it's sellers used an original 'selling system' as set up by Ebay, which occasionally had little updates and everybody used. Then, approximately 2020, eBay did a 'mega update' and improved and updated to a whole new selling system; everything looked different, which was just too much for me.
It is better, provides much more information to the seller eg. If you are looking for solds on eBay, it will provide solds from the past 90 days whereas in Managed Payments, solds are provided for the previous 12 months. It also gives analytical information about how you 'as an individual', which is useful if you are trying to run a business because you can then react and adjust accordingly to improve your sales.
Initially, eBay started gradually to transition it's Business Sellers across to Managed Payments, with the intention to eventually moving all sellers across and removing the old system.
Many of the initial glitches with Managed Payments, which many complained about, are being resolved. Eg. Now If you sell an item, the payment will now be in your account within 24 - 48 hours compared to end of the month (which obviously caused issues, especially for small sellers).
So, if starting to use Managed Payments this would be my advice .....
What
Eek... pressed wrong button!!!
My advice...
1. Watch 'How to ..Managed Payments' videos.... but ensure recently dated '. Watch several.
2. Be kind to yourself. I do now like it, but as not very technically minded, was wary about 'breaking it' or accidentally pressing a button that would cost me money which I could I'll afford?! That's not going to happen!
So, ensure your computer has had all recent updates. (I was using an older one which caused issues when trying to update photos to my listings)
Also, ensure there is enough 'memory' space for your computer to work comfortably. Again, mine was an older computer whose memory was 'choc-a-bloc' so it kept crashing! I don't actually own a computer, but have managed to borrow a 'more up to date' one from family.
3. With Managed Payments, all information is neatly laid out on a front page, in sections so easy to access. Initially, I couldn't find my 'solds' under the Listings title, but simply press 'show more' (?!) and 'up they pop'!
You can access eBay advisers and other users about queries, via web chat, but also speak 'in person' (in my experience, usually takes 2-3 mins wait time). As I know I don't find navigating computers easily, I always speak to an actual person and explain that I struggle with technology and ask them to 'go slow' - they are fabulously patient and helpful.
Anyway, in my view is Managed Payments are good. Sorry this is so lengthy but hope it is helpful, Liz
Come up with an inventory system that works for you. It may seem like you know where everything is when you have 100 items. But once you have more it can be difficult to remember exactly where everything is.
I started selling on eBay 23 years ago. Mostly just unwanted stuff I had at home. Then I started buying stuff at flea markets and yard sales. Not intending to sell the sell the stuff I bought, at first, anyway. When I got tired of looking at it, I would sell it.
The main thing I learned. Is what might be trash to you, could be treasure for someone else!
Although times have changed, you'll never know what someone will pay for something, until you list it for sale.
Some of the oddest, strangest things I listed, sold for the most money. People collect all kinds of things too...
Hi Margaret. Thank you so much for being willing to be transparent, and to give great advice to those of us thinking about selling from home. I design jewelry and am a graphic designer. Seems like the Lord God led me to watch you today. Thank you for home schooling your children! God bless you, your family and business. Patti
You give great ideas , starting after the Holiday-thank you
I’m about to start selling on Ebay as soon as my debit card comes (I had to open a bank account) and your videos have been super helpful. Thank you, my goal is 200 a week too cause that’s what I was making taking care of my grandma until she passed away in April and now my husband is struggling. I have such bad anxiety I just can’t work normal jobs ahhh.
Nice watching you I’m a homeschooling too I really need help to start running an eBay selling
Great channel, thanks for uploading 👍 I've been reselling full-time on ebay for the past 6 years.
New to your channel and on the verge of retiring (4 months). Planning on online selling of small antiques and collectibles. I've been following Crazy Lamp Lady for a while, but you are in my home state. I so appreciate your videos on selling on ebay. Thanks for all the wonderful tips. I had been wondering about best platform to sell on as a newbie. Looks like ebay will be best way to get my feet wet. Thanks again, Ivy. (P.S. my middle name is Margaret😊)
I seriously enjoyed listening to you..thanks for all the info you provided and advise you gave.
Thank you so much for your advices for your kindness for opening the places that many are “ afraid “ or hesitate....
❤️🙏
I’m listening!! I’m starting soon
I recently subscribed to your channel and I cannot get enough. Thanks for sharing your knowledge
I caught on fairly quickly -- but didn't know at first -- to look at SOLD vs. ASKING PRICES, when checking for comps. What took me longer was learning what a sell-through rate is and how to calculate it, why it's important, etc. This is vital info if you don't want to be sitting on your inventory forever.
I just stumbled upon your video and enjoyed it. Lots of good info, well presented. I've now subscribed to your channel. Looking forward to seeing more of your work.
What is a sell through rate?
Shipping. It can eat your lunch. Weigh items & packing material before listing so you know the weight & dimensions.
Great video, it made me a new subscriber! I've been doing this for about a year now - currently as a side hustle, but working towards making it my main source of income. I've hit some hurdles, but I'm always learning and you had some very good advice - especially the stuff about diversifying. I haven't really looked into other platforms besides eBay, so it sounds like I need to start doing that. Thanks!
Yes! Shipping (which is in constant change) - it took several sales where I ate my profit :( But it's part of the education process - I took about 18 months off, am getting back into it and holy moly have things changed in terms of shipping (knew there were increases, but it's been quite an eye opener) -
I totally lost money shipping a vintage magazine. Yup. Live and learn.
New to Ebay. How are you losing money on shipping?
@@bunchielove6893 if you offer free shipping but don’t calculate the costs correctly, you could lose money when it came time to actually ship.
For example, if I was selling a pair of shoes with free shipping and THOUGHT they’d be under a pound, I’d price it with First Class Shipping costs in mind. When it came time to ship, I find out it’s actually over a pound, and now has to go via Priority Mail to a state across the country. It could be a huge jump in price, and it eats into any profit I was expecting.
As a new seller, I recommend weighing your items before posting so you’re aware of what the shipping costs might be, especially if you offer free shipping.
@@L.L.Cool.T oh ok. I have only offered free shipping on jewelry. Always under 1 pound but I will keep that in mind.
That I needed room for hundreds of things. It's been about 8 months and I'm being told, consistent sales will not happen until I have at least 300 items listed.
I've been trying to acquire smaller items but I can't pass up the vases, lamps, etc. 😅
New sellers will be slow at first - eBay waits to see if you will be a responsible seller, so make sure to avoid defects. Listing every day & ending/relisting anything over 2-3 months old also helps. Have a competitive price and make sure there is demand for what you have listed, look at sold comps - if there are only a few or no sales in the last quarter, look for something that sells more frequently. Sales patterns are strange right now … it’s slower than usual …
Hi. Just discovered your channel. I moved to Houston from Upstate New York. So glad to see we are "neighbors". Just started selling.
Great tips! I'm great at shopping but dragging my feet on posting. I just did my 1st listing on eBay. Yikes
Don't fall for dodgy buyers. Scammers target new sellers. I only had it happen on my first offer.
Yes, decline any odd request and block the buyer (it’s in the Help topics). You can call eBay Customer Service for help doing anything in eBay. Sometimes the CS people aren’t that good, I try to call mornings Eastern time. But sometimes that’s faster than looking for a YT video on the topic.
@@FlaNative3 thank you!
@@andreabradley5837 thank you!
What do place under sales tax when listing?
Hi from SC, I m a new seller on Ebay
I am just starting and have a bunch of jewelry inventory. I haven't decided where I want to start. As far as postage which is the best platform to sell on ? Which is the easiest to start on. I am old and wish I would have started when I was younger. But I guess better late than never.
I wish I knew the shopping aspect of reselling would require super crazy restraint. It's still a struggle lol
I'm thinking of selling clothes that I have in my closet that still have tags on it. I want to see if it's a good idea.
Hi your information very useful thanks
I wish I had an inventory system thought out and better information on bookkeeping
Hey! Great video. I’m still trying to figure out the shipping thing but it’s getting there.
I’m manually uploading to 2 or 3 sites to cross post. Have you ever had somebody buy the same item from 2 different places? That would stress me out lol
great video! lot of good advice and ideas shipping shipping shipping styles, ways and sizes and rates! omg person would be a millionaire to do a basic video for Canada !
I like your style I would be that type of seller I’m just subscribed and binge watching to get idea. I lost my job a year again and having the hardest time finding my type of work so started thinking of selling online hoping maybe I can bring in so type of income to get me by I see and craft so was hoping maybe something like that?
Does List Perfectly do importing of listings already created? Definitely wouldn't want to list 340 items all over again. Lol. I heard of a free crosslister called Flyp but haven't tried it yet. I might this weekend. I only do reselling as a hobby right now so not much time during the week besides getting packages shipped out.
Yes it does!
Shipping TOTALLY petrifies me!! I want to start reselling art glass and dishes, but I'm terrified that it (aka, shipping costs) will defeat the purpose ($$$) ;)
Dont be scared. Buy lots of bubble wrap. When I ship glass in an odd shape, I build the bubble wrap around the item, starting with a part that sticks out or off the piece, bubble wrap that, then build the bubble wrap out from there till its all engulfed. Make sure that the peanuts or wrapping is between the item and the side of the box so the item is "floating" inside the box so if the box gets bumped it wont hit the item. Watch videos on this platform in shipping glassware or odd items. There are some good tutorials. Also, dont be afraid of increasing the weight in the listing. For a one pound item, I will list it as 4 pounds. You have to compensate the price for the materials and boxes. Or, lower the poundage and increase the price of the item. Either way its gotta be paid by the buyer.
Start with small items - it gets easier once you see how it works. Have boxes, bubble wrap and peanuts on hand before you start listing. When you do the listing for an item, put it on the scale with a box & add a few ounces for cushion (more ounces for larger items). You want 2”+ padding on all sides for breakables - at least 2 layers of bubble plus peanuts. Fill up all empty space in the box so the item doesn’t move at all when you shake the closed box. With smaller items, often you can use just bubble wrap but peanuts are best for filling space with breakables. You can also use paper for fill but it weighs more. When I started eBay, I used up miscellaneous packing material that I had saved from my own purchases. Any foam or cushion could work, like pool noodles, paper egg cartons (clean only), foam padding, etc.
Most of my item are art glass and dishes. I just started in February. I too was nervous but decided the reward is bigger than my fear.
Put an iso in your area for used packaging materials on Facebook,peanuts -bubble wrap -boxes etc. I went to a local health food store. And ask, instead of your package material going into land fill can I come once a week and pick up? . I get tons of bubble wrap and more boxes than I can use. Get a good scale for weight. When Measures boxes measure up.. if it is 12 1/2 it’s 13 inches. Also give people choices. eBay is my side hustle for 22 years.
Make sure seller pays for shipping
When and how did you set up your accounting books when you started?
I used google docs at first. Now I use quickbooks
I was saying in my head “I don’t think I want to sell breakables” and then you said that hahaha
Hopefully by now someone told her what brick and mortar actually means… a real store like Walmart,target, sears, and actual building made with brick and mortar. Walmart is a brick and mortar retail outlet. They’re a lot online nowadays.
Put money for taxes on the side..cuz the IRS wants their money .lol
Very good advice thank you I just want to be a part trimmer. But still worried.
Have been researching to starting reselling?
How do you figure out if you offer free shipping or not?
Where do you get supplies on the cheap?
Just looking to start part time selling locally for me sucks…
I just started resellling myself. I watched so many videos and thought I had a good handle on it...Wrong. LOL
I figured out that as a new seller, it is best to not do free shipping yet. I did try it at first, but trying to work the cost into the price of the item made me feel like my items were way over priced and wouldn't sell. I've also been confused by the whole shipping thing, so that made it harder to figure out. Luckily I'm picking it up pretty quickly, but I still don't want to give free shipping. If your item is priced right, they won't mind the shipping. And you won't get thrown for a loop when someone across the country buys something and the shipping is a LOT more then expected. You WILL want to get a scale, HUGE help.
I'm weird and save boxes & packing material from things I buy. I don't know why other then maybe I knew I'd do this....Lawd. So I use some that I already have and I get the free supplies from the post office website. Be careful of the ones that say priority because those MUST ship priority. But I have found that some of them fit inside of poly mailers and that works great for me. Box it up, bag the box, and ship it out. I bought some poly mailers from an eBay seller, you can find great deals on them. I also haven't had to buy bubble wrap yet, but I've seen a lot of resellers use American Bubble Boy.
My biggest thing that I wish I'd known before starting is that eBay will severely limit your listing amount if you are new to eBay. And by that I mean if you don't have any feedback from buying or selling, you are considered a risk. I'd been on eBay for years, but had 0 feedback; because of this, eBay limited me to 5 listings or $500 a month to start out. I couldn't understand how in the heck I was supposed to do anything with that small amount. I listed the 5 I was allowed and got a friend to buy one of my items, I also purchased a scale & warranty from another eBay seller and left feedback for them which they reciprocated for me. So now I had 2 positive feedbacks and a purchase under my belt. Then (on advice from other sellers) I called eBay and asked them if something could be done about the limit. They asked me a few questions, I believe to figure out if I was a serious seller, and then they raised my limit to 100 or $5000 a month. Still not as much as I want, but soooo much better then 5. I'm planning to ask them to up it again next month after I get back from a little vacation.
I do not offer free shipping on anything. USPS supplies free supplies. Just go to their website. :)
What do you do when you go on vacation? Go on vacation mode on eBay? Thanks for the info
I Love Your Video's ... but me and a friend sell on Ebay but we have not gotten any sales for a full two weeks now! Do you know what's going on and why we are not getting any sales on Ebay??
Been busy with family nightmare and only seeing the new hair....Fab Fab Fab😉
pamelaannehowell, :) Thank you very much!! :)
Great video! Very helpful!❤️
As a newer reseller I find it hard to justify the List Perfectly monthly fee. Is it worth it?
Iam just starting but google lens everything.not sure eBay is working, Shopify? How many platforms and best ones just starting out.any advise is welcome
I love your videos!
Great video. Thank you.
I’m still , after one year, trying to figure out how to set up to photograph clothing. What do you use for lighting, backdrop? Love your channel
Did you buy a scale and printer
To help with your shipping?
I feel like I am really good at finding food items just so scared to get started
I did
You are the best ❤ thank you for all of the super helpful advice ☺️ I can't imagine me having a TH-cam channel 😂😂😂😂 I would need a "bleep" button 😆
Great tips!! Thanks so much. BTW, you look awesome!!!!
Thinking about starting eBay rexelling.
What a great video. Thank you!!
How do know what to price your items at?
Can someone tell me how much inventory I should aim at keeping? And when I say this I mean what dollar amount? I’ve been piddling with selling on eBay for years but I’ve always held a full time job. As of December I am going to be losing my good job and I’m truly scared. I want to try to ramp up my eBay because my unemployment just isn’t going to pay my bills. So im looking at doing this seriously. And I thought you could tell me when you started how much money did you start out with and how do you know how much to reinvest and how much to keep back for living expenses? I’m grateful for any advice in this area.
Thank you for your post!!
I'm about to quit selling , I don't make any money, very few sales
Great information ✌️
My very first listing sold right away. I was not prepared plus I accidently listed it wrong in the description. I thought I had corrected it. I wish I had known more about listing and I had a hard time getting g my postage label printed. I gave the buyer a partial refund and let him keep the product but he hacked me and went after me with a vengeance.
See, that's the kind of thing that scares me. 😥 So sorry for your experience.
Woah. I didn't know people could hack you through eBay. How did that happen? And did he hack your eBay acct or your bank acct? I'm confused.
I am so thankful for finding you! I must have got lucky, you pooped up! I have a several questions, but one mainly. How do you know or can you know if you are going to buy a big ticket item, that it is safe to pay for and you are going to receive it. This mainly pertains to FB Marketplace? I would really appreciate if you could give me some advice.
I haven't bought much that is shipped on FB marketplace. We mostly buy local. I do ship however...
@@TexasGalTreasures Thanks, Just thinking about all your 💡. I have been thinking about doing this type of thing for myself. At the moment your video came on I am looking at making a rather large FB MP purchase. Kinda concerned. Just thought I would ask. Thanks.
Just new to your videos. I'm really enjoying all you are sharing. I'm trying to learn how to sell effectively on Ebay. Question: I have a half dozen purses that I picked up at a yard sale. Was told they are genuine Coach. I'm learning about what to look for to verify that, but when I list on Ebay, do I need to have them authenticated in order to sell there, or can I list as not verified as genuine?? Any suggestions or if you have a video to share would be much appreciated : )
Great advice!! Thank you. 😊
I'm here from Minnesota
Me too just learning
Great information, I appreciate all of it. I am still fairly new and trying to get into a rhythm. Just curious, If I am shipping a Large dinner plate 11" diameter, what box would you use?
I'd probably have to cut one to size
@@TexasGalTreasures thanks I never thought of that 👍
Texas Gal Treasures What site do you go to so that you can post multiples of an item post once per various sites? Ty 😁
What program did u use to make one post go to multiple sites?
List Perfectly 😊 I have a link in my description with a coupon code 😊😊
Would you recommend selling fine jewellery on Ebay as like a retailer?
I was doing really well selling handmade jewellery on Etsy until they changed their tax policies, so im in search of a new platform.
Yes
I am going to be starting to sell some items on eBay.... I wish I knew how to keep track of inventory and cost and profit and what I need to put to the side for federal taxes when it comes to tax time. I have always worked corporate America, so having to track and crunch the numbers is my biggest fear. Do you have any suggestions? I can not afford my own CPA at this time. I am actually in the transition to possibly being on disability for fibromyalgia. So, If I start making bigger money... will that effect my eligibility for disability?
I’m not sure about disability but I can make a video about how I track things
Are you listing the same item on all those platform?
Yes
I just wish I had discovered reselling on EBay 10 years ago. I might have had great success with it. Today, there are too many sellers out there all competing for the same few buyers. Yep, too much competition. Plus, too many people are making videos giving away their business secrets, adding to the congestion just to pick up a few bucks on TH-cam. Sigh.
With my spouse and myself it's easy: we throw it all into a big pool. X amount gets saved, we budget the rest, and a little is pocket money. Expenses beyond that are planned. We talk about anything over about $100. More freedom for here and there
I personally think that she shouldn’t feel so bad to get money from the “breadwinner” as she is serving as not only a homemaker but also a full time teacher, potentially a private tutor etc for their children.
It’s awesome that she has found such great ways to bring in extra money for her family.