Online auctions have become very popular in recent years. They are great for finding bargains on all sorts of items. Many people shop auctions to find brand names at bargain prices, household items or even wholesale products. Some auction sites are actually one stop online auction shops that sell everything from antiques to automobiles while other sites specialize in only one type of product.
Earn Profits
There are several ways to earn profits through online auctions. You can build an entire business through online auctions or use auctions to attract new customers to your existing website. And, you can use online auctions occasionally to sell some of your old household items. You can even advertise wholesale products through auctions. Some online "auctioneers" are earning thousands of dollars each month!
Either way, there are a few simple techniques you can apply to maximize your auction profits. Choosing your one stop online auction shop is only the first step to success. Next, you'll need to start building your business.
1. Include Photos
One way to maximize auction profits is to include photos with your listings. Most auction sites allow one photo to be displayed next to listing titles. It's very important that you include a photo to catch the shopper's eye. People naturally look at pictures and then read the nearby caption. Newspapers and magazines have trained us that way. So, it's understandable why an auction shopper will look at photos and then read the titles beside the photos. Unfortunately, listing titles without photos can be easily missed.
Another reason to include photos is because auction buyers want to see what they are buying. They are more willing to trust a new seller if a photo of the item is available. If you are selling an expensive item, include several photos at different angles if necessary. For printed materials such as reports or e-books, you might try creating a few colorful banners and even a mini banner for the photo that will appear next to your listing titles. Banners will have the same eye-catching effect as a photo!
2. Write Compelling Listing Titles and Copy
Don't be afraid to apply proven marketing techniques to your auction titles and copy. You're a seller, so don't hesitate to sell! Use key phrases that will get the buyer's attention. Words like "free," "no reserve," "low or free shipping," or "like new" always get the buyer's attention.
3. Use Banners at Your Website
If you own a website and are using auctions to attract more customers, don't forget to place some banners at your website that link to your auction store as well. Some customers who reach your site by other means might love auctions. They might buy from you both ways!
4. Don't Under-price your Items
Not many sellers have a problem with over-pricing, but under-pricing seems to be a huge problem with auctions. Don't sell yourself short. Price your items reasonably, but be sure to include a little profit for yourself. Remember, your time is valuable. If you ship items, you must take time to package and mail them. If the items you are selling offer very little profit, try to find popular items with higher profits that are also unique. The more scarce the supply of a popular item, the higher bids you will receive.
5. Keep Contact with Customers
Be sure to keep in contact with your auction customers after they buy. Send them a personal "thank you" email and include an email signature to get them back to your auction site or to your regular website. An email signature is actually a "P.S." after your thank you message.
Here's an example...
P.S. Be sure to visit our auction site again. Some new items have been added recently, and you will receive FREE SHIPPING with your next purchase. (Your auction site address here.)
6. Ask for Feedback
Be sure to ask for feedback after someone makes a purchase. Good feedback helps other buyers to trust you. Some buyers will not buy from a new seller if no feedback is available. The more positive feedback you receive, the more your business will grow.
Keep these tips in mind as you list items at your one stop online auction shop. You'll see profits increase in no time!
Kamis, 26 Februari 2009
Senin, 23 Februari 2009
Buying an Auction Software - Make Your Online Auctions Easier to Manage
The popularity of auction sites like eBay has grown steadily such that some people now sell in the and use their profits as their main source of income. Unlike casual sellers or buyers on the site, these individuals constantly list, sell or pack products for the website. If you a serious eBay user just like them, then you can benefit a lot from using an auction software to help you organize your online auction store activities.
Picking the right software
Before making any purchase, buyers like yourself should assess online auction business activities to see what needs help or what needs to be improved. This is to make sure that the software that you will purchase is exactly what you need.
You may need either one of these two types (among many other types of auction software):
Market Analysis Programs – These applications provide an overall portrait of shopping and pricing behavior. It alerts you when your competitors are slashing rates for similar products, for example.
Auction Marketing Programs – There are also programs that help sellers like you advertise and market products. One program even allows sellers to post all the items they are selling on one page. This makes it easier for buyers to view all products, and provides you an easier way to quickly update your inventory.
Tips when buying an auction software
Aside from discovering what your business needs, there are other things to consider before purchasing an auction software:
1. Assess your computer’s capabilities, operating system, memory etc. to make sure that it can run the software you are buying.
2. Make a test run of a program using its trial version. The auction software trial version usually last for 30 days (sometimes less). This is ample time for you to assess its pro’s and con’s.
Picking the right software
Before making any purchase, buyers like yourself should assess online auction business activities to see what needs help or what needs to be improved. This is to make sure that the software that you will purchase is exactly what you need.
You may need either one of these two types (among many other types of auction software):
Market Analysis Programs – These applications provide an overall portrait of shopping and pricing behavior. It alerts you when your competitors are slashing rates for similar products, for example.
Auction Marketing Programs – There are also programs that help sellers like you advertise and market products. One program even allows sellers to post all the items they are selling on one page. This makes it easier for buyers to view all products, and provides you an easier way to quickly update your inventory.
Tips when buying an auction software
Aside from discovering what your business needs, there are other things to consider before purchasing an auction software:
1. Assess your computer’s capabilities, operating system, memory etc. to make sure that it can run the software you are buying.
2. Make a test run of a program using its trial version. The auction software trial version usually last for 30 days (sometimes less). This is ample time for you to assess its pro’s and con’s.
Jumat, 20 Februari 2009
Buying Government Seized Properties at Online Auctions
Just about everyday the government agencies across the country seize all manner of personal property because of foreclosure, tax evasion, and criminal activities. These government agencies recover much of their costs for performing these seizures and the associated administrative costs by auctioning off these properties at highly discounted prices.
So how does one of these online government auctions work? Much like a regular auction with the one exception that you do not have to attend in person. The online auction is a relatively new phenomenon but government agencies across the country have seized upon this idea simply for the fact that it reduces the costs. These savings are then passed onto the auction participants in even lower prices for the good offered.
The advantage of using an online auction service for those who wish to participate is the ease of looking through the items being offered, doing research on those items and ultimately bidding from the comfort of home. Winning the auction is much like attending one in person, to the highest bidder goes the spoils. Most of these auctions do have a reserve prices set for each item. This is to ensure that at the least all the administrative costs of the auction are met.
If you do choose to participate in an online government auction here are some of the seized properties you can expect to find.
1. All manner of vehicles - if you are thinking of buying a new car you will find no better deal then at a seizure auction. You will find cars, truck, SUVs, motorcycles, boats, and even aircraft that have been seized for a variety of reasons. Most are less then two years old and are in good to great condition and bought at significant savings.
2. Real estate - People and businesses that default on loans or owe back taxes can find their properties seized and put up for auction. You can bid on single family homes of all sizes, vacant land, vacation homes, condominiums, or anything else the government may have in its possession. You may even find hotels, bars, restaurants, ranches and other commercial real estate up for auction.
3. Clothes, jewelry, and household goods - In the case of those involved in criminal activities government law enforcement agencies will seize anything and everything that is connected with and purchased because of criminal activities. This includes furniture, kitchen items, designer clothing and jewelry.
4. Art collections and antiques - You will also find one of a kind art pieces, whether they be paintings or sculptures. Antique furniture, cars, and rugs among other things will also be up for sale.
As you can see you can bid on and purchase just about anything you need at an online auction of government seized properties. Not only will you find what you are looking for you also stand to save a good chunk of money, unless of course you would rather just pay retail.
So how does one of these online government auctions work? Much like a regular auction with the one exception that you do not have to attend in person. The online auction is a relatively new phenomenon but government agencies across the country have seized upon this idea simply for the fact that it reduces the costs. These savings are then passed onto the auction participants in even lower prices for the good offered.
The advantage of using an online auction service for those who wish to participate is the ease of looking through the items being offered, doing research on those items and ultimately bidding from the comfort of home. Winning the auction is much like attending one in person, to the highest bidder goes the spoils. Most of these auctions do have a reserve prices set for each item. This is to ensure that at the least all the administrative costs of the auction are met.
If you do choose to participate in an online government auction here are some of the seized properties you can expect to find.
1. All manner of vehicles - if you are thinking of buying a new car you will find no better deal then at a seizure auction. You will find cars, truck, SUVs, motorcycles, boats, and even aircraft that have been seized for a variety of reasons. Most are less then two years old and are in good to great condition and bought at significant savings.
2. Real estate - People and businesses that default on loans or owe back taxes can find their properties seized and put up for auction. You can bid on single family homes of all sizes, vacant land, vacation homes, condominiums, or anything else the government may have in its possession. You may even find hotels, bars, restaurants, ranches and other commercial real estate up for auction.
3. Clothes, jewelry, and household goods - In the case of those involved in criminal activities government law enforcement agencies will seize anything and everything that is connected with and purchased because of criminal activities. This includes furniture, kitchen items, designer clothing and jewelry.
4. Art collections and antiques - You will also find one of a kind art pieces, whether they be paintings or sculptures. Antique furniture, cars, and rugs among other things will also be up for sale.
As you can see you can bid on and purchase just about anything you need at an online auction of government seized properties. Not only will you find what you are looking for you also stand to save a good chunk of money, unless of course you would rather just pay retail.
Selasa, 17 Februari 2009
Find What You're Looking For in an Online Auction
If you're limited on cash but really need a vehicle, what are your options? Scouring the used car lots seems to turn up a lot of overpriced junk. You might find a pretty good deal, but when you take it home and it turns out to be a lemon, you're stuck with four years worth of car payments for a useless heap. So what is a person to do in this stagnant economy? One of the best ways to find great deals on used cars and more is by perusing online auctions.
Online auctions provide a wide variety of products at prices that can't be beat. Look around at a few online auctions and see for yourself how low the prices are. Buying a relatively new used car is affordable for anyone, as long as they know how to find the right auction.
Online auctions aren't limited to automobiles, though. Perusing a few auctions shows you how many products are available. Are you a home recording enthusiast? You can beef up your home studio with microphones, digital audio workstations and top-of-the-line tube preamps for a fraction of the cost. Perhaps you have other hobbies that you want to invest in, but don't have the money to buy everything new. Whether you're a model train collector or a dog lover, online auctions have something that you'll be interested in for a relatively inexpensive price.
Personally, I'm searching for a nice laptop computer so that I can work wherever I go, but I don't want to pay for a new one. Since discovering the beauty of online auctions, I've been able to buy a high-quality computer that works great. It's only two steps down from the current leader in processing speed, and it has a hard drive large enough to hold all of my business files, my entire music library and even a film or two. It's great, and I bought it for a quarter of its original price.
Online auctions work similar to live auctions. A minimum price has to be met, and a deadline is set for the auction to end. People bid on the item, outbid each other and the lucky winner gets the prize. If you fail to win the auction, don't despair. There are often multiple items on the same auction ticket. If not, keep checking the website to see when another auction is posted with the same item.
In general, shipping and handling are pre-arranged and listed with the item. Sometimes, in the case of larger auctions, the item is pick-up only. For example, if you buy a piano in an auction, the shipping and handling would be very expensive, so you typically have to pick it up. Make sure that you understand the terms before you bid. Also, make sure that you know how payment is accepted, whether it's through an online service, COD or check.
From watch collectors to shoe collectors, online auctions contain something for everyone. If you're on a tight budget or just like to shop around, online auctions can provide what you desire and save you money at the same time. Keep looking and happy bidding.
Online auctions provide a wide variety of products at prices that can't be beat. Look around at a few online auctions and see for yourself how low the prices are. Buying a relatively new used car is affordable for anyone, as long as they know how to find the right auction.
Online auctions aren't limited to automobiles, though. Perusing a few auctions shows you how many products are available. Are you a home recording enthusiast? You can beef up your home studio with microphones, digital audio workstations and top-of-the-line tube preamps for a fraction of the cost. Perhaps you have other hobbies that you want to invest in, but don't have the money to buy everything new. Whether you're a model train collector or a dog lover, online auctions have something that you'll be interested in for a relatively inexpensive price.
Personally, I'm searching for a nice laptop computer so that I can work wherever I go, but I don't want to pay for a new one. Since discovering the beauty of online auctions, I've been able to buy a high-quality computer that works great. It's only two steps down from the current leader in processing speed, and it has a hard drive large enough to hold all of my business files, my entire music library and even a film or two. It's great, and I bought it for a quarter of its original price.
Online auctions work similar to live auctions. A minimum price has to be met, and a deadline is set for the auction to end. People bid on the item, outbid each other and the lucky winner gets the prize. If you fail to win the auction, don't despair. There are often multiple items on the same auction ticket. If not, keep checking the website to see when another auction is posted with the same item.
In general, shipping and handling are pre-arranged and listed with the item. Sometimes, in the case of larger auctions, the item is pick-up only. For example, if you buy a piano in an auction, the shipping and handling would be very expensive, so you typically have to pick it up. Make sure that you understand the terms before you bid. Also, make sure that you know how payment is accepted, whether it's through an online service, COD or check.
From watch collectors to shoe collectors, online auctions contain something for everyone. If you're on a tight budget or just like to shop around, online auctions can provide what you desire and save you money at the same time. Keep looking and happy bidding.
Sabtu, 14 Februari 2009
The Strategic Advantages Of An Online Auctions & Ebay Business Model
Since they began in 1995 Online Auctions have changed and are changing the way we shop and already are having a huge impact on consumer shopping habits and the work at home opportunity, by effectively creating a massive virtual marketplace where millions of people gather to buy, sell and trade the hot items of the day.
As a business, Online Auctions are probably the only opportunity that allows everyone the chance to play on a level playing field. Everyone involved in online auctions and eBay has the same opportunity to reach and sell to literally millions of people – whether they are just looking to make a few extra bucks a week as pocket money; hope to develop a thriving and profitable work at home business and earn valuable part-time or full-time income; whether they are a working Mom making a modest income; or a big Company with lots of inventory to sell.
A Conventional Business needs a fair amount of both Capital and Time to be established and organised before you can really start trading profitably. And if you were planning to manufacture your own product - then depending on your product design and manufacturing cycle - there can be a big time lag before your products are delivered to the buyers and consumers and turned into sales and revenues.
In order to start-up and run any conventional business, there are certain minimum requirements which must be met before you can open shop and start trading including but not limited to:
• Capital or Equity;
• You – including your managerial and organisational skills;
• Time – weeks or months or even years of advance preparation;
• Business Strategy and Plan;
• Financial Plan and Short-term to Mid-term Budget;
• Marketing Strategy;
• Business Premises including Location and Layout;
• Manufacturing Premises if you plan to manufacture your own products;
• Equipment – Office and Manufacturing;
• Personnel;
• An Inventory of Products to sell – either manufactured by you or purchased from a supplier;
• A Reasonable Advertising Budget;
• Banking Facilities;
• Trading Licences and Certificate of Incorporation;
• Customers;
• Other Requirements depending on your country and place of business;
But as an Online Auction Seller or Auctioneer there are really only 6 easy to meet requirements:
1. Registration with the online auction house or eBay. It’s Free!
2. A Little Computer Knowledge;
3. A Computer or Access to a Computer;
4. A Good AD;
5. A Valid Credit Card – for setting up your seller’s account;
6. A Valid eMail Address;
Once you have registered with the online auctions site or sites of your choice, you can begin to sell any product you want at a profit. Registration and the beginning of a successful business can normally be accomplished within 24/48 hours with:
• No Need for Capital – it costs about $0.30 to list an auction and the listing fee is normally billed monthly;
• No overhead or upfront costs;
• No Need for Sales Staff or Distributors;
• No Need for a Website;
• No Need for Business Premises;
• No initial investment required;
• No need to ship products yourself if you use established, professional drop-shippers;
• Millions of captive online auctions buying customers;
The Strategic Advantages of this business model are clear and beyond dispute:
1. No Time Constraint – Bids can be placed at any time, 24/7, seven days a week and l65 days a year. Items can be listed for up to 10 days at the discretion of the seller, thus giving purchasers adequate time to search, decide and bid. This convenience increases the number of bidders;
2. No Geographical Constraints – Buyers and Sellers can participate from anywhere in the world that has access to the Internet. This makes the auctions more accessible, reduces the cost of “attending” an auction, increases the number of listed items/sellers and the number of bids/bidders for each item. Also there is no need to ship items to a central location, reducing costs and the seller’s minimum acceptable price;
3. No Language Barriers – Buyers and Sellers can participate from anywhere in the world that has access to the Internet and in their own language.
4. Intensity of Social Interactions – The social interactions involved in the bidding process are very high as the bidders wait in anticipation hoping to “win” and many bidders bid primarily to “play the game” rather than to obtain the and product;
5. Large Number of Bidders – Online auction sites attract a large amount of traffic making them an ideal place to capitalise on readily available, widespread exposure for your product and/or company. Because of the potential for obtaining highly valued items at a relatively low price, the broad range of products and services available, the ease of access and the social benefits of the auction process, there are usually a large number of bidders;
6. Large Number of Sellers – Because of the large number of bidders, the potential for a relatively high price, reduced selling costs and ease of access, there are usually a large number of sellers;
7. Network Economies of Scale – The larger number of bidders encourages more sellers which, in turn, will encourage more bidders, which will encourage more sellers etc. in a virtual spiral. The more the spiral operates, the larger the system becomes and the more valuable the business model becomes for all participants;
As a business, Online Auctions are probably the only opportunity that allows everyone the chance to play on a level playing field. Everyone involved in online auctions and eBay has the same opportunity to reach and sell to literally millions of people – whether they are just looking to make a few extra bucks a week as pocket money; hope to develop a thriving and profitable work at home business and earn valuable part-time or full-time income; whether they are a working Mom making a modest income; or a big Company with lots of inventory to sell.
A Conventional Business needs a fair amount of both Capital and Time to be established and organised before you can really start trading profitably. And if you were planning to manufacture your own product - then depending on your product design and manufacturing cycle - there can be a big time lag before your products are delivered to the buyers and consumers and turned into sales and revenues.
In order to start-up and run any conventional business, there are certain minimum requirements which must be met before you can open shop and start trading including but not limited to:
• Capital or Equity;
• You – including your managerial and organisational skills;
• Time – weeks or months or even years of advance preparation;
• Business Strategy and Plan;
• Financial Plan and Short-term to Mid-term Budget;
• Marketing Strategy;
• Business Premises including Location and Layout;
• Manufacturing Premises if you plan to manufacture your own products;
• Equipment – Office and Manufacturing;
• Personnel;
• An Inventory of Products to sell – either manufactured by you or purchased from a supplier;
• A Reasonable Advertising Budget;
• Banking Facilities;
• Trading Licences and Certificate of Incorporation;
• Customers;
• Other Requirements depending on your country and place of business;
But as an Online Auction Seller or Auctioneer there are really only 6 easy to meet requirements:
1. Registration with the online auction house or eBay. It’s Free!
2. A Little Computer Knowledge;
3. A Computer or Access to a Computer;
4. A Good AD;
5. A Valid Credit Card – for setting up your seller’s account;
6. A Valid eMail Address;
Once you have registered with the online auctions site or sites of your choice, you can begin to sell any product you want at a profit. Registration and the beginning of a successful business can normally be accomplished within 24/48 hours with:
• No Need for Capital – it costs about $0.30 to list an auction and the listing fee is normally billed monthly;
• No overhead or upfront costs;
• No Need for Sales Staff or Distributors;
• No Need for a Website;
• No Need for Business Premises;
• No initial investment required;
• No need to ship products yourself if you use established, professional drop-shippers;
• Millions of captive online auctions buying customers;
The Strategic Advantages of this business model are clear and beyond dispute:
1. No Time Constraint – Bids can be placed at any time, 24/7, seven days a week and l65 days a year. Items can be listed for up to 10 days at the discretion of the seller, thus giving purchasers adequate time to search, decide and bid. This convenience increases the number of bidders;
2. No Geographical Constraints – Buyers and Sellers can participate from anywhere in the world that has access to the Internet. This makes the auctions more accessible, reduces the cost of “attending” an auction, increases the number of listed items/sellers and the number of bids/bidders for each item. Also there is no need to ship items to a central location, reducing costs and the seller’s minimum acceptable price;
3. No Language Barriers – Buyers and Sellers can participate from anywhere in the world that has access to the Internet and in their own language.
4. Intensity of Social Interactions – The social interactions involved in the bidding process are very high as the bidders wait in anticipation hoping to “win” and many bidders bid primarily to “play the game” rather than to obtain the and product;
5. Large Number of Bidders – Online auction sites attract a large amount of traffic making them an ideal place to capitalise on readily available, widespread exposure for your product and/or company. Because of the potential for obtaining highly valued items at a relatively low price, the broad range of products and services available, the ease of access and the social benefits of the auction process, there are usually a large number of bidders;
6. Large Number of Sellers – Because of the large number of bidders, the potential for a relatively high price, reduced selling costs and ease of access, there are usually a large number of sellers;
7. Network Economies of Scale – The larger number of bidders encourages more sellers which, in turn, will encourage more bidders, which will encourage more sellers etc. in a virtual spiral. The more the spiral operates, the larger the system becomes and the more valuable the business model becomes for all participants;
Senin, 09 Februari 2009
The Web's Best Online Auction Sites
The best online auction links for buyers and sellers are - not surprisingly - eBay, eBay and eBay. eBay began the entire wacky world of online auctions back on the Labor Day weekend of 1995. By any definition, this is one of the most successful sites in the world, and certainly offers the greatest number and variety of goodies for buyers. Generally, sellers make more money on eBay than elsewhere.
Sometimes, though, we might wonder about the future of eBay, because the sheer volume of goods for sale might bring this giant to a halt. Today, for example, there are 425,641 sports card auctions. Many of these are dutch auctions - meaning the sellers are offering multiple items. So the actual number of cards for sale is even higher than the gigantic list of auctions. If you are a seller trying to auction a few cards, and you aren't really skilled in the business like Auction Genius Course students are, what are your chances of selling? Is it possible that in the future sellers might be looking for other options if they can't sell their goodies?
Here are some of the best online auction links if you're looking for life outside eBay:
Yahoo Auctions: (http.auctions.yahoo.com)
Being Yahoo, this is naturally the biggest competitor to giany eBay.
Amazon Auctions: (http://amazon.com)
Amazon was more serious about their online auctions in the past, but has added many more retail buying features in past years.
ePier Online Auctions: (http://epier.com)
One of the best alternative online auction links is ePier. These folks stuck it out for 2 years before making a profit, but are doing well now. As sellers, we can only cheer about the competition.
Bidville: (http://www.BidVille.com)
This general online auction site is small fry, compared to the giants, but depending on what you're selling, this might be a big advantage.
uBid: (http://www.ubid.com)
uBid is one of the best online auction sites for buying multiple items for resale. Its claim to fame is "bid on brand names starting at $1".
Bidz: (http://web-1.bidz.com)
Bidz is the home of the "2 minute" auctions which are fast and lots of fun. Warning: it's easy to get caught up in the auction fever of the moment and get carried away, so approach with caution.
These are some of the very best online auction links, but it's by no means a complete list. The opportunities for online auction selling are truly staggering and smart sellers neglect no possibilities.
Sometimes, though, we might wonder about the future of eBay, because the sheer volume of goods for sale might bring this giant to a halt. Today, for example, there are 425,641 sports card auctions. Many of these are dutch auctions - meaning the sellers are offering multiple items. So the actual number of cards for sale is even higher than the gigantic list of auctions. If you are a seller trying to auction a few cards, and you aren't really skilled in the business like Auction Genius Course students are, what are your chances of selling? Is it possible that in the future sellers might be looking for other options if they can't sell their goodies?
Here are some of the best online auction links if you're looking for life outside eBay:
Yahoo Auctions: (http.auctions.yahoo.com)
Being Yahoo, this is naturally the biggest competitor to giany eBay.
Amazon Auctions: (http://amazon.com)
Amazon was more serious about their online auctions in the past, but has added many more retail buying features in past years.
ePier Online Auctions: (http://epier.com)
One of the best alternative online auction links is ePier. These folks stuck it out for 2 years before making a profit, but are doing well now. As sellers, we can only cheer about the competition.
Bidville: (http://www.BidVille.com)
This general online auction site is small fry, compared to the giants, but depending on what you're selling, this might be a big advantage.
uBid: (http://www.ubid.com)
uBid is one of the best online auction sites for buying multiple items for resale. Its claim to fame is "bid on brand names starting at $1".
Bidz: (http://web-1.bidz.com)
Bidz is the home of the "2 minute" auctions which are fast and lots of fun. Warning: it's easy to get caught up in the auction fever of the moment and get carried away, so approach with caution.
These are some of the very best online auction links, but it's by no means a complete list. The opportunities for online auction selling are truly staggering and smart sellers neglect no possibilities.
Jumat, 06 Februari 2009
Seller's Permit For Online Auctions
Today's fast, competitive online market makes it easy for anyone to buy or sell goods and services on the internet. EBay and other auction sites connect buyers and sellers quickly, making them potentially profitable arenas for anyone looking to earn some extra cash. But be aware: depending on the nature of your auction site usage, you may need a seller's permit to legally carry out your transactions.
Do I need a seller's permit?
If you buy wholesale items (usually in bulk, at prices lower than retail) and sell them on eBay or any similar service, or if you sell any type of item wholesale, you probably need a seller's permit for online auctions. Online transactions that require a seller's permit usually involve taxable, tangible items; for example, if you're selling toys, silverware, or jewelry that you did not create yourself, you need a permit.
If you run an online business through an auction site, you also need a seller's permit, and possibly a business license as well.
What counts as an online business?
The definition of a small online business varies from state to state. Generally, if you're selling a relatively large amount of goods each year, making a profit between about $1000 and $6.5 million, or you employ one or more other people, you have a small business. A small business is independently owned and operated, employs less than 100 people, and is not the dominant business in its industry.
I'm auctioning handmade goods or craft items online. Do I need a seller's permit for this?
Unless you sell a lot of your items (more than 100 per month), charge a high price for them (over $100 or so), and/or employ other people for a part of the work, you probably don't need a seller's permit or a business license. Craft items are tangible, but they're not usually taxable.
How do I get a permit if I need one?
Your state's revenue or business services department will most likely issue your seller's permit. Most states don't charge a fee for a seller's permit, but some require a money deposit. Enter "seller's permit [your state]" into an online search engine to find out where you can apply.
How long can I continue to use the same permit for auctioning goods online?
In most areas, a seller's permit remains valid as long as the holder is actively doing business as a wholesaler, retailer, or other type of seller. A seller's permit may also be revoked if a seller:
a) stops selling tangible, taxable items;
b) does not keep adequate records of sales and purchases;
c) fails to inform the office that issued the permit if the business changes its address, ownership, or is discontinued; or
d) in certain cases if a customer lodges a complaint against the seller.
If you obtain a permit and follow the rules, auctioning your goods online can be a simple, smooth way of doing business with people around the world.
Do I need a seller's permit?
If you buy wholesale items (usually in bulk, at prices lower than retail) and sell them on eBay or any similar service, or if you sell any type of item wholesale, you probably need a seller's permit for online auctions. Online transactions that require a seller's permit usually involve taxable, tangible items; for example, if you're selling toys, silverware, or jewelry that you did not create yourself, you need a permit.
If you run an online business through an auction site, you also need a seller's permit, and possibly a business license as well.
What counts as an online business?
The definition of a small online business varies from state to state. Generally, if you're selling a relatively large amount of goods each year, making a profit between about $1000 and $6.5 million, or you employ one or more other people, you have a small business. A small business is independently owned and operated, employs less than 100 people, and is not the dominant business in its industry.
I'm auctioning handmade goods or craft items online. Do I need a seller's permit for this?
Unless you sell a lot of your items (more than 100 per month), charge a high price for them (over $100 or so), and/or employ other people for a part of the work, you probably don't need a seller's permit or a business license. Craft items are tangible, but they're not usually taxable.
How do I get a permit if I need one?
Your state's revenue or business services department will most likely issue your seller's permit. Most states don't charge a fee for a seller's permit, but some require a money deposit. Enter "seller's permit [your state]" into an online search engine to find out where you can apply.
How long can I continue to use the same permit for auctioning goods online?
In most areas, a seller's permit remains valid as long as the holder is actively doing business as a wholesaler, retailer, or other type of seller. A seller's permit may also be revoked if a seller:
a) stops selling tangible, taxable items;
b) does not keep adequate records of sales and purchases;
c) fails to inform the office that issued the permit if the business changes its address, ownership, or is discontinued; or
d) in certain cases if a customer lodges a complaint against the seller.
If you obtain a permit and follow the rules, auctioning your goods online can be a simple, smooth way of doing business with people around the world.
Selasa, 03 Februari 2009
Auction Audacities - Ways People Scam Online Auction Users
You can find just about anything on eBay these day's a random browse brings CDs, clothing, cars, and skin to your computer screen. That's right, I said skin. One man recently auctioned patches of his body to advertising companies, who tattooed their logos on to him. EBay isn't the only site for surfers bit by the auction bug. There are literally hundreds of sites on the web where you can sell your useless crap and use the money to buy someone elses useless crap. It's a flea market if I ever saw one-just online. And hey, it's not all junk. You can find some great deals on auctions sites.
One problem: People are getting scammed, which turns them off to these types of sites altogether. Of course, security is bound to be an issue whenever the Internet and money are involved, but with online auctions, individuals are in control, not corporations who are more trustworthy with business transactions. 99 times out of 100, the relationship between auctioneer and buyer will go smoothly, but just in case, here's the top five ways users will scam you. Don't become that minority who walks away from a deal having lost both money and item.
1. Phony Users. I don't know what the reason is behind it, but some users will bid on items when they never have any intention of purchasing it. Your auction will be over, and the user will cancel his auction membership and disappear-and there's not much you can do to stop him. Most auction sites charge a fee to sell items, so not only do you still have the unwanted item on your hands, but you also have lost money trying to sell it.
One way to prevent this from happening is to closely keep track of you auction. When the auction closes, take note of the second and third runners up. That way, if the winner bails on you, you can contact the others to see if they are still interested in purchasing the item from you. At some sites, you also have the option of only accepting bids from confirmed users-these are bidders who have either won and paid for items in the past or who have their own auctioneer's account set up with the site. Check the guidelines, because every site is a little different on their definition of "confirmed buyer."
2. Stolen Credit Cards. If you own a business and choose to accept credit cards, be careful about how you do this online. When a user pays with a stolen credit card, it may take a few days for the rightful owner to realize it's one. Guess what? You won't get the money for your item, which is already in the mail-as good as gone.
Credit card payments are tricky, and I don't recommend using them unless you own a business with an online website that has credit card payments available. If not, call the credit card company. The name and address that the user provided for shipping should be the same name and address on the card. Companies are glad to check their records for you-it saves them time and money when their cards are stolen. If it doesn't match up, decline the card and ask for payment in another way.
3. Shipping and Receiving Scoundrels. Whether you're the buyer or seller, you should be cautious about the exchange of money and goods. Users can easily take your money or item and disappear without sending you what you're due.
In most conditions, it is the buyer's responsibility to send payment first. If you're using a personal check to pay for an item, date the check two weeks from the day you send it. That way, if the seller never sends the item, you can cancel your check before its cashed. The best choice, especially for larger items, is to use an escrow service. These companies act as a go-between for buyers and sellers.
Check with the Better Business Bureau or Consumer Reports before selecting a service to make sure they aren't scamming both buyer and seller by disappearing with the item and the money, both at once.
4. Check Bouncers. As with stolen credit cards, buyers can easily scam sellers by sending them checks that are no good. You receive the payment and mail the item, but when you go to cash the check, you find out that it is worthless. Don't shoot yourself in the foot-use a third party service instead.
Third party payment services, the most popular of which is paypal, allow people to create free online accounts to transfer money. Using a bank account or credit card, you can send and receive money almost instantly, which prevents users from stealing your stuff. This is the best option for payment after an online auction.
5. Identity Thieves. As with any online service, you need to be very careful with your personal information to prevent identity theft. These crooks are getting very sneaky, often the e-mails or messages you receive from them look and sound very official. As people are getting more web-savvy, so are cyber criminals.
Use a well-known auction site that you trust. These sites should never ask for information like your social security number. Most of the time they won't be the ones trying to scam you. Other users will use their company name to send e-mails demanding such information. If you get something in your inbox that looks fishy, forward it to the company or give them a call, and professionals there can tell you if it's legit. These sites will also never ask for your user name and password in an e-mail, so beware of claims that this information is needed.
Use common sense. The information you share online should be limited and you should always take preventative measures to protect yourself. Sites are only as secure as their users, so if you get scammed, most times you only have yourself to blame. Before signing up with any auction site, check their policies. Knowledge is the key to keeping your online transactions protected so that you can buy and sell all the personal property, goods and services you want. Before long, that green and orange polka-dotted couch will be yours.
One problem: People are getting scammed, which turns them off to these types of sites altogether. Of course, security is bound to be an issue whenever the Internet and money are involved, but with online auctions, individuals are in control, not corporations who are more trustworthy with business transactions. 99 times out of 100, the relationship between auctioneer and buyer will go smoothly, but just in case, here's the top five ways users will scam you. Don't become that minority who walks away from a deal having lost both money and item.
1. Phony Users. I don't know what the reason is behind it, but some users will bid on items when they never have any intention of purchasing it. Your auction will be over, and the user will cancel his auction membership and disappear-and there's not much you can do to stop him. Most auction sites charge a fee to sell items, so not only do you still have the unwanted item on your hands, but you also have lost money trying to sell it.
One way to prevent this from happening is to closely keep track of you auction. When the auction closes, take note of the second and third runners up. That way, if the winner bails on you, you can contact the others to see if they are still interested in purchasing the item from you. At some sites, you also have the option of only accepting bids from confirmed users-these are bidders who have either won and paid for items in the past or who have their own auctioneer's account set up with the site. Check the guidelines, because every site is a little different on their definition of "confirmed buyer."
2. Stolen Credit Cards. If you own a business and choose to accept credit cards, be careful about how you do this online. When a user pays with a stolen credit card, it may take a few days for the rightful owner to realize it's one. Guess what? You won't get the money for your item, which is already in the mail-as good as gone.
Credit card payments are tricky, and I don't recommend using them unless you own a business with an online website that has credit card payments available. If not, call the credit card company. The name and address that the user provided for shipping should be the same name and address on the card. Companies are glad to check their records for you-it saves them time and money when their cards are stolen. If it doesn't match up, decline the card and ask for payment in another way.
3. Shipping and Receiving Scoundrels. Whether you're the buyer or seller, you should be cautious about the exchange of money and goods. Users can easily take your money or item and disappear without sending you what you're due.
In most conditions, it is the buyer's responsibility to send payment first. If you're using a personal check to pay for an item, date the check two weeks from the day you send it. That way, if the seller never sends the item, you can cancel your check before its cashed. The best choice, especially for larger items, is to use an escrow service. These companies act as a go-between for buyers and sellers.
Check with the Better Business Bureau or Consumer Reports before selecting a service to make sure they aren't scamming both buyer and seller by disappearing with the item and the money, both at once.
4. Check Bouncers. As with stolen credit cards, buyers can easily scam sellers by sending them checks that are no good. You receive the payment and mail the item, but when you go to cash the check, you find out that it is worthless. Don't shoot yourself in the foot-use a third party service instead.
Third party payment services, the most popular of which is paypal, allow people to create free online accounts to transfer money. Using a bank account or credit card, you can send and receive money almost instantly, which prevents users from stealing your stuff. This is the best option for payment after an online auction.
5. Identity Thieves. As with any online service, you need to be very careful with your personal information to prevent identity theft. These crooks are getting very sneaky, often the e-mails or messages you receive from them look and sound very official. As people are getting more web-savvy, so are cyber criminals.
Use a well-known auction site that you trust. These sites should never ask for information like your social security number. Most of the time they won't be the ones trying to scam you. Other users will use their company name to send e-mails demanding such information. If you get something in your inbox that looks fishy, forward it to the company or give them a call, and professionals there can tell you if it's legit. These sites will also never ask for your user name and password in an e-mail, so beware of claims that this information is needed.
Use common sense. The information you share online should be limited and you should always take preventative measures to protect yourself. Sites are only as secure as their users, so if you get scammed, most times you only have yourself to blame. Before signing up with any auction site, check their policies. Knowledge is the key to keeping your online transactions protected so that you can buy and sell all the personal property, goods and services you want. Before long, that green and orange polka-dotted couch will be yours.
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