Here is a secret Ebay tip for all you Ebay novices out there. While this may seem ethically questionable, this is how the pros do it, and I’m sure if you’ve ever sold anything on Ebay it has happened to you.
After you win an item on Ebay, contact the seller and have the shipping cost either waived or deducted at least 30% off of what the shipping cost was advertised. You need to realize that all sellers greatly inflate the shipping price for added profit. If they happen to reply stating that you should have read the auction description before bidding and refuse your offer, tell them you are aware of how much it would cost to send the item, and refuse to pay unless the seller cuts the shipping down to a price you think is fair. For more expensive items such as car audio and digital cameras, always try to have the shipping waived. Remember, your option to leave negative feedback is your leverage, but most importantly try to create a win/ win situation for both parties.
This has worked for me on virtually every purchase I have made, and I have over 300 positive feedbacks with no negatives. Best of luck, and stay tuned until the next Ebay Tip!
May 5th, 2005 at 8:05 pm
Wow, I feel like such an ebay amateur. I guess it only makes since that bartering is part of it. It is a great big virtual flea market after all.
May 5th, 2005 at 8:15 pm
Yes. Negotiating after the close is a vital tool too many people fail to take advantage of. Just remember to never leave feedback until you are fully satisfied.
May 16th, 2005 at 8:48 pm
Now I feel stupid, my son barters even at stores when he buys something. And he always gets things cheaper then marked. I tried to barter and they look at me like I lost my marbles. Now bartering over shipping yes thats for me. Maybe since they can’t see me they won’t think I am a push over. SB