Contents
Auction Training:
What to Sell 
Let's Get Selling 
Creating Your Ad  Misc. Thoughts 
Basic HTML 
Pictures 
Photos in Ads 
Graphics Online 
Cool Ads Online 
Get Organized 
Email Control 
Other Buy/Sell's 
How to Snipe 
Shipping
Final Thoughts 
 

Ya Ain't Done 'Til It's Shipped!  

      Keep track of the items you offer for sale. Don't let the items get scattered all over your house or office or where ever (or heaven forbid, listed on more than one auction at a time.) Keep all your items together and in the order of the date the auction will end. Attach a post-it note or card listing the ending date, the auction 
name, the auction #, and the item or auction title. 

    Ship the easiest or cheapest way. (Links below.)We prefer the post office (USPS) for almost all lighter items. It is easier to pre-determine shipping costs and include them in your auction listing, because the rate for first class or priority mail is good to anywhere in the US. Rates are also generally cheaper on lightweight items with the USPS, plus they will provide free priority boxes and envelopes. United Parcel (UPS) is a good dependable shipper, but their rates are based on distance shipped (zip codes), they charge extra for residential deliveries, and you really need to set up as an account with them or you'll pay even more at shipping centers. UPS does offer 
package tracking and free insurance up to $100, which the USPS charges for. Keep your shipping rates as accurate as possible. Don't try to make money on shipping charges. This will usually lead to dissatisfied customers. Both the USPS and UPS will provide you with rate charts. Both also offer on-line rate calculators. (As well as Federal Express, if your customers are in a big hurry and are willing to pay big bucks for shipping.) 

Use good quality shipping materials, but save on them if you can. You really don't need to spend a lot on supplies. You will need to buy some good packaging tape with a dispenser, and pre-printed address labels are "worth their weight" in time saved. If you check around with a few businesses in your area, they will probably save some boxes for you and save you the cost of buying them (and shipping cartons can get expensive.) Try asking office supply stores, gift shops, hardware stores, and the like. If you do find some shops that will help you out, be sure to pick up the cartons regularly. Their space is limited, and remember, they are doing you a big favor. Also be sure to let them know you need sturdy corrugated shipping cartons. Chipboard type boxes will not hold up under shipping conditions and can cost you a bundle in damaged goods. If you are forced to buy your shipping cartons, be sure to shop around and try to buy in quantity to keep the costs down. You will also need good packing materials. Over pack and over protect everything. Shippers are hard on packages and you don't need damage. Use newspapers, bubble pack, plastic peanuts, and the like. Finally mark everything "Do Not Bend" or "Fragile" if it is appropriate. Every precaution helps. 
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Shipping Rate Sources:  

Airborne Express 
Fed Ex Rate Calculator 
USPS Rate Calculator 
UPS Rate Calculator 
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