Listing and Selling Computers on eBay

By Ed Dalton

An important consideration for listing and selling computers on eBay is to offer a clear description of what is for sale.

In addition to giving an accurate technical description of the item, you should state whether it is new or used, and list the terms of any warranty that applies for the buyer.

If you are selling a computer, state what software comes with it, how that software will be licensed for the buyer to use, and whether the software comes with the full manufacturer's documentation.

Also state clearly what shipping charges or other expenses the buyer will have to pay.

As to the mechanics of listing, selling, and completing a transaction, refer to the Services section of the eBay Web site. Below are some additional details for completing the listing and the transaction.

Completing your listing:
You can set the length of the auction (3, 5, 7 or 10 days), the minimum opening bid amount, and the reserve price (the minimum you would be willing to sell the computer for), if you want to include one. It's best to be realistic in setting the reserve price so you don't discourage bidders, but be sure to set it at an amount you are comfortable with and really willing to sell your computer for.

Completing the transaction:
eBay will notify the seller and high bidder at the conclusion of the auction. You, the seller will then contact the high bidder to arrange for payment and shipping of the computer. Typically, in your message you will tell them which auction they won and request that a check or money order in the amount of the high bid plus shipping and handling be sent to your address. Once you receive payment, you ship the computer to the address the buyer provides. You may also want to look at feedback the buyer has received. The comments can influence how you handle the transaction.

There are escrow services available for a small fee if the buyer would like to see their computer and accept it before payment is released. If the computer is not accepted, the buyer must return it quickly and the escrow service returns the funds to the buyer. To ensure the buyer is satisfied, it is helpful to be honest and detailed in your auction description. See the escrow section for more details. If the buyer was prompt and courteous, give positive feedback so that other users will know this person is a good buyer to work with!

The preceding material was written by Ed Dalton. These are the opinions of the author, not the opinions of eBay, and therefore eBay does not validate the accuracy of or endorse these opinions.