eBay 101: Back to School Shopping and Merchandising

(Continued from page A-1)

And while you're picking out your new duds, think about listing the no-longer-fits-me stuff in your closet right now. Listing your gently worn clothes, shoes and jewelry just might finance your entire fall wardrobe!

Lesson 2. Books are knowledge!

Before you even set foot in the classroom, it's always a good idea to have a dictionary, thesaurus, and other reference books handy. eBay member Joy recently purchased a thesaurus for her son, Tyler and daughter, Dana. "I love to buy educational books, learning videos, audio tapes, and clothing for them," Joy says. A whole category of educational books is listed under Books, Movies, Music: Books: Educational. With all those new books, you'll need a way to carry them efficiently. Check out the hundreds of backpacks that are on the site right now. You might just be able to find some great buys and stash the extra money you save in your piggy bank!

Lesson 3. Get the write stuff!

Ya gotta have a great pen—or pencil—and lots of note paper! "I am purchasing school supplies for my daughter, Hannah, who will be entering the third grade," recent eBay member Angela says. "We'll be purchasing the usual necessities: folders, notebooks, pencils, paper, and lunch bags. Another item that is of interest to our family is educational CDs."

Lesson 4. Encourage Special Talents!

Who knows—the next Yehudi Menuhin might just be living under your roof! "I recently bought a violin for my grandchild, Ross, who shows great promise," eBay member Tom says. "Ross will be entering the first grade this fall. Now I am looking for a quality ½ or ¾ bow." (A full-size bow is 29 inches, ¾ size is 27 inches, and a ½ size is 24 inches, Ross explains.)

Lesson 5. Check out "eBay on Campus" for stuff for college, home, and just kicking back!

eBay on Campus is eBay's newest place to trade designed especially for college students. Crusin' for textbooks, furniture, or a snowboard to take your mind off that Computer Science exam? You'll find all kinds of awesome stuff at eBay on Campus!

Lesson 6. Think "back to school" for all items you have to sell.

eBay member Brenda is retired, but sells lots of items from closeouts, etc. on eBay. She recently searched on the word "school" and was amazed at the number of items that came up. "I did rather well with using "school" in my titles, so for my auctions next week, I found 24 items in my storage bin that are perfect to list as "back to school," Brenda says. "I am also going to try the word "college" and see if I can generate some interest in the travel items I have—suitcases, briefcases, cell phones, electronic organizers, and day planners ... all of the things that a first-time college person might need."