How to sell your stuff on Amazon

Amazon allows users to sell new or used items on the website's "marketplace" in exchange for a percentage of sales. Like a yard sale, the marketplace allows you to make money from items you no longer use. Generally speaking, merchandise with UPC bar codes can be listed and viewed by shoppers. Sellers can price items competitively to match or beat Amazon's and other user's prices.

Difficulty:

Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need

• A computer with an internet connection.
• an Amazon.com (they are easy to set up and you will be prompted through setting one up during the posting of your items if you do not already have one.
• Something to sell

1. Navigate to Amazon's home page. Click on the "Sell on Amazon" link located at the bottom of the page. Click on the "Start Selling" link located below the "Sell Your Stuff" heading.

2. Search Amazon's database for a merchandise listing that matches your item's UPC or other identifying numeric code. Amazon lists products in 18 categories ranging from books to sporting goods. Click the "Sell Yours Here" button next to the listing that matches your item.

3. Identify the condition of your item. Select the item's condition -- new or used -- and add comments about the condition of your item such as scratches or missing parts. Providing an honest assessment of your item's condition helps you get positive feedback. Click the "continue" button at the bottom of the page.

4. Enter the price for your item and the quantity you have to sell. You can also indicate if you are able to make special shipping arrangements for a customer provided that he pays for the service. Amazon credits your account for the cost of shipping when the buyer pays for your item.

5. Sign-in to your Amazon account once you have entered your marketplace listing information. You can also follow the prompts and open an Amazon account if you do not already have one. Click on the "Submit Your Listing" link at the bottom of the page. Shoppers will be able to see your item listed for sale in Amazon's marketplace.

6. Ship items in the time frame provided by Amazon by the method for which the customer paid to receive positive feedback from customers and to remain in good standing with Amazon. If a buyer pays for expedited shipping for example, you must ship the product using an expedited shipping service. Amazon watches sellers closely to ensure the quality of customer service they provide.

   Amazon also provides a communication interface that allows you to answer questions and communicate with buyers. To maintain a good reputation, you must answer e-mails in a timely manner.

Tips & Warnings

• Be realistic about your product's worth as pricing it correctly will help it sell fast.

• Be sure to ship your item in the time frame and with the shipping method chosen by the buyer. Amazon closely watches its sellers to ensure that their clients are getting what they pay for so follow through with your end of the deal to get your money.

References

• Amazon Services: Sell on Amazon
• Sell on Amazon: A Guide to Amazon's Marketplace; Steve Weber