How to use Craigslist to Sell Large Items

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Do you have some larger items to sell such as appliances, electronics, computers, furniture, household or infant items? Do you want to use the Internet but still sell locally and not worry about shipping any goods? Read on to learn more about how a craigslist ad could help in unloading your unwanted items conveniently and quickly.

Difficulty:

Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need

• Computer
• Internet access
• Large items to sell

1. Take quality digital images of the items you would like to sell. Take different angles of the item, preferably in daylight. Avoid using stock photos if at all possible.

2. Go to craigslist (see Resources below) and click the city on the left side of your computer screen in which you will be listing. Usually the nearest city to your residence or business will be most convenient.

3. Click on "sell," and if you do not have an account set up on the craigslist website, now would be a good time to set one up. Your email address will not appear on the listing for security reasons.

4. Fill in pertinent information and compose your ad. Try to ask for $10 to $15 over what you will accept for the item. It is not wise to say "or best offer" if you don't want less money. When you are done writing the ad, upload up to four photos of your item on the bottom of the screen. This may take several minutes. If the photo sizes are too large, consider limiting it to two or three photos.

5. Delete the ad and start over again when allowed if after you list your item it does not get many bites. This puts it at the top of the list of ads once again. There is generally a two to three day waiting period. In most areas, there are no fees for listing or relisting your items.

6. Check your email periodically for replies to the ad. Remember, your email is masked so do not reply by a confidential or work email, if at all possible. Beware of spam, Western Union or cash now offers that seem too good to be true. Encourage potential buyers to come and look at the item after work or on the weekends, while most of the family will be home.

7. Make sure to tell potential buyers that they will need to make arrangements to remove the item from your home or office.

Tips & Warnings

• Check the recalled products website before you list an item, especially children's items.

• List items until they sell.

• Be honest about condition, item age and what is included.

• Be flexible with pricing.

• Do not list a phone number, address or other personal information. You can always exchange those later on or use a cell phone.

• Have someone else with you when your potential buyer comes to look at the large item.

• Do not meet those you are not comfortable with.

Resources

• Craigslist