How to Sell Computers Online
Used computers are sold for a variety of reasons. A person may not want to make the necessary repairs to it, or they may be interested in buying a newer model. Rather than just throw the computer away, they gain a few extra dollars by selling it. This money can then be used toward the purchase of a new computer.
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Instructions
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Erase all the personal data from your computer. This is the most important step. It should be done before you even place an ad. You don't know what kind of person is going to buy the computer, and they could use all your personal information against you.
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Make sure your computer is as clean as could be. Get some cleaner, and spend a few minutes making your computer look it's best. This will help you sell your computer faster and get a better price.
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Use your digital camera to take pictures of the computer from all angles. Let potential buyers see what they will be purchasing. Allowing them to see all the computer parts will make them feel more comfortable that you are not trying to rip them off. They will also see that the computer is clean and that you have taken good care of it. This will increase the amount of profit you make from the deal.
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Decide on a minimum price that you are willing to accept. Include any listing fees or ad costs you expect to encounter to sell the computer. Don't worry about shipping costs because you can have that figure listed separately.
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Weigh your computer, and enter the weight into the calculator on the USPS website. That will give you an idea of what the shipping costs would be. Set your shipping price based on that. Don't over-estimate the shipping costs, or it will turn off potential buyers.
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Place your ad. Include as much information as possible. If you have the original manuals and operating discs, list that information. List what programs are already installed on the computer. The more information you give, the more value the computer is going to have. Make your fonts and colors attractive, and add your pictures. eBay is the best place to advertise your computer for sale since it gets the most traffic. There are other auctions sites you can use, but your best bet is eBay. There is a link for your convenience provided at the bottom of this article.
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Pack your computer in a box with packaging materials. You can have FedEx or UPS do it for you to make sure the computer is packed in a way that it won't get broken in transit. Make sure you write "fragile" on the box in really big letters on all sides. Ship the package after you receive payment from the winner of the auction.
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Keep communication going with the buyer. Let them know when you have shipped their package (and do it promptly), and provide them with a tracking number. When they receive it, they will be able to give you good feedback, so the next time you have a computer for sale, other buyers will find you trustworthy.
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Tips & Warnings
Consider paying a little extra to get insurance on this item. Then you can recover the costs if the computer doesn't arrive in the same condition that you mailed it.
Never send a computer until a buyer's payments have cleared. There are many crooks out there who will try to pull one over on you.
