Help! New to Hipstamp and Seeking Guidance!
I just inherited a good amount of FDC's from Vietnam (like the image attached) and am struggling to find a guide on how Hipstamp works and more importantly, how to sell on Hipstamp. Could someone point me in the right direction on where I can find more info? I am very new to the stamp world and am still learning how it all works. It is a bit overwhelming.
Some random questions to start -
1) How do auction events work?
2) Is it better to list an item for buyers to bid on, to 'Add to Cart; immediately or both?
3) What is the best strategy for uploading different kinds of FDC? Should I upload them all at once or release them slowly?
4) What is the best way to package and ship items? Is there a calculator to help sellers determine shipping cost?
Some random questions to start -
1) How do auction events work?
2) Is it better to list an item for buyers to bid on, to 'Add to Cart; immediately or both?
3) What is the best strategy for uploading different kinds of FDC? Should I upload them all at once or release them slowly?
4) What is the best way to package and ship items? Is there a calculator to help sellers determine shipping cost?
Comments
As far as auction items versus store items (i.e., those offered for sale at a set price), I think that is kind of 'to each their own" things. HipStamp does have a good description as to how both methods work but it's kind of up to you as to how you want to do it. Some sellers are almost exclusively auction, while others are almost exclusively store items, and others are a mix of both. You will find that every seller will likely believe that their own method is best for them.
Regarding how to upload items, in my case, I do it one at a time. I feel that I can better describe them as I list them (even though I screw up once in a while) if I am focused on that particular item. There is, however, a bulk lister option on HipStamp that will allow you create a .csv file with all the data for each item listed that you can upload in bulk to your store. I have used it occasionally but not that often.
Packaging and shipping...hmmmm...you might be well served to do a search on this forum for those two words. You will find a LOT of information from a variety of sellers regarding both of these concerns. As for me, I like to make sure that I package the items in such a way that will minimize the possibility of getting the item folded or creased by using a stiffener (piece of lightweight cardboard) and also minimize the risk of the item getting wet by either wrapping the item in cling wrap or, as I have started more recently, putting them inside a plastic envelope and taping it closed. Shipping is another can of worms. When I started out, I would offer to ship globally. I quickly discovered that that was not only a expensive proposition but time consuming as well. You will likely find a great deal of discussion on this topic, even recently, on this forum. You need to decide yourself what your time is worth along with shipping material costs and other variables.
I really wish there were easy answers to all your questions but there are so many variables that there is simple answer to any of them. But do not be discouraged by what I just said. Everyone started their store from scratch at some point and you will most certainly find that while the early learning curve may seem steep, it's really not that bad. It is just a learning experience and I will bet that you will "settle in the saddle" quite quickly once you dive in.
Best of luck to you on your endeavor!!! I'm sure I speak for everyone here when I say we look forward to seeing your new store up and running.
Greg
I do use the bulk lister for 90% of my items, the other 10% need more exact definition as to condition and/or history and therefore it is easier to manually list them.
A shoutout to Mark and the team on bulk lister in HipStamp!! For those of us that lived through the quirks of the bulk lister in BidStart days then this version is light years ahead in ease of use and infinitely more reliable
In regards to shipping - When you ship domestically (within the U.S.) do you use certified/registered mailing or do you just use Forever stamps? If you use certified or registered, where do you get the pricing from (besides physically going into the post office)?
I have done a quick check on the cover in your photo and there are a few for sale on the other site listed at between £6 and £21 (and one on Hipstamp at $25) HOWEVER non have sold which would suggest they are grossly overpriced? Also Viet-Nam may not be as popular as some other countries?
As 3 of your covers should by weight be suitable for letter post in a cardboard backed envelope than I might try listing a few at auction in lots of 3 FDC's with a low start price of say £4.99 + postage and test the market? However they may just sell for that starting price or not at all. Hopefully they will do well - but you can never tell. Good luck.
Tania, Thank you for your advice! I will definitely list it on ebay and will also try to sell in lots! Typically, how fast do your FDC's sell after you first list?