Tuesday, January 6, 2009

Itty Bitty Trading Cheat Sheet!


Just because we've had so many people inquire about trading, i'm posting this for quick reference - and everyone could use a refresher, right? :)
For our wonderful newbies, these are the rules for a "TnR" - and usually trading in general:
1. Make sure that items that you are willing to trade (and you don't have to trade your whole shop) are tagged with "TEAM TRADE ON". That way, people can search your shop for your tradeable items. If you are looking to trade for specific items, please put it in your shop announcement so that everyone can see. For people on the list, I will also put it next to your shop name so that people know what you're looking for, so please let me know. (i.e. I don't necessarily need jewelry or artwork, but I'd love to trade for baby stuff, bath and body, and clothing. So i'll put that in my announcement.)

2. The Trade and Replace thread will be posted in "PROMOTIONS" - to help promote the event and our team! Even if you're not trading, feel free to keep the thread bumped. you can also use it to showcase new items in your shop!

3. If there is someone on the list that you'd like to trade with, please convo them and approach them for the trade. Please negotiate fairly, and that includes making sure no one gets stiffed on shipping! PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE do not be offended if the person you approach to trade says no. (I know that there are some things that I just can't use right now - it doesn't mean that your stuff isn't amazing!)

4. Once the trade is a done deal, then the both of you post what you got on the thread. If i'm not around, the person who gets bumped OFF the list can update the list on the thread.

5. If there is something you cannot live without, you CAN purchase from someone on the list - and you will bump them off. Trading for money is okay too, LOL!

6. If the both the trader and the tradee are on the current list, then you both stay on the list.

7. You don't have to be on the list to trade - but you won't be put on the list unless you trade with someone on the list. (does that even make sense? LOL)

8. It is expected that you check your convos and the thread at least once a day during the event. With a Trade and Replace, the pace is a little slower because of the negotiation process, but it's not fair if you are on the list and you go away for a few days. People will most likely be sending you trade requests that you will not be answering, which will hold up the whole process. If you can't check in once a day while you're on the list, then please let me know and I'll replace you with someone.

9. It is suggested that if you are convoed by two or more people for a trade, the first person who convoed you (and is successful trading with you) will be the one to bump you off the list. Feel free to trade with the other people who convoed you, but it's only fair that the first one bumps you off the list.

10. I hope that there aren't any trade disputes during our event! However, if any one has any questions, please do not hesitate to contact me to help you work it out. We haven't had any huge brawls here yet, because we all are trading in good faith.
11. Trades are EQUAL. That means that you are trading for an equal value from each other's shops, INCLUDING shipping. So, say I have a $20 necklace that you'd like, with $3 shipping - then I have $23 to spend in your store, including the shipping. If you're out $1 or so, you can agree to let it go - but usually if the difference is $5 or more, I'd send it via paypal.

12. This part is going to suck but I'll have to say it. If it comes to light that you haven't traded in good faith, then your participation in other events, and your membership, will be in jeopardy. Trading is a way to benefit us ALL, and one person can ruin it for everyone. SO PLEASE TRADE FAIR! Also, we do not condone fee avoidance - it is definitely up to you to decide whether or not to change your prices for this event, but we would encourage everyone to play by the etsy rules as well. Changing your prices to 20 cents IS fee avoidance. It is NOT fair if someone is paying more etsy fees - plus karma will get you in the end.
Does that all make sense? if not, let me know and i'll try to clarify... or post on the chat thread and we'll help you out!
i can't wait till the trade and replace!!!! YAY!!!!
xoxo muffin

1 comment:

Lisa Brawner said...

great site...i have aded you to my blog links for bartering