What to Know When Selling Computers and Tablets

Are you selling a laptopinstead of a tablet? Or do you have a different electronics item to sell?

Find Out What's Wanted in Computers, Tablets, and Networking

Buyers are looking for all sorts of computers, tablets, and networking equipment from makers such Apple, HP, Sony, Asus, Toshiba, Linksys, Belkin, and many more. The following provides just a small sample of the host of computers and networking equipment that you can sell online.To get a real-time view of what is in demand, what buyers are searching for, and what items are selling the most, visit Computers and Networking on eBay Pulse.

Desktop Computers

Thousands of buyers go online in search of their dream desktop system. Whether it's a Mac or a PC, a gaming beast or a businessman's sidekick, people are looking for PC's on eBay. Desktops come in many forms, from slim and stylish PCs designed for the home, to powerful Apple iMacs perfect for photo and video editing, to budget machines and business computers. Be sure to mention what your desktop is designed for, include photos, and mention everything that is included, such as keyboards or monitors.

People are also looking for replacement parts for repairing or building a computer, so there is no need to throw away a whole system just because one thing is broken. Enhancing accessories such as webcams, game controllers, wireless mice and keyboards, and speaker systems are also in demand.

Laptops and Notebooks

For years, laptop computers have been outselling desktops. Like desktop computers, all brands of laptops and notebooks are popular buys online. Whether the machine is perfect for editing home movies, has enhanced gaming capabilities, or is ultraslim for easy carrying while traveling, buyers are on the lookout for their new laptop or notebook. Remember that there is a huge difference between a large multimedia laptop and a portable netbook, so summarize what your system is good for and include all of the relevant specifications.

Tablets and eReaders

Tablet computer and eReader users see and touch digital content and apps in a new way. Buyers of all ages are looking to get their own portable, connected, and touch-friendly computer, so now is a great time to sell your used device. From powerful tablets like the Apple iPad to eReaders such as the Amazon Kindle Fire, people are searching online looking for new and used tablets. Mention the specific features of your device; for instance, an eReader might have an e-ink screen readable in direct sunlight, while an Apple or Android tablet can install thousands of apps and browse the web.

Drives and Storage

Hard drives, flash drives, and DVD burners are popular with buyers looking for ways to back up data or get more out of their computers. Removable memory in all formats is also in demand, from USB flash drives to Secure Digital (SD) and Compact Flash (CF) cards.

Monitors and Projectors

Monitors and projectors are often in great demand online. With minimal required desk space, LCD monitors give users greater productivity, great graphics, and sharp images, so they're very popular with buyers looking to upgrade their displays. Home theater projectors and multimedia projectors are also popular. Be sure to include the most important features of your equipment; for instance, lampless LED projectors do not require replacement bulbs, which can save buyers money in the long run.

Networking Equipment

Networks allow computers in a home or office share a printer, Internet connection, files, and more. Buyers are looking for a wide range of networking equipment, including modems, wireless routers, print servers, and network cards. Networking standards can be confusing, so remember to include detailed specifications and connection information. Linking to an online user guide or manual is a great idea.

Printers

Printers are vital equipment for many homes and businesses, and many people go online to avoid the cost of buying them new. Thousands of printers from brands like Brother, Canon, Epson, and many others have been sold. Buyers are looking for ink-jet printers, photo printers, laser printers, multifunction printers, and more. Printer parts and ink are popular sellers as well.

Scanners

Scanners are great for getting photo prints, photo negatives, and important documents into a computer. Try selling your flatbed scanner, slide or film negative adapter, sheetfed scanner, handheld scanner, business card scanner, portable scanner, or drum scanner. Make sure that potential buyers know the uses and specifications of the specific scanner you are selling.

Software

Millions of buyers go online to shop for software, from business productivity software and Apple Macintosh software to games, entertainment, and kids software.

Get Top Dollar for Computers, Tablets, and Networking

Once you have an idea of what you are going to sell, it's time to think about how to attract computer, tablet, and networking buyers. It's important to research the marketplace and to list your item in a way that attracts attention. If you are using an auction site like eBay, keep in mind the following tips.

What Is It Worth?

Already have an item in mind? VisitWelcome Sellers to find out the average selling price for similar pieces on eBay. Sellers can also search completed listings to see how others are selling similar items. See eBay's video on Researching the Marketplacefor step-by-step instructions.

Help Buyers Find Your Items with Keywords

Keywords are a great way to attract buyers to your listing, especially when used correctly in your Listing Title. Listing titles are used by eBay's search engine to pull up listings during a search. Use your 55 characters wisely, and try to anticipate what buyers will be searching for. Find out what is being searched right now with our list of Top Computers and Networking Searches. Be sure to include common search terms like "laptop" and "desktop" when appropriate. State important characteristics of your item like it's brand, operating system, laptop size (usually measure by screen size), compatibility for accessories, processor, and memory or hard drive size. Of course, you should only include keywords that are relevant to the item you are selling. You can also search current and completed eBay listings to see what other sellers include in their titles.

Prepare Your Listing

In your Listing Description, make sure to include both basic information and details about your item. A good description is concise, well organized, and easy to read. Create bold section headlines and bulleted lists, and be sure to restate the information featured in your title plus more details such as dimensions, upgrades, included software, estimated value, and any other interesting features. Always clearly state what is included in the listing or "in the box" such as batteries, memory cards, cases, cables, and instruction manuals. Think about your listing from the buyer's perspective. The more information you provide, the more likely the buyer will be to place a bid on your item. Also check out eBay's guide to Writing a Good Title and Description.

Sellers often use a number of common terms to describe their computers, tablets, and networking equipment. It is helpful to familiarize yourself with these terms, as well as browsing other auctions to see what other sellers are saying.

No Longer Available (NLA)

Computers and equipment that are no longer available cannot be found in stores or bought from the manufacturer.

New In Box (NIB)

A computer or equipment is new in box if it remains in the original packaging from the time of purchase and has not been opened.

Gently Used (GU)

A product is gently used if it shows slight signs of wear such as scratches. Wear should be superficial, and should have no effect on the items capabilities.

For Parts or Repair

A computer or equipment in poor condition may no longer be working and has considerable signs of wear. However, even non-functioning equipment may have valuable parts or usable components, or may be able to be repaired by a knowledgeable buyer. Make sure when you list parts or repair items that your description accurately describes the item and its condition.

Do Your Research

When selling computers, tablets, and networking equipment, try to research features and specifications. If you don't know much about your computer, a little research can help you understand what you are selling, which in turn can lead to a higher return. Find out what features your computer has; some things to research are processor, processor speed, hard drive size, amount of RAM, operating system, included software, battery size, warranty, and any additional features such as a built-in camera, Bluetooth sync capabilities, or fingerprint reader. Look for the brand and model number on your computer (such as Compaq Presario V2000) and try searching your specific model online or looking through the instruction manual for more specifications. For accessories, try looking at original packaging or searching online for compatibility. All of these details will give you a better estimate of your computer's value, and educating your buyers can increase the attraction of your item.

Showcase Your Computers, Tablets, and Networking Equipment with Great Photos

Photos are the closest you can get to putting your computers, tablets, and networking equipment in the hands of potential buyers. However, while a picture might be worth a thousand words, a bad picture will say all the wrong things. For example, keep the background and proper lighting in mind when taking the photos.,

Choose the Right Background

Use a contrasting, solid backdrop. By placing your computer on a solid black or white backdrop, you draw a buyer's immediate attention to the item. This is easily achieved by hanging a bed sheet or placing poster board behind the item. Use a plain, colored fabric backdrop to make your item stand out. Most importantly, avoid background clutter that can distract buyers or confuse them regarding what you are selling.

Cover All Angles

Take pictures from multiple angles and distances, zooming in on important details. Take a picture of the front, back and sides of your computer. Make sure you photograph any scratches or flaws to give buyers a clear idea of what they are bidding on. If you're selling more than one item in your listing (such as a laptop with a charger, installation CDs, instruction manual, and carrying case), take photos of all the items together and individually.

Use Proper Lighting:

While natural light tends to give the best representation of color, direct sunlight can have the nasty effect of unwanted shadows. Find an area that receives indirect sunlight. Try taking your item out on a sunny day and photograph it in a shady area. If you can't seem to find an area like this, or would prefer to use indoor lighting, try surrounding your item with desk, overhead, or floor lamps. Above all, avoid using your camera's flash which causes distortion and shadows.

Add Gallery

Including a Gallery photo with your listing is extremely important for success. You can attract attention to your item with a photo next to your listings in search results. In addition, when a buyer uses Picture Gallery to look at search results, your listing will be shown. Your Gallery picture should be a very clear, uncluttered view of your item. Since it is the only photo visible on search pages, make sure it provides a good representation of your item.

In addition, be sure to check out eBay'stwo minute video on shooting great pictures.

Maximize Profits with Low Priced, No Reserve Listings

Auction style listings are a great way to create excitement around your computers, tablets, and networking gear. Auctions can develop into a bidding frenzy among buyers, which could result in a higher selling price for you. The keys to a successful auction style listing are to get your first bid and encourage bidders to continue bidding.

Low Starting Price

Getting that first bid is critical, as other buyers are generally more likely to jump in if they see there are already bids on an item. To do this, many sellers prefer to set an opening bid below what the item is actually worth. Try beginning with a low starting price such as 99 cents to jump start bidding activity.

No Reserve

Be careful when setting a reserve price. Sellers use reserve prices to prevent selling an item for less than they want, but buyers may lose interest in an item if they place a bid and find it doesn't meet the reserve. Because they do not know the reserve price, they may assume the seller is simply asking too much for the item. To prevent this from happening, try listing your item with No Reserve. Items sold with No Reserve typically attract more buyer interest, as buyers know that they will actually win the item if they are the high bidder.

Accept PayPal

Buyers want to know that they can pay securely when making a purchase online. By accepting PayPal payments, you can build buyer confidence and help protect yourself. PayPal transfers payments to a bank account of your choice and notifies you when a payment has been received. Best of all, PayPal is integrated with eBay, and offers free online tools to make managing your payments easier. You can even print shipping labels and track your shipments.

Ship Your Computers, Tablets, and Networking

Specifying reasonable shipping and handling costs in your listing is essential for smart selling and improves your search ranking when buyers sort by total cost. Never leave a buyer wondering how much shipping will cost.

Calculate Shipping Costs

Often times, shipping costs will vary by distance. To make sure your shipping charges reflect this, incorporate a shipping calculator into your listing. With the shipping calculator, eBay can automatically calculate the shipping cost for your buyers based on the size and weight of your item and the buyer's location. You can also program the calculator to add in the cost of packaging materials and your handling fee, if any.

Consider Shipping Insurance

To protect both you and your buyer against loss or damage during shipping, consider purchasing shipping insurance for your package, especially for higher priced computers and equipment. Shipping insurance is available through most shipping companies, and can be purchased while you pay for shipping. You can factor in the cost of shipping insurance into your shipping cost, but make sure you state in your description that you are doing so. Buyers want to know that they are paying extra for shipping for a good reason.

Package Your Equipment Securely

After your item sells, you are ready to ship it off to its new home. Make sure you package the item safely and securely. Use bubble wrap, foam, or other packaging materials to make sure your item is not damaged during its move. If you take an item apart to ship it, include a list of pieces and instructions on how to put it back together. Consider how to wrap, box, and seal the item.

Wrap It

Individually wrap items and provide lots of cushioning (bubble wrap, peanuts, foam, corrugated dividers, or crumpled paper). Be careful if you choose to reuse newspaper since the ink can rub off and discolor your items. Bundle any wires, fasten them with a twisty-tie, and place them into Ziploc bags. Try to wrap any LCD screens in plastic to avoid scratches, then wrap tightly in packaging material in case your item shifts in transit. If you use foam peanuts, be aware that they shift easily, so overfill your box. If any pieces could be damaged by water, make sure you wrap them with a layer of sealed plastic. Remember, wrap and pack firmly - you don't want to hear any rattling.

Box It

If you are selling a smaller item on eBay, you can order free USPS Priority Mail box right from the site. The United States Postal Service will even deliver them right to your door for free. For larger items, use a corrugated box with rigid sides, intact flaps, and plenty of room for cushioning on all sides. Don't exceed the maximum gross weight of the box (usually printed on bottom flap).

Seal It

Use strong tape designed for shipping, rather than masking tape, cellophane tape, string, or paper over-wrap. Once you've sealed up your package, you can pay for shipping and print shipping labels right from your eBay account. Get all the details in eBay's two minute shipping label video . You can even request a pickup from USPS or UPS, saving you a trip to the Post Office or UPS location.

Build Your Reputation

Communication is the key to a successful transaction. Make sure you're available before, during, and after the sale. Answer any questions about your item promptly. Including a thank you note in your package is a great way to surprise and delight your buyer and encourage them to leave you positive feedback.

Always Leave Feedback

Feedback is extremely important for all online auction shoppers. Consistent positive feedback lets buyers know that you manage transactions well and that you care about your reputation. One way to help ensure good feedback is to communicate well, represent your item truthfully in your listing, and be polite. Also remember your buyer's feedback score is as important to them as yours is to you, so be courteous, thoughtful, and truthful when leaving feedback.

Express Yourself

Be more than just a username to your buyers. Introduce yourself through your About Me page, add pictures, keep track of your favorite buyers, and tell the community about your interests and collections. Show your expertise by writing Reviews and Guides. Connect with other computers, tablets, and networking enthusiasts on the eBay Computers, Networking, and I . T . Discussion Board . Remember, be yourself and have fun.

Sell for a Cause

Support your favorite cause and enhance buyer trust and loyalty at the same time. Auctions which donate a portion of the profit to charity, likeeBay Giving Works, tend to sell at higher final prices because buyers are more willing to purchase, and often pay more for, items that benefit a nonprofit. Not only will you get more exposure, but you can also receive a receipt for your tax-deductible donations.

Conclusion

Selling computers, tablets, and networking equipment can be a profitable venture. Study your market; be sure to know the details and specifications of the items you are selling so you can clearly describe them in your listing. Provide straightforward  listings so the buyers know what is included, if the item is new or slightly used, etc. Be friendly and responsive if a buyer asks any questions. Above all, have fun and good luck.