Selling Baseball Cards on Mercari: A Comprehensive Guide
Baseball cards have been a beloved collectible for generations. With the rising popularity of apps like Mercari that allow hobbyists to buy and sell directly with each other, selling baseball cards online has become a lucrative business opportunity. To succeed on Mercari requires knowing how to effectively market, photograph, price and ship your cards. This comprehensive guide will cover everything you need to know to start profiting from your baseball card collection on Mercari.
Getting Started
The first step is to download the free Mercari app from the Apple App Store or Google Play. Create a profile with your name and location, then link a valid payment method like a bank account or debit/credit card. Mercari charges a 10% fee on each completed sale to cover transaction processing and shipping label discounts. They also offer a free shipping discount to buyers on all orders over $35.
Photographing Your Cards
High quality photos are essential to attract buyers. Make sure your cards are in near mint or better condition without creases, stains or other flaws before listing. Use a light colored surface and natural lighting for photography. Hold the card firmly but gently between your fingers so it lies flat without bending. For rarer or more valuable cards, take extra closeup photos of any identifying signatures, markings or imperfections.
When uploading photos, choose the highest resolution your device allows. Make sure all details are clear without shadows or glare. Include at least one full body shot of the front and back of each card for reference. List any relevant information like the year, set, player or rating in the caption or description for search optimization. Well-lit, sharply focused photos will make your cards stand out from poorly photographed listings.
Pricing Your Cards Accurately
Researching sold comps on eBay is the best way to price baseball cards properly for Mercari. Look up the same player, year and condition to get a sense of recent selling prices. Factor in any unique attributes that may increase or decrease value like autographs, serial numbers or defects. It’s better to price cards slightly higher than risk underselling. But be competitive with active listings from other sellers.
Include details like the brand (Topps, Bowman, etc.), specific set or series, player name, position and any identifying codes or numbers in the title. Proper keywords allow buyers to easily search and find your listings. Price cards individually whenever possible for maximum visibility. Lots or bundles tend to get fewer views long term on Mercari. Stick with standard price increments (99 cents, $2.49, $4.99 etc.) for optimized searching.
Promoting and Selling Your Listings
Once live, promote new listings periodically by sharing them to followers. Share at different times of day when traffic is higher. Aim to share each listing at least 3-5 times over the first few days to reach new eyes. Respond to any questions from interested buyers promptly to build trust. Consider offering combined shipping discounts for multiple wins to entice bulk purchases from collectors.
Be prepared to negotiate within reason if buyers make offers. Gently educate lowball bidders on fair market value if needed. But also stay flexible, as moving inventory quickly is important too. Accept non-local cash offers only if the buyer agrees to pay for tracked insured shipping. Shipment confirmation emails are auto-generated on Mercari for seller and buyer protection after items are marked shipped by the seller.
Shipping and Post-Sale Support
Use sturdy toploaders or cardboard backing for added protection during shipment. Ensure any valuable cards are sufficiently padded against damage from crushing. Mercari provides discounted USPS shipping labels at checkout to choose from including First Class mail up to 16oz or priority options. Package securely, tape fully and don’t overstuff mailers. Retain receipt scans as proof of postage in case of disputes.
Be responsive to questions about order status. Rate buyers promptly after confirmed delivery. Issue prompt refunds if return items arrive back unopened within 3 business days as allowed by Mercari policy. Most importantly, pack orders with the care you would want if receiving a purchase yourself to build repeat clientele through exceptional service. Word-of-mouth will be your greatest marketing asset.
As with any new business venture, it takes time and experience to succeed. But with the above guidance on photographing, pricing, listing/sharing cards and providing top-notch customer care – selling baseball cards on Mercari offers collectors a viable way to monetize their hobby and generate additional income. Consistency and constant improvements based on data and consumer feedback will determine long term profits in this competitive market space. Start small, learn and grow your baseball card trade business wisely over time.
Online marketplaces like Mercari have opened the door for motivated sellers to profit from their baseball card collections. By properly researching card values, capturing detailed photos, strategically promoting new deals and providing excellent post-sale support – hobbyists now have the tools to build sustainable income streams from their favorite pastime. With diligence and commitment to quality service, dedicated traders can turn occasional transactions into full-fledged small businesses on this popular venue.
