Ready to get the most out of your TradeAway trading experience? Check out the suggestions we've gathered from our millions of experienced buyers:

1. Know the item you are interested in

• If a description of an item is unclear, be sure to clarify the description with the seller before you make an offer or opt buy it. Please also note that it is up to the sellers to select their own payment options and by offering or buying an item at a fixed price item, you are agreeing to these terms. It is the buyer's responsibility to make sure that payment terms are clearly understood up front.
• If you're not sure what an item is worth, do a little research before you decide what you're willing to pay.

2. Decided to bid?

• First, you specify the maximum amount you want to offer.
• Then you will need to bid for you as the auction proceeds, bidding only enough to outbid other bidders. If someone outbids you, the system immediately ups your bid. This continues until someone exceeds your maximum bid, or the auction ends, or you win the auction! Plus your proxy will never exceed what you're willing to pay for the item. Proxy bidding is not available for Dutch Auctions or Store BIN fixed price items.

3. Make note of listing details

• Be sure to make a note of listing information. You'll need: The seller's Username,the item number and the item description.
• To see the official results, just return to the listing description page. Or you can wait for the email notice from TradeAway.

4. Protect Yourself

• Make sure the item you are interested in can be lawfully purchased in your area.
• The Consumer Product Safety Commission occasionally bans sales of goods that may be dangerous to consumers.
• Remember, TradeAway is only a venue and does not guarantee the ability of a seller to complete the transaction or the quality of the items. If you feel at all unsure about a transaction, ask the seller to use escrow for the payment. When offering or buying the item, negotiate escrow terms with the seller before you place a bid. You may also ask the seller other questions before making your offer, such as "Do you accept returns" or "How do you ship the item"? Consider paying by credit card. Many cards offer insurance or reimbursement for transactions over $50.00.

5. Be Courteous to Other Users

• Treat everyone with the courtesy you expect to receive. When you send a TradeMail, take the time to write in complete sentences, with a salutation and closing. Those little touches make all the difference!