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eCRATER adds eBay Importer

September 16, 2009 By 20 Comments

Greeat news, eCRATER has just added eBay importer. You can now easily import the products from your eBay store into eCRATER.  If you are currently selling on eBay and want to help increase your sales now is a great time to also sell on eCRATER. This could not be easier. With Google remocing all eBay listings from its search; opening or moving over to eCRATER would be a smart move.

You can accept Google Checkout and ever Paypal. But what is BETTER that are currently no FEES. List as much as you want, get listed on Googles Shopping Search Engine and start making money.

Back to the eCRATER’s importer: this is how easy it is:

Importing your listings directly from eBay -

eBay xml file

It is also possible to import your eBay store listings in eCRATER. You need to download your ebay store’s export file first.

To create a file of your listings:

1. Go to My eBay.

2. Move your cursor over the Account tab until you see the pull-down menu.

3. Select “Marketing Tools.”

4. In the Store Marketing section on the left side of the page, click the “Listing Feeds” link.

5. In the Search engines and comparison sites section, select “Make a file of your Store Inventory listings available.”

6. Click the Apply button.

Within 12 hours, eBay creates the file and posts it to a web address (URL) based on your Store’s URL. For example, if your Store’s name is “Fine Jewelry,” the file is posted to: http://esssl.ebay.com/GetListings/finejewelry

7. open the URL and save it as an XML file.

III. Final Step

Upload the file. The process of reviewing is manual so we do not guarantee a time frame in which this will happen. If your bulk file failed during the verification phase please click on the error link to see what the issues are and try to fix them. If you are unable to fix them please feel free to email us part of the file (first 100 row max) and we will try to help you. Please do not email us the entire file.

If you are selling elsewhere or have more than 50 products but no more than 10,000  products you will have to submit several bulk files. eCRATER also provides you with the steps to upload in bulk your products.

This should make it easier for you. Are you currently selling on eBay? If so how are your sales? Have you seen a decrease or increase in traffic? Have you given eCRATER a try? How is that doing for you?


Filed Under: eBay, eCrater, Selling online Tagged With: , , , , , ,

Walmart Marketplace

September 8, 2009 By 5 Comments

walmart-marketplaceWalmart now has its own Marketplace open to select e-Commerce stores. Its no surprise they have CSN Stores, eBags, and ProTeam. With the large selection and I mean larege selection CSN stores offers over 1 Million products alone; Walmart will be able to provide the consumers with the variety they want. This will make it hard for small eTailers to compete. I currently offer 2,500 items on my sites and currently working in offering more. However, the average online seller offers around 50 items.

So, how can we compete? Simple, offer top service, hassle free Returns and offer variety. Keep up with the Social Media trends; you want to brand (product) yourself. Stay informed – this quarter is faced with many changes from several marketplaces and product search engines. Here is a video from CNBC on the announcement made by Walmart.

CSN Stores is already the 3rd largest online store making $200 Million a year in Sales (yes, even in this slow economy). Now with their new partnership with Walmart I can see them double that. Do you think eBay has met its rival? Will the prices offered from the “selected sellers” be better than what they offer in their sites or even offer on eBay? We will see………

Filed Under: Marketplace Changes, Selling online Tagged With: , , , ,

Are you ready to make money online?

September 2, 2009 By 1 Comment

shoppingIts that time of the year again. I am not talking about kids back in school. Now is the time to have your Holiday Campaings ready. Check inventory and time to have new vendors.

With all the changes eBay has made and is to make in October now is the time to create a sellers account for the Holiday sales. You want to avoid any restrictions eBay and Paypal may impose on you as a new seller. Keep in mind that PayPal can hold your funds (new sellers) until you provide delivery information and the buyer confirms receipt.

eCrater continues to be my favorite alternative to eBay. You can accept Paypal or Google Checkout. So far, I accept Google Checkout only and have not paid any Final Sales fees.Depending on the dollar amount of the items you sell; first time sellers might also face some restrictions from Google Checkout.

If you are serious to make money this season create those seller accounts and start a blog. Social Media is your best tool to help you drive free traffic to your online store. Of course you can also run Ads on Google or even better you can run ads in various blogs.

Build it and with a little Social Media you will soon have your own success story. So are you ready??


Filed Under: Business Resources, Selling online Tagged With: , , , , ,

Coaster Company Great Products..Horrible Customer Service

September 1, 2009 By 8 Comments

Coaster Furniture Company has no customer service.

I deal with many vendors a day. Some stand out more than others. Aside from having the best selling items or pricing it is the Customer Service of the vendors that stands out the most. I have been doing business on and off with Coaster Company for at least 10 years, either directly or through my clients.

It has always surprised my how Coaster Company has managed to remain in business for over 20 years with the horrible Customer Service.

Coaster Company carries a vast inventory of home furnishings and décor. The large variety and quality of their items have helped keep them as a desirable account for any small home furnishings store.

This is where all falls apart.

Sales Representatives fail to deliver vital information such as Discontinued Items, Promotions, New Catalogs and most importantly Price Changes. Coaster finally now offers you the ability to check stock online. If only it was accurate……

When it comes to manufacturer defects, good luck. They offer a One Year Warranty but no Customer Service at all to the Consumer. This is most frustrating for consumers when they find themselves purchasing from companies that may no longer be operating. Coaster asks that consumers deal directly with the Retail Store. Therefore, if you are a consumer you will only find yourself getting frustrated.

For retailers; manufacturer defects can certainly impact your business a great deal. Some defects cannot be detected upon inspection of the item; certain defects appear once the item has been assembled. Most frustrating to you and the consumer.

Regular Customer Service agents at the call center offer you no courtesy, most are RUDE and have no knowledge of the items offered. I have written and complained to the management there and received no response. To complain about them is useless. As the CSR’s work together they cover up for each other and I have known them to intercept correspondence to the heads of the departments.

Why can’t they train their Customer Service Agents?

I am know working with two other leading companies of quality home furnishings and décor to allow me to diminish the sales I can generate for Coaster.

My biggest headache with Coaster has been that CSR will take items from my Confirmed Order and sell them to another retailer. This can ultimately can result in a full refund and unhappy customer. Some of the Sales Reps are paid commission or simply just want to favor a single customer. Coaster is HORRIBLE to provide you with any SUPPORT.

I would like to see Coaster train and educate all the representatives, to inspect all merchandise and offer the retailers outstanding support. To keep in mind the Customer Service Representatives are the make-up of their company and without the (retailers and) online retailers; Coaster could no longer be.

If you are interested in opening an account with Coaster you can visit their site at Coaster Company. They do require that you have a retail location and a minimum order of $2,500-$5,000.00. This varies on the location. Again, Coaster offers wonderful items that you can make money on, but be wary about the lack of customer service, discontinued items, price changes and inventory.

My ratings for Coaster are:

Product: 4 out 5

Customer Service: 1 out of 5

How do you deal with companies that offer you no support but yet have wonderful items?

Filed Under: Find Product, make money online, Need to Know, Selling online Tagged With: , , , , , ,

Start your own Direct Sales Business

May 27, 2009 By 53 Comments

Growing up my Mom would host Tupperware or Make-up Parties. Her friends would gather and invite others friends before I knew it, all kids where upstairs while the grownups worked. Then I did not understand how my Mom could possibly work when all I heard was laughter and an occasional “I Must Have That”.

Of course all that makes sense now….. Many find success working for themselves with some of the top name brands in Natural products, toys, household items and make-up. You can run your own Business and have fun while you work. You are in control of your sales and definitely get out of it what you put into it. Now, with the internet you have the potential to double or triple your sales. You can start with a small investment starting at $10.00 with some of these companies. Create your own hours “Sell online, sell on the go, sell in person or at a party. Each of these companies is dedicated to help you succeed (I will be posting more information on Direct Sales) with online course, sales training and Sales Support in every way possible.

Now is a great time to start your own business. Many of these companies are offering special marketing programs to help get you started. Do not forget to take advantage of Social Media Marketing that is sure to help you spread the word faster and partner that with a Blog. Some secret ingredients for your direct sales business success.

Here are a few companies that I myself am familiar with and now they can help you have the freedom of owning your own business. See what they have to offer you:

Jafra –

“For over fifty years JAFRA Cosmetics has been transforming women’s lives with innovative, quality skin care products and exceptional career opportunities. JAFRA is a party plan company with a multilevel compensation plan.

JAFRA was founded in the Malibu, California home of Jan and Frank Day with the goal of improving women’s lives – financially, professionally and personally – by offering quality skin care products for women to sell. Our direct selling format gives women the freedom and flexibility they need to earn financial independence on their own terms. The effectiveness and quality of our products give women products they love to use and are proud to sell.”

Shaklee –

“As the number one natural nutrition company in the U.S., we’ve been making people healthier for over 50 years.  And we’ve made it part of our job to make the planet healthier along the way.

At Shaklee, we provide a healthier life for everyone and a better life for anyone™.  The most important thing we do is to share the gift of health with friends and family.  But the most exciting thing about it – is the reward of financial freedom. “

Herbalife –

“To change people’s lives by providing the best business opportunity in direct selling and the best nutrition and weight management products in the world.

-High-quality products that combine the best of science and nature for a lifetime of good health

-A proven business opportunity that empowers people to achieve their dreams, financial freedom and the rewards of helping others.

Avon –

“Avon is the world’s leading direct seller of beauty and related products, with over $10 billion in annual revenues. Avon markets to women around the world through over five million independent sales Representatives. Avon product lines include such recognizable brand names as Avon Color, Anew, Skin-So-Soft, Avon Solutions, Advance Techniques Hair Care, Avon Naturals, Mark, and Avon Wellness. Avon also markets an extensive line of fashion jewelry and apparel. “

MaryKay –

“Skin care, makeup, body care, fragrances, new orders or reorders — everything you sell earns you 50% of the suggested retail price†. It’s one of the highest income-earning percentages in the industry,
making it a great part-time choice or a lucrative full-time opportunity if you choose.”

Amway Global –

“With Amway Global, you are never in business alone. In addition to the support you will receive from your sponsor, Amway Global provides you with world-class training, marketing, products, and customer support.

When you become an Amway Global Independent Business Owner (IBO), you are connected to over 3 million other IBOs in more than 80 countries and territories.

Products – Nutrilite offers a variety of nutrition products including vitamin and dietary supplements. Learn about supplements for sports nutrition, weight management, diet and fitness. “

Tupperware –

“Imagine life on your terms—complete with more time for family, friends and fun, more flexibility and more financial freedom.

The lifestyle of Tupperware leaders is nothing less than wonderful! Trips, diamonds, cars and cash bonuses are just a few of the perks you can Find In Tupperware.

Whether you’re looking for a little extra money to spend on your family or yourself, or you would like a chance to build a career on your own terms, Tupperware can help you make it happen.

Discovery Toys -

Oh yeah, I forgot to mention. My Mom used to test her products (beauty supplies) on me! I did not like it; I was just a kid. I am sure it would had been different in my Teen years. How about you? Do you recall any of the above names? Did you or do you participate in any direct sales programs?



Filed Under: Business Resources, Direct Selling, Featured, Home Based Business, Selling online, What to Sell Tagged With: , , , , , , , , ,

Home Loans and your Business

May 25, 2009 By 71 Comments

Selling online usually requires a small investment but not always. For those of you not sure where to obtain the funds for inventory; you might consider a home loan. Home loans are always an option. I would always recommend that you start small and without a loan. Once your business picks up and you find you need a location, Team Members, Equipment and Inventory you may want to try a business loan or even credit cards. However, you can always obtain a home loan as back-up. The rates are usually a lot better and you can use the money towards home improvements as well. It is usually hard for Start-up business to obtain a business loan or line of credit.

Keep in mind that you can start selling online the items you have around your home. Selling your items around your home cost you nothing other than the occasional listing fees (varies on marketplace). You can also “drop ship”; the cost here is also minimal compared to stocking your own inventory. This is a great time to explore the possibilities. Sales online are doing a lot better and I know that soon you will experience the need to provide and stock larger inventory. Summer is here (almost) and this is a great time to start working on the Fall/Winter Sales Campaigns. Having inventory can give you an edge to the Holiday demand.

Have you started working on the Fall Campaigns? Do you usually stock up on the Hot Item?



Filed Under: Business Growth, Home Based Business, Selling online Tagged With: , , , , ,

byLaurenLuke Make-up on Sale – Success Story

May 13, 2009 By 9 Comments

byLaurenLuke is now on SALE! Lauren aka panacea81 has fulfilled one of her dreams! To have her own make-up line. This of course would not had been possible without her fans and the use of YouTube. You can read on my previous post about her success story. Here are some videos that will introduce to you her new line of make-up. I just placed my order and can’t wait to get my hands on them.

Lauren sold make-up brushes on eBay, she went on the create tutorials on YouTube to help her buyers understand how to use the brushes and to drive traffic to her auctions. She soon had a large audience and fans following her. One day she decided to do a make-up tutorial on Leona Williams from her hit Music Video “Bleeding Love”. The rest is history; sort of. The traffic generated from this video was incredible that soon she was contacted with offers; landing her to get her own make-up line.

Congratulations to Lauren Luke it was not easy for her to get in front of the camera and certainly has worked very hard for the success she now has. Visit her store at byLaurenLuke

Lauren Announces the release of her Make-up




Filed Under: Featured, make money online, Selling online, social media, Social Networks, Success Stories, youtube Tagged With: , , ,

Team Building and Customer Service Critical for Your Success

May 12, 2009 By 17 Comments

With the recent move I made to get a space for the growth of my online business it is time that I think about the culture of my company. I know that soon I will need to bring in Team Members to help assist with the growth. From past experience I know that my online business can grow rather quickly. TEAM BUILDING and a Strong Customer Service are critical for the success of any company, no matter the size. There are many other components that I have to keep in mind such as Insurance, Employment Policies, Compensation and Bonus and other Legalities. Most important is Team Building and Customer Service.

I have worked for companies that employed over 100 employees and understood the importance of team work and creating an environment where your Team Members feel free to be creative and find enjoyment in their work. Customer Service can sometimes take its toll on you. Creating a goal oriented compensation plan and offer Sabbaticals to your Team Members shows them you understand the impact their well being has to your success.

There are many companies that have incredible packages geared at Team Building. You can hire a Human Resource company to help you structure your Team Building plan. You can offer from One Month to 3 Months Sabbatical, back to school assistance, Career Growth, scholarships for their children, special retreats for relaxation for a day or even large Corporate Events to encourage Team Work. This of course varies from the size of your company to the industry you are in.

Now, I expect to hire at least 4 full time and 3 part time Team Members in the next year. Now would be a good time to check out what other companies are offering and create an outline on what my vision for my Team is. A trip to Hawaii would be great. I believe Oprah did this for her Staff and their families. I would like to know what Corporate Events Oprah offers.

eBay has an impressive package for their Team Members (employees) as well as Yahoo and Google. However, Zappos culture and core values have always stood out. Customer Service and their (Team Members) employees are priority at Zappos.

ABC News Nightline interviewed CEO Tony Hsieh over at Zappos. Zappos has grown to sell over a Billion Dollars in shoes and accessories. They could not have accomplished this goal without proper Team Building and Customer Service.

Do you offer sabbatical packages to your Team Members? Does your employer offer any activities to allow you to Re-Charge? If you could create a sabbatical for your Team Members what would it be?

NightLine




Filed Under: Business Resources, Customer Service, Human Resources, Selling online Tagged With: , , , ,

Make Online or Open a Physical Store

May 7, 2009 By 2 Comments

Found another source for you to make money online or even to set up your own physical store. You can buy in bulk at low prices and find a friendly staff ready to assist you. The Dollar Store offers you the support you need from merchandise to franchising. The Dollar Store does have a $1,000.00 minimum order. You are also charged the shipping fees. They require a 50% deposit and Cash on Delivery.

This is a great source to find a variety of product for your online business. Such an assortment of items that you can easily sell in bulk, lots or create wonderful gift baskets. With over 10,000 items at wholesale prices you are sure to save money and make a good profit. If you have an affiliate (niche) store you may want to sell some of your own product and offers options through your affiliate accounts for the same item.

For details you can visit their website at Dollar Store not the same as Dollar Tree. Do you use or have used their services? If so, how did it work for you? Do you have any recommendations where to find such large inventory?



Filed Under: Find Product, make money online, Selling online, What to Sell Tagged With: , , ,

Sell School Supplies Online

May 6, 2009 By 15 Comments

In my search to save money on schooling supplies, I have come across several places you find not only find an incredible deal but you can also sell them online. I usually order my items from Lakeshore Learning Supplies. Lakeshore Learning Supplies is known for their large variety of School Supplies but are pricey even with a teacher or Home School parent discount.

 

I recently went shopping to my local Dollar Tree Store. I have seen them around and heard in the news that you should NOT purchase food from them. As the food products are well past their expiration date. I did find several deals. I found Phonics Book, Spelling Books, Script, Reading Books, Flashcards and much more. I purchased five of each for each one of us and for my nephews. I came home with about 150 new supplies for your homeschool for just around $165.00. That is a deal. The supplies are $1.00 each.  All items are $1.00, if you do not have a Dollar Tree in your area, you can shop online at the same low prices. When ordering online, you will have to order the minimum per item. Some activity books are sold in 24 pieces etc… Visit their website at Dollar Tree Store.

 

This is the type of product they offer:

 

 

Aside from schooling supplies you can find all these categories: Floral Supplies & Décor, Party Supplies, School & Office Supplies, Teacher’s Corner, Arts & Crafts, Toys, Games & Activities, Health & Personal Care, Cleaning Storage & Hardware, Kitchen & Tableware, Seasonal

 

The items are great and from just having spent $3,000.00 is supplies for my kids schooling, I can truly appreciate the offers at Dollar Tree. I will create a package or my next giveaway. Come back soon for details.

 

Now, if you check on eBay, you will find the market for Schooling Supplies. You can purchase items from the Dollar Tree and offer them on eBay, Bonanzle, stootsi, eCrater you name it. Get your product out there. It would work best to offer them as a package deal. Some items do have the retail price listed anywhere from $3.95 and up. Regardless, the savings are incredible with many possibilities.

 

Do you already shop at a Dollar Store? Do you sell items online from the Dollart Store? Do you have any sites you would like to share?

 

 

 

 

 

 



Filed Under: Find Product, make money online, Selling online, What to Sell Tagged With: , , ,

Find Product to Sell at Designer Outlets

May 5, 2009 By 1 Comment

Finding product to sell can be a huge task. For some it is the easiest thing to do. You can find product at Clearance Sales, outlets, directly dealing with vendors, items around you house or a drop shipper. With Summer almost here it’s a good time to check with your local Outlets to know when they will be holding a Sale.  I know that Nordstrom’s Rack will be having a Tag Sale on May 5th, May 9th Large Shoe Sale and on May 14th Contemporary Event. With the fabulous selection they carry and the already discounted prices you are sure to find a great selection to sell online. To find a location near you visit their website HERE

 



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