eBay is testing new ways to attract consumer sellers. In addition to running invitation-only promotions, eBay is now testing consignment selling models. like the eBay drop off stores.
While eBay has been concentrating on its partnerships with large brands and retailers such as ToysRUs, it can't ignore the casual seller. That's because shoppers who sell on eBay are more engaged and likely to shop more.
The common complaints from casual sellers is that eBay has gotten complicated. And since 2008, the selling process on eBay has gotten more complicated - just the fee structure alone requires much studying with the aid of calculators to determine the costs. eBay offers up to 50 free auction listings to non-Store subscribers each month. But many restrictions apply, especially to brand new sellers, who are required to use PayPal.
The Pilot Programs: eBay Consignment Pick-up Service
According to the eBay Selling Assistant program website, eBay employees pick up items from consignors at their homes and drop them off at a local Trading Assistant, who charges a 25% commission if the items sell.
The eBay manager in charge of the pick-up consignment pilot program told the Journal that, "of the 70 pick-ups conducted by mid-December, no one had questioned the cut. He said he has also been happy with the quality of items being picked up, except that there have been too many books."
eBay describes the eBay Selling Assistant program on its website. EcommerceBytes has learned the pilot programs are running in San Jose, California and Topeka, Kansas.
The Pilot Programs: eBay Consignment Drop-off Service
The Wall Street Journal blog also described a pilot program in which people drop off clothing and small consumer electronics at a mall location manned by a Selling Assistant. The SA makes an offer for items. "The consumer could either accept the offer and receive payment via PayPal, or choose to list the items on eBay using their own account. If they opted to sell the items themselves, the registered sellers on site would provide advice on how to price the items and how to list them to get the most attention."
