Over the years, I have purchased and sold many model train items on eBay. I would say 99.9% of the time, everything has been great and I've acquired some great stuff. I’ve learned some lessons along the way and figured I'd pass those along. These tips go for trains or whatever else you’re buying on platforms like this.
First, research the product. One of the drawbacks to buying online is you can't get an up and close look at the model. If it's something new, be sure to look at reviews of the product online…you can also do that for stuff that has been out for a while. Look at the pictures on the listing very carefully. Ask the seller questions. Be sure you're purchasing something that’s your scale.
Second, research the seller. Look at their ratings and reviews. Get an idea of who you’re doing business with.
Third, check (and double check) the return or exchange policy…sometimes sellers allow them…sometimes they don’t. If they have a no-return policy- and you get something that doesn’t met your expectations- you may be stuck with it. That’s happened to me before– thankfully i was able to turn around and resell it on eBay and make my money back.
I've only had a couple of problems with needing to make returns, I won’t mention the seller or store here. But, I recently ordered an Exactrail Chessie System hopper. It arrived and had the roof broken off, the weights were detached from the inside of the car and clattering around…the package had dirt and ash inside of it the thing reeked of smoke—this was not a weathering job. I have no clue what happened with that car, but the seller let me return it with no questions asked.
Fourth, I would recommend checking out combined shipping policies. One thing that's not so great about ordering online is that sometimes things can cost a little more because of shipping. But, if it's something you need or can't find anywhere else— it's a part of the price to pay. This is where things can get tricky with a small number of people trying to take advantage.
Usually- each item for sale on eBay includes an individual shipping price. But, if you order several items, you’ll often be given a discount by the seller for bulk shipping. I made a mistake recently and assumed a seller offered combined shipping…since most of the ones i've dealt with- do offer it …again not naming names. I ordered ten tiny detail parts…. Only after I bought the items did the seller inform me he didn't do combined shipping- and I ended up paying $20 dollars in shipping for something- that likely only cost him $5 bucks in postage. The funny thing about sellers who do this is it's easy for a buyer to figure out how much shipping really costs- and if they’re taking you for a ride or not.
Also, sometimes sellers will offer a low sale price to get you to buy it and it looks good- but they make up for it by charging more for shipping and pocketing that difference. It's a borderline ripoff and not an fair or honest way of doing business. That's not cool and left me miffed…but its on me for assuming…I probably just won’t buy from them again.
Fifth, look for “buy it now" deals. These can be a real benefit. Sometimes bidding between people pushes an item way above what you’d normally get it for. I've seen train cars go for hundreds of dollars if its rate or in high demand. Most stuff stays very reasonable. That is the point of an auction. Some sellers offer to buy it now- where there is a set price and you can purchase the item straight out and can skip all the bidding wars.
Lastly, whether you're a buyer or seller) be kind and professional with your dealings. Good customer service goes both ways. From my personal experience– the vast majority of folks selling trains are just regular modelers just like us. Mistakes happen, miscommunication happens- that can happen whether you are a seller or a buyer. I don’t believe most train folks on eBay are our to rip anyone off.
There are pros and cons to buying stuff new or secondhand from eBay. I’ve talked to modelers who say they would never trust anyone online- and never buy anything from an online auction. To me….it’s just the same as buying from a train show. Chances are you don't know the person you are purchasing from. It’s a buy at your own risk experience.
Whenever you're shopping for used trains online, be sure to use your best judgment, research things, and have fun on your hunt for some cool stuff and good bargains.!
Until next time, all aboard and all the best. We will see you next time here on The Main Track.
