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nyjastul69
Commander
2711 Posts
    
Rhode Island
 | | 12/02/2005 4:10 PM |
| This is one of the threads I saved.
Further detail:
Step 1 - Initiation of Trade
A sends B an email (or message in their trading thread, or both) expressing interest in a trade. This email can be as short as "My X for your Y". More politely, you can introduce yourself (if new), explain why you are initiating trade (saw h/w list, saw trade thread, etc.), provide links to ref list and h/w list. At this point, things are usually very general, and is primarily an expressin of interest and possible compatibility of h/w. If a trade is offered due to a trading thread, it is courteous to mention that an email was sent in the trading thread (this helps to avoid trade offers being lost by spam blockers, etc.).
Step 2 - Reply to Trade
This is one of the most important steps. Every trader should reply to an offer to trade, even if to tersely decline. If a trade is amenable to trader B, negotiations at this point start.
It is hoped by this point that both traders have checked the Disputed Traders list and each other's reference lists to ensure that there are no outstanding problems with the potential trader.
Step 3 - Negotiation
This can be a relatively short step, or can take many emails back and forth (I think I've had as many as 7 counter offers before agreement was reached). At this point, there is still no commitment to trade. However, backing out of a trade at this point because you received a better offer is considered rude by many (tough call sometimes). Failing to trade at this point because you can't reach agreement is perfectly fine.
Step 4 - Exchange of Addresses
Once a trade has been agreed upon, addresses are exchanged. At this point, there is a commitment to trade. Backing out at this point is bad form (especially as some traders are very efficient (ie. fast) at sending out minis).
Step 5 - Report of Trade
Most trades at this point will leave a short note in the Trading: References forum [Vol. 5] indicating that they have an outstanding trade. Both traders should do this.
Step 6 - Shipment
New traders will often be asked to ship first. In any case, minis should be packed in boxes (not padded envelopes). While resistant to damage, they are not invulnerable. Some kind of padding to minimize motion in the box is appreciated. Most experienced traders will ship within 3 days of finalizing a trade (often less). If life gets in the way, an email notifying the other trader of the delay is courteous.
When shipping within the US (or internally in other countries) it is usually safest to spend the extra money to get a DC (Delivery Confirmation) number. This allows you to verify that it was delivered, and your trading partner to verify that it was shipped.
When shipping internationally, you will need to fill out a customs form -- most traders mark the shipment as "gift" and value about $10. On extremely large trades ($100+ value) you may consider insurance.
At this point, an email indicating that the package has been shipped is courteous (including DC or tracking number if appropriate).
Step 7 - Receiving
When you receive a package, check to ensure that it contains all the minis that you expected to receive. (We all make mistakes and forget cards or minis once in a while.) If all is good, email the sender to note package received and note also on the Trading Reference thread that you have received your end of the trade. If there are problems, email the other trader. If the other trader has a references thread (usually the shield icon at top of each post, or available through their profile), leave feedback there. If the other trader sent first, make sure your end is shipped promptly.
Step 8 - Final Report
When both sides have received, please leave a message in the Trading References thread to the effect that the trade is complete.
Final notes:
Communication is key. Without proper communication, people start to get very annoyed. Many of my trades have involved 15+ emails throughout the entire process.
Not all trade offers work out. Be courteous, there will be other opportunities, either in the future, or with other traders.
Be patient and understanding. Have fun trading!
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