This list was very helpful. I have reviewed my profile page as well. It might be time for a profile update or at least another section on profile pages. We only have 'Collects' and 'Quote' to add descriptions about ourselves. I know we also have the Goals list, but I'm not sure how many folks use that yet, or at least look at other folks' goals.
I personally use the fabulous Trade Matching report to see what I get trade for the biggest bank for the mail bucks. I also keep a separate spreadsheet on Google docs so I can access it at all times. Since I'm a set builder, it is essentially a list of numbers with a tab for each set I'm currently working on. On a 660 card set, I start with 660 numbers (1-660). As I get the card, I delete the number, but keep the entire list. I make proposals and highlight the numbers in the spreadsheet with different colors for different trade partners so I know what I've proposed/accepted and have coming. This helps me fromt getting duplicates. Especially on the Topps Football sets I'm building now that have so many variations that I really don't care about.
After I make proposals, I will let them season for a few weeks and if they go nowhere and I get now communication, I withdraw, delete and generate a new proposal with someone else. I typically don't pull cards until the trade is accepted. If my inventory is wrong, I will either A) pull from my PC and replace them later, B) buy them on eBay and replace them, or C) inform the trading partner and see if there is something else I can replace with. I want to make sure my trading partner is 100% satisfied with my cards and if not, I will replace or upgrade them. It isn't worth a knock on my rating. Especially when 98% of my trades are for commons or individual cards worth less than a few bucks each.
More advice on trades and packaging: I've seen a lot over the last decade of trading online through the mail. The packaging has gotten smarter with most folks using PWE. A great PWE is to use either a full or partial 9-pocket binder sheet and sandwich the cards between cereal box board. Tape with painter's tape is always best and I really appreciate those who take an extra second to fold over the end to make removal easier. I don't like to dig with my fingernail into the board to get the tap up to peel off. Please also leave a way for someone to open the envelope. I've seen many come lately with packing tape on all sides. I think it is to waterproof the envelope (understandable in winter and mailing it to Michigan) but I then have to use scissors to cut the envelope and hopefully not cut the cards inside. I use a letter opener to open my mail and if there is no hole or little area for the letter opener to start the cut, it makes it a lot harder to open a simple envelope.
Lastly, if you're going to do a few trades and especially if you do any selling online, get a cheap digital food scale for postage. There is another thread in the forums talking about the USPS returning items or delivering with 20 cents postage due. Get some additional ounce stamps and use them. If it 2.1 ounces, use 2 additional ounce stamps. Don't tempt a poor feedback for just 2 dimes.
In summary, keys to a successful transaction here on TCDB:
- Good, timely and consistent communication - both on your profile and in transacation
- Proper packaging
- Proper postage
- An accurate inventory
- Ensure 100% satisfaction
Thanks to all the great members who I've successfully traded with.