If you liked this video of me timing myself to see how fast I went sorting and photographing, then here is another video where I am timing myself picking and packing 70 eBay orders. ruclips.net/video/_6ix2tNxDTs/видео.html
Been a watcher / lurker for a while. Just a thought. You could eliminate one photo from your process by taking 2 photos of the book edges at a 3/4 angle (from the corners). In my experience you can still get a 100% clear view of 2 edges taken at an angle instead of straight on (unless there are specific defects). i know it doesnt sound like much, but removing one photo from each listing on 80 listings over 2 hours means 80 more photos you could take for additional listings. from what i see you take 6 photos per listing. So by eliminating that photo you should be able to get photos done for an additional 10 listings (give or take) in the same time. I also think you might benefit by raising up your photo area by around 12 inches. All that up and down is hard on your body and takes time. Lastly, if you wait until ALL the photos are done to shrink wrap the bundles should also help the process go faster. Think about your economy of movement. The less changes you make in how you are moving, the faster you can get things done. The main idea behind Henry Ford's assembly line was specialization of labor. Doing one thing repeatedly is faster than doing one thing, then a different thing, then a different thing. Apply that to your process. Change tools less frequently. Do all your erasing in one go. Do all your wipedowns in one go. Photos in one go. Shrinkwrap in one go. I can all but guarantee you get more done in the same amount of time.
Love seeing others process. I would do 1 thing different; I would put the bags on the table when there is nothing else on there, so I won't be bending over to pick up so much and maybe go a little faster. Keep sharing your ideas, it helps me make changes for the good in my business. You are an inspiration and a joy to watch. God bless you and your family.
OMG Mel. I am exhausted just watching you. That was just like a full workout session. When I saw all those bags of new books I nearly fainted. Your stamina is AMAZING. GO GIRL GO!!!
This is an underrated comment. People don't realize the dedication and stamina it takes to resell full-time. A lot of people have a misconception money just appears on their lap :) The first edition stephen king books I've been finding have been HUGE profits.
@@joem7023 i’ve been trying to resell the past couple of months a lot more than I ever have. I tell you it is like you said freaking exhausting work. Weekends I used to enjoy, but now that’s my busiest time. Going to yard sales and flea markets, taking everything home, cleaning everything before I even bring it into the house bagging it taking pictures, and then incredibly boring exhausting work of listing.
I was an eBayer a decade ago. I am cleaning out my storage unit as well as my house in preparation to sell my house and move and this was a great video to come to for tips. Thank you.
I used to photograph like that myself but my back started to bother me so much that I raised my photo station to counter height. Helps me a lot with long photo sessions. Keep working, you're doing great!
@@BBFNotorious Pricey, but could be an idea. Might also just be able to get away with picking up a cheap kids table from Ikea or equivalent and place on top of the table to use for photography sessions. Would add about 2 feet of height.
I would put some risers on the legs of the table to bring it up. Not so hard on the back. I use bed risers. I pick them up at the thrift shop. But you can find them at the regular store too.
Love your comment about these videos making you "do the work". Eventhough I dont have a youtube channel, I probably need to record myself so I will get work done too! Thank you for sharing your knowledge and experiences!
Very enjoyable and motivating to watch. I'm a hobby reseller and have not sold many books but your videos are making me rethink book selling. US/Florida grandma here.
Thank you!! Spend some time searching recent book sales on eBay. Search by price also to see what books are selling for higher amounts. You might be pleasantly surprised!
Hey Mel! Hope you're doing well! Have you thought about putting your photography table up on bed risers to raise your table up so you don't have to bend over so much. I found 2 sets at the thrift store one short and another tall. So for cheap I was able to figure which set worked best without spending a lot of money. You would probably need a short set because you take pictures of the top of your books. Just a thought while I was watching your video. As always thanks for sharing! Have a great day!!!
You could put bed risers on the legs of your table. I found a bunch cheap at goodwill and did this to all my tables, as I am 6 feet tall and my back hurts! haha Thanks for the videos!! love them
Hi Mel, another excellent video. It’s already been said by another viewer but raising the height of your photography table will put less strain on your back. Also, when sorting your books your bags of books were on the floor so you were bending to collect your books to sort on the table. Appreciating space is a premium but placing a bag of books on a table to sort through would save you back. Keep up the great videos!!
Great tip about the bag on the table! I might even invest in another table or two since they fold nice and flat. Yes, I’ve been thinking for a while I might get Aaron to build me a custom table that’s made for my height as I do get sore when doing big photography sessions.
Loved your video. You are a joy to watch. I mostly watched to learn how you bundle, how you photograph and how you stage your product. I also learned how easy it is to make your own lighting system. Thanks a bunch. Sending my very best vibes for a successful business.
@@backfromburnout Yes please! Love your older content too but the new content on loop would be great. I've cleaned up my office already due to your video today.
Mel that was an excellent video! Thank you for taking the time to show us. And how you set your camera settings. That was very informative. Great content!
I need to find where to buy a couple of those HUGE white corregated boards here in the states. I am often running out comfortable space on my regular white background sheets.
I have the white boards (get them from Dollar General) but I don't have that ring light (that is nice). I can't afford it right now but I will be getting one. I'm going to try another light I have that hangs over to see if I can get it to work. Awesome set up right there Mel. Your pics are phenomenal.
Using the corrugated sheets is a good idea for backdrop. I use a white paper roll which allows me to cover the back and the table with one sheet and instead of a hard line where the two corrugated sheets meet, you have a nice curve which doesn't show up in my videos. I'm unsure how the corrugated sheets would do in a video anyways because the ones we have here are not that flat, but might be a good idea to try.
i use PVC on a roll. I used to use paper but kept having to change it all the time. The only trouble i found with the PVC is it gets scratched, but you can swap it around and the scratches cleanout usually but i reckon I'll only need to buy one a year. The paper was more like one roll every 3 months.
YaYYYYY Mel….LOVED this….You know I don’t do a lot of books but EVERYTHING I know or do is THANKS to you….Now if I could photograph as many of my vintage wares as you do books in the same time, I’d be STOKED….!!!!!😊😊👊🏻
Thank you! You have some pretty eclectic stuff to sell so your processes will be a little less robotic then mine. It will all come down to prioritising and perhaps batching or time blocks to be your most productive
Am nackerd just watching you Mel 😂😂 no wonder us brits drink so much wow your storage unit is like the amazon rain florist so cool to watch tho thanks for sharing. Rick 👍🇬🇧
Hi madam. I think if you set a stand for the phone camera and use a Bluetooth remote. You can do this 10x the speed. You can use a syncing software to immediately see the photos in laptop taken from your phone.
Hi Mel, clothes can be bundled too. That is what I have been doing. I had to take a break from listing to watch you. Great tips. You work so fast. See you next time.
You are lucky you Live in Australia, few thrift sellers have a chock hold on book sales here in America and it’s really hard to compete with them. I subscribed. ❤ ur videos
Your book photos are great these "timing" the processes are very helpful. I have to reiterate what others have stated - take care of your back by either sitting to photograph or raise that table. OMG, nothing worse than chronic back pain from damaged disks.
@@backfromburnout You’re inspiring me and I’ve only watched you one time. I’m going to try to get up at six tomorrow myself. It’s 9:44 pm here now so I’m headed to by 10:00. I’ll let you know how many photos or listings I can get done. My nickname: Moddi
You are a BEAST!!! Such an inspiration. I am going to try and do half as you do, I could never do the amount you get done in a day. Great video, Great Job all around.
I’ve definitely been working hard with my head down but it’s made me realise how much time I actually wasted last year doing non productive stuff. Once you start making that listing your biggest business priority everything starts changing
Super interesting and well made video! I realize the importance of a consistent workflow and to make the pictures as attractive as possible. Regards from a new subscriber in Sweden.
I know it would take longer but I wonder if the video function would be applicable. I haven’t tried it yet but I’m thinking it could boost sales. Love you!
I have my note 9 on a phone stand and take pictures with my stylus pen. I generally don't have to fix the picture settings. I can sit while I arrange items to photo with one hand and take pictures with the other. It goes quite fast.The stand is over my shoulder. I have a designated area marked where the item sits to be photographed. I have a soft tape measure taped near edge of the table If I need the take pics of measurements. Some odd size or large books I sell are packed in 12"x12"x2 in flat record cardboard boxes. They don't fit in most mail boxes. If a customer has any issues with delivery. The book dimensions are usually in the listing pictures.
Came across your YT channel. This was a very interesting and informative video on selling books. Quite different from the other YT channels. Became a new subscriber as well from FL/USA. Will have to check out the rest of your videos as well.
Mel, all that back bending downward worries me, perhaps place the full bag on a stool or small table to sort them on the big tables, hope your back is doing better!!
The first thing I did in the new year was time my different processes! I'm at 42 seconds per item for photograph. 4 mins per item to measure and put away and then 5 minutes per item to list it! I sell clothes though so I wish I could find a quicker way to measure!
Well done and it's so good you know how long it takes you! I just ordered a clothes measure ruer from a website called reseller ruler. Maybe check that out and see if it's something you might like. Mine hasn't arrived but I see many resellers using it.
Yes. I always downgrade my books on condition and I grade them as acceptable and good. I want to allow for any little scuffs that may arrive in the shed or shipping process. Peoples feedback is often that the books exceeded the expectations in condition which is great for me.
You are so delightful! I’m learning how to list items online…I want to do my own “Estate Sale” of sorts with my books, jewelry, clothes, small home decor items to declutter and raise $$! You were VERY helpful and very INSPIRING! PS-I love your Accent! 😊
New to reselling. I'm just doing it for extra cash. I know it'll grow more for me. 🙏🏻🍀🤞🏻 We call it coreplex in the states, Lol. Thanks for sharing. Oh! I love Gary V also. 🤙🏼Chris 🤙🏼
Love watching your videos, so informative and fun, such a sweet fun personality! Even had my husband watching this episode (although I think its more your sweet lovely face than the selling tips ;)!) I just started into book bundling (meaning I haven't listed much yet) so we'll see how it goes. I love books so its easy for me. Lots of freebies on Craigslist (sold several text books for good money) and hitting the library sales ($10 a book bag and you can cram a lot in!). Thanks for the great shows, was lucky enough to catch your last live and you even responded to one of my questions, felt like we were really "chatting" :) Have a happy day Mel, we love you in Arizona!
I sell them by author or series or sometimes assorted bundles by the same genre. The bundles are awesome. I give added value to the buyer but I fit more books in the same size post mailer so I save money on post. I buy my books mostly for 50c-$1 (sometimes cheaper in hauls) each so my COG is low. I make much more profit selling books in bundles and get great ASP selling bundles. Here is a video where I discuss bundles more. ruclips.net/video/ZIcfRJqaoGA/видео.html
Welcome aboard! Oh I know the feeling! This is an old video so excuse the quality but this is what my house looked like when I started! ruclips.net/video/UfVcsnYBQCk/видео.html
@@backfromburnout and not even two years ago! Lovely progress. My amazon account gets verified tomorrow, the ring light is in the mail, the scanner came yesterday, and I have $1000+ worth of amazon inventory clean and ready as it is. I was late and had no competition clearing out a very literal ton of books from a thrift store giveaway so if that says anything about my area in general I think I'll probably pass out. Are you near a major city? What kind of competition do you have when sourcing? Thanks again for your time
Hi Mel loved this video. Just wanted to let you know, I think the Reseller Ruler is only in inches. I love it but no good to me as only do clothing In Oz.
Could you still not use it with inches and let the buyer do their own conversion? That’s what I will do. I currently always show my measurements using the inch side as it’s easier to read in photos.
Yep that would work but some people might feel like it's all too hard. Most tape measures have inches one side cms on the other. If your using inches and things are selling keep on keeping on. Let us all know how it goes, it looks like a fantastic product.
That Philosopher's Stone is worth selling on its own, at least $50. The picture of Dumbledore looking young is only on early printings. Let me know if you need help listing it.
The white ones are at Kmart. They are not very strong though so I wouldn’t use them for stock as I’d be worried they would topple over if too high. The Bunnings ones are sturdy but expensive which is why I’m trialing them at the moment before I buy more :)
Stumbled upon your video and I just love your beautiful personality! Love your setup!!!! I resell as well. My problem is I like to keep lot of my finds, so I price really high so they don't sell for a while 😂 I figure I am doing my part to move all the other sellers stuff because their items are such a bargain. Wishing you much success.
Hi! Thank you for finding me and welcome to my channel! Oh that’s hard when you want to keep everything! I’m lucky I don’t really have an attachment to anything I buy I just want to move it along for profit lol
Get a taller table or put table on bricks so your not bending!! do you list from your phone ? Also you need to count time from set up, take pictures and listing so if it take 4 hours to set up, sort, photograph and then list 1/2 bundles 1/2 individuals of 20 books is estimate 60./hr -10.00 for boxing up and mailing minus the cost you bought them so if you are still making 20-25/hr you are doing pretty good!!
What about removing stickers from books? I use a heat gun and then Goo-Gone for the sticky residue left behind. Your not taping your book bundles together are you????
If you have an eBay store just a few lines underneath the title it will say SKU. If you don't have a store you wont have a SKU option to use. You can see my screen as I'm listing here: ruclips.net/video/WRyHzNq4OZ8/видео.html
@@backfromburnout Thanks Mel. I do have a store but it’s under my personal name and not a dedicated business shop. Not sure if that’s a bad thing but I definitely don’t see the SKU so that must be one of the down sides of not having a dedicated business store. Thanks Mel!! 💕👍
Thanks Lianne! I will try. I’m not a Harry Potter expert, there is a lot of different versions and some are worth much more then others. It’s why I leave them all in the deathpile when I probably have so much money sitting there on them!
That was crazy fast! Very well done video. I like to see other people's processes. I'm a newish subscriber. I had been watching you for a few months before I created a new account to start my own channel! You've given me the interest to look into books more while I'm out. It's exciting to get more in depth in a new category!
Hello! Just come across your channel and loving your videos! I’m a fellow reseller in the UK 😊 I wondered where you got your white board from? After having a baby last year I NEED to get myself more organised!
I’m in Australia so it came from our local hardware shop. I know in UK you can order it on Amazon. It’s called corflute here in a Australia. It is sometimes also called corregated plastic.
Thank you so much for sharing your process, I am new to the channel so not sure if someone shared this tip with you, have you thought of getting a lanyard for your phone? It makes easy to keep moving. Thank you again!
What a wonderful system you got going here! My question is how do you price your books? Do you have a particular formula on pricing the books? Kudos to you and thank you for inspiring me!
Brown pages and “foxing” on books will still sell if it’s a sought after book. If it’s a common book that can be found anywhere then it will be harder to sell like that. If I have the room I’ll leave it once its listed. If I need room then those are the types of books I’ll start culling or putting on sale. Just with those books don’t overprice. Think of them as activity into the store. Move it along fast at slower rate
Do you take one snap of each angle or more than one just incase there's a dud photo in the mix. I presume the camera phone is a quicker process than the previous way with the SLR camera. Been looking for some of that white corrugated plastic board for a while now! Thanks Mel
I don't normally unless I adjust exposure but for some reason when I'm going fast I sometimes double click lol But no, I don't to take extra photos if I don't need to. Amazon have the board Ian that delivers in UK :) Thank you for watching me as always :)
Oh wow, thats expensive. It's super cheap here. Foam core would probably work well also and is great for reflecting light. As long as it doesn't get dents and stuff easily from working on.
If you liked this video of me timing myself to see how fast I went sorting and photographing, then here is another video where I am timing myself picking and packing 70 eBay orders.
ruclips.net/video/_6ix2tNxDTs/видео.html
Been a watcher / lurker for a while. Just a thought. You could eliminate one photo from your process by taking 2 photos of the book edges at a 3/4 angle (from the corners). In my experience you can still get a 100% clear view of 2 edges taken at an angle instead of straight on (unless there are specific defects). i know it doesnt sound like much, but removing one photo from each listing on 80 listings over 2 hours means 80 more photos you could take for additional listings. from what i see you take 6 photos per listing. So by eliminating that photo you should be able to get photos done for an additional 10 listings (give or take) in the same time. I also think you might benefit by raising up your photo area by around 12 inches. All that up and down is hard on your body and takes time. Lastly, if you wait until ALL the photos are done to shrink wrap the bundles should also help the process go faster. Think about your economy of movement. The less changes you make in how you are moving, the faster you can get things done. The main idea behind Henry Ford's assembly line was specialization of labor. Doing one thing repeatedly is faster than doing one thing, then a different thing, then a different thing. Apply that to your process. Change tools less frequently. Do all your erasing in one go. Do all your wipedowns in one go. Photos in one go. Shrinkwrap in one go. I can all but guarantee you get more done in the same amount of time.
also i know this is an older video, but it popped into my queue again today so thought i'd comment for no reason
Love seeing others process. I would do 1 thing different; I would put the bags on the table when there is nothing else on there, so I won't be bending over to pick up so much and maybe go a little faster. Keep sharing your ideas, it helps me make changes for the good in my business. You are an inspiration and a joy to watch. God bless you and your family.
That is a great tip. I never put bags on the table and I should! I might even buy a couple more tables to have a work bench for bags!
I thought the exact same thing. It was hurting my back just watching her lean over that much
@@backfromburnout you will be after your back fusion! 😖
Squats! Great for core and leg work out to save the back! :)
OMG Mel. I am exhausted just watching you. That was just like a full workout session. When I saw all those bags of new books I nearly fainted. Your stamina is AMAZING. GO GIRL GO!!!
Ha ha ha. I have another 7 in my car full of individual books - actually 6 now as I just drafted an entire bag :) Thank you for watching Joan
This is an underrated comment. People don't realize the dedication and stamina it takes to resell full-time. A lot of people have a misconception money just appears on their lap :) The first edition stephen king books I've been finding have been HUGE profits.
@@joem7023 i’ve been trying to resell the past couple of months a lot more than I ever have. I tell you it is like you said freaking exhausting work. Weekends I used to enjoy, but now that’s my busiest time. Going to yard sales and flea markets, taking everything home, cleaning everything before I even bring it into the house bagging it taking pictures, and then incredibly boring exhausting work of listing.
I was an eBayer a decade ago. I am cleaning out my storage unit as well as my house in preparation to sell my house and move and this was a great video to come to for tips. Thank you.
Thanks for sharing!!
I used to photograph like that myself but my back started to bother me so much that I raised my photo station to counter height. Helps me a lot with long photo sessions. Keep working, you're doing great!
It’s definitely something I also want to look at. I might get my husband to build me a custom sized bench at some stage.
They have those adjustable height computer tables that people use to either sit or stand at a computer. Might be worth looking at for long sessions.
@@BBFNotorious Pricey, but could be an idea. Might also just be able to get away with picking up a cheap kids table from Ikea or equivalent and place on top of the table to use for photography sessions. Would add about 2 feet of height.
@@lepke1979 it probably is a little pricey, but your knees and back will thank you later 🤣
@@BBFNotorious True.
I would put some risers on the legs of the table to bring it up. Not so hard on the back. I use bed risers. I pick them up at the thrift shop. But you can find them at the regular store too.
Love your comment about these videos making you "do the work". Eventhough I dont have a youtube channel, I probably need to record myself so I will get work done too! Thank you for sharing your knowledge and experiences!
Yes, instead of having one accountability partner I have almost 13,000 of them watching my every move LOL It's good motivation for me!
Very enjoyable and motivating to watch. I'm a hobby reseller and have not sold many books but your videos are making me rethink book selling. US/Florida grandma here.
Thank you!! Spend some time searching recent book sales on eBay. Search by price also to see what books are selling for higher amounts. You might be pleasantly surprised!
Great vid Mel. Loving see everyone’s process as we all do things differently and can always learn something from others processes.
Thank you so much!!
Hey Mel! Hope you're doing well! Have you thought about putting your photography table up on bed risers to raise your table up so you don't have to bend over so much. I found 2 sets at the thrift store one short and another tall. So for cheap I was able to figure which set worked best without spending a lot of money. You would probably need a short set because you take pictures of the top of your books. Just a thought while I was watching your video. As always thanks for sharing! Have a great day!!!
Yes I definitely need a higher one. I’m hoping my husband might be able to build me a custom photography table that’s perfect for my height.
@@backfromburnout that will work even better!!!
You could put bed risers on the legs of your table. I found a bunch cheap at goodwill and did this to all my tables, as I am 6 feet tall and my back hurts! haha Thanks for the videos!! love them
Hi Mel, another excellent video.
It’s already been said by another viewer but raising the height of your photography table will put less strain on your back.
Also, when sorting your books your bags of books were on the floor so you were bending to collect your books to sort on the table. Appreciating space is a premium but placing a bag of books on a table to sort through would save you back.
Keep up the great videos!!
Great tip about the bag on the table! I might even invest in another table or two since they fold nice and flat. Yes, I’ve been thinking for a while I might get Aaron to build me a custom table that’s made for my height as I do get sore when doing big photography sessions.
@@backfromburnout You don't need a custom table, just put risers under the legs (bed risers) and you are a good 8 inches higher cheaply and easily.
Systems are super important, thanks for sharing.
Most important! Thank you for watching!
Loved your video. You are a joy to watch. I mostly watched to learn how you bundle, how you photograph and how you stage your product. I also learned how easy it is to make your own lighting system. Thanks a bunch. Sending my very best vibes for a successful business.
Woooo! You are such an inspiration. Wish the new videos are in a playlist so I can watch on loop! Loving the new music and content Mel.
Great idea I can make a playlist like that! Maybe 2022 in order?
@@backfromburnout Yes please! Love your older content too but the new content on loop would be great. I've cleaned up my office already due to your video today.
Mel that was an excellent video! Thank you for taking the time to show us. And how you set your camera settings. That was very informative. Great content!
Thank you so much for watching and I’m glad the camera tips helped!!
I need to find where to buy a couple of those HUGE white corregated boards here in the states. I am often running out comfortable space on my regular white background sheets.
I love how real this video feels
I subscribed after the first 2 minutes! You're really awesome.
Thank you so much! I try to keep it real in all my videos!
I have the white boards (get them from Dollar General) but I don't have that ring light (that is nice). I can't afford it right now but I will be getting one. I'm going to try another light I have that hangs over to see if I can get it to work. Awesome set up right there Mel. Your pics are phenomenal.
Thank you! The right lights are great. Mine is a 19” inch size.
Where did you get the ring light you are using please? I bought one off ebay like you and it was not bright enough to do the job.
Using the corrugated sheets is a good idea for backdrop. I use a white paper roll which allows me to cover the back and the table with one sheet and instead of a hard line where the two corrugated sheets meet, you have a nice curve which doesn't show up in my videos. I'm unsure how the corrugated sheets would do in a video anyways because the ones we have here are not that flat, but might be a good idea to try.
The plastic is great as a lot of the books are often dusty and the plastic gets dirty but it’s so easy to wipe clean. And it’s so cheap.
i use PVC on a roll. I used to use paper but kept having to change it all the time. The only trouble i found with the PVC is it gets scratched, but you can swap it around and the scratches cleanout usually but i reckon I'll only need to buy one a year. The paper was more like one roll every 3 months.
YaYYYYY Mel….LOVED this….You know I don’t do a lot of books but EVERYTHING I know or do is THANKS to you….Now if I could photograph as many of my vintage wares as you do books in the same time, I’d be STOKED….!!!!!😊😊👊🏻
Thank you! You have some pretty eclectic stuff to sell so your processes will be a little less robotic then mine. It will all come down to prioritising and perhaps batching or time blocks to be your most productive
Am nackerd just watching you Mel 😂😂 no wonder us brits drink so much wow your storage unit is like the amazon rain florist so cool to watch tho thanks for sharing. Rick 👍🇬🇧
Thanks so much Ricky!!
great setup! You are killing it. So when is the next follow up video with Chris? I would love to hear what all you are doing.
We did a stream this morning so jump on over and catch the replay!
You are an absolute treasure trove of knowledge! Love your system!
Thank you!
Hi madam. I think if you set a stand for the phone camera and use a Bluetooth remote. You can do this 10x the speed. You can use a syncing software to immediately see the photos in laptop taken from your phone.
Hi Mel, clothes can be bundled too. That is what I have been doing. I had to take a break from listing to watch you. Great tips. You work so fast. See you next time.
Yes, if you can bundle anything do it! There is always more profit when bundling I love it! I wish my entire store could be bundles!
You are lucky you Live in Australia, few thrift sellers have a chock hold on book sales here in America and it’s really hard to compete with them. I subscribed. ❤ ur videos
Wiz kid! Well done Mel. Takes a lot to keep focused.
Yes it’s hard for me to focus. But I’m doing well 2 weeks in. 50 weeks still to go LOL
Do you have a video showing how your source and price books while you are out ?
how do you check the condition of books? i feel like it takes forever as theres so many pages
Thanks sooo much for the Vivid setting tip. My photos are looking so much better!! 👍
Awesome!! I’m so glad that helped you! It can make a big difference!
Your book photos are great these "timing" the processes are very helpful. I have to reiterate what others have stated - take care of your back by either sitting to photograph or raise that table. OMG, nothing worse than chronic back pain from damaged disks.
Thank you. Yes I am going to see if my husband will make me a custom photo bench perfect for my height :)
Mel congratulations on your three videos this week. And good luck with your 300 drafts.
Thanks so much!! 25 in the draft box already and 1 bag of deathpile is empty :)
@@backfromburnout You’re inspiring me and I’ve only watched you one time. I’m going to try to get up at six tomorrow myself. It’s 9:44 pm here now so I’m headed to by 10:00. I’ll let you know how many photos or listings I can get done. My nickname: Moddi
She has THE best energy! 💫
Thank you x
You are a BEAST!!! Such an inspiration. I am going to try and do half as you do, I could never do the amount you get done in a day. Great video, Great Job all around.
I’ve definitely been working hard with my head down but it’s made me realise how much time I actually wasted last year doing non productive stuff. Once you start making that listing your biggest business priority everything starts changing
Great system, you are so organized!
Thank you! I appreciate you watching!
You are a machine! Amazingly quick, got tired just watching you lol
I try to work hard! Thank you for watching!
Super interesting and well made video!
I realize the importance of a consistent workflow and to make the pictures as attractive as possible.
Regards from a new subscriber in Sweden.
I know it would take longer but I wonder if the video function would be applicable. I haven’t tried it yet but I’m thinking it could boost sales. Love you!
I think it takes up to 24hrs to be approved so will delay listing on some items
What ring light are you using?
This very interesting learning something new I don't plan on selling anything but learning I'm addicted too thank you Mel
I saw another eBay seller use a lazy Susan turntable. It might help you speed up as you photo the edges.
I did see someone using this also for shoes. I didn’t think of it for books but it could be worth a try!
I have my note 9 on a phone stand and take pictures with my stylus pen. I generally don't have to fix the picture settings. I can sit while I arrange items to photo with one hand and take pictures with the other. It goes quite fast.The stand is over my shoulder. I have a designated area marked where the item sits to be photographed.
I have a soft tape measure taped near edge of the table If I need the take pics of measurements. Some odd size or large books I sell are packed in 12"x12"x2 in flat record cardboard boxes. They don't fit in most mail boxes. If a customer has any issues with delivery. The book dimensions are usually in the listing pictures.
Came across your YT channel. This was a very interesting and informative video on selling books. Quite different from the other YT channels. Became a new subscriber as well from FL/USA. Will have to check out the rest of your videos as well.
Thank you so much, welcome to my channel! Yes, I agree, my channel is a little different to most others ❤️
Mel, all that back bending downward worries me, perhaps place the full bag on a stool or small table to sort them on the big tables, hope your back is doing better!!
The first thing I did in the new year was time my different processes! I'm at 42 seconds per item for photograph. 4 mins per item to measure and put away and then 5 minutes per item to list it!
I sell clothes though so I wish I could find a quicker way to measure!
Well done and it's so good you know how long it takes you! I just ordered a clothes measure ruer from a website called reseller ruler. Maybe check that out and see if it's something you might like. Mine hasn't arrived but I see many resellers using it.
Great photos. Book buyers are pretty particular about condition. I found for hard goods I can get away with fewer photos without problems
Yes. I always downgrade my books on condition and I grade them as acceptable and good. I want to allow for any little scuffs that may arrive in the shed or shipping process. Peoples feedback is often that the books exceeded the expectations in condition which is great for me.
You are so delightful! I’m learning how to list items online…I want to do my own “Estate Sale” of sorts with my books, jewelry, clothes, small home decor items to declutter and raise $$! You were VERY helpful and very INSPIRING! PS-I love your Accent! 😊
Wowza! Good hustle 😀 you are very motivational and fun to watch!
Thanks so much! 😊I'm glad you enjoyed it!
Oh my goodness. I was just looking at eBay photography. You look like Olivia Newton John
New to reselling. I'm just doing it for extra cash. I know it'll grow more for me. 🙏🏻🍀🤞🏻 We call it coreplex in the states, Lol. Thanks for sharing. Oh! I love Gary V also. 🤙🏼Chris 🤙🏼
Love that! Thanks so much for watching!
Hi, Mel I would like to know the name of the ring light that you use for the picture
I just purchased it on eBay so I'm not sure if it has a brand but its a 19" ring light
@@backfromburnout thank you
I’ve just found your channel and I’m really enjoying it and you work so hard!
I love your Hustle!!! Keep it up!!!!
Thank you so much!
Motivating or overwhelming? That is the question.
I always enjoy your videos. You motivate me to get going. Thanks a lot for all the support you give us newbies. 😊
Thank you so much!!!
I heard Chris say that you were really good at photos so I had to peep this
I used to be a family photographer before I did eBay. Now I just use the phone for this but I was a good portrait photographer x
That was well worth a subscription
@@stevena9384 thank you
Love the idea of photo the inventory #, I'm going to start doing that, thank you for the tip🥰
Glad it was helpful! Thanks for watching
Beautiful Photos Mel ! Thank you for showing us your great system 🤗
My pleasure 😊Thank you for watching!
Thanks for the ideas I appreciate it. Btw you are adorable with your accent!!!!
Thank you ❤️
hi mel great vid , found u from chris cant wait for all the videos that chris is trying to get u to keep up with
Awesome and welcome to my channel! I’m ready to give it my all and see what I can achieve this year!
Love watching your videos, so informative and fun, such a sweet fun personality! Even had my husband watching this episode (although I think its more your sweet lovely face than the selling tips ;)!) I just started into book bundling (meaning I haven't listed much yet) so we'll see how it goes. I love books so its easy for me. Lots of freebies on Craigslist (sold several text books for good money) and hitting the library sales ($10 a book bag and you can cram a lot in!). Thanks for the great shows, was lucky enough to catch your last live and you even responded to one of my questions, felt like we were really "chatting" :) Have a happy day Mel, we love you in Arizona!
Thank you so much for such a lovely comment. I really appreciate you both watching x
Great tips! Not sure though why u make the bundles...just by author? 🤔 🤗
I sell them by author or series or sometimes assorted bundles by the same genre. The bundles are awesome. I give added value to the buyer but I fit more books in the same size post mailer so I save money on post. I buy my books mostly for 50c-$1 (sometimes cheaper in hauls) each so my COG is low. I make much more profit selling books in bundles and get great ASP selling bundles. Here is a video where I discuss bundles more.
ruclips.net/video/ZIcfRJqaoGA/видео.html
New subscriber here drooling over your workspace. I just started my business collecting 1700+ odd books and my living room isn't quite as charming
Welcome aboard! Oh I know the feeling! This is an old video so excuse the quality but this is what my house looked like when I started!
ruclips.net/video/UfVcsnYBQCk/видео.html
@@backfromburnout and not even two years ago! Lovely progress. My amazon account gets verified tomorrow, the ring light is in the mail, the scanner came yesterday, and I have $1000+ worth of amazon inventory clean and ready as it is. I was late and had no competition clearing out a very literal ton of books from a thrift store giveaway so if that says anything about my area in general I think I'll probably pass out. Are you near a major city? What kind of competition do you have when sourcing?
Thanks again for your time
Hi Mel loved this video. Just wanted to let you know, I think the Reseller Ruler is only in inches. I love it but no good to me as only do clothing In Oz.
Could you still not use it with inches and let the buyer do their own conversion? That’s what I will do. I currently always show my measurements using the inch side as it’s easier to read in photos.
Yep that would work but some people might feel like it's all too hard. Most tape measures have inches one side cms on the other. If your using inches and things are selling keep on keeping on. Let us all know how it goes, it looks like a fantastic product.
Hi Mel, wondering if you track inventory in Excell, ie COG's, cost of selling and sold price etc?
That Philosopher's Stone is worth selling on its own, at least $50. The picture of Dumbledore looking young is only on early printings. Let me know if you need help listing it.
Thanks soooooo much. I have so much Harry Potter here that I need to spend time on sorting which ones are the good ones. I appreciate that tip!
Mel plz come down to vic to list for me!!! Also where did you get those white opened stacking containers? I’ve seen black @ Bunnings but not white
The white ones are at Kmart. They are not very strong though so I wouldn’t use them for stock as I’d be worried they would topple over if too high. The Bunnings ones are sturdy but expensive which is why I’m trialing them at the moment before I buy more :)
The more you list the faster you get :)
Stumbled upon your video and I just love your beautiful personality! Love your setup!!!! I resell as well. My problem is I like to keep lot of my finds, so I price really high so they don't sell for a while 😂 I figure I am doing my part to move all the other sellers stuff because their items are such a bargain. Wishing you much success.
Hi! Thank you for finding me and welcome to my channel! Oh that’s hard when you want to keep everything! I’m lucky I don’t really have an attachment to anything I buy I just want to move it along for profit lol
Get a taller table or put table on bricks so your not bending!!
do you list from your phone ? Also you need to count time from set up, take pictures and listing so if it take 4 hours to set up, sort, photograph and then list 1/2 bundles 1/2 individuals of 20 books is estimate 60./hr -10.00 for boxing up and mailing minus the cost you bought them so if you are still making 20-25/hr you are doing pretty good!!
Hello Mel where do you get the clear wrap you protect the books with??
What about removing stickers from books? I use a heat gun and then Goo-Gone for the sticky residue left behind. Your not taping your book bundles together are you????
Is the SKU number you are referring to the same as UPC? I cannot find where a SKU numbers goes. 😞
If you have an eBay store just a few lines underneath the title it will say SKU. If you don't have a store you wont have a SKU option to use. You can see my screen as I'm listing here:
ruclips.net/video/WRyHzNq4OZ8/видео.html
@@backfromburnout Thanks Mel. I do have a store but it’s under my personal name and not a dedicated business shop. Not sure if that’s a bad thing but I definitely don’t see the SKU so that must be one of the down sides of not having a dedicated business store. Thanks Mel!! 💕👍
Another great video thanks. Can you do a video when you list the Harry Potter books please about the reasons you put books into each bundle etc
Thanks Lianne! I will try. I’m not a Harry Potter expert, there is a lot of different versions and some are worth much more then others. It’s why I leave them all in the deathpile when I probably have so much money sitting there on them!
Great video.
You will never need a gym membership 😅
Do you ever have issues with glare off book jackets in your pictures?
Thanks
That was crazy fast! Very well done video. I like to see other people's processes. I'm a newish subscriber. I had been watching you for a few months before I created a new account to start my own channel! You've given me the interest to look into books more while I'm out. It's exciting to get more in depth in a new category!
Woo hoo, thank you for watching me! There is so much to learn with books you will do great!!
I don’t understand what do you mean by bundles, are they bundled from a
list of lists from buyers??
I make bundles/lots of books up by author/series/genre and I sell them like that as it makes me more profit
Blimey I'm not surprised you need water... Awesome tips Mel thanks for sharing 😁👍
Thanks for watching!
Where I can see those photos?
Does the lines from the corrugated sheets show in the photos?
Not really no if you have good light. If you zoom you might see them but this is a great background. I have larger sheets I also use for clothing
Hello! Just come across your channel and loving your videos!
I’m a fellow reseller in the UK 😊
I wondered where you got your white board from? After having a baby last year I NEED to get myself more organised!
I’m in Australia so it came from our local hardware shop. I know in UK you can order it on Amazon. It’s called corflute here in a Australia. It is sometimes also called corregated plastic.
Ah no sorry I meant the whiteboard on your wall! I could use one. I’ll certainly be copying the photo set up too 😊
Thank you so much for sharing your process, I am new to the channel so not sure if someone shared this tip with you, have you thought of getting a lanyard for your phone? It makes easy to keep moving. Thank you again!
😲 how do you find a book when it sells it looks like your shelf are 3 deep.
Hi Mel ,What where those boards you use called to photograph ?
Corflute here in Australia. But it's a corrugated plastic sheet
Great job. Have you thought about raising your photo table to eliminate so much bending?
Yes I’m hoping my husband will build me a custom bench soon. It will really help
I went op shopping today, and all I could see was Patricia Cornwall 😂 after watching your videos and your passionate hatred for her made me chuckle
Ha ha. I’m sure she writes some good books, she just sells too slowly for me lol
Yes the table, I have mine on 4 reams of A4 paper under each leg cause i'm 6 foot 3 and my back was gonna snap hahha
what are the pros and cons selling books on ebay?
What a wonderful system you got going here! My question is how do you price your books? Do you have a particular formula on pricing the books? Kudos to you and thank you for inspiring me!
Where an I find your ebay store
I don’t link in publicly but it’s pretty easy to find as I share it all publicly on this page
Does anyone have an idea Corflute is called in the UK?
Just an idea, Mel. Why not make the last photo in your eBay listing the picture with the shelf number on it? I’m new at this but would it help or no?
How do you source your books?
Thrift/charity stores, Facebook Marketplace, garage sales :)
How do work out shipping cost book
I use flat rate mailers. They have 5kg weight limits so I only have to choose the size I need
When you list, do you take the time to enter all the information into Ebay? Or do you put just the minimum, like title and weight?
I list as many item specifics as I know and that are relevant to my listing. Any that aren’t applicable I leave blank
Hey Mel, great energy in your vids, 1 question, at what point do you decide a book is not resellable? Alot I have the pages are brown lol
Brown pages and “foxing” on books will still sell if it’s a sought after book. If it’s a common book that can be found anywhere then it will be harder to sell like that. If I have the room I’ll leave it once its listed. If I need room then those are the types of books I’ll start culling or putting on sale. Just with those books don’t overprice. Think of them as activity into the store. Move it along fast at slower rate
“Lower rate”
what phone are you using Mel ? I have an android but I couldn't find the vivid setting
Iphone. I just upgraded from the 11 to the 13 but both of those phones had the vivid setting
Do you take one snap of each angle or more than one just incase there's a dud photo in the mix. I presume the camera phone is a quicker process than the previous way with the SLR camera. Been looking for some of that white corrugated plastic board for a while now! Thanks Mel
I don't normally unless I adjust exposure but for some reason when I'm going fast I sometimes double click lol But no, I don't to take extra photos if I don't need to. Amazon have the board Ian that delivers in UK :) Thank you for watching me as always :)
Oh wow, thats expensive. It's super cheap here. Foam core would probably work well also and is great for reflecting light. As long as it doesn't get dents and stuff easily from working on.
Awesome infos!! Thank you ❤