It’s easy to get started posting your very first auction on eBay. Here’s the basic process:

Step 1: Open an eBay seller’s account.

If you’ve bought things on eBay, then you already have an account just log in with it and click ‘Sell’ in the toolbar at the top of the page. After filling out the “Sell Your Item Form” (they walk you through it), then click ‘Create a seller’s account’. If you’ve never used eBay before, then you’ll need to open an account first using the ‘register’ link underneath the toolbar, and then click ‘Sell’ and proceed from there. The eBay site will then guide you through the process. For sellers, they do ask for credit card details and bank information.

Step 2: Decide what to sell.

For your first little experiment with eBay, it doesn’t really matter what you sell. Take a look around the room you’re in. I’m sure there’s something in there that you’re not all that attached to and part with. Small books and CDs are great starter items.

Step 3: Submit your item.

When you hit the ‘Sell’ button you’re on your way to listing your item.

The first thing you need to do is choose a category. It’s best to just type in what the item is and let eBay choose for you. Next, write a title and description. Include important words you think people will search for in the title, and all the detailed information you have about the item in the description box.

Now set a starting price. The next thing to set is the duration of the auction: 3, 5, 7 or 10 days. This is up to you: longer sales will usually get more bids.

If you’ve taken a picture, add it now items with pictures always sell for more. Finally, check the payment methods you will accept (I take PayPal, money orders, and checks), and where you will send it to (limit yourself to your own country to begin with). Submit and you’re done!

Step 4: Wait for it to sell.

This is just a matter of sitting back and letting eBay do its thing. Buyers will hopefully search for your item and leave bids on it. Some bidders might email you with questions about the item, and you should do your best to answer these questions as quickly as you can.

Remember that if your item doesn’t sell then you can list it one time again for free (if it sells).

Step 5: Collect your payment and send the item out.

eBay will send your buyer emails guiding them through the process of sending you payment for the item. Make sure you have the money in hand before you send anything out.

Once you’ve got the payment, all you need to do is pack the item for mail or UPS, take the buyer’s address from the confirmation email eBay sent you, and write it on the parcel. Take it to the post office, send it, and you’re done!

Step 6: Remember to leave feedback for the buyer—something simple like “Thanks for your quick payment!”