Listing Instructions
To ensure the smooth and successful listing of your stone slabs for auction, follow this comprehensive guide. It covers everything from preparing your slabs to photo quality requirements, file uploads, and different shipping options.
1. Quantity
- Decide how many slabs you want to list in the auction.
- If listing multiple slabs, ensure all are described accurately in terms of their material, dimensions, and condition.
2. Market Value
- Conduct thorough market research to determine the average market value of similar slabs.
- Use this as a reference when setting your starting price and reserve price.
3. Starting Price
- Set a competitive starting price, typically below the average market value, to encourage bidding.
Ensure the starting price aligns with the slab’s condition and demand in the market.
4. Reserve Price
- Set the minimum price you are willing to accept. If the bidding does not meet this reserve, the lot will not sell.
- Be realistic with your reserve price to maximize your chances of selling.
5. Total Cost
- Understand that the final cost to the buyer includes:
- Hammer price (the winning bid).
- Buyer’s premium (if applicable).
- Taxes and any other applicable fees.
6. Showing Schedule
- Schedule viewings of the slabs, ideally before and during the auction.
- Allow potential buyers ample opportunity to inspect the materials.
- Provide virtual viewing options if possible, to cater to online buyers.
7. Showing Location
- Choose a location that is accessible, well-lit, and safe for potential buyers to inspect the slabs.
- The location should be easy to find, with enough space for multiple slabs to be viewed side by side.
8. Auction Schedule
- Determine the start and end dates for your auction. Typical durations are 7, 10, or 14 days.
- Consider market activity and buyer behavior when selecting the auction duration.
9. Product Description
- Prepare a comprehensive description of your slabs, ideally in PDF format, to give buyers a clear understanding of what they are bidding on.
- Include:
- Material type.
- Color.
- Finish (polished, honed, etc.).
- Dimensions (length, width, thickness).
- Unique features (veining, patterns).
- Any defects or irregularities.
10. Photos
- Quality: Photos are crucial, especially for online buyers who cannot physically inspect the slabs. Use high-resolution images.
- Angles: Take multiple photos from different angles, including:
- Full slab image.
- Close-ups of color, texture, and finish.
- Any defects or unique features.
- Side views showing thickness.
- Back of the slab (optional).
- Lighting: Ensure the slabs are well-lit with natural or bright, even lighting. Avoid shadows or harsh reflections.
- Background: Use a neutral, non-distracting background, preferably plain and solid, to highlight the stone’s features.
11. File Uploads
- For each slab, upload the following files:
- Product Images: As described above, ensure the images are in JPEG or PNG format, with a minimum resolution of 1500 x 1500 pixels.
- Product Description: Upload the PDF file with all relevant details.
- Documents: Include spec sheets, quality certificates, or brochures that provide additional product information.
- Additional Files (Optional): YouTube links or promotional videos showcasing the slabs or their application in real-world projects.
13. Shipping Arrangements
There are two primary shipping arrangements:
- Seller-Managed Shipping:
- If you handle shipping, specify the cost, logistics partner, and estimated delivery time.
- Ensure insurance is included, as you are responsible for the slab’s condition until the buyer accepts it.
- Buyer Pickup:
- If the buyer is responsible for pickup, coordinate with them to ensure a smooth and safe process.
- Communicate the pickup location and ensure the slab is ready for transfer.
- Shipping Types for Stone Slabs:
- Flatbed Trucks: Suitable for large and heavy slabs. Ensure slabs are securely strapped to prevent damage.
- Crate and Freight: Crate the slabs and use freight shipping for smaller or more valuable items that require extra care.
- Local Courier: For local deliveries, you can work with a courier service that specializes in heavy materials.
14. Return Policy
- If applicable, outline your return or refund policy:
- Specify under what conditions returns or refunds are allowed (e.g., if the material is damaged upon delivery).
- If no returns are allowed, state this clearly in the listing.
15. Terms of Use Compliance
- Ensure all aspects of your listing align with our marketplace’s terms of use:
- Material condition: The material must remain in the same condition from inspection to delivery. The seller is responsible for maintaining its condition until the buyer accepts it.
- Evidence: Keep photographic and documented evidence of the slab’s condition at all stages (inspection, storage, shipping).
- Payment release: Funds will only be released once the buyer confirms the slab’s condition upon receipt.
16. Naming Instructions
To create consistent, professional, and searchable listings, follow these naming conventions when adding products to the marketplace. This will help buyers easily identify and differentiate between products.
- Format:
- [Color] + [Finish] + [Material Type] + [Optional Unique Name] + [Dimensions]
- Example:
- “Carrara White Polished Marble 3cm”
- “Black Galaxy Honed Granite 2cm”
Naming Breakdown:
- Color: Use the primary color that best describes the slab. Common colors include “White,” “Black,” “Beige,” “Grey,” etc.
- Finish: Indicate the finish of the slab:
- Polished: High gloss, reflective surface.
- Honed: Matte, non-reflective surface.
- Leathered: Textured, slightly rough surface.
- Material Type: Include the stone type:
- Marble
- Granite
- Quartz
- Limestone
- Travertine
- Optional Unique Name: If the slab has a specific name or brand (e.g., “Calacatta Gold”), include it after the material type. This is useful for well-known or rare stones.
- Dimensions: Specify the thickness (e.g., 2cm, 3cm) and optional width and height if necessary.
Examples of Naming Conventions:
- Bianco Carrara Polished Marble 2cm
- Absolute Black Honed Granite 3cm
- Calacatta Gold Polished Quartz 2cm
- Silver Grey Leathered Limestone 2cm
Additional Tips for Naming:
- Keep the name concise but descriptive enough for buyers to know key details at a glance.
- If the slab has unique defects, you can optionally include “As-Is” or “Defective” at the end of the name (e.g., “Carrara White Polished Marble 3cm As-Is”).
