Getting Started

Step-by-Step Process to Launch Your Collectibles Business

1. Choose Your Niche(s)

   Select 1-2 categories you're passionate about and already knowledgeable in. Popular options include:

   • Trading cards (sports, Pokémon, Magic: The Gathering)
   • Comics (vintage, key issues, modern variants)
   • Action figures and vintage toys
   • Video games and consoles
   • Vinyl records
   • Coins and currency

   Timeframe: 1-2 days for research and decision

2. Gather Essential Equipment

   Invest in these basics to properly handle, authenticate, and sell collectibles:

   • Smartphone with quality camera
   • Digital scale (0.1g precision)
   • UV light for authentication
   • Acid-free storage supplies specific to your niche
   • Microfiber cloths and white cotton gloves
   • Shipping materials (boxes, bubble mailers, tape, padding)

   Initial investment: $150-300 depending on what you already own

   Timeframe: 2-3 days to purchase

3. Research Pricing and Authentication

   Sign up for these essential resources:

   • Beckett for sports and non-sports cards ($9.99/month)
   • GoCollect for comics, cards, and more ($5.99-9.99/month)
   • PSA Price Guide (free with registration)
   • WorthPoint for sold prices across categories ($29.99/month, free trial available)

   Join at least two category-specific forums:

   • Blowout Cards Forum for trading cards
   • CGC Comics Forums for comics
   • r/ActionFigures for toys

   Timeframe: 3-5 days of focused learning

4. Set Up Seller Accounts

   Create accounts on these platforms (prioritize the first two):

   • eBay (universal platform for collectibles)
   • Facebook Marketplace (zero fees for local sales)
   • Mercari (user-friendly for beginners)
   • Category-specific platforms like COMC for cards or MyComicShop for comics

   Set up payment methods:

   • Connect bank account to marketplace platforms
   • Set up PayPal Business account
   • Consider Venmo or Cash App for local transactions

   Timeframe: 1-2 days for setup and verification

5. Begin Strategic Sourcing

   Start with these beginner-friendly sourcing methods:

   • Estate sales (use EstateSales.net to find local events)
   • Thrift stores (visit 2-3 times weekly for fresh inventory)
   • Garage/yard sales (use GSalr.com to plan efficient routes)
   • Facebook Marketplace and Craigslist (set alerts for your niche keywords)
   • Local card shops or comic stores (look for bulk deals)

   Initial inventory investment:

   • Trading cards: $500-1,000
   • Comics: $1,000-2,500
   • Vintage toys: $1,000-3,000

   Timeframe: 1-2 weeks to build initial inventory

6. Create Professional Listings

   Develop a systematic approach to listing:

   • Photography: Clean backgrounds, multiple angles, close-ups of condition issues
   • Descriptions: Include detailed condition notes, authentication markers, and proper terminology
   • Pricing: Research completed sales for similar items, price competitively for initial sales
   • Shipping: Calculate accurate shipping costs, factor into pricing strategy

   Timeframe: 3-5 days to create first batch of listings

7. Process First Sales and Gather Feedback

   Execute sales professionally:

   • Ship promptly (within 1-2 business days)
   • Use proper protective packaging
   • Include thank you note with business info
   • Follow up for feedback/reviews
   • Track metrics: sell-through rate, average profit margin, time to sale

   Timeframe: First sales typically occur within 7-14 days of listing

8. Reinvest and Expand

   Grow your operation systematically:

   • Reinvest 60-70% of initial profits into additional inventory
   • Track performance by category to identify most profitable niches
   • Consider professional grading for high-value items
   • Expand to additional marketplaces based on early results

   Timeframe: 30-60 days after first sales