Seeking ebay items local to you?

[chadtower]

Does anyone else seek around ebay for items they can physically pick up? I've been thinking of trying that strategy, especially for larger lots where shipping may scare bidders off...

[bargora]

Yeah, I've done that. But be sure to ask beforehand whether the seller is cool with you picking up the swag. You just know that some of them are going to be unwilling to give up the "padding" on the shipping. And if it's not clear before you bid, you'll be stuck.

Having done this a couple of times, I've come to the conclusion that I would have to save a bit more than $5.00 to do pick-up myself. For systems, and big stuff, though, it can be worth it.

Example? I've got my eyes peeled for local coin-op arcade machine auctions...

[chadtower]

Yeah, I'm figuring this would be best on heavy items or lots on which shipping is going to drive the price way down. Bulk lots would fall in there...

[jaybird]

I've done that on some items, but the majority of sellers stick me with sales tax when I buy in-state.