Buying and Selling Pokémon Cards

Not sure of the ins and outs of buying and selling Pokémon Cards online? Whats the best way to protect yourself and others?  This brief guide will advise the best way to buy, sell and trade online whether the platform is EBAY or a Facebook Group.

When Selling

  • Ensure the card/s description is clear and precise
  • Where possible, (or on request) upload photos of the card/s
  • Describe the condition of the card to the best of your ability. Use our guide here to help you make that assessment.
  • Describe clearly the cost of the card/s and whether this cost includes shipping
  • Describe how the card will be sent – ie Sleeved, Top loaded, bubbled wrapped, padded bag etc
  • Offer suitable payment methods – ie PayPal
  • If applicable offer additional protection such as Parcel Tracking, Insurance or Signature on Delivery. This may be built into the item cost, or offer it as an additional cost to the buyer.

When Buying

  • Read the item description carefully and ensure it has matching photos.
  • Request further photos (Front, Back Sides etc) if still uncertain.
  • (Optional and usually via Facebook) Request a time stamp. A time stamp is usually a piece of paper that has the sellers name and date next to the item being sold. This give assurance that the seller has the item.
  • Confirm the cost of the card/s and whether this includes shipping.
  • Confirm with the seller how they are packaging and sending you the card/s – This is often overlooked as buyers assume secure packaging.
  • For online purchases request to pay via PayPal “Goods and Services”. This offers you buyers protection.  Paying via Paypal “Friends and Family” or bank transfer might expose you to fraud.
  • If paying via PayPal “Friends and Family” request references if possible. (Re-Read point above)
  • If you are picking up and paying for cards personally in cash, take a friend with you or let someone know where you are going.
  • Avoid purchasing off sellers selling on behalf of someone else (like another friend/family member). In the event of a dispute, the refund process is very complicated. “How did I know the card was going to be damaged???”
  • (Facebook) Unless its a moderator or administrator, beware of middlemen (for trades or online transactions). Scammers may use multiple profiles posing as middlemen and buyers.

Sadly there are many people on social media and online that don’t exactly do the right thing. If you are the victim of an online fraud or scam you should report the incident to the Australian Cybercrime Online Reporting Network (ACORN). Reports made to the ACORN may be referred to police for consideration and possible investigation.

In summary, when purchasing online, pay via PAYPAL Goods and Services for Buyers Protection – else, you are susceptible to online fraud. know exactly what you are purchasing! When selling, ensure your advertisement is clear as possible and try to accommodate all of the potential buyers requests. If a dispute arises, determine whether this can be rectified with the other party before escalating further.