What are your conversion rates?

[redline_auto_llc]

I think it's pretty well established that sales conversion rates have an impact on search placement. I've heard of people here talking about upwards of 50% CRs, which seems insane. Mine hove between 1.5% and 2% pretty consistently, haven't been able to do much to improve on that. I sell individual items and so every item that hasn't sold yet is dragging that figure way down.

So what kind of rates are you seeing, and what's your category?

[coolections]

85% rate mostly collectables in many categories. The main reason why it's so high is because I research prior to listing my items and only list items that I know are in demand. I also research sold items that are similar and I price them according to what buyers are willing to pay. Anything that does not sell first time around I change the wording on my descriptions and sometimes add more pictures. Anything that does not sell the second time around I drop the price. If the item does not sell the third time around it goes to the Salvation Army. By always having a high conversion rate Ebay lets my items always be on the first page. I also rarely list items in high saturated categories such as clothes. Sometimes sports cards, and sometimes jewelry but not often. For those selling in auto parts, clothes, jewelry etc., I cannot see how anyone can up their conversion rate. Many think they can call CS and the person will wave their magic wand to up their sales but it is just not going to happen. Those that say the more you list the more you sell but I disagree as that lowers your conversion rate.

[slippinjimmy]

Media....long tail slow movers mostly but I have a bunch of repeatables that sell regularly.....4.7%

I know of one seller of vintage paper items (old documents, letters etc.), he is old school, all Auctions all starting at 99 cents, has amazing sell through and probably a very high conversion rate.

On the other hand he sells lots of stuff with one 99 cent bid so his high conversion rate does not directly equate with high profits.

Like most metrics the raw number is not all that meaningful, it's the up or down trend that's important.