What (if any) advantage are there to use off-line listing software?

[knifeaholic]

I know that there are a number of third party software packages that enable eBay listings to be created off line then downloaded to eBay.

To sellers who use or have used these – can you tell me what the advantages are?

I sell primarily vintage/collectible items – so each item requires a detailed description and from 10 to 20 photos – I can rarely if ever use “stock” or standard descriptions and photos.

So…just as I now have to take the photos, organize them, and load them into my eBay listing…I’ll have to do the same thing with the off-line listing software.

And similarly, just as I now have to write up a detailed “custom” item description… I’ll have to do the same thing with the off-line listing software.

So I am wondering where the off-line software would save me any time – or are there other advantages?

Also, any concensus as to which off-line listing software is the best/easiest to use?

[simba6]

It is quicker if you have a lot of items to list.  However, eBay keeps making changes and wanting you to add more info. That can cause errors if your listing software is not current.  eBay had a very easy to use one called mister lister.   But then they went to one called turbo lister and you could not use the first one anymore.

[dhbookds]

We both use 6 bit.......and used Turbo lister prior to that. 

Advantages:

The listing form stays virtually the same.....title here, px there, etc.  Ebay changes are incorporated of course, but there are no hidden/not obvious changes.....i.e. three dots somewhere.

Can make a listing anytime, any place, schedule it (no fees)......stop in the middle, save it and work on another.

Keeps copies of all listings.....with all info and pictures.  Can be synchronized with active listings to make changes either from  6 bit or from an ebay change. 

Has accounting functions, at least on the 2nd level.......and has more functions for the 3rd level (that I don't use).

Most important advantage is the continuity of the form......while everyone was "trying to  find x" on the new form......none of that kind of problem with 6 bit.

Disadvantages.......does cost money.....and does take time to learn it, but within a wk, I was sold after they killed Turbo lister.