Selling sports cards on eBay can be a great way to turn your hobby into extra income—but rookie mistakes can cost you time, money, and sales. Whether you’re just starting or looking to sharpen your strategy, here are five key mistakes to avoid:
1. Bad Photos That Kill Clicks
📸 Blurry, dark, or cluttered images are a major red flag for buyers.
Fix: Use a clean background, good lighting, and clear shots of front and back. If it’s graded, show the slab. If it’s raw, highlight any flaws honestly.
2. Ignoring Sold Comps When Pricing
💸 Many sellers price cards based on what they want, not what buyers are paying.
Fix: Use eBay’s “Sold Listings” filter or tools like 130point.com to check recent sales. Price realistically to stay competitive and move inventory.
3. Weak Titles That Hurt Visibility
🔍 “Nice Rookie Card” isn’t going to get found in search.
Fix: Use keyword-rich titles like:
2023 Topps Chrome CJ Stroud RC #144 Refractor PSA 10
Include player name, year, brand, parallel, and grade if relevant.
4. Overcharging for Shipping
📦 $7 shipping on a $3 card? That’s a fast way to lose buyers.
Fix: Use eBay’s standard envelope ($0.75-$1.50) for ungraded cards under $20. Be transparent and fair on shipping costs.
5. Not Promoting or Sharing Listings
🤫 Listing and waiting isn’t a strategy. If no one sees it, it won’t sell.
Fix: Promote your auctions on Twitter, Reddit, Instagram, or your blog (like this one!). Use affiliate links to earn on clicks too.
💡 Pro Tip: If you’re building your eBay presence, consider starting a blog or linking to your store from your own site. It helps with traffic and trust.
Looking for our recommended eBay stores or ending soon auctions? Check them out here!