Searching
When searching for your item, make sure you've done the following:

* Know exactly what you're looking for (SKU, manufacturer, etc.)
* Search Retail or Price Compare engines for going price
* Checked for misspelled words in the title
* Take note of any buy-it-now and reserve prices
* Determine your maximum price for the item

Item Evaluation
You've found several possible items, for each item make sure you've done the following:

* Confirm it's the exact item you want
* Read the description for any possible issues - heavily used, broken or missing parts, etc.
* Review the seller's feedback - is it consistent with the item
* Review shipping costs - confirm with seller if details are not included
* Confirm shipping location - will they ship it to your country?
* Review item location - is it in a different country?
* Ask seller any questions about the item (and received response)
* Are the pictures of the actual item, or are they "stock photos"?
* Does the seller have other items you can combine to save on shipping?
* Is it a "Dutch Auction", and if so, how many do you want?
* Is the return policy acceptable?
* Is it an authentic item, or is it a forgery/duplicate/photocopy/etc.?
* Is it Buy-it-Now, reserve price, make offer, or other type of auction?

Bidding

* Sign In on eBay
* Wait until the last possible time to bid - "sniping" is usually very effective at saving money
* Know your maximum and bid that - eBay's proxy bidding will handle the rest
* Confirm you bid was placed

After the Auction

* If you didn't win, re-evaluate the price you bid and the winning bidder
* Verify the bidding results on the item page to make sure you were the winner
* Don't use third-party "partner" checkout services. Most are safe, but eBay's checkout works very well.
* Type the URL in the address bar - don't use links inside email's.
* Before typing in your password _ANYWHERE_, verify the URL/Address in the browser window.
* Verify the final price and shipping/handling amount
* Don't fall for any scams - (extra large money orders, etc. They can be forged easily)
* After receiving the item, verify it's the correct item and as described. If not, use eBay's recommend resolution steps to resolve any problems with the seller.

This list was compiled and published by BidNip.com