We are looking at a bit of downsizing, and I am thinking if selling some completed structures on eBay. Looking at the site, it seems to be slanted to the colectables side of things with only structure kits in original boxes.
Has anyone had any luck in finding completed structures on eBay or is there another site that is more model RR oriented where I would have a better chance of selling?
George In Midcoast Maine, 'bout halfway up the Rockland branch
Completed structers often isnt worth the shipping or time in most situtations. Theyre often too customized to the builder's taste which dont align with the buyer...sorta like weathering. They're also just empty plastic shells...that make shipping expensive (unlike an unbuilt kit).
Reason I dont buy individual freight cars on ebay, is the same reason I dont buy structures.
Last reason is there often isnt a proper title for the item. If you spent hours scratchbuilding and super detailing a kit, no one will find it since the title is so obscure. People are searching specific things like "walthers new river mining co coal mine kit", where something like "ho wood structure building" wouldnt pop up.
However if you have a very complex, customized and well built piece, like a turntable, roundhouse, coal dock, iron works etc, maybe it's worthwhile selling.
Otherwise, Id just bring them to a trainshow or give them to a local club or friends.
Charles
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Modeling the PRR & NYC in HO
Youtube Channel: www.youtube.com/@trainman440
Instagram (where I share projects!): https://www.instagram.com/trainman440
To sell finished structures on e-bay, in general it needs to be FSM quality both in build and detailing, down to the final finish and are also scratch or kit of the craftsman type.
A well done kit does sell. Even generic. The less specific it is, more adapadtable, , even weathered, it will sell. And if it is well done, sell well. most on ebay are very poorly done, and horribly painted. They dont sell.
Some do buy complete buildings for certain parts that might be cheaper to get that way. or out of production kits that are lending themselfves to reworking into something decent.
Ebay has to get the site working again. still cannt browse or select catagories. at least search works. until they get it fixed, not worth trying.
Shane
A pessimist sees a dark tunnel
An optimist sees the light at the end of the tunnel
A realist sees a frieght train
An engineer sees three idiots standing on the tracks stairing blankly in space
I have an elderly friend whom I built a layout for him and his son in their basement. His son went on EBay and bought a lot of structures built up and weathered. Some were on a layout as they had the base of where it was cut from the layout, and others had bases that were fit to track level. Why did they buy them? Time. The father is 82 and doesn't have steady hands. The son works 6 days a week.
So, if you can post it and figure out what shipping would be, go for it!!
Neal
I'm looking at the same issue. Selling off the rolling stock but decided the structures are a challenge (or expensive) to pack and rather subject to shipping damage w/potential complaints, like a smokestack coming loose.
I decided it will not be worth the effort and issues involved so called the local train club and I think they will take most of them, either to re-sell at their semi-annual show or for members to enjoy.
Paul
Modeling HO with a transition era UP bent
I have sold and shipped some completed structures on eBay. The secret is in the packaging prior to shipping. In some instances, I have decided to break down some of the structure and sell it that way, so that the buyer can easily reassemble it. It can be done.
Rich
Alton Junction
As someone who used to be employed in a location that handled specialized shipping and packaging - Always package the item like you think the delivery people are complete clutz's...
If something is very fragile, custom build a protective box around it, then use styrofoam peanuts to fill remaining space, seal it, then box that in a larger shipping box, with styrofoam peanuts on all sides.
Label which side is up, and label as fragile.
And use lots and lots of "Fragile" labels and markings... On every side.
Almost* anything can be shipped without damage, if packaged correctly.
* - Sometimes things happen that can not be prevented, or foreseen, and still damage or completely destroy items.
Ricky W.
HO scale Proto-freelancer.
My Railroad rules:
1: It's my railroad, my rules.
2: It's for having fun and enjoyment.
3: Any objections, consult above rules.
Guys like me are probably the reason such built-up kits don't sell well. I genuinely enjoy building, painting and customizing structures. I won't look at the pre-built structures from Menards or Woodland Scenics. Structures need MY color scheme, not someone else's.
I also like interior lighting and at least some interior walls to eliminate the hollow, empty look.
It takes an iron man to play with a toy iron horse.