Starting an eBay Business for Dummies

However, after reading through the book, I decided to give it a go, and now run a part time business on ebay bringing in an extra £200 a week.

I'd recommend this to anyone even midly curious... HOWEVER, if you're a computer pro, it may be a bit to simple for you, and you may find the advice it gives a bit obvious.


Out of Date (Even for Americans!).   July 12, 2003
Jon Jay (UK)
37 out of 37 found this review helpful

The problem with any book that contains one or two pieces of information that is so clearly inaccurate, is that the reader very quickly becomes sceptical of ALL the information presented. Unfortunately for the author and ultimately the reader, huge passages and indeed whole chapters of this book are now completely outdated, and therefore meaningless. Many of eBays rules have changed, many of the websites referenced by the author are long gone, many of the software utilities recommended are either outdated or already incorporated into eBay's own services.

As if all this isnt enough, the book is unashamedly tailored towards an American audience. Take Chapter 14 (as just 1 example)which consists of 12 pages on how to ship goods quickly and efficiently between various states within the US using the US Postal Service: and yet something tells me even THIS may be out of date! If eBay itself were so parochial it would never have grown into the success it is today.

Some might argue that at least the book gives an insight into the kinds of activities and checklists an eBay business owner should have - and for that I give the book 1 star. (Actually, you cant give 0 stars in an Amazon Review - otherwise I probably would have).

Disappointing for a "...For Dummies" book. Usually they're very good. But for this one.... Time for a reprint.


A Big Disappointment   October 13, 2004
Ian H (Bucks, United Kingdom)
13 out of 13 found this review helpful

As a relatively novice Ebay user (only having made 7 personal transactions, buying and selling) I was looking for something that would set me on the path to maybe supplementing my current income.

This book is certainly not it and is full of very generic information that can be read from Ebays' own website or in one of the user groups of enthusiasts that seem to be popping up.

Strongly biased for the US, the author doesn't seem to realise that there is a whole wide world outside of the US full of people looking for some advice on getting started. Which is ironic considering the global nature of Ebay.

When I buy a book (and I have brought many over the years) if I take away one useful or interesting item from it the money was well worth it. Alas this book does not make the mark.