BrickLink Discussion Forum

In Suggestions, yorbrick writes:

I thought current items for sale were all displayed using the exchange rate of
this moment. Why is it that important though if the exchange rate would be an
hour older?

That isn't how it works unfortunately. They change hourly, according to the
help pages. It would be far simpler to show the rate used at the top of the column.,
hence the suggestion.

Understand what you are saying but it all depends on how the code is put together
to display the current data. It would be highly unusualk as well as inefficient
if they were storing the figures - good code isn't written that way, so when
we call up the price guid for a given element it should be doing those calculations
then and presenting the data - if that is the case then it is a simple matter
to add a single or couplof fields to the display.

It wouldn't do any harm to either have the exchange rate on the price guide,
or possibly better still, have a separate page where all the current exchange
rates being used are listed along with the time they were updated for those interested.
That way, it is one less thing on the price guide page. Of course, you can always
get the current BL exchange rate, by doing the calculation yourself, to about
4 decimal places.

I would prefer it on the price guide so I didn't have to go back and forth.
Mind you this is all hypothetical cause they really are not doing anything with
the classic site whilst they work on XP.

Still one can hope - it really isn't rocket science or a lot of development
time to simply display the number you have used for the calculation.

Author:

yorbrick

Posted:

Oct 25, 2018 04:32

Subject:

Re: Price guide improvement

Viewed:

42 times

Topic:

I thought current items for sale were all displayed using the exchange rate of
this moment. Why is it that important though if the exchange rate would be an
hour older?

That isn't how it works unfortunately. They change hourly, according to the
help pages. It would be far simpler to show the rate used at the top of the column.,
hence the suggestion.

I imagine doing instant lookups is just not efficient, as every time someone
accesses the price guide or looks at a store or a cart in another currency,
BL would need to access the exchange rates from xe.com. Plus I don't think
their (xe) rates are continuously updated anyway - aren't they something
like every 10 or 15 minutes, plus they also have some lag. I can totally understand
why BL sets them and fixes them for one hour, given how slowly they change (at
least change significantly, not in the 4th or 5th decimal place).

It wouldn't do any harm to either have the exchange rate on the price guide,
or possibly better still, have a separate page where all the current exchange
rates being used are listed along with the time they were updated for those interested.
That way, it is one less thing on the price guide page. Of course, you can always
get the current BL exchange rate, by doing the calculation yourself, to about
4 decimal places.

Author:

calsbricks

Posted:

Oct 25, 2018 01:40

Subject:

Re: Price guide improvement

Viewed:

30 times

Topic:

In Suggestions, BricksThatStick writes:

In Suggestions, calsbricks writes:

Thoughts ?

It's just a guide.

Yes, true so why not make it informative, rather than having to use guesswork
and trial and error.

If sellers want to use it to actually price their listings to the averages they
accept its not 100% perfect.

I am not sure anyone makes that assumption - we don't it is supposed to be
a data average and the currency conversion should be dynamic not hourly. Not
sure why this would cause any real problem for any developer.

Otherwise sellers should just see it for what it is and adjust their prices/set
prices as they see fit.

Many of us do but the adjustment should be based on real - not supposition.

Author:

calsbricks

Posted:

Oct 25, 2018 01:37

Subject:

Re: Price guide improvement

Viewed:

40 times

Topic:

In Suggestions, Teup writes:

In Suggestions, calsbricks writes:

We are aware that nothing is going on on the classic site whilst the development
team focus on Bricklink XP, so we will make this as short and sweet as we can.

Having contacted the forum and put all elements of this together it is plain
that a subtle but important change needs to be in place for the price guide screen.

Understanding full well what happens with the 'sold at' columns those
can be left as they are until the whole price guide is revisited, whenever that
is going to be. The current items for sale, however needs s small but important
change, in our view. It is currently not possible to determine the currency conversion
rate for those figures. It could have been anyti8me in the last hour or this
hour or whenever.

Please simply add the two fields which are used to convert e.g. for example $1
= 'x' £;s and £1 = 'x$). This will enable any member, buyer or seller,
to at least get their figures correct when working offline. This is not a complicated
change/fix - it merely requires placing those fields on that screen each time
they change. The fields are held somewhere in the system even if it is a temporary
table, so it should be relatively straight forward to display them on the price
guide screen.

Thoughts ?

I thought current items for sale were all displayed using the exchange rate of
this moment. Why is it that important though if the exchange rate would be an
hour older?

That isn't how it works unfortunately. They change hourly, according to the
help pages. It would be far simpler to show the rate used at the top of the column.,
hence the suggestion.

By the way, in case you didn't know and it's useful - you can always
flip the currency of the priceguide by changing the vcID parameter in the URL:

Euro: https://www.bricklink.com/priceGuideSummary.asp?vcID=2&vatInc=Y&a=p&colorID=110&itemID=3005

Dollar: https://www.bricklink.com/priceGuideSummary.asp?vcID=1&vatInc=Y&a=p&colorID=110&itemID=3005

I just wish this was properly interfaced (and that there was an easy simple to
understand API to access these things without downloading the page and run into
download limits imposed by Bricklink)

Don't we all.

Author:

BricksThatStick

Posted:

Oct 24, 2018 14:26

Subject:

Re: Price guide improvement

Viewed:

47 times

Topic:

In Suggestions, calsbricks writes:

Thoughts ?

It's just a guide.

If sellers want to use it to actually price their listings to the averages they
accept its not 100% perfect.

Otherwise sellers should just see it for what it is and adjust their prices/set
prices as they see fit.

Author:

Teup

Posted:

Oct 24, 2018 14:06

Subject:

Re: Price guide improvement

Viewed:

54 times

Topic:

In Suggestions, calsbricks writes:

I thought current items for sale were all displayed using the exchange rate of
this moment. Why is it that important though if the exchange rate would be an
hour older?

By the way, in case you didn't know and it's useful - you can always
flip the currency of the priceguide by changing the vcID parameter in the URL:

Euro: https://www.bricklink.com/priceGuideSummary.asp?vcID=2&vatInc=Y&a=p&colorID=110&itemID=3005

Dollar: https://www.bricklink.com/priceGuideSummary.asp?vcID=1&vatInc=Y&a=p&colorID=110&itemID=3005

I just wish this was properly interfaced (and that there was an easy simple to
understand API to access these things without downloading the page and run into
download limits imposed by Bricklink)

Author:

calsbricks

Posted:

Oct 24, 2018 13:01

Subject:

Price guide improvement

Viewed:

217 times

Topic:

Status:

Open

Vote:

[Yes|No]

Author:

burghbricks

Posted:

Oct 17, 2018 17:35

Subject:

Re: Archive completed wanted lists

Viewed:

21 times

Topic:

I like to have a feature to archive my completed (100%) wanted lists.

I agree that this would be a very helpful feature. My thought is that if it were
a checkbox or toggle to archive, it could then exclude the selected list when
using the want list feature in a store as well as categorize it under a different
section. Personally, I find it helpful to use my wanted lists as a reference.
Depending on the project, I sometimes add to an existing list as I'm expanding
so the ability to toggle from archived to active would be very helpful.

Author:

MMillere

Posted:

Oct 16, 2018 22:38

Subject:

Re: Instant Checkout testing simulation

Viewed:

35 times

Topic:

In Suggestions, cosmicray writes:

Please implement a testing framework for Instant Checkout such that …

Goot Idea Ollie, voted yes

Milissa

Author:

nectara

Posted:

Oct 16, 2018 12:55

Subject:

Re: Instant Checkout testing simulation

Viewed:

29 times

Topic:

In Suggestions, cosmicray writes:

Please implement a testing framework for Instant Checkout such that …

1. Any seller can determine a number of test cases to valudate their IC shipping
parameters.
2. Those test cases can each be expresed as a script (textual or GUI object based).
3. The seller can then select all, or a subset of the test cases.
4, The seller can then submit those test cases as a batch request.
5. The BL system will then schedule and run those test cases.
6. The seller will then receive an email back showing which test cases were run,
what shipping methods were allowed, etc. This would be roughly analgous to what
is reported via the shopping cart display.
7. This would not involve actually taking any items out of inventory, nor creating
any real orders, but would be a test case simulation of that.
8. The seller could retain those test cases for later reuse, as various parameters
are modified.

thank you, Nita Rae

For what?

Author:

cosmicray

Posted:

Oct 16, 2018 09:19

Subject:

Instant Checkout testing simulation

Viewed:

116 times

Topic:

Status:

Open

Vote:

[Yes|No]

Author:

randyf

Posted:

Oct 15, 2018 17:53

Subject:

Re: Match ID 99 issue

Viewed:

26 times

Topic:

In Suggestions, normann1974 writes:

If I open this page

https://www.bricklink.com/v2/catalog/catalogitem.page?S=8017-1#T=I

the inventory shows "Match ID 1" in the counterparts, but if I open this page:

https://www.bricklink.com/catalogItemInv.asp?S=8017-1

the inventory shows "Match ID 99". Is this a known bug?

/Jan

It has been noticed before:

https://www.bricklink.com/message.asp?ID=1107637

Cheers,
Randy

Author:

randyf

Posted:

Oct 15, 2018 17:41

Subject:

Re: Physical dimensions on Catalog pages

Viewed:

28 times

Topic:

In Suggestions, cosmicray writes:

Currently, for parts, the Catalog page only displays the logical dimensions of
the part (i.e. the stud counts + brick height).

Please add the physical dimensions. This exists, but is only seen under a lot
listing when custom values are enabled.

thank you, Nita Rae

A big YES! This should have been done ages ago. Then, everyone like me who does
not sell on BrickLink but loves to contribute to the catalog could add physical
dimensions where they are missing for Instant Checkout. It would be a big win
all around.

Cheers,
Randy

Author:

normann1974

Posted:

Oct 15, 2018 16:12

Subject:

Match ID 99 issue

Viewed:

68 times

Topic:

Status:

Already Exists

Author:

cosmicray

Posted:

Oct 15, 2018 13:45

Subject:

Physical dimensions on Catalog pages

Viewed:

47 times

Topic:

Status:

Open

Vote:

[Yes|No]

Author:

alahaka

Posted:

Oct 15, 2018 11:47

Subject:

Re: Block buyers with a different country email p

Viewed:

29 times

Topic:

So I do agree that your proposal does provide better information, which if valid
eliminates the one of secrets I mentioned.

Author:

alahaka

Posted:

Oct 15, 2018 11:40

Subject:

Re: Block buyers with a different country email p

Viewed:

36 times

Topic:

In Suggestions, cosmicray writes:

What would be better, is if the buyer were required to specify their shipping
address, then have two checkboxes under that …

One would be something like "Home address in same country as shipping address".

The other would be "Payment funded from same country as shipping address".

If either is unchecked, then it would be required to specify which country is
correct for that item.

This would not solve the indicated problem, but it would give us better information
to tell what buyers are more likely to be legitimate buyers.

Nita Rae

I think your suggestion above opens the door toward couriers, which in turn for
some buyers places courier, their packing, and their shipping responsibilities
on sellers, as opposed to ending seller responsibility at courier receipt.

I recognize couriers' value as well as the added risk they can present, and
have no solution at this point.

I do not like things big brother-ish, however admittedly would prefer to not
have the final destination and possible re-packing or breaking down of something
I've packed be secrets.

Author:

cosmicray

Posted:

Oct 15, 2018 11:17

Subject:

Re: Block buyers with a different country email p

Viewed:

42 times

Topic:

In Suggestions, Hagbart writes:

Hi

Would it be possible to block a buyer having an email from a given country eg
Russia, but his postal address is the UK?

Just got yet another scammers ordering from my shop with this very suspicious
config, even got negative from himfeedback from him.

Or a setting that enables us to block and oblige the buyer to pay buy only with
iban

This is a poorly thought out suggestion. As it is written, it should be tossed.

Having said that, I believe there is a need for better information disclosure.

What would be better, is if the buyer were required to specify their shipping
address, then have two checkboxes under that …

One would be something like "Home address in same country as shipping address".

The other would be "Payment funded from same country as shipping address".

If either is unchecked, then it would be required to specify which country is
correct for that item.

This would not solve the indicated problem, but it would give us better information
to tell what buyers are more likely to be legitimate buyers.

Nita Rae

Author:

Rarah

Posted:

Oct 15, 2018 11:08

Subject:

Re: Block buyers with a different country email p

Viewed:

32 times

Topic:

In Suggestions, matejo writes:

In Suggestions, SylvainLS writes:

People move. Either for years or only months or even weeks. And the Internet
has no frontier.
Will you force buyers to open a new e-mail account in the country they are while
they had had one for years that works pretty well anywhere in the world?

Hi,

I stated that associating emails with countries would be messy (i.e. I agree
with you), and I was not supporting the original suggestion.

But instead I wondered if BrickLink could verify member addresses against IP
address locations. A recent transaction indicates that PayPal is doing something
like this.

Sorry to cancel my previous post, not knowing if anyone might be replying. This
forum is a lot of (good) clutter, and after posting I weigh the value of my inputs
against adding to the clutter.

Thanks for the IBAN information, Matthew

Please don´t even joke about this! I live in Slovakia spend the year in ASIA
my IP is from Vietnam/Japan/China whatever. I come back home on christmass and
open all my post sent home in the year. I use gmail which has "gmail.com" means
global ... I have enough troubles with money transfers just because some pages
need to have my address locked to IP which I find is the stupidest thing on earth
in 2018 !! Some helpdesk guy even told me to travel home change my country and
come back ... 1200 €for fligh ticket just to change my country of origin if I
have all document with it on them to buy a 10 € token ... oh yes! Please think...
rules like these make a lot of hell for people like me.

Author:

Vegitt

Posted:

Oct 13, 2018 11:38

Subject:

Re: Payment

Viewed:

35 times

Topic:

Each seller chooses the payment methods they want to accept. There are many that
offer alternatives to PayPal such as bank transfers, Stripe etc. If you have
an issue using PayPal then just check what other methods the seller has set up
before ordering.

Author:

jimbo23uk

Posted:

Oct 13, 2018 11:26

Subject:

Payment

Viewed:

91 times

Topic:

Status:

Open

Vote:

[Yes|No]

Isnt it time Bricklink was to offer other payment methods , we used to have our
church group on paypal then a couple of year back they said no ,you now have
to nominate a single person . if that person dies or goes on holiday or any other
reason our buying and selling comes to a stop (unless we use amazon ) we are
currently going through a situation where our account has been put on hold while
paypal investigate £1.01p the reason why i could go on and on,i just so happened
that we had placed 3 orders with brick link and a purchase with ebay , so the
question s how do you pay , one of the orders was paid via Pingit .its becoming
classed as restrictive practice will a government in one country take action
against this ,i can see it happening , so is it no paypal no bricklink !!!!!!!!!!!!!answers
on a toilet roll please

Author:

Teup

Posted:

Oct 13, 2018 04:38

Subject:

Re: Note to seller is not very good

Viewed:

46 times

Topic:

In Suggestions, Brickwilbo writes:

In Suggestions, randyipp writes:

I would love it if the "note to seller" when a buyer is checking out were handled
more like a message and show up in the messages inbox, with the notification
number. The note looks like a message when using "contact your buyer about this
order" link but can easily be missed by sellers. It has happened to me a few
times, and can be frustrating if you see it too late!

Thanks,

Randy

The 'note to seller' is also in the order confirmation email.
Do you read the confirmation email?

Perhaps the order of the order details page should be customizable. Then the
notes can be moved to the top between the Details and parts section.

That's a good idea I think. On the internet we are kind of programmed to
completely disregard mumbo jumbo at the bottom of pages (like "© 2018 BrickLink
Limited. All rights reserved. Some LEGO® sets contain small parts that are NOT
suitable for and may pose a hazard to children under 3 years of age. LEGO® DUPLO®
sets have larger pieces which are specially designed for children under 3. LEGO®
is a trademark of the LEGO Group of companies which does not sponsor, authorize,
or endorse this site. Use of this website constitutes acceptance of the Terms
Of Service and Privacy Policy."). Something above the parts list would be much
more noticable, and also the message may affect how the order needs to be sorted/packed
so it's kind of a bummer if you forget to scroll down and read it only when
you reach the end of order picking

Author:

harro

Posted:

Oct 13, 2018 04:38

Subject:

Re: Note to seller is not very good

Viewed:

21 times

Topic:

I do agree!

Just a layout change would be ok.

Author:

Teup

Posted:

Oct 13, 2018 04:35

Subject:

Re: Note to seller is not very good

Viewed:

42 times

Topic:

In Suggestions, bricksahead writes:

.. How do you know that you've never missed a message?

Well, how do you know you packed all your orders correctly? Just a feeling, you
never know for sure of course if it comes to actual evidence. But as soon as
I open an order with a message attached to it I notice that right away, it's
the very first thing I notice. Right as you open the order, where there's
otherwise nothing, there's suddenly an icon, and a line "This order has an
attached message (view it)". In my opinion that is very clear. To the people
who do miss it, isn't simply a bigger font, bigger icon, enough?

If I would get the message in my inbox also, as sort of a duplicate thing, it
would make things less clear to me as it will show up as an item I need to handle
while I already did or already am going to. I will be more likely to miss
real messages that way or mix up something. The "(un)read" flag would lose parts
of its meaning as there will be messages that have already been read but still
appear unread in the inbox.

In my opinion anything regarding the processing of an order should be strictly
on that order page, and everything else - general inquiries, service - should
be in the inbox. I don't go through messages and orders crosswise, I have
a list of orders I need to do and a list of messages I need to work through and
I do one of these tasks at a time.

Author:

Brickwilbo

Posted:

Oct 13, 2018 03:47

Subject:

Re: Note to seller is not very good

Viewed:

43 times

Topic:

In Suggestions, randyipp writes:

Author:

bricksahead

Posted:

Oct 12, 2018 19:08

Subject:

Re: Note to seller is not very good

Viewed:

57 times

Topic:

In Suggestions, Teup writes:

In Suggestions, randyipp writes:

You mean just as a "regarding order ..." message and not attached to the order
itself? In that case, no!

I don't process orders and read messages at the same time. I always read
the attached notes and never missed one. But if it's troublesome to others,
maybe change placement, font, something in the interface. But definitely, for
bricks sake, doooon't detach it from the order page... :o

I agree with you that the message shouldn't be detached from the order page.

When a buyer sends a message from the order page it is appears on the order page,
in the buyer's outbox as well as in the seller's inbox. When a seller
sends a message from the order page it appears on the order page, in the seller's
outbox as well as the buyer's inbox. I think it should work the same way
with a message that is attached to the order when the order is placed. A seller
would then be reminded at log in to Bricklink if there are any unread messages.

.. How do you know that you've never missed a message?

Author:

Teup

Posted:

Oct 12, 2018 18:14

Subject:

Re: Note to seller is not very good

Viewed:

58 times

Topic:

In Suggestions, randyipp writes:

Author:

jenwick

Posted:

Oct 12, 2018 17:25

Subject:

Re: Note to seller is not very good

Viewed:

56 times

Topic:

Randy,

I totally agree! Voted yes.

Jennifer

Author:

alahaka

Posted:

Oct 12, 2018 13:41

Subject:

Re: Block buyers with a different country email p

Viewed:

38 times

Topic:

In Suggestions, SylvainLS writes:

Author:

SylvainLS

Posted:

Oct 12, 2018 13:22

Subject:

Re: Block buyers with a different country email p

Viewed:

50 times

Topic:

In Suggestions, matejo writes:

Attempting to associate emails with countries sounds messy, however it seems
that BrickLink could verify member's country addresses against their IP address
location.

I know this is imperfect, not to mention a little big brother-ish, however it
would clean up the accuracy of members' locations and probably reduce order
problems.

Do IBAN transfers use a particular service? I guess I need to conduct such a
transaction to see how they work. If they can decrease fraud with greater payee
control over funds, that sounds nice.

So-called “IBAN transfers” are just bank transfers.

When you do a bank transfer, you need to identify the accounts (more precisely,
the banks and the accounts within the banks), so that the banks can talk to each
other. IBAN (International Bank Account Number), is just a scheme to identify
accounts, it’s an international standard, ISO 13616.

One other identifier that’s often used is BIC (Business Identifier Code), which
identifies the bank in the Swift network (an agreement network between banks).

In the olden times (and in remote locations), transfers were (still are) a PITA,
involving letters and faxes to correctly identify and verify who’s who. When
it’s at all possible.
In the modern times (and enlightened countries

), you just need an IBAN.

There are services that proxies for the banks, like iDEAL (NL-based), making
bank transfers a bit easier than from the bank’s own website, and “instant” (meaning
they can immediately tell the receiver the transfer has been entered).

What’s great in EU is that we created an(other) agreement: SEPA, which states,
among other things, that any payment in Euro in the SEP-Area has to be treated
the same way as a local payment. And as local bank transfers have mostly become
free in the past decades (especially online), that means they are mostly free
for the whole SEP-Area

So, see if you have an IBAN somewhere in your bank papers, or ask your bank if
you can easily (and cheaply) receive or send international bank transfers with
just an IBAN.
And if your bank can’t or won’t, you can still see if another one does. Opening
an account shouldn’t be expensive, even in the USA. (Don’t you get a free toaster
when you do? That’s what I learned watching US shows

)

Author:

Hubby

Posted:

Oct 12, 2018 10:34

Subject:

Re: Block buyers with a different country email p

Viewed:

61 times

Topic:

In Suggestions, NicoBuma writes:

How'd you know for sure they are scammers? Maybe they are Russians who moved
to the UK, but didn't change their e-mail provider.

I myself have an hotmail.com (US) mailaddress, but live in The Netherlands, so
I would be a scammer too by your definition?

If they pay, it's ok; would be my motto. And yes, if I were you I'd prefer
IBAN as well, as it's a lot more secure than paypal and you as a seller have
a lot more rights, and your own bank has a lot less fees than paypal as well.

In Suggestions, Hagbart writes:

Yes true Nico, I'll agree, but just got another fake account ordering from
my shop, that's the second guy from Russia. Just asked 2 things from him.
Provide a proof of his address is legit in france (e.g. electricity bill) and
send the money to my IBAN. After 11 days, no payments nor response....

But just added another faker to my block list.

Author:

rikitikitaviguy

Posted:

Oct 12, 2018 08:56

Subject:

Re: 3003 and 3003old

Viewed:

39 times

Topic:

FWIW....

means "For What It's Worth"....

LM

In Suggestions, WFMTF writes:

If you search item nr. 6223 in catalog items, you get one set and item 3003!
I am getting a bit confused....
By the way: "FWIW" means ? sorry, do not know. BR Waltraud

In Suggestions, mfav writes:

FWIW, all my not-Pat Pend trans- 2x2s are 6223 and have walls identical to 3003old.
None of my opaque 2x2s have 6223.
Should 6223 be an alternate number for 3003old and NOT an alternate for 3003?

As far as I know none of the Trans- and Glittercolors have inside supports.

WHY do these colors appear as known colors on item 3003 and do not appear as
known colors on item 3003old - without inside supports.

This is a mismatch of catalog criterias - seen from my view.

I think that a short explanation in the additional notes would be good.

Author:

WFMTF

Posted:

Oct 12, 2018 08:46

Subject:

Re: 3003 and 3003old

Viewed:

28 times

Topic:

If you search item nr. 6223 in catalog items, you get one set and item 3003!
I am getting a bit confused....
By the way: "FWIW" means ? sorry, do not know. BR Waltraud

In Suggestions, mfav writes:

FWIW, all my not-Pat Pend trans- 2x2s are 6223 and have walls identical to 3003old.
None of my opaque 2x2s have 6223.
Should 6223 be an alternate number for 3003old and NOT an alternate for 3003?

Author:

mfav

Posted:

Oct 11, 2018 11:51

Subject:

Re: 3003 and 3003old

Viewed:

45 times

Topic:

FWIW, all my not-Pat Pend trans- 2x2s are 6223 and have walls identical to 3003old.
None of my opaque 2x2s have 6223.
Should 6223 be an alternate number for 3003old and NOT an alternate for 3003?

Author:

WFMTF

Posted:

Oct 11, 2018 08:05

Subject:

3003 and 3003old

Viewed:

84 times

Topic:

Status:

Open

Vote:

[Yes|No]

Author:

Brickwilbo

Posted:

Oct 11, 2018 00:54

Subject:

Re: Studio 2.0

Viewed:

37 times

Topic:

In Suggestions, Ultiraden writes:

Hinge tool additions

Here's the stud.io forum https://forum.bricklink.com/

Author:

bb1227754

Posted:

Oct 10, 2018 21:57

Subject:

Studio 2.0

Viewed:

62 times

Topic:

Status:

Open

Vote:

[Yes|No]

Hinge tool additions

Author:

WhiteVanMan

Posted:

Oct 7, 2018 16:07

Subject:

Re: What about meeting the Buyers?

Viewed:

41 times

Topic:

In Suggestions, SezaR writes:

You also showed your age

Ha Ha Ha......

In Suggestions, WhiteVanMan writes:

In Suggestions, SylvainLS writes:

In Suggestions, WhiteVanMan writes:

Now I know your in California as I am —I’ll be right over !!!

Maybe do a detour to the UK, and bring a UCS Y-wing instruction book with ya....

I'll let you build my Eiffel Tower if you want....

Looks like the “special ads” section in some 1980’s newspaper

Now you are showing your age... lol

Author:

SezaR

Posted:

Oct 7, 2018 00:24

Subject:

Re: What about meeting the Buyers?

Viewed:

65 times

Topic:

You also showed your age

In Suggestions, WhiteVanMan writes:

In Suggestions, SylvainLS writes:

In Suggestions, WhiteVanMan writes:

Now I know your in California as I am —I’ll be right over !!!

Maybe do a detour to the UK, and bring a UCS Y-wing instruction book with ya....

I'll let you build my Eiffel Tower if you want....

Looks like the “special ads” section in some 1980’s newspaper

Now you are showing your age... lol

Author:

steelwoolghandi

Posted:

Oct 6, 2018 14:22

Subject:

Re: What about meeting the Buyers?

Viewed:

46 times

Topic:

In Suggestions, EmblaRonja writes:

I thought about something...

It was great wheen BrickLink for about a year ago had some articles where we
could meet some sellers. Fun to read and great for any BrickLinker, I think specially
for sellers.

Coldn´t we have something just the same with some buyers? Invite them to participate
and show of their collection. What do you collect? Are you a builder or just
collecting? Any special finding to tell about? What do you seek now? Any goal
whit your project, collection?
Et c.

I been a collector my self and I often think it´s not so easy to share my passion
with ordinary friends, not that many of them understand Passion of Lego at all.
Maybe more people out there thinks the same?

I think this would be a very good byer friendly marketing thing that could increase
traffic and sales to the site.

God or bad idea?

Not sure if God has anything to do with it. (just yanking your chain).

I meet a few sellers and buyers when I was at a Show (called Steam) in the UK.
I had to drive to Swindon (not impressed by the way with Swindon). Met some great
Bricklinkers, I had met them when we still had a Chat section and got to know
them.

It might be a good idea to meet at a neutral place and not a dark alley or at
there house at 2 am (might be a set up). If they offer you candy and they drive
a Van with no windows don't stop just drive on!

Author:

SylvainLS

Posted:

Oct 6, 2018 14:05

Subject:

Re: What about meeting the Buyers?

Viewed:

44 times

Topic:

In Suggestions, WhiteVanMan writes:

In Suggestions, SylvainLS writes:

In Suggestions, WhiteVanMan writes:

Now I know your in California as I am —I’ll be right over !!!

Maybe do a detour to the UK, and bring a UCS Y-wing instruction book with ya....

I'll let you build my Eiffel Tower if you want....

Looks like the “special ads” section in some 1980’s newspaper

Now you are showing your age... lol

Nah, it’s only second hand knowledge

What it shows though is I think “dirty” otherwise I’d have referred to spy stuff,
like 1940’s BBC’s “Les Français parlent aux Français” (French speak to French,
résistance’s coded messages).

Author:

Adjour

Posted:

Oct 6, 2018 12:53

Subject:

Re: What about meeting the Buyers?

Viewed:

42 times

Topic:

*waves but still hides*

Author:

WhiteVanMan

Posted:

Oct 6, 2018 12:52

Subject:

Re: What about meeting the Buyers?

Viewed:

48 times

Topic:

In Suggestions, SylvainLS writes:

In Suggestions, WhiteVanMan writes:

Now I know your in California as I am —I’ll be right over !!!

Maybe do a detour to the UK, and bring a UCS Y-wing instruction book with ya....

I'll let you build my Eiffel Tower if you want....

Looks like the “special ads” section in some 1980’s newspaper

Now you are showing your age... lol

Author:

DoMT

Posted:

Oct 6, 2018 12:26

Subject:

New Data Field for the cost/lb paid for stock

Viewed:

59 times

Topic:

Status:

Open

Vote:

[Yes|No]

For sellers that buy their lego by weight a field in the settings where a seller
can enter cost per weight would be really useful.

If there was, then the cost per piece field could automatically be filled in
for the seller, instead of having to work it out manually each time. And the
cost of inventory would then be quickly reflected.

Author:

SylvainLS

Posted:

Oct 6, 2018 12:20

Subject:

Re: What about meeting the Buyers?

Viewed:

47 times

Topic:

In Suggestions, WhiteVanMan writes:

Now I know your in California as I am —I’ll be right over !!!

Maybe do a detour to the UK, and bring a UCS Y-wing instruction book with ya....

I'll let you build my Eiffel Tower if you want....

Looks like the “special ads” section in some 1980’s newspaper

Author:

WhiteVanMan

Posted:

Oct 6, 2018 12:04

Subject:

Re: What about meeting the Buyers?

Viewed:

37 times

Topic:

Now I know your in California as I am —I’ll be right over !!!

Maybe do a detour to the UK, and bring a UCS Y-wing instruction book with ya....

I'll let you build my Eiffel Tower if you want....

Paul

Author:

goldknight

Posted:

Oct 6, 2018 12:01

Subject:

Re: What about meeting the Buyers?

Viewed:

49 times

Topic:

In Suggestions, Adjour writes:

In Suggestions, EmblaRonja writes:

I did see a seller that has something like "send me a pic of what you built and
I'll share it on *insert social media here*" Which is something I thought
was neat. I'd love to so something like that.

In person, meh, not if they know who I am (as in they have bought from me and
now have my address). Unfortunately being a woman in a mainly "male" hobby sets
me up for all sorts of stalkers.

Honestly, I feel your pain, not being able to share, but thats what expos/events/etc
are for right?

Now I know your in California as I am —I’ll be right over !!!

Author:

Adjour

Posted:

Oct 5, 2018 18:35

Subject:

Re: Restrictions kill sales! I'm outta here!

Viewed:

107 times

Topic:

In Suggestions, crazylegoman writes:

In Suggestions, npl writes:

Twice today I spent time making LARGE orders (two different vendors) for about
$30 or so USD+.

This is hilarious, but I do admit I'm happy to have a $30 non set order and
would consider it large. I honestly have made about 40+ orders here and don't
think I've ever spent $30 at once except when I was finishing a #6985 and
the parts were very expensive.

What I really find is when people are selling as HUGE LOT of lego online/craigslist
without pictures that some questioning reveals its like 3 lbs worth. That's
what it reminds me of.

Anyway, I see both sides,

Author:

Adjour

Posted:

Oct 5, 2018 18:29

Subject:

Re: What about meeting the Buyers?

Viewed:

85 times

Topic:

In Suggestions, EmblaRonja writes:

Author:

mikmo

Posted:

Oct 5, 2018 18:10

Subject:

Re: Restrictions kill sales! I'm outta here!

Viewed:

68 times

Topic:

In Suggestions, chetzler writes:

In Suggestions, crazylegoman writes:

In Suggestions, npl writes:

Twice today I spent time making LARGE orders (two different vendors) for about
$30 or so USD+.

People have different budgets and levels of disposable income. I am happy to
get a $30+ order, aren't you? Mocking the OP only reenforces his viewpoint,
so way to go, I guess.

Regardless of OP's budget, his complaint is has merit, I have felt the same
way shopping in some seller's stores.

Author:

Addict2Brick

Posted:

Oct 5, 2018 17:29

Subject:

Re: What about meeting the Buyers?

Viewed:

70 times

Topic:

In Suggestions, EmblaRonja writes:

It isn't a fun idea

Author:

chetzler

Posted:

Oct 5, 2018 17:20

Subject:

Re: Restrictions kill sales! I'm outta here!

Viewed:

85 times

Topic:

In Suggestions, crazylegoman writes:

In Suggestions, npl writes:

Twice today I spent time making LARGE orders (two different vendors) for about
$30 or so USD+.

Author:

EmblaRonja

Posted:

Oct 5, 2018 17:19

Subject:

What about meeting the Buyers?

Viewed:

193 times

Topic:

Status:

Open

Vote:

[Yes|No]

Author:

cosmicray

Posted:

Oct 5, 2018 16:56

Subject:

Re: Restrictions kill sales! I'm outta here!

Viewed:

82 times

Topic:

In Suggestions, crazylegoman writes:

In Suggestions, npl writes:

Twice today I spent time making LARGE orders (two different vendors) for about
$30 or so USD+.

Why is there no like button for posts like this ?

Author:

crazylegoman

Posted:

Oct 5, 2018 16:01

Subject:

Re: Restrictions kill sales! I'm outta here!

Viewed:

107 times

Topic:

In Suggestions, npl writes:

Twice today I spent time making LARGE orders (two different vendors) for about
$30 or so USD+.

Author:

chetzler

Posted:

Oct 5, 2018 15:35

Subject:

Re: Restrictions kill sales! I'm outta here!

Viewed:

72 times

Topic:

In Suggestions, npl writes:

Twice today I spent time making LARGE orders (two different vendors) for about
$30 or so USD+. The first had a shipping box size restriction I didn't see
until I was checking out and the seller did not respond to a query for a 'bypass'
in time to be useful. I bought what I wanted on Amazon instead. It will be
here day after tomorrow! Just now I put together another order of over 150 items,
spent 20 min, only to learn it had a ^%#^*^ LOT average of a dollar, and again,
I was required to ask for a bypass. Screw that. I don't have the time for
this nit-noid nonsense. So here's the suggestion: Price your stuff for
what you want and either make the restriction clear on the main page or can the
restrictions. As for me, I'm head for e-bay where I am sure I can get what
I want and where any restrictions are clear.

Sounds like you just needed to vent. Hopefully you'll stick around, I just
sent you a 20% off coupon for my store. I hope you'll stop by, I know you
will have a good experience. My only "restriction" is a minimum buy of $9.95,
this is enough to cover my overhead (baggies, shipping box, etc.) without any
additional nonsense fees. My shipping tables are clear and the rates are enforced
by instant checkout.

As others have said, not all stores play the kind of games you have described.
I can understand why sellers may want to impose lot fees--we have all had
those kinds of orders. What I don't understand is actually instituting them,
much less other fees. I even occasionally like receiving a high lot/low quantity
order, it ensures I never have to count higher than 5 when pulling any given
lot

. If a store's inventory is well-organized such orders really shouldn't
present a headache. If you really love LEGO, you shouldn't mind a little
extra work to help out a fellow builder.

Author:

SylvainLS

Posted:

Oct 5, 2018 13:08

Subject:

Re: Restrictions kill sales! I'm outta here!

Viewed:

50 times

Topic:

In Suggestions, Teup writes:

[…]
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=THNPmhBl-8I

Perfect

Author:

Teup

Posted:

Oct 5, 2018 12:54

Subject:

Re: Restrictions kill sales! I'm outta here!

Viewed:

53 times

Topic:

In Suggestions, SylvainLS writes:

In Suggestions, tEoS writes:

No, I'm simply stating that the "rocket science" argument is flawed. It
implies that you don't need the intellect of a very scientific person, as
if said person has the capacity to know how to do everything very well.

Er, no. The “rocket science” argument means it’s intellectually difficult and
outside the capabilities of average people. It doesn’t imply that the person
should be very scientific, just very intelligent. And it doesn’t imply a “rocket
scientist” would have the capacity to know to do everything very well, just rockets.
The same argument is often rendered as “it’s not brain surgery.”

If you think a task needs someone with rare abilities, then it is “rocket science.”
Otherwise, that means you think anyone could do the task, and then “it’s not
rocket science” applies.
Well, you could also think that it both doesn’t need someone with rare abilities
but it also demands attention and time. Then, it’s both not “rocket science”
and not “not rocket science”

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=THNPmhBl-8I

Author:

SylvainLS

Posted:

Oct 5, 2018 12:45

Subject:

Re: Restrictions kill sales! I'm outta here!

Viewed:

40 times

Topic:

In Suggestions, tEoS writes:

Author:

yorbrick

Posted:

Oct 5, 2018 11:18

Subject:

Re: Restrictions kill sales! I'm outta here!

Viewed:

49 times

Topic:

In Suggestions, Teup writes:

In Suggestions, yorbrick writes:

In Suggestions, tEoS writes:

Instant checkout isn't so simple. You can think you have all bases covered,
but later discover something that prevents a buyer from ordering.

In addition, we have no way to test our setup or see a buyer's cart to troubleshoot
an issue.

I use instant checkout, though I would never recommend, as I'm certain to
have lost orders because of it not functioning quite right.

This is where IC could be improved. The current postage cost could be displayed
when in the store and get updated after each addition, and flagged up if an item
is included that stops the IC working. This is pretty much how it works on BO
- it is great to see if adding one part increases the postage costs, you can
then decide whether the real cost for that part is worth it.

And I think on the seller's side of the interface, it should also warn that
not all weight/volume/value/country combinations are covered. I think it's
the sellers responsibility to make sure that they have it all covered, it's
not rocket science. But it is true it takes some concentration and staring at
the screen to make sure everything is OK, so an algorythm that checks if there
are no holes sounds like exactly the type of thing we have computers for.

Yes, seems sensible to me.

It might also be a good idea to flag any parts that do not have dimensions or
similar, as that seems to be a fairly common complaint for getting postage calculations
wrong (especially for large minifigures). That way, the seller could be prompted
to input the data for all to use, or do the workaround so IC cannot apply to
an order with that part.

Author:

cosmicray

Posted:

Oct 5, 2018 11:04

Subject:

Re: Restrictions kill sales! I'm outta here!

Viewed:

52 times

Topic:

In Suggestions, npl writes:

I wish the best of luck in your purchases over at the big-A and the big-E. As
a seller, those two are significantly more expensive to do business upon, and
I have to increase my prices to compensate. If you're OK with paying higher
prices, then perhaps we all should take note here. Thanks for the heads up.

Nita Rae

Author:

tEoS

Posted:

Oct 5, 2018 10:57

Subject:

Re: Restrictions kill sales! I'm outta here!

Viewed:

42 times

Topic:

So, you are saying it is difficult. We're talking about sellers here, people
who decide that they can handle selling Lego. Not every person who signs up on
Bricklink has to understand how to set up shipping methods. But I think it is
only fair that for the small portion of those members who really are serious
enough to get into selling, it should be expected of them that they're able
to handle it. If they're not, they should either ask for help or just use
some other way to sell Lego that they do understand (In fact, I think setting
things up at Brickowl is easier than at BL.)

In Suggestions, tEoS writes:

I grow tired of reading the old "it's not rocket science" argument, as if
it somehow substantiates a person's claim.

Author:

steelwoolghandi

Posted:

Oct 5, 2018 10:56

Subject:

Re: Restrictions kill sales! I'm outta here!

Viewed:

59 times

Topic:

In Suggestions, npl writes:

I feel you're pain. When I started out as just a buyer on bricklink I had
a hard time with the restrictions but it took my a little while to figure out
how to check the best stores out and ignore the ones that would not work for
me. I will never buy Lego parts on Ebay again.

When I became a seller I then understood restrictions much better Lot restrictions
made much more sense. I have spent hours pulling 1 and 2 single parts for orders
that the list of small parts were as long as both my arms! Is it fun, no it is
not. Do I make anything off those orders, most of the time no due to time spent
vs order cost. I do feel that this is the price I pay to sell my Lego and I don't
get those orders all the time so I suck it up and forge ahead because I want
return customers and most of the time I get that.

I do feel the quote function is not used enough. It should be used more get a
better idea of what you will pay as a whole and if you are good with it then
just hit accept and you don't have to go through and pull that order again
just buy it.

I have worked with some awesome sellers on Bricklink and found that most are
willing to work with you as long as you communicate with them. If they don't
communicate with you move on, but don't think you will get treated better
on Ebay this "a trap".

Sorry for the frustration, but hang in there!

SWG

Author:

bb745370

Posted:

Oct 5, 2018 10:52

Subject:

Re: Restrictions kill sales! I'm outta here!

Viewed:

54 times

Topic:

In Suggestions, npl writes:

Twice today I spent time making LARGE orders

MMh yeha had the same again just now. Havent bought anything in a while cause
i couldnt bother the time it takes to setup an order so i get what i nee dfor
my projcts, just now i tried again and was happy that i had an store in the want
list buy thingy having almost everyhting. So i took my time created a few carts
wiht some additional stuff from other vendors and wanted to proceed, in the slection
it didnt say anything and accepted my order, then in cart overview there is suddenly
a: There is a problem you need to resolve. So i check it out and the large cart
of 50+ euro does not work out because of avg lot restrictions of 1,70€ ... oh
common, so half an hour for nothing, starting at zero again... sucks to a point
were i am not motivated enough to start again

Author:

Adjour

Posted:

Oct 5, 2018 10:46

Subject:

Re: Restrictions kill sales! I'm outta here!

Viewed:

48 times

Topic:

In Suggestions, Abels_Bricks writes:

In Suggestions, Teup writes:

In Suggestions, yorbrick writes:

In Suggestions, tEoS writes:

The best thing that Bricklink could do and I am amazed that BL has not done this.

A sandbox for sellers to test postage options.

This would allow us all to check out settings and tweak them to make sure they
are correct for the way we want to sell.

I love this idea. I still don't have my shipping the way I'd like, mainly
because I can't see what the buyer is seeing.

I'm no dummy and I've shipped thousands of packages on 2 other platforms
before coming here and found setting up shipping to be quite difficult. This
site is not intuitive, but I suppose that weeds out most would be sellers, so
I can't complain too much.

Author:

Teup

Posted:

Oct 5, 2018 09:45

Subject:

Re: Restrictions kill sales! I'm outta here!

Viewed:

72 times

Topic:

I grow tired of reading the old "it's not rocket science" argument, as if
it somehow substantiates a person's claim.

Author:

LearnedBrick

Posted:

Oct 5, 2018 08:04

Subject:

Re: Restrictions kill sales! I'm outta here!

Viewed:

82 times

Topic:

In Suggestions, npl writes:

Sorry to hear that. Certain stores have their reasons for their restrictions
and terms, and your frustration and anger are valid but hopefully short-lived.

We have just one rule: Spend a dollar.

Spend a dollar, and I'll figure out the rest.

I hope you find a store that meets your needs.

Author:

tEoS

Posted:

Oct 5, 2018 07:59

Subject:

Re: Restrictions kill sales! I'm outta here!

Viewed:

67 times

Topic:

I grow tired of reading the old "it's not rocket science" argument, as if
it somehow substantiates a person's claim.

Author:

Abels_Bricks

Posted:

Oct 5, 2018 07:42

Subject:

Re: Restrictions kill sales! I'm outta here!

Viewed:

56 times

Topic:

In Suggestions, Teup writes:

In Suggestions, yorbrick writes:

In Suggestions, tEoS writes:

Author:

Teup

Posted:

Oct 5, 2018 07:09

Subject:

Re: Restrictions kill sales! I'm outta here!

Viewed:

72 times

Topic:

In Suggestions, yorbrick writes:

In Suggestions, tEoS writes:

Author:

yorbrick

Posted:

Oct 5, 2018 06:27

Subject:

Re: Restrictions kill sales! I'm outta here!

Viewed:

93 times

Topic:

In Suggestions, tEoS writes:

Author:

tEoS

Posted:

Oct 5, 2018 06:08

Subject:

Re: Restrictions kill sales! I'm outta here!

Viewed:

93 times

Topic:

A size restriction sounds ridiculous, I never saw that... How can a buyer possibly
anticipate this? There's no way of knowing how big your order is going to
be, nor is it the job of the buyer to be a mathematician even if it was. I think
sellers should have shipping methods ready for all sizes.

But sounds like the lot average problem could actually be fixed by Bricklink
itself. If they flag stores who use it properly, it will solve this frustration
instantly for every store that uses it. And is this lot average indicated in
the listings, in the same way that minimum order is? I really think it should
be.

Author:

yorbrick

Posted:

Oct 5, 2018 06:01

Subject:

Re: Restrictions kill sales! I'm outta here!

Viewed:

64 times

Topic:

In Suggestions, Bricks_NW_UK writes:

As a seller your terms should be clear and transparent. I don't get this
"lot" charge business to be honest. I sometimes think it is a case of sellers
offering silly discounts and recouping their money through these fees. it could
also be a way of avoiding BL fees!

For our part, we charge Royal Mail rates plus a nominal amount to cover packaging
& printing cost, and don't have any minimum order sizes.

It is all about transparency and honesty!

Lot minimums are there to ensure that sellers can offer good prices, but not
be picking orders consisting of 100s of lots, each of a single 1p part. Now sellers
can easily input lot minimums, and these are shown to buyers, so any extra lot-related
fees not declared this way should be banned.

Author:

yorbrick

Posted:

Oct 5, 2018 05:58

Subject:

Re: Restrictions kill sales! I'm outta here!

Viewed:

58 times

Topic:

Just now I put together another order of over 150 items,
spent 20 min, only to learn it had a ^%#^*^ LOT average of a dollar, and again,
I was required to ask for a bypass. Screw that. I don't have the time for
this nit-noid nonsense. So here's the suggestion: Price your stuff for
what you want and either make the restriction clear on the main page or can the
restrictions.

Did you not look at the top of the screen by the cart when you were in the store?
It should identify the minimum buy and the lot average price needed to check
out. BL has made changes so that these restrictions are made clear.

Author:

Bricks_NW_UK

Posted:

Oct 5, 2018 05:46

Subject:

Re: Restrictions kill sales! I'm outta here!

Viewed:

69 times

Topic:

Author:

Teup

Posted:

Oct 5, 2018 05:32

Subject:

Re: Restrictions kill sales! I'm outta here!

Viewed:

100 times

Topic:

In Suggestions, npl writes:

Author:

SezaR

Posted:

Oct 5, 2018 03:36

Subject:

Re: Restrictions kill sales! I'm outta here!

Viewed:

101 times

Topic:

So frustrating.

Read first their terms. Most good sellers do have good and clear terms and nice
feedback. I know many of them.
By taking a quick look at terms, you can know if it is a good store or not.
I have found good stores and nice sellers. Honestly, the quality of Lego and
service you get on BL is much better than on Ebay where most sellers don't
know much about Lego.
Good luck.

In Suggestions, npl writes:

Author:

StarBrick

Posted:

Oct 5, 2018 02:37

Subject:

Re: Restrictions kill sales! I'm outta here!

Viewed:

118 times

Topic:

RTFM ?

Author:

MidwestBrick

Posted:

Oct 5, 2018 00:17

Subject:

Re: Restrictions kill sales! I'm outta here!

Viewed:

116 times

Topic:

In Suggestions, npl writes:

I understand your frustration. There are some sellers with so much going on
in their terms that I X out and never go back. But there are many more sellers
here that are straight forward, simple, and quick to pull, invoice, and ship.

As a seller myself, I believe my store is easy to understand, has a quote section
available, and I respond to inquiries quickly.

I can only suggest to weed out the stores you do not like and find the diamonds
in the rough that work for you. There are many out there to choose from. Best
of luck!

Author:

Build_Zone

Posted:

Oct 4, 2018 23:18

Subject:

Re: Restrictions kill sales! I'm outta here!

Viewed:

133 times

Topic:

In Suggestions, npl writes:

What is wrong with those sellers here:/ I am new seller but I'm not hiding
anything if i want add handling fee so I'll say for what if i have the reason
to do it. Some orders can be big for example but everything else in my store
is negotiable. Sellers please care about your customers!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Author:

Tech_M

Posted:

Oct 2, 2018 23:05

Subject:

Brickheadz Prints in Stud.io

Viewed:

50 times

Topic:

Status:

Open

Vote:

[Yes|No]

I and some of my friends are a bit disappointed by the lack of prints from the
Brickheadz series, especially the eyes. Does anyone else want these added?

Author:

Etown

Posted:

Oct 1, 2018 15:22

Subject:

Re: Note to seller is not very good

Viewed:

65 times

Topic:

In Suggestions, randyipp writes:

I voted yes. I have been guilty of missing a message until I'm ready to invoice.

Ron

Author:

Etown

Posted:

Oct 1, 2018 15:16

Subject:

Re: 90-percentile as new average price ?

Viewed:

66 times

Topic:

In Suggestions, Gaston.La.Brick writes:

I noticed the highest prices of items sold (or of items that are on sale), have
an out of proportion influence on the average prices.
Example: when 9 people sell (or have sold) an item at €0.10 but 1 person has
sold that item for €10.00, the average price would be €1.09
You may say this example is not realistic, but it's not that unrealistic
either. Check out item 6558. The avg used price of last 6 month sales is €0.023,
while the majority of the sales are for less as €0.02
If you look more closesly, you see a few sales at a high price, but not a lot.
(Note: someone even sold a few of these for €1.00 !)

It's my suggestion to change the calculation of avg price to use the 90-percentile
method. So only the 90 percent (lowest prices) are taken into account. That way,
the top 10-percent highest prices are not taken into account when calculating
the avg price.
To avoid weird behaviours, the rule could be in place only when there are 10
items sold/for sale.
Example would become an avg price of €0.10

Another somewhat more complex method would be the use the median. Not the mathematic
average, but the middle price: 50% of the sellers have a lower price, 50% of
the sellers have a higher price.

What do you guys think?

I voted no because I am hesitant to support anything that would expedite the
race to the bottom. It's getting more and more difficult to find sets with
a large enough margin to make it worth while. Besides, adding something that
makes the calculations even less transparent isn't a good move for Bricklink
in my opinion.

Ron

Author:

bb1158246

Posted:

Oct 1, 2018 12:47

Subject:

Like feature

Viewed:

72 times

Topic:

Status:

Open

Vote:

[Yes|No]

I'm sure someone has suggested this before, but since I can't find an
earlier post that suggests this, I'll just make a new one.

Why not add a 'like' feature to the forum? So many times I read a comment
that I like, but I don't feel like responding to the comment to show I agree.
A like button would add a level of convenience.

Author:

Bricks_NW_UK

Posted:

Oct 1, 2018 11:10

Subject:

Re: 90-percentile as new average price ?

Viewed:

40 times

Topic:

I agree with the point Teup makes on this.

"The race to the bottom" is something that concerns us as well.

Constant "sales" just harm the overall selling prices. Same goes with
store clearance, liquidation sales, closing shops etc.

Other have commented that the selling price is just going down

The same goes with the stores that overprice and then offer silly discounts.

We have already seen the damage caused to set prices where incomplete sets are
included in the average price and then driving down the set prices.

None of this gives any credibility to Bricklink at all.

Author:

yorbrick

Posted:

Oct 1, 2018 10:56

Subject:

Re: Price offer

Viewed:

29 times

Topic:

In my opinion this wouldn't work!

They have this function on eBay and it is a nightmare to be honest.

The sellers have set their prices and if you don't want to pay the listed
price then you simply buy elsewhere.

I suppose if you want to make someone an offer you could do this via the quote
function and ask if they are prepare to sell for "x"

Bricklink needs to stay well clear of this.

Just my thoughts!

I think it could work if:

1) Sellers opted into it on an item by item basis.

2) Sellers could set two extra prices where (i) the offer is automatically rejected
if below and (ii) the offer is automatically accepted if above. So for example,
if a seller lists at $25 and would definitely accept $23.50 but wouldn't
want to be bothered by offers lower than $22, then they would enter those three
numbers. If a buyer offers $24, they would purchase instantly. If a buyer offers
$22.50, the seller needs to consider it. If a buyer offers $21.50, the buyer
is rejected instantly and the seller need not bother with it. A seller could
always set the definitely accept price to their normal price, to consider all
offers over their absolute minimum threshold. Of course, there would need to
be some checks in place to limit the number of offers, so a buyer doesn't
just offer $20, then $20.25, then $20.50, ... etc going up in small increments
to hit the minimum price the seller will accept.

It would be good for those rarer items where pricing is difficult due to lack
of similar sales. I don't think it would work at all well for general parts
or orders where you are likely to have multiple items. But for one-off, expensive
items (presumably either sets or rarer minifigures) it might be a good idea.

Author:

yorbrick

Posted:

Oct 1, 2018 10:45

Subject:

Re: 90-percentile as new average price ?

Viewed:

63 times

Topic:

Throwing away data using some other biasing gives an even worse indication of
what it has sold for.

Because that is what the average amount implies: the average price to which an
item is sold for most of the time.

The average value reports the average (mean) value - it is exactly what it says
it is. The average is not the value an item is sold for most of the time. Although
sellers might want to know a more reasonable price to list their items at, the
average is there as a guide, not a definitive value.

For me, I use the average price to set my pricing. But currently it becomes unreliable,
when you have to verify how many items have been sold at a price that's not
realistic (or at least: that has something strange going on -- $1.00 for
a typicall $0.02 item, seems strange to me).

Why is it unreliable? It is reporting the average of all sold prices. If a $0.02
item frequently sells for $1.00 then it should be included as the sales are frequent.
If it is a one off, then it will hardly affect the average price at all if the
item is commonly sold at $0.02.

You are not for, because it would make the calculation less transparant. But
it doesn't have to be clear how it was calculated, as long as it's accurate.

There is no such thing as an accurate average when data has been removed. You
don't want an accurate average price, you want an accurate average based
on a 90-percentile, so only taking the lowest 90% of the data. What happens if
there are low outliers? Why do you want to include those, but not the high end
of the distribution. If you average over the lowest 90% then base prices on that,
then average over the lowest 90% and base prices on that, then average over
the lowest 90% and base prices on that, and iterate so on, then prices will necessarily
tend towards zero, even if the price distribution is Gaussian each month.

In the end, to me, it still feels the average price as a purely mathematical
average, is not very useful.

Any statistic like this has to be mathematical. Your suggestion is also mathematical.
The algorithm you suggest is to take the lowest 90% of prices and take the mean.
That is no less mathematical than take all the prices and average.

Averages are a bit pointless for distributions that are not Gaussian / bell-shaped,
and on BL many have either long tails left or right, or are bi-modal (or worse).
There are other ways of getting averages, such as fitting a Gaussian distribution
to price regions with dense sales, ignoring others. Or fitting the middle 95%,
or 90% or 60%, etc. You can do this, as BL supplies all the data you need to
choose your own algorithms.

A much bigger problem is that the data you are using to fix your sales prices
are worldwide, yet prices vary by region. Some regions include tax, others do
not. For example, why base your price on an average mainly coming from US sales,
when the EU market might be willing to pay more?

Author:

MidwestBrick

Posted:

Oct 1, 2018 10:33

Subject:

Re: 90-percentile as new average price ?

Viewed:

60 times

Topic:

In Suggestions, Gaston.La.Brick writes:

I really don't think prices on Bricklink
are unfair at all considering all the work that goes into running a store.

You are jumping to conclusions. I never said prices are unfair. I'm saying
the average calculation, although mathematically correct, is not a good indication
of what a piece is actually sold for most of the time.
Because that is what the average amount implies: the average price to which an
item is sold for most of the time.

For me, I use the average price to set my pricing. But currently it becomes unreliable,
when you have to verify how many items have been sold at a price that's not
realistic (or at least: that has something strange going on -- $1.00 for
a typicall $0.02 item, seems strange to me).

You are not for, because it would make the calculation less transparant. But
it doesn't have to be clear how it was calculated, as long as it's accurate.
It's like Google search engine: you don't need to know the algorithm
behind it, as long as the results are accurate (which they typically are).

Your remark about why not the middle 90p (so 5p-95p range), is valid but I'm
in doubt about that. It still is a seller/buyer market. So a low price actually
does mean a very solid competition that influences the seller/buyer market. This
in contrary to a very high price, which is not relevant for the seller/buyer
market.
The reason I wouldn't include the lowest 5p, I give you that, is to exclude
the sellers who price very low but add a ridiculously high fee per lot.

In the end, to me, it still feels the average price as a purely mathematical
average, is not very useful. You imply it's good for sellers, since the buyer
gets an (unrealistic) idea about the amount he should spend on the item. Unless
it's a smart seller that looks at other stuff than average amounts... (and
I think most of them do).

A low price puts in all those sales where people are "selling out".

Overall, to each their own on pricing. I have my own methods which vary from
color to color, type to type and category to category, and use multiple buckets
to put items into rather than one. If I have a piece and want to sell it for
$1 when the market is $0.05 and it sells. That's a great business decision.
Price is only one factor of many when buyers choose your store.

Author:

Gaston.La.Brick

Posted:

Oct 1, 2018 09:57

Subject:

Re: Price offer

Viewed:

30 times

Topic:

In Suggestions, Bricks_NW_UK writes:

In Suggestions, mikmo writes:

Can you imagine getting 2000 messages offering you 3$ for your Chrome black Darth
Vader minifig ?

There should at least be a min. amount if this option is implemented.

Kind regards

Mikael / MikMo

I'm not a seller on eBay, but I have used the "Make an offer" as a buyer
a few times (with always reasonable offers) and sellers have accepted my offer
in about 50% of the cases. Or made a counter offer that I thought was still acceptible.
Of course, you are right: this is ridiculous to do for common items. But for
items that aren't that highly available (often very expensive items), I find
it useful.

But to be honest: I think there are more urgent items to be implemented on BrickLink
(Responsive Design please!)

Author:

Gaston.La.Brick

Posted:

Oct 1, 2018 09:54

Subject:

Re: 90-percentile as new average price ?

Viewed:

53 times

Topic:

I really don't think prices on Bricklink
are unfair at all considering all the work that goes into running a store.

Author:

Teup

Posted:

Oct 1, 2018 09:05

Subject:

Re: 90-percentile as new average price ?

Viewed:

77 times

Topic:

In Suggestions, Gaston.La.Brick writes:

This suggestion comes up now and then, I am not in favour, as it makes the priceguide
less transparent but most of all it promotes the race to the bottom even more.
In a different kind of design, with a different role and usage for the priceguide,
I could be in favour. But the way Bricklink is set up now, I think sellers very
strongly evaluated based on their prices not being above average - at least that's
how I used to use Bricklink when I was a buyer. I think in the current design,
we need those quirky up-effects, not because they make for the most ideal and
scientifically sound kind of priceguide, but to balance things in a context where
down-effect already prevails.

What surprises me though is that you suggest it to include only the lowest. Why
not middle 90%? What you propose seems to me like a race to the bottom on top
of a race to the bottom.. That sounds like you prefer the priceguide showing
just low prices over accurate prices. I really don't think prices on Bricklink
are unfair at all considering all the work that goes into running a store.

Author:

Gaston.La.Brick

Posted:

Oct 1, 2018 08:47

Subject:

90-percentile as new average price ?

Viewed:

202 times

Topic:

Status:

Discarded

Author:

Bricks_NW_UK

Posted:

Oct 1, 2018 06:19

Subject:

Re: Price offer

Viewed:

53 times

Topic:

In Suggestions, mikmo writes:

Can you imagine getting 2000 messages offering you 3$ for your Chrome black Darth
Vader minifig ?

There should at least be a min. amount if this option is implemented.

Kind regards

Mikael / MikMo

Author:

mikmo

Posted:

Oct 1, 2018 05:11

Subject:

Re: Price offer

Viewed:

55 times

Topic:

Can you imagine getting 2000 messages offering you 3$ for your Chrome black Darth
Vader minifig ?

There should at least be a min. amount if this option is implemented.

Kind regards

Mikael / MikMo

Author:

miskox

Posted:

Oct 1, 2018 03:53

Subject:

Price offer

Viewed:

115 times

Topic:

Status:

Open

Vote:

[Yes|No]

Could an option (maybe this was suggested before?) be added that would allow
possible buyer to offer a price?

I would list an item with a price and a check box there would make this item
appear with a 'make an offer' options. Potential buyer would enter the
price he/she is willing to pay for an item. Seller receives this Quote and denies
or accepts this offer. If seller accepts it he then can add shipping quote and
send a quote (or something like that).

Saso

Author:

bricksahead

Posted:

Sep 30, 2018 23:43

Subject:

Re: Note to seller is not very good

Viewed:

98 times

Topic:

In Suggestions, randyipp writes:

Hi Randy,

This is a great suggestion which I can fully support. It has happened to me a
couple of times that I missed a "note to seller".

Hanne

Author:

randyipp

Posted:

Sep 30, 2018 22:17

Subject:

Note to seller is not very good

Viewed:

295 times

Topic:

Status:

Open

Vote:

[Yes|No]

Author:

BrickArchitect

Posted:

Sep 28, 2018 17:43

Subject:

Order Item Removal Request notification

Viewed:

91 times

Topic:

Status:

Open

Vote:

[Yes|No]

As a buyer on Bricklink
I sometimes have a seller requesting an "Order Item Removal Request"
on items the seller does not have in stock.

When the seller requests an "Order Item Removal Request"
can this request be sent to the buyers Bricklink Messages (presently it does
not).

This lack of notification from bricklink has caused many issues between buyers
and sellers

Author:

AngrySquirrel

Posted:

Sep 28, 2018 17:41

Subject:

Re: Search inventory remarks in top search bar

Viewed:

46 times

Topic:

can we get this going again?

Author:

Brickwilbo

Posted:

Sep 27, 2018 12:53

Subject:

Re: Sorting prospective sellers by Favorites

Viewed:

30 times

Topic: