posted on December 9, 2002 12:01:00 AM new
I have recently begun selling on E-bay after buying for quite a while. So far I'm really delighted with how it is going and plan on selling lots more. My question is- how do you keep track of your auction businesses record keeping wise? Do you print out every auction? Download all your accounts (Ebay, Paypal, Billpoint, Auction Watch etc) into your own spreadsheet?
Is there a commercially available program that you use? I haven't been able to print out any really useful reports from Ebay, Paypal or Auction Watch that will help me keep track of my auctions, fees, costs and profits. It seems like there is a lot of knowledge on this board and I'd love to benefit from your experience rather than trying to re-invent the wheel. I have hired a bookeeper to help me but the information I get back is only as good as what I give her. Do most of you do this yourself? From reading your posts I know that many of you keep track of every expense. Thanks for your help.
posted on December 9, 2002 03:57:18 AM new
I use AuctionWatch, Ebay and Paypal reports to keep track. I enter the information I need into an Excel spreadsheet. I don't sell a lot so the procedure is fairly simple to me. I do it once a week. Make sure you keep all the reports you've printed so you have hard copies. Your fees and income are all listed on your Ebay statement. Same with Paypal. Paypal even allows you to see all your closed Auctions and enter the way that each person paid. I enter the check number for those that paid by check. Unless you are selling a lot and making even more, I don't see the need to hire a bookkeeper. Especially if what she is giving you is something you could have done yourself.
Someone else may have a better way. If there is one out there, great!
