If you’ve ever browsed a local marketplace and felt like you were decoding a secret language, this guide is for you. Sellers use acronyms and shorthand to quickly convey an item’s condition and terms. Learning this vocabulary will make you a more confident and efficient buyer and seller.
Condition Codes: The State of the Item
Here’s what sellers mean when they describe the condition of an item.
- BNIB (Brand New in Box): The item is unused, in its original packaging, with all tags and accessories.
- NIB (New in Box): Similar to BNIB, indicating an unused item in its original box.
- NWT (New with Tags): Common for clothing. The item is unused and still has the store tags attached.
- EUC (Excellent Used Condition): The item has been used but shows very few, if any, signs of wear. It looks and functions like new.
- GUC (Good Used Condition): The item has been used and has minor, visible signs of wear but remains in solid working order.
- VGUC (Very Good Used Condition): A step above GUC, with minimal wear and excellent functionality.
- PNO (Practically New Owner): Implies the current owner used it very little and it’s in like-new condition.
- For Parts/Repair: The item is not functioning or is missing key components. It’s sold for spare parts or as a project for someone with repair skills.
Pricing and Negotiation Terms
Understand these terms to know if you can negotiate.
- OBO (Or Best Offer): The price listed is the seller’s starting point, but they are inviting you to make a lower offer. It’s an invitation to negotiate.
- FIRM (Price is Firm): The opposite of OBO. The seller is not willing to negotiate on the price.
- PRICE DROP: The seller has reduced the price from a previous, higher listing price.
- MSRP (Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price): The price the manufacturer recommends for a new item. Sellers use this to show the discount they’re offering.
Transaction and Item Details
Pay attention to these details for a smooth transaction.
- LOCAL PICKUP ONLY: The seller will not ship the item. You must arrange to pick it up from their location.
- SHIPPING AVAILABLE: The seller is willing to mail the item to you, usually at an additional cost.
- NO HOLDS / FIRST COME, FIRST SERVED: The seller will not reserve the item for you. The first person who can come and pay for it gets it.
- VINTAGE: Typically refers to items that are at least 20-30 years old and representative of the style of that era.
- RETRO: An item that is newly made but designed to look like it is from a past era.
- RARE: The seller believes the item is uncommon or hard to find. Do your own research to verify this!
Conclusion
Knowing these terms allows you to scan listings quickly, ask better questions, and communicate clearly. It’s a small investment in knowledge that makes the entire process smoother and more successful. Happy trading