AstroXchange Seller's Guide: How to Post an Item for Sale

Welcome to AstroXchange!

We're thrilled you're listing your astronomy equipment with us. This guide will walk you through the posting process, requirements, and important information about fees and payments.

STEP-BY-STEP POSTING INSTRUCTIONS

Step 1: Create Your Account (if you haven't already)

  • Go to astroxchange.us
  • Click "Sign Up" or "Create Account"
  • Enter your email and create a password
  • Verify your email address
  • Complete your seller profile with:
    • Full name
    • Contact email
    • Phone number (optional but recommended)
    • Brief bio/intro (optional)

Step 2: Start a New Listing

  • Click "Sell" or "Post an Item" button
  • Select "Create New Listing"
  • Choose listing type: "Equipment for Sale"
  • Select category (e.g., "Telescopes," "Cameras," "Mounts," "Accessories")

Step 3: Fill in Item Details

Item Title: Clear, descriptive name

Example: "Sky-Watcher 200P Newtonian Reflector 8 inch - Excellent Condition"

Include aperture, type, condition

Item Description: Include ALL relevant details

  • Brand and model number
  • Aperture/specifications
  • Age and condition
  • Any damage, marks, or cosmetic issues (be honest!)
  • Accessories included (diagonal, focuser, eyepieces, etc.)
  • Reason for selling
  • Maintenance/care history (if relevant)

Example: "Used for 2 years, excellent condition. Includes original carrying case, Bahtinov mask, and laser collimator. Minor dust marks on tube, no optical issues. Non-smoking home."

Condition: Select from dropdown

  • Like New
  • Excellent
  • Good
  • Fair
  • For Parts/Repair

Step 4: Upload Photos (REQUIRED - SEE REQUIREMENTS BELOW)

  • Click "Upload Photos"
  • Follow photo requirements (see "Photo Requirements" section)
  • Upload minimum 4 photos, maximum 10 photos
  • First photo becomes listing thumbnail (choose wisely!)
  • Photos appear in order uploaded

Step 5: Set Your Price

IMPORTANT: Price is what YOU receive. No hidden fees deducted from your payout.

You set the final price. That's the price you'll net. Here's how it works:

Example: You want to net $250 from a telescope sale

  • You list it for: $250
  • Buyer pays: $250 (item price) + $12.50 (5% buyer fee) = $262.50
  • You receive: $245 (that's $250 minus your 2% AstroXchange commission)
  • AstroXchange keeps: $5 (2% commission) + $12.50 (5% buyer fee) = $17.50 total

Enter your price in the "Price" field. Currency automatically set to USD.

Step 6: Specify Shipping Details

Shipping Method: Select one

  • Buyer Arranges (buyer pays shipping to you)
  • Flat Rate Shipping (you specify amount, included in posted price)
  • Pickup Only (local pickup, no shipping)

Important: If you selected "Flat Rate," your shipping cost is ALREADY INCLUDED in the price you entered in Step 5

Estimated Delivery Time: 3-5 business days (typical for shipped items)

Step 7: Review All Information

Carefully review:

  • Title and description (no typos)
  • Price (what you want to net — this is clean, no surprise deductions)
  • Photos (clear, accurate)
  • Category and condition
  • Shipping method

Click "Preview Listing" to see how it appears to buyers

Step 8: Publish Your Listing

  • Click "Post Listing" or "Publish"
  • Your listing is now LIVE on AstroXchange!
  • You'll receive confirmation email
  • Share your listing URL with astronomy clubs/forums if desired

Step 9: Manage Your Listing (After Publishing)

  • You can edit your listing anytime before sale
  • You can extend listing if item doesn't sell
  • You can remove or relist if needed
  • Monitor messages for buyer inquiries

PHOTO REQUIREMENTS - YOU MUST FOLLOW THESE

Why Photos Matter

Clear, accurate photos build trust with buyers and reduce disputes. Poor photos = fewer sales and lower prices offered.

Minimum Photo Requirements

  • Minimum 4 photos required, maximum 10 photos
  • All photos must be of YOUR item (not stock photos)
  • Photos must be taken by you or show your actual equipment

Required Photo #1: Item Overview

  • Clear, well-lit photo of entire item
  • Shows overall condition and size
  • Good lighting (natural light preferred)
  • No shadows or glare
  • Example: Full scope laid out, showing entire tube and components

Required Photo #2: Close-up of Condition

  • Detail photo showing condition quality
  • Any marks, dust, scratches visible (be honest!)
  • Shows you're transparent about condition
  • Example: Zoom in on tube to show any marks

Required Photo #3: Optics/Functional Parts

  • If applicable, photo of key working parts
  • Telescope: Photo of mirrors/lenses (if accessible)
  • Camera: Photo of sensor/lens
  • Mount: Photo of tracking mechanisms
  • Shows optical quality if possible

Required Photo #4: PROOF OF OWNERSHIP PHOTO ⭐ MANDATORY

  • Take a photo of your item with a sticky note (or paper) clearly visible
  • Sticky note must include:
    • Your AstroXchange User ID (or email address) — printed or handwritten, legible
    • Today's date (legible, formatted MM/DD/YYYY)
    • The sticky note must be positioned ON or NEXT TO the item so item is visible
  • Example: Sticky note on telescope saying:
    • User ID: astro_seller_123
    • 01/15/2025
  • Purpose: Proves you own the equipment and it's not a stock photo
  • Non-negotiable: Listings without this photo will be removed

Optional Additional Photos

  • Different angles (side, back, front)
  • Included accessories laid out
  • Serial numbers/model plates (useful for verification)
  • Packaging/original box (if included)
  • Item in use (if applicable and safe)

Photo Quality Standards

✓ Good lighting: Bright, natural light preferred (avoid dark/dim photos) ✓ Sharp focus: In-focus, not blurry ✓ Honest angles: Show item as it actually is, not misleading angles ✓ Good framing: Item fills most of photo, minimal clutter ✓ Clean presentation: Remove clutter from background if possible ✓ No filters: Use natural colors (no Instagram filters, extreme brightness/contrast)

What NOT to Do

✗ Use stock photos or images from internet ✗ Use heavily filtered or edited photos ✗ Hide damage or condition issues ✗ Use extremely bright/dark photos ✗ Photoshop or alter images ✗ Use other people's photos ✗ Post blurry or out-of-focus photos ✗ Post photos without ownership proof

PRICING: SIMPLE AND HONEST

How Pricing Works on AstroXchange

You set the price. You keep the price (minus your 2% commission).

That's it. No surprise deductions from your payout.

Breaking Down Your Payout

Example:

You list a telescope for: $500

  • Buyer pays: $500 (item) + $25 (5% buyer fee) = $525 total
  • Stripe processes the charge and takes: $15.24 (2.9% + $0.30 on the $525)
  • You receive: $485 (that's $500 minus your 2% AstroXchange commission of $10)
  • AstroXchange keeps: $10 (2% commission) + $25 (5% buyer fee) = $35 total

Key point: You list at $500, you net $485. The Stripe fee is absorbed by the buyer's total cost — it doesn't come out of your payout.

Payout Examples at Different Prices

| You List | You Receive | Your Commission | |----------|-------------|-----------------| | $100 | $98 | $2 | | $300 | $294 | $6 | | $500 | $490 | $10 | | $800 | $784 | $16 | | $1,000 | $980 | $20 |

AstroXchange Commission

AstroXchange charges a 2% commission to maintain our platform, verify sellers, moderate listings, and provide a safe marketplace.

  • Commission: 2% of your listed price
  • Deducted automatically when you receive payment
  • Non-negotiable, applies to all sales
  • Used for: Platform maintenance, verification, security, customer support

PAYMENT & SHIPPING PROCESS

When You Get Paid

Payment Timeline:

  1. Buyer purchases your item and pays
  2. You receive notification (email + dashboard)
  3. Buyer receives item (shipping tracker provided)
  4. After buyer confirms receipt: You get paid via Stripe
  5. Payment transferred to your bank: 1-2 business days

Payment Method: Stripe

  • All payments processed through Stripe Connect
  • Funds transferred directly to your bank account
  • No middleman, direct to your bank
  • Fast, secure, industry-standard

To Receive Payments, You Must:

  • Have a US bank account (checking or savings)
  • Provide bank account info to Stripe (encrypted)
  • Verify your identity with Stripe (one-time)
  • Keep banking info current

Payment Frequency:

  • Payments issued: After buyer confirms receipt of item
  • Transfers to bank: 1-2 business days
  • You see it in your account: 2-3 business days typically

Shipping Responsibilities

YOUR Responsibilities (as seller):

  • Pack item securely with appropriate padding
  • Use carrier of your choice (USPS, UPS, FedEx)
  • Ship within 5 business days of sale
  • Provide tracking number to buyer
  • Include tracking info on receipt/packing slip
  • Ship to address buyer provides

Recommended Shipping Practices:

  • Signature confirmation (for expensive items >$500)
  • Insurance (for fragile/valuable equipment)
  • Delivery confirmation (track in real-time)
  • Bubble wrap/foam (protect optics especially)
  • Tracking number provided to buyer immediately
  • Photos of packaging (optional but recommended)

IMPORTANT - Payment Trigger:

  • You're paid after buyer confirms receipt
  • Confirmation happens when: Item arrives, tracking shows delivered, and buyer marks as received
  • Typically 5-10 days after you ship
  • Keep tracking info handy in case of disputes

Buyer Confirmation

Buyer Must Confirm Receipt for you to be paid:

  • Buyer receives item
  • Buyer checks item condition/works
  • Buyer clicks "Confirm Receipt" in app/website
  • You get paid (minus 2% commission)
  • Transaction complete

What if buyer doesn't confirm?

  • AstroXchange auto-confirms after 7 days if no dispute
  • You'll be paid regardless
  • Buyer can still file dispute if damaged

TERMS & CONDITIONS

Section 1: Seller Eligibility & Responsibilities

By posting a listing on AstroXchange, you agree that:

✓ You own the item being sold and have right to sell it ✓ Item descriptions are accurate and honest — no misleading titles or descriptions ✓ You will provide proof of ownership via the required sticky-note photo ✓ All photos are yours — not stock photos or images from internet ✓ You will ship item within 5 business days of purchase ✓ You will provide tracking information to buyer ✓ Item condition matches description in listing ✓ All included accessories are accurately listed and functional ✓ You agree to our commission structure (2% AstroXchange commission) ✓ You are responsible for packaging and ensuring safe delivery

Section 2: Listing Requirements

All listings must include:

✓ Accurate title describing item, brand, model, aperture, condition ✓ Detailed description with specifications, condition, accessories, any defects ✓ Minimum 4 photos, maximum 10 photos ✓ Proof of ownership photo (sticky note with User ID/email + date + item visible) ✓ Clear pricing (the price you want to net) ✓ Category selection appropriate to item type ✓ Condition rating (Like New, Excellent, Good, Fair, For Parts)

Prohibited Content:

✗ No misleading titles or descriptions ✗ No stock photos or images not of your item ✗ No incomplete item photos (you can't see item clearly) ✗ No shipping costs hidden from your listed price ✗ No duplicate listings of same item ✗ No offensive or inappropriate content ✗ No links to external websites or payment systems ✗ No requests to contact outside AstroXchange ✗ No items listed that are counterfeit, stolen, or illegal

Section 3: Commission & Fees

Commission:

  • AstroXchange charges 2% commission on all sales
  • Commission deducted from your payment automatically
  • Commission covers: platform operations, seller verification, customer support, payment processing infrastructure

Payment Processing:

  • Stripe charges standard payment processing fees (2.9% + $0.30) on the buyer's total payment
  • This fee is absorbed by the buyer's total cost, not deducted from your payout
  • You receive a clean net payment based on your listed price minus 2% commission only

Your Payout:

  • You receive ~98% of your listed price (after 2% commission)
  • Example: List for $600 → Receive $588

Payout Examples:

| Listed Price | You Receive | |-------------|------------| | $100 | $98 | | $300 | $294 | | $500 | $490 | | $1,000 | $980 |

Section 4: Payment Terms

Payment Processing:

  • You're paid after buyer confirms receipt of item
  • Confirmation typically happens 5-10 days after shipping
  • Automatic confirmation after 7 days if no dispute filed
  • You must have active Stripe Connect account to receive payments

Stripe Requirements:

  • Must be verified with Stripe (one-time identity verification)
  • Must provide valid US bank account
  • Must keep banking information current
  • Stripe processes 1099 tax forms for your records

Payment Transfer:

  • Funds transferred from Stripe to your bank account
  • Transfers typically clear 1-2 business days
  • You see deposit in your account 2-3 business days after transfer
  • No fees for transfers to your bank

Disputes & Chargebacks:

  • If buyer files dispute: Payment held pending investigation
  • You can provide evidence (tracking, photos, messages)
  • If chargeback filed: Stripe may charge you $15 chargeback fee
  • You're responsible for valid sales (no fraud, false claims)

Section 5: Shipping & Delivery

Seller Shipping Responsibility:

  • Ship item within 5 business days of purchase
  • Use reputable carrier (USPS, UPS, FedEx)
  • Package securely to prevent damage
  • Provide tracking number to buyer
  • Consider insurance for fragile/expensive items
  • Buyer address is provided at checkout — you must ship there

Shipping Costs:

  • If you quoted shipping in your listing: You've already set the amount you can absorb
  • If you underquote shipping: That's your responsibility
  • Use shipping calculators to get accurate estimates

Delivery Confirmation:

  • You must provide tracking number to buyer
  • Buyer uses tracking to confirm delivery
  • Buyer confirms receipt in app/website
  • Payment released to you upon confirmation

Delivery Disputes:

  • Item doesn't arrive: Buyer can file claim with carrier
  • Item arrives damaged: Buyer can document and file dispute
  • You're responsible for adequately packaging item
  • Insurance claims filed with carrier (you provide tracking info)

Risk of Loss:

  • You're responsible for item until delivered to buyer
  • Use shipping insurance for items >$200
  • Item "delivered" when carrier releases it to recipient
  • Buyer's responsibility after that point

Section 6: Prohibited Items & Activities

You may NOT list:

✗ Counterfeit items ✗ Stolen property ✗ Items that violate laws in any jurisdiction ✗ Hazardous materials (if prohibited by shipping carriers) ✗ Items you don't own or don't have right to sell ✗ Duplicate/multiple listings of exact same item ✗ Items that are dangerous or would cause harm ✗ Any item listed with false or misleading information

Prohibited Seller Activities:

✗ Fraud, misrepresentation, or deception ✗ Requesting buyers contact you outside AstroXchange ✗ Providing false contact information ✗ Attempting to avoid fees or commissions ✗ Creating fake buyer accounts to test pricing ✗ Harassment of buyers or other sellers ✗ Attempting to manipulate ratings/reviews ✗ Using multiple accounts to circumvent policies

Section 7: Photos & Proof of Ownership

Photo Requirements (mandatory):

  • Minimum 4 photos of YOUR actual item
  • Maximum 10 photos per listing
  • All photos must be recent and of the item being sold
  • No stock photos, internet images, or other people's photos
  • One photo MUST include proof of ownership:
    • Sticky note (or paper) with your User ID/email and date
    • Note must be clearly visible in photo
    • Item must be clearly visible in same photo
    • Proves you own the equipment

Photo Standards:

  • Clear, well-lit, in-focus photos
  • Natural colors (no extreme filters)
  • Honest representation (show actual condition)
  • Show any defects, marks, or wear clearly
  • Different angles recommended

Failure to Comply:

  • Listings without proof-of-ownership photo will be removed
  • Listings with misleading/fake photos will be removed
  • Repeated violations may result in account suspension

Section 8: Buyer Disputes & Resolutions

Dispute Resolution Process:

  1. Buyer files dispute (item not as described, damaged, doesn't work, etc.)
  2. AstroXchange team reviews evidence
  3. Both parties provide documentation
  4. Decision made within 5 business days
  5. Payment adjusted or refund issued if needed

Dispute Common Reasons:

  • Item condition not as described
  • Item damaged in shipping
  • Item doesn't work/functional issue
  • Accessories missing
  • Item not what buyer expected
  • Shipping damage

You Provide:

  • Original listing description
  • Photos showing item condition
  • Tracking info showing delivery
  • Communication with buyer
  • Any relevant documentation

If Dispute Found in Your Favor:

  • You keep payment
  • Item may be returned to you or retained by buyer (case-dependent)
  • Shipping costs: Buyer responsible typically

If Dispute Found Against You:

  • Full refund issued to buyer
  • Item returned to you or disposed
  • Return shipping: You may be responsible
  • Repeat violations may affect your seller account

Section 9: Account & Listing Management

Your Seller Account:

  • You're responsible for account security (password protection)
  • You're responsible for all listings under your account
  • You must keep contact information current
  • You're responsible for all transactions under your account
  • Accounts may be suspended for violations

Editing Listings:

  • You can edit listing before sale is completed
  • After purchase, you cannot change price or description
  • You cannot change shipping details after purchase

Removing Listings:

  • You can remove unsold listings anytime
  • Removed listings no longer appear in search
  • Can relist same item if desired
  • Relisting restarts the posting date

Account Suspension:

  • AstroXchange reserves right to suspend account for violations
  • Reasons: Fraud, misrepresentation, violation of terms, abuse
  • Suspended accounts cannot list or sell
  • You may appeal suspension within 30 days

Section 10: Liability & Disclaimers

Equipment AS-IS:

  • All items sold on AstroXchange are sold "as-is"
  • Seller makes no warranties unless explicitly stated in description
  • Buyer responsible for inspecting after receipt
  • Buyer responsible for evaluating condition before purchase

No Warranties:

  • We do not warrant any item's condition, functionality, or fitness
  • We do not inspect items or verify claims
  • We are not liable for defective items
  • Return/warranty claims are between buyer and seller

AstroXchange Not Liable For:

  • Item condition or functionality
  • Shipping damage (file claim with carrier)
  • Delivery delays or lost items
  • Disputes between buyer and seller
  • Accuracy of descriptions (seller responsibility)
  • Third-party claims
  • Any indirect, incidental, or consequential damages

Your Responsibility:

  • Ensure accurate descriptions
  • Ensure adequate packaging
  • Ensure proper shipping
  • Resolve disputes with buyer reasonably
  • Comply with all laws and regulations
  • Pay applicable taxes (state sales tax)

Section 11: Taxes & Legal Compliance

Sales Tax:

  • AstroXchange collects applicable sales tax from buyer
  • Tax varies by buyer's location
  • You're responsible for understanding your tax obligations
  • You may owe sales tax to your state

Income Tax:

  • You're responsible for reporting income to IRS/state
  • Stripe issues 1099-K forms for transactions >$20,000/year (may vary)
  • Keep records of all sales for tax purposes
  • Consult a tax professional regarding obligations

Local Laws:

  • You're responsible for complying with local, state, federal laws
  • Some items may require special handling or licensing
  • You warrant item doesn't violate any laws
  • You're responsible for any legal issues arising from sale

Section 12: Changes & Termination

AstroXchange Reserves Right To:

  • Modify these terms with 30 days notice
  • Suspend or terminate accounts for violations
  • Remove listings that violate terms
  • Adjust commission or fee structure with notice
  • Modify payment processing methods
  • Restrict or prohibit certain items
  • Modify dispute resolution process

Termination:

  • You can delete your account anytime
  • Outstanding transactions must complete
  • You remain liable for pending disputes
  • Reactivation subject to compliance review

BEST PRACTICES FOR SELLERS

Write Great Descriptions

  • Be specific: Brand, model, aperture, focal length, condition
  • Be honest: Describe all defects, marks, issues openly
  • Be detailed: Accessories included, maintenance history, reason for selling
  • Be clear: Use complete sentences, proper grammar
  • Be helpful: Include specs, useful links, relevant info

Price Competitively

  • Research comparable listings online (Celestron, Sky-Watcher sites, eBay, etc.)
  • Price slightly below new retail (used items worth 60-75% of new)
  • Factor in condition and accessories
  • Competitive pricing = more inquiries = faster sale

Respond to Inquiries Quickly

  • Check messages daily
  • Respond within 24 hours
  • Answer questions fully and honestly
  • Be professional and helpful
  • Build trust with potential buyers

Use Clear, Descriptive Titles

✓ Good: "Sky-Watcher 200P Newtonian 8-inch f/5 Telescope - Excellent Condition - Includes Accessories" ✗ Bad: "Telescope For Sale"

Highlight What's Included

  • List every accessory (eyepieces, diagonals, case, collimator, etc.)
  • Accessories increase perceived value
  • Buyers want to know what they're getting

Ship Quickly & Safely

  • Ship within 5 days (sooner is better)
  • Pack securely with adequate padding
  • Use reputable carriers with tracking
  • Provide tracking to buyer immediately
  • Professional shipping = positive feedback

Provide Excellent Service

  • Be responsive to messages
  • Be honest about condition
  • Be helpful with questions
  • Be professional in all communication
  • Positive experiences = positive reviews = more future sales

COMMON QUESTIONS

Q: Can I list multiple items at once? A: Yes, but each item needs separate listing with separate photos and pricing.

Q: What if my item doesn't sell? A: Your listing remains active. You can relist, adjust price, or edit description anytime.

Q: Can I negotiate price with buyer? A: No, price is fixed. Buyer must accept listed price or not purchase.

Q: What if buyer doesn't pay? A: If payment fails, order is cancelled automatically. You retain your item.

Q: How long do listings stay active? A: Until sold or you remove them. No expiration date.

Q: Can I accept payment outside AstroXchange? A: No, all payments must process through AstroXchange/Stripe.

Q: What if shipping cost ends up higher than I quoted? A: You set your own price — if you quoted flat-rate shipping and it costs more, that's your responsibility to absorb.

Q: Can I cancel a sale after buyer pays? A: Only with buyer's consent. Cancellations may incur fees.

Q: What's AstroXchange's refund policy? A: We don't process refunds—that's between you and buyer. Disputes handled case-by-case.

Q: How much do I actually keep? A: You list the price you want. You keep 98% of that (minus your 2% AstroXchange commission). No hidden deductions.

GETTING HELP

Questions about posting? Contact us: support@astroxchange.us

Stuck on a sale? Message us with details and we'll help mediate

Report a problem: Click "Report" on listing or use contact form

Suggest an improvement: We love feedback! Email: feedback@astroxchange.us

FINAL REMINDERS

✓ Be honest — Accurate descriptions protect you and build trust ✓ Be clear — Detailed info reduces questions and disputes ✓ Be responsive — Quick replies lead to faster sales ✓ Be professional — Treat buyers with respect ✓ Be safe — Ship securely and provide tracking ✓ Keep 98% — That's your net, no surprises ✓ Provide proof of ownership — Required sticky-note photo ✓ List items you own — Only sell gear you actually have

Welcome to AstroXchange! Happy selling! 🔭✨

Last Updated: June 2026 AstroXchange.us — Curated. Vetted. Trusted.