Setting Up at a Local Card Show

[jcc6252]

I am thinking of setting up at a local show. Anyone have some tips? Should I accept checks? Is shoplifting a big issue? I don't have a display case. Should I bring my high priced cards, or only the more affordable ones? Display a price on every card? Price them so there is room for dickering, or firm pricing? Any comments would be appreciated.

[Rob D.]

In a hobby in which it's hard to reach a consensus on anything, I think almost every collector would agree that the biggest annoyance at a show is dealers who do not have prices clearly marked on cards.

[obcbobd]

Originally Posted by Rob D.

In a hobby in which it's hard to reach a consensus on anything, I think almost every collector would agree that the biggest annoyance at a show is dealers who do not have prices clearly marked on cards.

Agreed. I expect most people will ant to negotiate the price of cards also.

Good luck!

Bob

[caramelcard]

At a smaller show, I'd expect mostly cash from people. I'd price your cards with the expectation that most folks like to haggle a bit. Sometimes you can rent a display case from someone. I'd email the show promoter about that. I guess shoplifting is always possible, but you should have a good view from behind the table.

Bring a calculator, some paper and pen, and business cards if you have em. Also I wouldn't be afraid to bring some "fringe" items like baseball related books for example. I always seem to sell the items I don't expect to sell.

Have fun.

Rob

[Rich Klein]

You could read my columns in Sports Collectors Daily (a valued Net 54 advertiser) about shows but here is some simple suggestions

1) EVERYTHING needs to be priced. If you have a box which is 25 cents/5 for $1 etc, that to me is priced. No one wants to ask the price on every item.

2) Make your display as people friendly as possible. The more they can see, the more they want to buy

3) It takes time to develop a selling reputation, Don't be concerned if your sales are not strong to start. Building relationships take time

4_ Cash. Pay Pal, Checks, and some vendors use CC processors such as Square which is very reasonable

5) Do expect lots of dickering on the prices.

[skelly]

I disagree that everything needs to be priced. As a dealer you should know your inventory. Take a couple hours the night before and figure out what you need for your graded or "case" cards. Make up a "dollar" or a bargain box(s) and your on your way. I'll say this, if you are going to have to look up a price, then it MUST be marked. Customers don't want to stand there while you flip through the guide. Who knows, you might not want to keep doing shows. If that's the case, do you really want each of your cards to have a price sticker on it?
It would also be a good idea to get there as early as possible to set up before lots of traffic / dealers start milling around. Be prepared to possibly trade with or sell to other dealers in the room. They will certainly be interested in any quality stuff you have.
Although a display case isn't essential, it makes you look professional and does guard against theft. Perhaps most important, keep a good attitude even if not selling that well. Greet the people that come by your table and ask if they would like to see anything. Also keep in mind that at a smaller show, most people are going to have a 71 hank aaron, a 76 Brett, you get the idea. Don't be afraid to bring some football, hockey, oddball stuff, etc… Sometimes that kind of stuff can catch a person's eye, especially at a smaller show.