Friday 20 February 2015

Go Online And Swap Stuff

By Olivia Cross


Before money existed, goods and services were exchanged by bartering. This fell away and money exchanged hands instead. However, bartering has been reintroduced as the internet has provided a way for people to connect with one another for this purpose. Many websites, both large and small, are catering for people who want to exchange goods and services and it is even possible to do some house or car swapping. People all over the world swap stuff every day.

People are bartering all kinds of goods and services today from cars and furniture to baby-sitting shifts and house repairs. With many large-scale and niche sharing sites, it is not difficult to find one to meet your needs. When using one of the larger websites, ways are provided to navigate to your specific area. Other smaller bartering websites may be dedicated to serving one particular area.

Like any other activity today, safety precautions are necessary. Most of these websites have regulations in place to protect their members as far as possible. However, it is still up to the individual to be cautious. Do not post an expensive item without being sure of what you are getting in exchange. Items that are less expensive are often posted or shipped.

Exchanging goods in person is always a good idea as it offers the opportunity to both parties to see the goods. When arranging to meet someone it is preferable to arrange a meeting somewhere like a coffee shop. Taking a friend along makes the whole procedure even safer.

Many people are addicted to sites like those swapping clothing. They provide a way for them to indulge a desire for new clothes without having to part with any cash at all. Some of these sites even offer exchange of accessories and cosmetics. For parents with children who grow out of clothing so quickly, websites provide a way for them to connect with other parents in the same predicament and exchange clothing that still has plenty of wear. Book lovers can easily exchange books in the same way and video games are another popular item for exchange.

Timing your swaps carefully can make a difference as some items are bound to go better at certain times of the year. Cash in by swapping old Halloween costumes just before Halloween or old Christmas decorations a few weeks before Christmas. A prom dress will be very popular before prom.

Some of the niche websites have very loyal communities. Sometimes new members have to be recommended before they can join. Larger websites usually offer free membership and the more people who join the better. There are different rules and regulations and ways of operating. Some use a points system, for example, whereby members receive points for goods posted and can use these to get items they want. On some websites, users do not relate to one another at all and swapping is arranged for them.

Instead of storing unwanted items or throwing them away, people are now taking advantage of the opportunity presented by these websites to barter. This is the perfect way to get rid of these items rather than cluttering closets or ending up in the trash. It can also be a way of saving a huge amount of money by getting needed or wanted goods without parting with any cash at all.




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