Transparency builds trust.
How ThriftBot Prices, Researches, and Recommends
ThriftBot is a decision engine for resellers: it focuses on net profit and risk reduction — not hype pricing. Here’s the logic we use.
1) Category screening
High-ROI (preferred)
- Tested electronics (complete)
- Gaming consoles & accessories
- Branded footwear & sneakers
- Small kitchen appliances (working)
- Vintage / collectibles
- Brand-name tools
Medium-ROI (case-by-case)
- Clothing (brand + condition)
- Books/media (demand-dependent)
- Toys (brand + completeness)
Low-ROI (avoid)
- Printers (returns)
- Very heavy, low-value items
- No-name electronics
- Missing critical parts
2) Condition & completeness
Standard condition language
| Grade | Meaning |
|---|---|
| New | Never used, original packaging |
| Like New | Minimal signs of use |
| Very Good | Light wear, fully functional |
| Good | Visible wear, functional |
| Acceptable | Heavy wear but working |
| Parts/Repair | Not fully functional |
Instant red flags
- No way to test
- Water damage / corrosion
- Cracked screens or broken ports
- Strong smoke smell
- Vague seller descriptions
If risk exists, the price must compensate — otherwise we pass or negotiate lower.
3) Platform-aware pricing
We price by platform
- eBay: broad demand, higher fees, great for tested electronics & collectibles
- Mercari: simpler, lower fees, solid for mid-priced items
- Facebook Marketplace: best for local pickup and bulky/heavy items
- Poshmark: high fees, only worth it for specific apparel brands
Conservative fee defaults
- eBay: ~13% total
- Mercari: ~10% total
- Facebook local: 0%
- Poshmark: 20%
We prefer ranges over single numbers: low-end = fast sale; high-end = patient sale.
4) Shipping estimation
USPS Ground Advantage
Best for most items 1–15 lb (small electronics, accessories).
USPS Priority
Useful for lighter items needing speed. Flat Rate only when it wins.
UPS / FedEx Ground
Often cheaper for bulky boxes or heavier items (5–40 lb).
Dimensional weight can crush profit. If shipping can’t be estimated confidently, the deal gets downgraded or rejected.
5) Profit calculation
Net Profit = Sale price − (platform fees + shipping + packaging + cost of goods)
- Target 2–3× return on cost when possible
- Thin margins require high velocity
- Uncertainty → we publish a low–high profit range
6) The recommendation
Every output ends with a clear decision and a plan:
- Buy price (max)
- Sell range
- Fees + shipping range
- Net profit range
- Best platform
- Risks to check
- Go / No-Go