In years past, it has been relatively easy to purchase ceramics – walk in to a shop, see the item, pick it out, pay and take away. Simple. But in today’s market, local resources are not easily available, so buyers have resorted to purchasing online, from unknown sellers, sight virtually unseen. They have to purchase on faith, with varying expectation.
Any buy or sell transaction requires a level of trust for both parties, especially in today’s ecommerce. It is very important to address many matters before entering an agreement. Both buyer and seller need to work together to assure both have a satisfactory experience
A Good Buyer will:
Try to find someone or someplace where they can get references. There is one group on Facebook for that very purpose: Ceramic Sellers I Love. There are other groups as well.
Know what they are buying
Asks questions from seller – don’t expect sellers to always post their prices publicly, especially on finished items.
DOES NOT say or post they want something until they are sure – creates misunderstandings. They can always say they like something and ask questions without a seller having expectations.
Makes sure they know size, price, how it is finished if photo is provided (i.e. glazed or non fired)
Know if item is bisque (unpainted), or finished and how.
Ask if or when it is available or in stock
Request shipping ESTIMATE (prices may change when packed)
Does seller offer any guarantees and policies – KNOW what they are. That includes, refunds, shipping, breakage and workmanship.
When placing an order, be sure to include all shipping information, email address and any contact information
Pay deposit or full amount in advance – many sellers will not begin an order until there has been some payment arrangement. Also just because a seller does not accept PayPal, it does not mean they are untrustworthy
Be prompt when paying a seller.
Don’t argue with a seller’s payment methods and policies. If you do not like them or cannot accept them, then be polite and don’t place the order – They have their reasons.
Be patient, If not in stock it takes time to complete orders. Remember, not all shops are full time ventures. The process of locating mold, casting mold, drying and cleaning the ware, firing just to get it to bisque takes time. Custom finishing takes additional time and often additional firing – sometimes as many as four more. Also, there are often orders ahead of yours, so wait your turn.
Keep in contact with the seller, get updates
IF they change their mind, let the seller know as soon as possible so seller can move on to the next order.
Lets the seller know when payment is sent
Lets the seller know when they receive an item as soon as it is received so if there are any problems, they can be resolved.
In the case of errors or broken items, gives the seller the opportunity to take care of the issue. This cannot always be over night. Many sellers are busy creating, not hawking emails or social media to see messages.
If they like the item, let the seller know and be sure to tell others.
If they do not like the item, let the seller know so they can hopefully improve in the future and hopefully remedy buyer’s dissatisfaction.
Does not lose their tempers, harass or becomes abusive if a transaction goes ‘wrong,’ there are recourses
See: What constitutes a Good Seller
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