Work out the real cost of a thrift find
The listing price is one part of the amount you will pay. Compare purchases using their total cost.
Start with the checkout total
Add the item price, shipping and applicable tax. For an international purchase, check the checkout information for any import charges. Then include any cleaning or alteration you already know you will need. Leave out hoped-for savings that have not actually been offered.
A simple comparison
Suppose one shirt costs $18 with $8 shipping. Another costs $24 with free shipping. Before tax, the second costs $2 less. If the $18 shirt also needs a replacement button or paid cleaning, account for that separately. These are illustrative amounts, not current offers.
Price the possible return
Check whether you can return the item because it does not fit, who pays return postage and whether the original shipping charge is refundable in that situation. Read the listing and current platform terms. An inexpensive item can be poor value if you would not wear it and returning it costs too much.
Set your limit
Choose the maximum total you would pay before making an offer or bidding. Compare similar items in similar condition. An asking price tells you what a seller wants; it does not establish what the item is worth to you.
For current eBay return rules, consult eBay’s returns and refunds help and the individual listing.