Skip to main content

Listing Modes

RTC Collector offers flexible marketplace listing options to fit different selling needs. Choose between listing items from your collection or creating standalone listings, and decide whether to list one item at a time or multiple items at once.

Listing Mode Overview​

Two Decision Points​

When creating a marketplace listing, you make two key decisions:

1. Listing Quantity:

  • Single Item - List one item with detailed attention
  • Bulk Listing - Create multiple listings at once (Enthusiast tier only)

2. Listing Source:

  • From Collection - List items already in your collection
  • Standalone - List items without adding to collection

New Sellers:

  1. Start with Single Item mode
  2. Choose "From Collection" if item is already cataloged
  3. Choose "Standalone" for quick listings without collection tracking

Power Sellers:

  1. Use Bulk Listing for multiple similar items
  2. Apply templates for consistent pricing and shipping
  3. Customize individual listings as needed

Listing Sources​

From Collection​

What It Is: List items that are already cataloged in your collection. The listing automatically inherits all details from the collection item.

How It Works:

  1. Navigate to Create Listing → Choose Source
  2. Select "From Collection"
  3. Choose which collection item to list
  4. Item details auto-fill (name, category, condition, photos, etc.)
  5. Set marketplace-specific details (price, listing type, shipping)
  6. Publish listing

What's Auto-Filled:

  • Item name
  • Category (Console, Computer, Handheld, Game, Accessory, Other)
  • Condition (NEW, EXCELLENT, GOOD, FAIR, POOR, UNKNOWN)
  • Manufacturer
  • Model number
  • Release year
  • Region
  • Color
  • Serial number
  • All photos from collection item
  • Item notes and description

What You Set:

  • Listing price
  • Listing type (SALE, TRADE, BOTH)
  • Shipping method (SELLER_SHIPS, BUYER_ARRANGES, COLLECTION_ONLY)
  • Packaging details (SEALED, CIB, BOX_ONLY, CART_ONLY, LOOSE, DIGITAL)
  • Trade preferences (if listing for trade)
  • Marketplace-specific notes

Advantages:

  • ✅ Auto-filled details save time
  • ✅ All existing photos included
  • ✅ Linked to collection for tracking
  • ✅ Easy to manage (edit collection, listing updates)
  • ✅ Accurate item details (already cataloged)
  • ✅ Only one place to maintain item info
  • ✅ Selling history tracked in collection

Disadvantages:

  • ❌ Requires item to be in collection first
  • ❌ Extra step if item not already cataloged
  • ❌ Collection item can only have one listing
  • ❌ Deleting collection item removes listing

Best For:

  • Items you want to track in your collection
  • Items you already cataloged
  • Items you might keep (not selling immediately)
  • Maintaining comprehensive collection records

Example Workflow:

  1. Add Nintendo 64 console to collection
  2. Upload photos, add details (serial number, condition, etc.)
  3. Click "List on Marketplace" from item detail page
  4. Set price ($120), listing type (SALE), shipping (SELLER_SHIPS)
  5. Add marketplace notes ("Includes all cables, tested working")
  6. Publish listing

Unique Constraint: Each collection item can only have ONE marketplace listing. If you try to create a second listing for the same item, you'll get an error. Delete the existing listing first if you want to create a new one.

Standalone Listing​

What It Is: Create a marketplace listing without adding the item to your collection. The listing is independent and self-contained.

How It Works:

  1. Navigate to Create Listing → Choose Source
  2. Select "Standalone"
  3. Fill in all item details manually
  4. Set marketplace details (price, shipping, etc.)
  5. Upload photos specifically for this listing
  6. Publish listing

What You Must Fill:

  • Item title (required)
  • Category (required)
  • Condition (required)
  • Item description
  • All photos (standalone listings have their own photos)
  • Manufacturer (optional)
  • Model number (optional)
  • Release year (optional)
  • Region (optional)
  • Packaging details
  • Price
  • Listing type
  • Shipping method
  • Marketplace notes

Master Item Autofill: You can optionally link to a Master Item for autofill assistance:

  • Search master item database
  • Auto-fill name, category, manufacturer, release year
  • Still independent from your collection
  • Just uses master item as template

Advantages:

  • ✅ Quick to create (no collection management)
  • ✅ Independent of collection
  • ✅ Good for items you're flipping (buy to sell)
  • ✅ Don't need to track in collection
  • ✅ Simpler process if not a collector
  • ✅ Can list items you don't own yet
  • ✅ No collection item limits (HOBBYIST tier)

Disadvantages:

  • ❌ Must enter all details manually
  • ❌ Not linked to collection (no tracking)
  • ❌ Duplicate data if you also have in collection
  • ❌ No collection analytics (value tracking, etc.)
  • ❌ Two places to update if you catalog item later
  • ❌ Photos specific to listing (not reusable)

Best For:

  • Items you're flipping (buying to resell)
  • One-time sales (not keeping long-term)
  • Items you don't want to catalog
  • Quick listings without collection overhead
  • Selling for friends/family
  • Testing marketplace before committing to collection

Example Workflow:

  1. Navigate to Create Listing → Standalone
  2. Enter title: "Super Mario 64 - N64 Game"
  3. Select category: GAME
  4. Select condition: GOOD
  5. Upload 3 photos
  6. Set price ($35), listing type (SALE), shipping (SELLER_SHIPS)
  7. Add description and marketplace notes
  8. Publish listing

Converting to Collection Item: If you decide to catalog a standalone listing later:

  1. Create new collection item with same details
  2. Copy photos and details manually
  3. Original listing remains standalone (not automatically linked)
  4. Consider deleting standalone listing and creating new "From Collection" listing

Single Item vs Bulk Listing​

Single Item Mode​

What It Is: Create one detailed listing at a time with full customization.

Features:

  • ✅ List from collection or standalone
  • ✅ Full photo editing and descriptions
  • ✅ Gaming-specific details (region, packaging)
  • ✅ Price suggestions and market insights
  • ✅ Complete control over every detail

Best For:

  • Unique or special items needing individual attention
  • High-value items requiring detailed descriptions
  • Items with complex details or history
  • Sellers listing occasional items
  • First-time sellers learning the platform

Access:

  • Available to all subscription tiers (HOBBYIST, COLLECTOR, ENTHUSIAST)
  • No restrictions

Workflow:

  1. Create Listing → Single Item
  2. Choose source (From Collection or Standalone)
  3. Fill in all details
  4. Upload/select photos
  5. Set pricing and shipping
  6. Publish listing

Bulk Listing Mode​

What It Is: Create multiple marketplace listings at once using templates. Streamlines the listing process for sellers with many items.

Features:

  • ✅ Select multiple items from collection
  • ✅ Apply templates for pricing and shipping
  • ✅ Customize individual listings as needed
  • ✅ Save time with batch operations
  • ✅ Progress tracking and auto-save
  • ✅ Review before publishing

Workflow:

  1. Create Listing → Bulk Listing
  2. Select multiple collection items (step 1)
  3. Apply template for common settings (step 2)
  4. Customize individual listings (step 3)
  5. Review all listings (step 4)
  6. Publish all at once

Templates Include:

  • Listing type (SALE, TRADE, BOTH)
  • Price formula (fixed price, percentage of value, etc.)
  • Shipping method (SELLER_SHIPS, COLLECTION_ONLY, etc.)
  • Packaging defaults
  • Standard marketplace notes

Auto-Save:

  • Session auto-saves every 30 seconds
  • Sessions expire after 7 days
  • Can resume unfinished bulk sessions
  • Progress indicator shows completion status

Access:

  • ENTHUSIAST tier only (£15/month or £150/year)
  • Not available to HOBBYIST or COLLECTOR tiers
  • Upgrade required to use bulk listing

Best For:

  • Power sellers listing many items regularly
  • Liquidating large portions of collection
  • Consistent listing formats across items
  • Time-conscious sellers
  • Professional retro game sellers

Limitations:

  • Only works with collection items (no standalone bulk)
  • Must select items before applying templates
  • All items must have photos uploaded
  • Cannot mix categories in single bulk session (recommended, not enforced)

Choosing the Right Mode​

From Collection vs Standalone​

Choose From Collection If:

  • ✅ Item is already in your collection
  • ✅ You want to track selling history
  • ✅ Item details already entered
  • ✅ You use collection analytics
  • ✅ You might keep the item
  • ✅ You want single source of truth

Choose Standalone If:

  • ✅ Item NOT in collection
  • ✅ Flipping items (buy to sell)
  • ✅ Quick sale without tracking
  • ✅ Don't want collection overhead
  • ✅ Selling for someone else
  • ✅ Testing marketplace features

Recommendation: Use "From Collection" for items you care about tracking. Use "Standalone" for items you're flipping or selling quickly without collection management.

Single vs Bulk Listing​

Choose Single Item If:

  • ✅ Listing 1-5 items
  • ✅ Each item needs unique details
  • ✅ High-value or special items
  • ✅ First time selling on platform
  • ✅ HOBBYIST or COLLECTOR tier
  • ✅ Items require individual attention

Choose Bulk Listing If:

  • ✅ Listing 10+ items
  • ✅ Items are similar (same category, condition)
  • ✅ Want consistent pricing/shipping
  • ✅ Time is a concern
  • ✅ ENTHUSIAST tier
  • ✅ Professional seller

Recommendation: Start with Single Item mode until comfortable with platform. Upgrade to ENTHUSIAST tier for Bulk Listing when regularly listing many items.

Creating Listings: Step-by-Step​

Single Item from Collection​

Steps:

  1. Navigate: Marketplace → Create Listing
  2. Choose Mode: Select "Single Item"
  3. Choose Source: Select "From Collection"
  4. Select Item: Browse/search your collection, click item to list
  5. Review Auto-Filled: Name, category, condition, photos pre-populated
  6. Set Price: Enter sale price or trade value
  7. Choose Listing Type: SALE, TRADE, or BOTH
  8. Set Shipping: SELLER_SHIPS, BUYER_ARRANGES, or COLLECTION_ONLY
  9. Select Packaging: SEALED, CIB, BOX_ONLY, CART_ONLY, LOOSE, DIGITAL
  10. Add Marketplace Notes: Specific selling points, flaws, etc.
  11. Preview: Review listing before publishing
  12. Publish: Make listing live on marketplace

Time to Complete: 2-5 minutes (details already entered in collection)

Single Standalone Listing​

Steps:

  1. Navigate: Marketplace → Create Listing
  2. Choose Mode: Select "Single Item"
  3. Choose Source: Select "Standalone"
  4. Enter Title: Full item name
  5. Select Category: Console, Computer, Handheld, Game, Accessory, Other
  6. Set Condition: NEW, EXCELLENT, GOOD, FAIR, POOR, UNKNOWN
  7. Upload Photos: Minimum 1, maximum based on subscription tier
  8. Add Description: Item details, history, condition notes
  9. Optional Master Item: Search and link for autofill assistance
  10. Set Price: Enter sale price or trade value
  11. Choose Listing Type: SALE, TRADE, or BOTH
  12. Set Shipping: SELLER_SHIPS, BUYER_ARRANGES, or COLLECTION_ONLY
  13. Select Packaging: SEALED, CIB, BOX_ONLY, CART_ONLY, LOOSE, DIGITAL
  14. Add Marketplace Notes: Specific selling points
  15. Preview: Review listing
  16. Publish: Make listing live

Time to Complete: 5-10 minutes (all details entered manually)

Bulk Listing from Collection​

Steps:

  1. Navigate: Marketplace → Create Listing
  2. Choose Mode: Select "Bulk Listing"
  3. Step 1 - Select Items: Browse collection, select 2+ items to list
  4. Step 2 - Apply Template:
    • Choose listing type (SALE, TRADE, BOTH)
    • Set price formula (fixed, % of value, etc.)
    • Choose shipping method
    • Select default packaging
    • Enter standard marketplace notes
  5. Step 3 - Customize: Review each listing, adjust as needed
  6. Step 4 - Review: Final check of all listings
  7. Publish All: Publish entire batch at once

Time to Complete: 10-20 minutes for 10-20 items (vs 30-60 minutes individual)

Progress Tracking:

  • Shows X of Y items selected
  • Auto-saves every 30 seconds
  • Can leave and resume later (7-day expiry)
  • Completion percentage displayed

Listing Management​

Editing Listings​

From Collection Listings:

  • Edit collection item → Listing auto-updates
  • Or edit listing directly (doesn't update collection item)
  • Photo changes in collection reflect in listing
  • Two-way sync for some fields, one-way for others

Standalone Listings:

  • Edit listing directly
  • All changes self-contained
  • No collection item to sync with

What Can Be Edited:

  • Price (anytime)
  • Listing type (SALE ⇄ TRADE ⇄ BOTH)
  • Shipping method
  • Packaging details
  • Marketplace notes
  • Photos (add/remove/reorder)
  • Description

What Cannot Be Edited:

  • Category (must delete and recreate)
  • Linked collection item (must delete and recreate)

Deleting Listings​

From Collection Listings:

  • Delete listing: Collection item remains
  • Delete collection item: Listing also deleted
  • Cannot separate listing from collection item after creation

Standalone Listings:

  • Delete listing: Gone permanently
  • No collection item affected

Active Transactions:

  • Cannot delete listing with active offers
  • Cannot delete listing with active transaction
  • Must complete or cancel transactions first

Relisting Sold Items​

From Collection:

  • Item still in collection after sale
  • Can create new listing for same item if you still have it
  • Useful if sale fell through or you have multiple copies

Standalone:

  • No automatic relist feature
  • Create new standalone listing with same details
  • Copy previous listing details manually

Listing Visibility and SEO​

Search Optimization​

All Listing Types:

  • Title most important for search
  • Category determines category filters
  • Condition affects sorting options
  • Tags from collection items help discoverability (From Collection only)

Best Practices:

  • Include full item name in title
  • Add manufacturer, model, and variant
  • Use proper category
  • Accurate condition rating
  • High-quality photos (primary photo especially important)

Example Good Title: "Nintendo 64 Console - Atomic Purple - Complete in Box - Tested Working"

Example Poor Title: "N64 for sale"

Marketplace Placement​

Featured Listings:

  • Not currently available
  • May be added in future updates

Sorting:

  • Newest listings appear first (default)
  • Can sort by price (low to high, high to low)
  • Can sort by condition
  • Can filter by listing type (SALE, TRADE, BOTH)

Subscription Tier Limitations​

HOBBYIST (Free)​

From Collection:

  • ✅ Up to 3 active listings
  • ✅ Single item mode only
  • ❌ No bulk listing
  • ✅ 3 photos per item

Standalone:

  • ✅ Unlimited standalone listings
  • ✅ Single item mode only
  • ❌ No bulk listing
  • ✅ 3 photos per listing

Why Standalone Unlimited: Standalone listings aren't tracked in collection, so they don't count against collection item limits.

COLLECTOR (£5/month)​

From Collection:

  • ✅ Up to 10 active listings
  • ✅ Single item mode only
  • ❌ No bulk listing
  • ✅ 10 photos per item

Standalone:

  • ✅ Unlimited standalone listings
  • ✅ Single item mode only
  • ❌ No bulk listing
  • ✅ 10 photos per listing

ENTHUSIAST (£15/month)​

From Collection:

  • ✅ Unlimited active listings
  • ✅ Single item mode
  • ✅ Bulk listing mode
  • ✅ Unlimited photos per item

Standalone:

  • ✅ Unlimited standalone listings
  • ✅ Single item mode
  • ✅ No bulk standalone (bulk is collection-only)
  • ✅ Unlimited photos per listing

Bulk Listing:

  • ✅ Exclusive to ENTHUSIAST tier
  • ✅ Up to 50 items per bulk session
  • ✅ Session auto-save (7-day expiry)
  • ✅ Template system
  • ✅ Progress tracking

Best Practices​

For Collection Sellers​

Do:

  • ✅ Catalog items in collection first
  • ✅ Use "From Collection" listings
  • ✅ Upload quality photos to collection item
  • ✅ Maintain accurate condition ratings
  • ✅ Keep collection and listing in sync

Don't:

  • ❌ Create standalone listings for collection items
  • ❌ Forget to update collection after sale
  • ❌ Leave sold items as OWNED status

For Flippers/Resellers​

Do:

  • ✅ Use standalone listings for quick turnaround
  • ✅ Focus on clear photos and descriptions
  • ✅ Price competitively
  • ✅ Respond quickly to inquiries
  • ✅ Consider ENTHUSIAST tier for bulk listing

Don't:

  • ❌ Add every flip to collection (overhead)
  • ❌ Neglect item details (hurts sales)
  • ❌ Forget marketplace-specific notes

For All Sellers​

Do:

  • ✅ Use high-quality photos (well-lit, multiple angles)
  • ✅ Write detailed, honest descriptions
  • ✅ Disclose all flaws and damage
  • ✅ Price competitively (check similar listings)
  • ✅ Respond promptly to messages and offers
  • ✅ Ship quickly after payment

Don't:

  • ❌ Mislead buyers about condition
  • ❌ Overprice (check market rates)
  • ❌ Ignore messages (hurts reputation)
  • ❌ Delay shipping (bad reviews)

Troubleshooting​

Cannot Create Listing from Collection Item​

Causes:

  • Item already has active listing (one listing per item limit)
  • Subscription tier limit reached (HOBBYIST: 3, COLLECTOR: 10)
  • Item marked as SOLD or LOANED (cannot list)

Fix:

  1. Check if item already listed (view item detail)
  2. Delete existing listing if creating new one
  3. Check subscription tier listing count
  4. Upgrade if limit reached
  5. Change item status to OWNED

Listing Not Showing in Marketplace​

Causes:

  • Listing not published (saved as draft)
  • Listing marked inactive
  • Item details incomplete
  • Photos not uploaded

Fix:

  1. Verify listing status is ACTIVE
  2. Ensure all required fields filled
  3. Upload at least 1 photo
  4. Refresh marketplace page
  5. Check if filters hiding listing

Cannot Edit Listing Category​

Limitation: Category cannot be changed after creation.

Fix:

  1. Delete listing
  2. Create new listing with correct category
  3. If from collection, update collection item category first

Bulk Listing Not Available​

Causes:

  • Not on ENTHUSIAST tier
  • Trying to bulk list standalone items (not supported)

Fix:

  1. Upgrade to ENTHUSIAST tier (£15/month)
  2. Use single item mode for standalone listings
  3. Add items to collection first, then use bulk listing

Photos Not Transferring from Collection​

Causes:

  • Collection item has no photos
  • Photo upload failed
  • Cache issue

Fix:

  1. Verify collection item has photos
  2. Re-upload photos to collection item
  3. Refresh listing page
  4. Try different browser

FAQ​

Can I have both a collection item and standalone listing for the same item?​

Technically yes, but not recommended. You'd have duplicate listings for the same physical item, which confuses buyers and violates marketplace policies.

What happens to my listing if I delete the collection item?​

The listing is also deleted. Collection item and "From Collection" listing are linked. Deleting one deletes the other.

Can I convert a standalone listing to a collection item listing?​

Not directly. Create collection item with same details, delete standalone listing, create new "From Collection" listing.

How many listings can I have active at once?​

HOBBYIST: 3 (From Collection), unlimited (Standalone) COLLECTOR: 10 (From Collection), unlimited (Standalone) ENTHUSIAST: Unlimited (both types)

Can I use bulk listing for standalone items?​

No. Bulk listing only works with collection items. Use single item mode for standalone listings.

Do standalone listings affect my collection analytics?​

No. Standalone listings are independent and don't count toward collection value, category breakdown, or other analytics.

Can I list an item I don't own yet?​

Yes, using standalone listings. Useful if you're pre-selling items you're acquiring. However, ensure you can deliver the item if it sells.

What's the difference between marketplace notes and item description?​

Item description (collection item): General item info, history, personal notes. Marketplace notes: Selling-specific info (shipping details, package contents, condition clarifications).

Can I schedule listings to go live later?​

Not currently. Listings publish immediately. Drafts may be added in future updates.

How do I list the same item type multiple times (e.g., 5 copies of same game)?​

Create 5 separate collection items, then list each individually. Or use standalone listings for items you're not tracking in collection.