Internet auction sites are the virtual flea markets that buyers love, they give vendors a global storefront from which they can sell all nature of goods. However for those not accustomed to the process of buying, or indeed selling, online, this new world of limitless purchasing possibilities can be quite daunting.

When bidding, make sure you know as much as you can about the item, if you have questions that you want to ask the seller then make sure you ask them before you place a bid on the item. If the seller is reputable he or she will be more than happy to answer any questions you pose. Its bad online auction etiquette to big then ask questions and retract your bid, this will give you a negative reputation as a buyer and may effect you in the future.

Always, always, always read the terms of sale thoroughly, this should be included in the auction description. If you win the item and the auction states that the seller only ships within the United Kingdom, or does not accept particular forms of electronic payment, then do not expect them to change their terms, this is very rare. If there are not any terms listed then email the seller and ask exactly what they are.

When youve been successful and won an auction the buyers and sellers should contact each other within three days. Be polite and respond to a seller end of auction message promptly. Its good practice to include your shipping address in your response to the seller as they like to know it in order to package your item and prepare the shipping label.

Its best to pay for your item promptly, this should be within about five days, anything longer is considered unreasonable by the online auction community. When it comes to shipping understand that each seller has different schedules, this should be stated on the vendors terms of sale, and you can of course ask how soon an item will be shipped after payment is received.

After the sale, always email the vendor to inform them you have received the item safe and sound. Additionally to this vendors appreciate you letting them know what you think of the item, if it lives up to expectations etc and giving them feedback after a successful transaction. If you do have an unfortunate issue of discrepancy with the item then contact the vendor with your problem and wait for their response. Dont be hasty and post negative feedback as this can come back to spite in the future and the seller will more often than not, do everything they can to rectify the issue.