Add items supporters understand quickly
Each item should have a short title, a helpful description, a starting bid, and a bid increment. Include practical details such as age suitability, location limits, expiry dates, delivery limits, booking requirements, or collection arrangements.
Write descriptions so a bidder can decide without needing to message the organiser. If a prize was donated by a business, include the donor acknowledgement in a way that also helps bidders understand what is included.
Use images well
Good images help bidders recognise the prize and build confidence. Upload a clear item image where possible and adjust the focal point so the important part appears in cards and previews.
Use one representative image rather than a collage when the item needs to be clear on mobile. Avoid images that contain important text if that text may be hard to read on a small screen.
Set bidding rules carefully
- Starting bid: the lowest first bid you are willing to accept.
- Bid increment: the minimum increase between bids.
- Reserve price: an optional minimum amount that must be met for the item to be considered sold.
Check these values before launch because changing rules during a live auction can confuse bidders. If you are unsure, choose simple increments that match the likely value of the prize and are easy for supporters to understand.
Organise your item list
Group similar prizes, place headline lots near the top, and use admin notes for internal details that bidders do not need to see. Keep bidder-facing text focused on what the supporter receives, how they can use it, and any limits that affect value.
Final item review
Before scheduling, scan every item for missing images, unclear restrictions, duplicated titles, and outdated donor details. Headline prizes should be especially clear because they often appear in promotion messages.