Written by Clem | 29 March 2023
A good object description is key to attracting more bidders on Catawiki. In fact, unclear descriptions are one of the top reasons objects aren’t accepted right away. Speed up the expert review process and stand out by following this guide.
When submitting an object for auction on Catawiki, an in-depth description will help draw in more bidders. The description provides information that can’t be seen in images – and gives you the opportunity to tell the object’s story.
If you submit an object and it’s missing something important, the experts will ask you to review it before accepting it. Setting a reserve price and low quality images are the other top reasons why an object isn’t accepted. Bear in mind that your description will be translated to attract people from around the world, so make sure you keep it clear and easy to read. Get it right the first time when you follow the tips below.
Give us all the details
First things first, tell us everything about your object in the ‘Details’ section. Every special object has different specifications, e.g. a diamond has cut, carat, colour and clarity measurements. For a model train, we’ll need to know the power supply, catalogue number and railroad company, etc. and so on.
Next, enter all the required details as accurately as possible, but don’t worry if you don’t know everything. All objects on Catawiki are reviewed by our experts, so if crucial details are missing, our experts will reach out to you for clarification.
Tell your object’s story
Now’s your chance to really convince potential buyers what makes your object special. The text box labelled ‘Description’ hints at what to include, such as the condition of the object or your shipping method. The more detailed, the better – just like this Mosasaur skull.
However, don’t miss this chance to get poetic – this description of this Team Jumbo-Visma racing bike draws on the owner’s connection to the object. Descriptions like these add a personal touch to every object and can help convince someone to bid.
Don’t forget the extras
We recommend including any of the following, if applicable:
1. It’s unique – a rare misprint, handmade by an iconic name, or one of a kind, etc.
2. It played a role in a historical event (e.g. from the Titanic), or it’s symbolic of a political, cultural or societal movement, such as Barack Obama’s presidential campaign.
3. It has a proud heritage or legacy that has shaped the world, e.g. a rare coronation stamp from Elizabeth II.
4. It’s culturally relevant – such as Pride-related objects – or tells us something about an emerging trend.
5. It has an unusual back story, or was owned by a public or historical figure, like this Honda Civic once owned by Max Verstappen.
If your object is especially rare and has notoriety, make sure to mention this, too. It may have been featured in a local or national publication – just like this Eurovision winner’s dress – tell the expert if and where it’s had some press attention. And if any of the above apply to your objects, share it with the expert. Catawiki users are sure to find this information interesting – and it could convince them to bid.
Check the rest
Our experts review all objects that come through, so reach out to them if you need a hand with your description
If you submit an object and it’s missing something important, the experts will ask you to review it before accepting it. A reserve price that’s too high and low quality images are the other top reasons why an object isn’t accepted. Get it right the first time and sell your special object more quickly.
Finally, bear in mind that your description will be translated to attract people from around the world, so make sure you keep it clear and easy to read. Now you’re ready to impress buyers with your objects and their descriptions!
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Start writing those descriptions now to boost your objects.
Looking for more advice? Check out our Help Centre.
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