What are the best practices to get the best results?
Shoot in good natural light, keep the brand name or model number visible and in focus, use the two-photo feature for items with labels, and enter your actual cost before scanning. These four things account for the majority of accuracy improvement.
Use good natural lighting
Thrift stores and garages often have poor lighting. Step toward a window or outside when you can. Good light lets the AI read brand names, logos, and fine print that could be missed in a dim aisle.
Make the brand name or model number visible
Fill the frame with the item and make sure any logo, brand name, or model number is clearly visible and in focus. The more specific the identification, the more accurate the eBay comp match will be.
Use the two-photo feature for labeled items
Many items have a label on the back, bottom, or inside with the exact model number, size, or edition. SnapShip's two-photo scan was designed specifically for this — use your first photo for the front of the item and the second for the label or tag.
Enter your actual cost before scanning
SnapShip's profit calculation is personalized to your deal. Enter what you'd actually pay for the item so the net profit and ROI numbers reflect your real margin — not a hypothetical.
Try a barcode scan when available
If the item has a barcode, scan it directly instead of (or in addition to) a photo. Barcode scans are extremely fast and highly accurate for any item with a UPC or ISBN.
If you get UNCLEAR, try a different angle
An UNCLEAR result means the AI couldn't confidently identify the item or there weren't enough eBay sold comps to show reliable data. Try a tighter crop focused on branding, or a different angle that shows more identifying detail. Avoid backgrounds that blend with the item.