Trading Etiquette
Trading etiquette is basically just common courtesy and common sense.
The number one rule is be as honest as possible about everything.
When you are communicating and working out the details of a trade, make sure you speak up if you know a disc has some noise, skips, static, missing songs, bad sound, or anything that would be helpful to someone making a decision on that disc. If you let people know up front, this will save you hassels in the end when they get the disc. Might even save you money by not having to reburn and resend discs.
Also, make sure you find out the other persons trading likes and dislikes. Almost everybody has certain rules they use. Some people don't like a certain brand of discs. Some people require setlists. Some people don't accept mp3 sourced shows. Ask questions to find out what you should and should not do.
Make sure you have setlists/artwork for each show. Include this on either a printout, floppy or an email message. Be sure to send this either before or at the same time you send the discs. It is very annoying to have to bug people to get setlists.
Be honest with the other person about the time frame in which you will send. A trade should never take more than 3 weeks. If it is going to take you longer, contact them and let them know.
Be sure to keep in touch during the trade. Send an email the day you put discs in the mail. Send an email the day you receive your discs. It is very frustrating to have to follow up with people to find out if they ever got what you sent.
Make sure you use post it notes to identify each disc. So the receiver is not trying to figure out which disc is which. Also, make sure you package the discs so they will not get scratched or broken in the mail. Typically bubble wrap or a bubble mailer should be sufficient.
Also, if you send something out that is bad or is unacceptable by the other trader, you should replace it immediately, without question.
If you do find someone who is a bad trader, let as many people know as possible. Also, on the other side of the coin, if you find someone is exceptionally good...let others know. A good trade is becoming hard to come by nowadays.
Click on the Guy drinkin beers to get home