What Sells: Radio Controlled Cars
Radio Controlled (RC) Vehicles
Also called “radio controlled,” these items have a loyal following among kids and
adults. Practically every type of vehicle is available in an RC version, including
cars, trucks, boats, planes and helicopters. There’s a distinction between lower-priced
“toys” and more sophisticated “hobby” grade equipment, although both sell well online.
For hobby grade equipment, the most popular type of RC car is the Off-Road Buggy.
Most, if not all, are 1/10 scale (about 15” long), are either two-wheel drive (2WD)
or four-wheel drive (4WD). Off-Road Buggies can reach speeds of 15-30 mph. On-Road
cars usually have lower ground clearances and are often capable of slightly higher
speeds than their off-road counterparts.
What Sells
Top-selling brands include:
Research Resources
The following websites have photos, product specifications and other information
that can help you identify and describe your items:
http://www.awesomerccars.com/
http://www.helifever.com/
http://www.heliguy.com/
http://www.rc-airplanes.com/
http://www.rccartips.com/
http://www.rchobbies.org/
Condition
Look for these signs of wear and tear:
- Scratches and scuffs
- Rust
- Dents
- Broken, repaired, replaced or missing parts
- Missing accessories (manuals, etc.)
Crashes are a common occurrence, particularly for novice RC operators. Ask the owner
how often the item was used and whether it was ever damaged and repaired.
Key Details
Include these details in your listing:
- Brand
- Model name/number
- Power source (electric, gas)
- If item is Ready-to-Run (item is assembled, not a kit)
- If item is Ready-to-Fly (planes and helicopters)
- Age (if known)
- Accessories
Electric cars use a rechargeable NiCd battery pack for power and can run for up
to 10 minutes at a time with a battery that will recharge in about 15 minutes. Nitro
cars are powered by a small engine that burns a special glow fuel (gas).
Storage and Shipping
Keep RC vehicles in their original packaging in a well-ventilated room, away from
children, pets, smoke and cooking odors. Don’t place items in direct sunlight or
next to heating vents or air conditioners either, since temperature and humidity
changes can cause damage.
Wrap each item individually in plastic to protect it from moisture, bubble wrap
it and place it in a sturdy box in a bed of packing peanuts for shipment to the
buyer.
Some carriers have restrictions against shipping flammable materials like gasoline.
Ask your shipper if you need to empty fuel tanks before shipping.
