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ESTIMATE METHODOLOGY

Every deal should show its work.

RetailArbitrage.ai estimates are decision aids, not guarantees.

Expected sold value− Clearance price− Estimated sales tax− Estimated marketplace fees− Estimated shipping= Estimated profit or loss

Product identification

The app looks for product names, model numbers, set numbers, packaging, barcodes, and shelf labels. A photo match is less certain than a verified barcode or exact model number. Similar packaging, bundles, quantities, sizes, colors, and conditions can produce incorrect matches.

Clearance price

The app attempts to associate each item with the nearest readable shelf tag. If the tag is unclear or the association is uncertain, the price should be treated as unverified. Use the clearance-price override to enter the store price yourself. The app should never be treated as permission to buy an item at a displayed price.

Sold value

Sold value is estimated from recent comparable marketplace sales when available. We try to favor the exact product and comparable condition while excluding obvious bundles, lots, accessories, parts, and unrelated items. Sparse or inconsistent results reduce confidence. Marketplace data can be delayed, unavailable, incomplete, or wrong.

Fees, tax, and shipping

Marketplace fees vary by category, seller account, promotions, advertising, buyer location, and marketplace rules. Sales tax is estimated using the app’s configured assumptions. Shipping is estimated from likely size and weight and may differ substantially from the carrier price. Packaging cost is currently excluded based on the family’s reuse of available boxes.

Buy threshold

A Buy signal means the estimated profit meets the threshold selected in the app. It does not account for every risk, including returns, damage, storage time, unsold inventory, price changes, restricted products, or your labor. Raising the threshold creates a larger cushion; lowering it accepts more risk.

Before you buy

  1. Verify the barcode, model, quantity, and condition.
  2. Confirm the store price and any sales tax.
  3. Open the comparable listings and confirm they are truly comparable.
  4. Check actual packed weight, dimensions, and shipping service.
  5. Confirm marketplace fees and product restrictions.