I am new here and not sure what beer is worth for another and don't want to come off like a jackass or get ripped off(not really a huge deal but would like a fair deal). So is it ok to ask what is fair here or do I just make a thread in the Trade forum and hope for the best. Also since there is no way to reply to thread to Thread and everything is PM, am is it common curtsy to take the first offer or the best offer. I mean cause I don't have alot to trade, so would it make me look bad to not trade with everyone that responds to the Thread. Thanks
Welcome! This is the forum where you can ask about what would be fair trade value for certain bottles. I'd recommend you do a search before posting to see if there is already a thread on the topic, though. The inability to post replies to a ISO:FT posting is new. It's ok to see what offers come in via Conversation. All things being equal, I'll usually go with the first reply. If you get a bunch of offers, it's ok to start a dialog with a couple of the potential traders and expand the trade or find a way to select a finalist. As a new trader you may be asked to ship first and it would be a nice gesture to offer to do so. Give good trade feedback when things go well. Good luck!
I would read ale watchers blog as well. http://alewatcher.blogspot.com/2010/11/new-trader-tips.html?m=1
Don't start trading until you've been reading the ISO:FT and Beer Trading General/Help forums for at least a month or two. Seriously. You'll end up much more knowledgeable about how things work and general trade "values" and your first trades will go much easier.
Some things I'd recommend... Do some research on the people that respond. Check references by BM'ing past trade partners of those people. Also, finding someone you can trade with in person can save you a good deal on shipping but finding someone in an area that has different distribution from you so that you can start a beautiful trading relationship over time. Don't over extend yourself (this is very easy to do if a bunch of people respond and want to send you things that you want). Take it slow, probably 1 or 2 in the beginning so you know what you're getting in to. If through your conversation you get any red flags, move on to someone else...make sure you feel comfortable with the person and the deal. This (above)...and check the bad trader list. Also, no harm in reaching out to others for help if you have questions (this is a good start) and have fun!
also, if you can, have a more experienced BA show the fine art of box packing and extras. I hung out with a buddy a few times while he packed boxes and then when I finally stepped up to my first trade, he helped me pack my box. what better excuse to drink a beer or two and meet someone new.
All the advice so far has been spot on. I'm relatively new to the trading scene myself and have been lucky enough to trade with some great people who have helped me out a bunch. I would recommend investing in a styro shipper for your first trade or two until you become familiar with how to best pack a box. In the end the styro shipper will be much easier to pack, just make sure to put in extra padding so that the bottles don't rattle around. Also if you have to ship first odds are that you'll get the styro shipper back when your partner sends over their half of the trade.
