What to say in a reseller voice note so the listing is actually useful
A practical checklist for recording identity, condition, measurements, flaws, included parts, and seller observations while photographing inventory.
A photo can show color and shape, but it cannot reliably explain that a zipper works, a cuff has a faint stain, the tagged size differs from the measurement, or a game is missing one piece.
A short voice note preserves those seller observations without stopping the photo flow. The best note is specific, factual, and organized around what a buyer needs to know.
Begin with identity
Say the brand, visible product name, model or style number, tagged size, material, and quantity. Spell unusual names or photograph the label closely instead of trusting pronunciation alone.
- “Patagonia kids fleece, size 6, blue, full zip.”
- “Pyrex 441 bowl, green Spring Blossom pattern, one and a half quart.”
- “KitchenAid Artisan tilt-head mixer, empire red, bowl included.”
Describe condition as observations
Avoid vague labels like “great condition” until you have said what you actually inspected. Record wear, damage, odor, repairs, missing pieces, and functional tests in neutral language.
- Where the flaw is and approximately how large it is.
- Whether zippers, buttons, lights, motors, and ports were tested.
- What is included and what is visibly missing.
- Whether wear is consistent with age or affects use.
Do not ask an AI draft to hide uncertainty. Say “untested,” “appears to be,” or “I could not verify” when that is the truthful condition.
Say measurements that photos cannot prove
For clothing, note the tagged size and useful flat measurements. For hard goods, record dimensions that affect fit, shipping, or compatibility. Include units every time.
If a tag says 34x32 but the waist measures approximately 33 inches, say both. The discrepancy belongs in the listing.
Add seller context, not unsupported certainty
Mention the details that led you to an identification: a maker’s mark, all-uppercase tab, serial number, fabric tag, or included manual. Photograph the evidence.
Do not state authenticity, age, or rarity as fact merely because an image model suggested it. High-value claims require a reliable reference or qualified opinion.
Use the same order every time
A repeatable sequence reduces omissions: identity, size, condition, flaws, included pieces, tests, measurements, then special context. Most notes can stay under a minute when the sequence becomes automatic.
Questions about this workflow
How long should a reseller voice note be?
Long enough to capture material facts and no longer. Thirty to sixty seconds is often sufficient for an ordinary item; complex or high-value items deserve more detail.
Should the voice note sound like a finished description?
No. Speak in compact factual phrases. A draft can organize the wording later, while the original note remains useful for review.
Does Shelvio keep the original note?
Shelvio keeps the voice note with the listing so you can replay and review it. Deleting the listing or account removes it from the active service subject to the retention details in the Privacy Policy.
