Key takeaways
- Spell condition out in the description. Use abbreviations only where buyers in that marketplace search them.
- Be specific about flaws: where, how big and how visible.
- Choose the marketplace condition option that matches your wording.
- Photos and words must agree.
Why honest condition wording protects you
Most “not as described” cases start with a gap between what the listing said and what the buyer received. Clear condition wording closes that gap, keeps your feedback strong and saves you return shipping.
The abbreviations resellers use
| Term | Means | Say it in plain words |
|---|---|---|
| NWT | New with tags | Brand new, original tags attached, never worn |
| NWOT | New without tags | Never worn, tags removed or missing |
| NIB | New in box | Unused, in original box |
| EUC | Excellent used condition | Worn gently, no noticeable flaws |
| VGUC | Very good used condition | Light wear, minor signs of use |
| GUC | Good used condition | Visible wear, fully functional, details noted |
Not every buyer knows these. On eBay, spell it out where there is room. On Poshmark and Mercari, shorthand is common, but still describe it in plain words in the description.
How to describe flaws without losing the sale
| Vague | Specific and honest |
|---|---|
| Some wear | Light fading at the left cuff, about 2 cm, shown in photo 6 |
| Small mark | Faint 1 cm stain near the hem, not visible when worn |
| Good condition | Pre-owned, clean, no holes or tears, light pilling under the arms |
- Say where the flaw is, how big it is and how visible it is.
- Mention smells, pilling, fading, snags, repairs and alterations.
- Point to the photo that shows it.
Match the marketplace condition options
Each marketplace has its own condition choices. eBay offers options such as New with tags, New without tags and Pre-owned for many categories, and the list varies by category. Poshmark has a new-with-tags toggle. Mercari offers a set of condition levels. Pick the option that matches your wording, and never choose a higher grade than the item deserves.
When you are torn between two grades, pick the lower one. A happy buyer who expected less leaves better feedback than a disappointed one who expected more.
Condition checklist
- Condition option matches the description
- Every visible flaw is in the description and in a photo
- Smells, pilling, fading and repairs are mentioned
- Abbreviations are explained in plain words
- Tags status (attached, removed, missing) is clear
Quick answers (FAQ)
What does NWT mean?
New with tags. The item is unused and the original tags are still attached.
What is the difference between NWT and NWOT?
NWT still has tags. NWOT is new but the tags are removed or missing.
What does EUC stand for?
Excellent used condition: worn gently with no noticeable flaws.
Should I use abbreviations in my title?
Only if you have room and buyers in that marketplace search them. Always explain the condition in the description.
What if I am not sure of the condition?
Choose the lower grade, describe what you see and photograph it.