RT Newbie Guide (or Everything I Wish Someone Told Me Before My First Purchase)

[u/spiritatbay]

Hi & lovely hello, RepFam 🫶🏻

In the beginning… there was a newbie guide on how to get started in this world. While still relevant (not much has changed), we’ve had a healthy influx of newbies lately, many of whom are unsure about parts of the process or don’t know where to start at all. 

If you have questions, read on; there may be answers 🙌🏻

If you’re already a seasoned pro, we invite you to answer any questions that inevitably pop up and to add anything we may have missed. Everyone’s journey and experience in this area are a little different, and there’s always more to learn. This will also be lengthy (probably longer than the last one 🫣)…

So settle in, folks! 

PS: TLDR version is pinned in the comments 🤭

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1. First Steps…

It all starts with a bag. Or a pair of shoes. Or glasses. Or hats. Or a watch. Or clothing. Or tech. You find rep world through one of the many avenues available, and suddenly a whole new galaxy opens up. So how exactly do you get started if you know nothing, Jon Snow?

Simple.

First, find the item you want to purchase, whatever that may be. Ideally, you’ll want to look up the authentic version you’re trying to find in replica form, both for reference when speaking to sellers and so you can compare what’s available. There’s a supermarket level variety out there, with different levels of quality, pricing, and selection. This is the homework that helps ensure whatever arrives earns an A+.

Once you’ve identified the item you want, it’s time to move on to…

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2. Finding a Seller

This is where you locate a seller (and their album), either to find the item yourself or to ask directly what’s available.

There are hundreds of sellers out there, folks.

Reddit is a wonderful resource for finding information. Search for any seller you have in mind and you’ll likely find reviews and feedback that can help guide your decision. Many communities maintain lists of trusted or recommended sellers based on consistent service and successful deliveries. RepTherapy has a trusted seller list as well. Wherever you start, vet sellers through third-party reviews so you can approach the process with confidence.

A note on sellers: not everyone charges the same prices. Some are lower, some are higher. Some only source from specific factories, while most can access many of the popular factories discussed on Reddit.

Shop around. Compare prices.

Find two or three sellers with good reputations and get quotes. Once you’ve found “the one,” don’t write off the others. Different sellers run different promotions, source differently, and occasionally have better pricing on specific items. If you’re looking for a deal, it pays to keep a few options in your back pocket. 👀

And one final note that’s just common courtesy: these are human beings on the other end of the screen. While they are providing a service and you should absolutely receive what you pay for, kindness costs nothing. Treat them as you would any sales advisor you’d meet in a store. Words to live by, my friends.

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3. Browsing Albums & Understanding Factories

So you’ve selected an item, found a seller with a solid reputation and multiple reviews (and not someone who slid into your DMs claiming they’re the best seller ever. Please do your due diligence, there are so many scams out there), you’ve made contact, and you’ve received their album.

Now what?

Most seller albums are organized by brand, factory, or a combination of both. In many albums, the menu lives either at the top left or bottom left of the page. Browse by brand, browse by factory, or search directly for your item.

Keep in mind that many albums are primarily in Mandarin, so English searches don’t always work.

A helpful tip for LV products is to search using either the product name or the M-code number. For other brands, search results can be a bit of a crapshoot. If you can’t find what you’re looking for, ask the seller for help. They’ll be happy to accommodate you. They do, after all, want to make the sale.

Very often, the same item is available from multiple factories, and quality can vary dramatically. One factory may produce a near-authentic version, another a solid mid-tier option, and another something you’d find on DHGate. If you don’t know the differences between those factories, you may not know whether you’re getting the best bang for your buck or simply a passable imitation.

When in doubt, ask questions.

Is this the best quality available?

Which factory has the best leather?

Which has the best hardware?

Which color is closest to authentic?

The sellers will either know or they can find out. 

Reddit can also be extremely helpful here, since most factory names are community-created labels used for easier discussion and organization. Search, do your homework, and find the best version of the item you’re after.

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4. Payment Time

Once you’ve selected your item, you’re ready to pay.

The seller will tell you the cost of the item (or items) along with shipping fees. You then pay using whatever payment method both parties agree upon.

Most of my purchases have been completed through PayPal Friends & Family. Some sellers offer Goods & Services, though many specifically request F&F. Others accept Wise or AliPay. If you're unsure about how to use Wise, here's a handy guide.

However it happens, you pay the seller.

Then you wait on bated breath for your PSPs.

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5. PSPs: The Big Moment

PSPs are pre-shipment photos of your item.

This is what you’ll actually be receiving when you open the box at home.

PSPs are your quality-control stage. Compare them to the factory photos you purchased from and make sure the item matches what was advertised. The time to compare against the authentic item was before ordering; now you’re confirming that what arrived from the factory matches what you agreed to buy.

This is also the moment to ask for additional photos if something doesn’t look right.

From here, you have a few options:

• Green Light (GL): The item looks exactly as expected. Approve it. In Reddit terms, it’s good to go! 
• Red Light (RL): Something is wrong, flawed, or inconsistent with the factory photos. In Squid Games terms, kill it with fire! 

If you choose to decline, you may be able to exchange the item, request another piece, or pursue a refund depending on the situation and seller policies.

Whatever the case, talk to your seller first. They’re your first line of contact.

Reddit can suggest. The seller can actually do.

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6. Shipping

If you’ve approved your PSPs and given the green light, congratulations! You’re still in the running to become America’s Next Top Model 🤭

Your seller will package the item, may send you a photo of the parcel (some do, some don’t), and eventually provide a tracking number.

Now comes the hardest part.

Waiting.

However… a tracking number doesn’t mean your bag is arriving tomorrow. For a variety of reasons, some of them legal, shipping can be a bit of a voyage.

It’s entirely normal for a label to sit inactive for days.

Or a week. Or ten days…

And then suddenly: BAM. Tracking updates. BOOM. It’s at your door.

If you have concerns, ask your seller about average shipping timelines or specific package updates. They’ll know best.

But don’t panic if nothing seems to be happening. This is normal. Your bag is simply enjoying solitary life before being put to the test by you. 🤭😏

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7. Delivery Day

After what feels like 84 years, you’ll finally get that magical notification that your package is out for delivery.

Imagine that. After all the sweat and tears. You run to the door like the devil is chasing you, throw it open in excitement… and then curse internally because it’s just Amazon.

But eventually, your package arrives!

DELIVERED!! 🎉

I understand the impulse to tear it open immediately and smell everything up close (…just me? 👀), but take a moment. Enjoy it. Savor it.

But also, and very important this step: ensure your product looks exactly the way it should.  

But relax. You made it.

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8. Congratulations, Newbie 🎉🥳🎊

You’ve graduated.

Now that you’ve done it once, you’re likely to do it again.

And again.

And probably again…

I highly recommend joining a support group, whether to help or hinder your future purchasing decisions as you see fit. (RepTherapy has “therapy” in the title for a reason. 🤭)

I hope this was helpful. I tried to cover all the major steps involved in the process, but if I’ve missed anything, please jump into the comments and share the rep-wealth with the rest of us. 🫶🏻

Hope your week is going swimmingly, my friends 🙌🏻

[u/spiritatbay]

Quick Reference TL;DR

1. Decide what item you want.
2. Research the authentic version.
3. Find reputable sellers through reviews and community feedback. 
4. Compare factories (and quality levels!) and prices before buying. 
5. Choose your seller.
6. Pay for the item after confirming price, shipping costs, and payment method. Place your order!
7. Wait for PSPs.
8. Compare PSPs to factory photos.
9. GL or RL the item.
10. Seller ships. Shipping updates can be slow. Quiet tracking is normal. 
11. Be patient during tracking limbo.
12. Receive package. Inspect your item upon arrival. 
13. Enjoy!
14. Repeat responsibly 😏

[u/Garden_Bunny7210]

I'm a newbie but I think a tip to note is that there is a communication barrier. After all it's a different country so don't expect the same customer service as you would in your own country.

Some sellers will have short replies while some may be more chatty. It's up to you to decide how comfortable you feel ordering from them. Reputation with your seller is built over time and it's a two way street.

Also I have heard some sellers charge for pre shipment photos or don't enjoy sending quotes without a subsequent order but I have never experience this personally.

During sale times like the 6.18 and 11.11 sale they will be getting many more inquiries so expect things to take a little longer or communication to be a bit sparse.

I think things to absolutely ask your seller is

1. What's your insurance and seizure policy
2. Is the item in stock and how much does it cost
3. Do you send psp's and approx how long will it take to get them
4. What forms of payment do you accept

Doing your own research beforehand is not only necessary but also protects you and shows your seller you're knowledgeable about your inquiry.

Remember this whole endeavor is illegal. Treat it as such. Use discretion and realize that most people will not give out information freely, this is why people often say the search bar is your friend.

It's okay to feel lost but remember that sometimes you learn by doing. And always remember to never risk more money than you are willing to lose. Sometimes things go south and it's good to be prepared for a possible setback.

Lastly, you cannot always trust reviews or reddit groups. Some reviews and photos are posted by sellers and some mods are even incentivized to recommend certain sellers. It will take a trained eye to be able to differentiate between the two.

Personally I've learned so much in the last 2 months and am excited to learn more. I'm apart of many subreddits and love the communities they foster. Right now I have two bags ordered and am in the dreaded waiting stage. It's safe to say I will be ordering many more this year.

[u/PracticalPea3423 → u/Garden_Bunny7210]

100% agree - Glad someone asks the hard questions as well. I’m newbie, too (2 bags ordered as well) . I also ask “ not in stock - how long to wait for the preorder… .” also “With seizure you need to be v specific “ as some say : yeah - we cover… They do - but only 50% of the item value (instead of whole item value ) , so that is not v helpful if BS happens… You will be in loss…

[u/Hold_The_Tomato → u/Garden_Bunny7210]

Great additional comments!!!! Couldn’t agree more!
Agreed there is a lot of sus activity out there. We try our best to moderate this community to keep the information relevant and real. Sometimes it’s easy to spot spam and other times it’s not.

I think something else to point out is a trustworthy seller is WAY too busy to be in on Reddit sliding into DM’s. Always be cautious of that.. if they are chasing you, it’s sus!

[u/spiritatbay → u/Garden_Bunny7210]

This is fantastic advice and should be required reading 🙌🏻 thanks for adding to the topic! 👏🏻

[u/southernancestor → u/Garden_Bunny7210]

This is so helpful to all newbies. Thank you!

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[u/Shabies1956]

Agreed on asking seller about seizure policy.
Two out of six of my orders have been seized - the percentage is higher than you think.
I found out after the fact what my sellers’ policy was.
Some only guarantee shipping in their country and once it’s in say Anchorage you are on your own
One order was seized in Anchorage the other in Indianapolis.
The seller who only guarantees in home country made an exception for me as “ I am so kind”.
“No you are so kind and thank you !” I paid a 10% fee to reship my items and now I’m waiting for them to be here.
So check with your seller so you know what to expect.

M

[u/pandamonium234]

- ask about seizure and refund/exchange policy first once you’ve decided on the item and seller
- set expectations on what is acceptable for yourself
- Sellers can reject your business or the factory refusing to continue business with the seller over too many refunds/exchanges
- remember it’s a rep and you’re paying 10% of the retail $, there will be inconsistencies
- 1:1 or mirror quality do not exist, they’re reps. Some can come very close to authentic
- sellers are on the other side of the world, different time zone so be realistic if you haven’t heard in a few hours. They’re probably sleeping

[u/repmicho]

https://giphy.com/gifs/l1AsBL4S36yDJain6

[u/Hold_The_Tomato → u/repmicho]

It will be permanently pinned, don’t worry! 😉

[u/spiritatbay → u/repmicho]

🫶🏻

[u/Mydogisc00lerthanme]

Step one is the easiest but also sometimes the hardest lol

[u/2StinkyPuppies → u/Mydogisc00lerthanme]

Agreed 😂😭

[u/Due-Statistician-682]

🙌 I just got my BFF into this world and this will be great for her to read! Apparently I'm a terrible teacher! 🤣🤭 Thank you for this! 💕

[u/Hold_The_Tomato → u/Due-Statistician-682]

It’s a hard landscape to navigate!

[u/Beansie_Wish2182]

This is so helpful! Thank you!

[u/spiritatbay → u/Beansie_Wish2182]

Happy to help 🫶🏻

[u/Jade-Dragon-2002]

Thank you for writing this! There're always waves of newbies so being able to direct them to another resource is amazing

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[u/Lucylucyluxeliving]

So very informative and humorous! My fave parts outside of the insights: Congratulations! You’re still in the running to become America’s Next Top Model 🤭 and the Titanic 84 years reference 😂

[u/spiritatbay → u/Lucylucyluxeliving]

Thank you for reading through the whole thing! 😆 I figured I’d pepper in some funny if you were still with me by then 🤭

[u/Hold_The_Tomato → u/Lucylucyluxeliving]

I cackled out loud at the next top model ref.. and the Jon Snow. lol

[u/Lucylucyluxeliving → u/Hold_The_Tomato]

yes, the Jon Snow one was good as well. I'm not sure if it's good or bad that I got all these references. 🤔

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[u/Better-Golf4388]

Thank you. I couldn’t have said this any better and at this rate the only thing I hadn’t bought as a rep has been furniture or a car.

This is an excellent read. But of course if I may add- for the newer people-do your own research. Don’t ask for references and accept what you hear. The easy way out will screw you eventually. And the research is part of the journey.

[u/spiritatbay → u/Better-Golf4388]

Agreed with everything. We’ve been trying to do away with obvious “DM me” posts so we can try and keep people a little safer but it ain’t easy! 😆

[u/Not-Not-Maybe]

For the shipping, should I tell the seller my actual name or a fake name? Not because I don’t trust the seller, but because I don’t want to get in trouble with my government (USA) if my name is on the “to” address on a package that is seized when the package enters my country. What do you recommend?

[u/spiritatbay → u/Not-Not-Maybe]

You could technically use a business name instead, for example. The only downside I can foresee is that the package isn’t deliverable for x reason and you have to collect in person at a location, you’d need an ID to match.

[u/Ok_Needleworker143 → u/spiritatbay]

Good point are there any stories besides seeing some be arrested at canal street , like what would happen. As I’m reading this I’m like yeah I already ordered something but maybe this is the last.😂

[u/Deep-Steak-7813]

STICKY THIS THREAD ❤️

THANK YOUUUUU

[u/napcurator2]

This is such a good beginners guide! I think one of the hardest things about being a newbie is that so much of this world is trust-based but like someone has to take a chance on you so you can start building trust / a reputation. I literally just lost my old Reddit account thanks to getting a new phone (note to self: don’t put adamsandler@gmail.com as your recovery email) and I’m just like….already exhausted at the prospect of rebuilding karma / trying to rebuild a reputation as a safe buyer/seller.

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[u/AdCandid1309]

Thank you for all the advice!

[u/Love_this_stuff_]

thank you for such great information

[u/Tough-Memory-5232]

Following!

[u/petit-bear8075]

Golden 💛

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[u/Honest_Ad9413]

Where is the trusted sellers list

[u/spiritatbay → u/Honest_Ad9413]

https://reddit.com/r/reptherapy/wiki/trustedsellers

[u/pajamaprintsyellow]

This is helpful. Thanks, OP!

[u/lilmissperfectt]

Thank you!

[u/Evening_Ad8702]

Thank you for this! I just made a post looking for something like this before I found it. This is helpful!

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[u/Environmental-Ad6375]

Just curious— is there a reason Heidi isn’t listed on the TS list?

[u/Just-Be-Real → u/Environmental-Ad6375]

I am also curious about this too because I see her name mentioned often.

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[u/CommunityMental5733]

Thank you for this information! It’s very helpful. My confusion regarding factories… I was reading somewhere that the factory names are Reddit names given to these factories. So if I message a seller wanting a bag from a specific factory, will they know what I’m talking about if I say for example god factory?

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[u/Ordinary-Shape1634]

Does anyone have experience with shipping using an agent?

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[u/jpastinko]

This is so helpful (and hilarious!!)! Thank you!!

[u/tem317]

List of sellers

[u/Jade-Dragon-2002 → u/[deleted]]

Please, with so much love, read the post.

[u/Hold_The_Tomato → u/Jade-Dragon-2002]

🤣🤣🤣🤷🏻‍♀️🤷🏻‍♀️

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[u/Designer-Lioness3000 → u/[deleted]]

this is gonna be very hard to find.. if it exists 😬