Select Stock and Price Inventory
1 dayChoose stamps for sale or trade; price at 30–50% catalog for common, higher for rarities.
Intermediate1-2 weeks
Stamp Show Preparation Guide
Complete guide for stamp show preparation — step-by-step workflow, tools, checklist, and expert tips to get started.
exhibitorsdealers
Workflow
Prepare Display Pages and Dealer Boxes
1 dayMount sale stock on dealer pages or stock books; organize by country or price ascending.
Finalize Competitive Exhibit Pages
1 weekComplete 4–8 frame exhibit per federation rules; write title and introductory pages.
Pack Transport and Setup Materials
2 hoursPack stamps in waterproof containers; bring price sheets, change, bags, and magnifiers for customers.
Tools Used
- Percentage CalculatorPrimary
Calculate sale prices as percentage of catalog value for dealer stock pricing sheets.
- NotepadPrimary
Maintain price sheets, inventory lists, and exhibit entry documentation.
- Image CompressorSupporting
Prepare exhibit page images for digital submission or printing.
- Time Duration CalculatorReference
Plan setup time and travel duration to arrive before show floor opens.
Checklist
0 / 6 completedLoading your checklist…
Preparation
Logistics
Sales
Competition
Compliance
Reference Materials
Dealer Pricing GuidelinesTable
Typical sale price as catalog percentage.
| Material Type | Catalog % | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Common used | 20–30% | Bulk lot pricing |
| Common mint | 40–60% | Depends on condition |
| Scarce items | 70–100%+ | Auction reference |
| Covers/FDC | Varies | Check sold listings |
Show Revenue EstimateFormula
Expected sales ≈ items priced × 0.15–0.25 sell-through rate for first-time dealers.
Exhibit Frame StandardStandard
Standard frame = 16 A4 sheets (32 pages); maximum 5 frames in national competition classes.
Price to Sell
Overpriced stock comes home — price competitively and reduce on last day rather than packing unsold items.
Customer Tools
Provide magnifier and good lighting at your table — buyers spend more when they can inspect quality.
Theft Risk
Never leave table unattended — stamp shows are targets for theft; partner with neighboring dealer for breaks.
Safety Notes
- Carry high-value stamps in concealed body pouch during transport — dealer tables are targets in parking lots.
- Verify show organizer insurance coverage before bringing stock valued above personal policy limits.