Multiple Identical Listings by Same Seller

Thor

Would it be possible for BO to forbid or discourage multiple identical listings of the same item by the same seller? Perhaps BO could automatically consolidate (either mandatory or by default) such lots.

To see what I mean, take a look at the listings for the 1x2 black plate. There are several sellers who have multiple identical listings of this part in this color. Thus, for example, one seller has 29 of the 51 lots offered on BO for this part. ONE seller! 29 listings for the same part in the same color in the same store! 14 lots are listed at 4 cents each, 13 lots are listed at 5 cents each and 2 lots are listed at 6 cents each. Most lot quantities are less than a dozen.

Wouldn't it be much better for buyers and the BO catalog if these 29 lots of the same item were combined into one single lot, or perhaps 3 lots to reflect the 3 different prices? Consolidating lots and discouraging these multiple identical listings would make things easier for buyers, get the combined consolidated listings on more wish lists, streamline the catalog, require less resources, and be fairer to other sellers offering the same part.

BTW, my apologies to the seller in question. I don't mean to disparage him in any way. His listings are just a good example of this particular issue.

Thor

Lawrence

I will have to have a think about that, but definitely an issue.

DadsAfol

For reference, BL uses the lot note (extended description) to differentiate. I have some that are duplicates because of some unique requirements I have for inventory accounting. In my case, I'd be fine if they were somehow collapsed in search results and then exploded if the buyer follows the link into my store. Others though use the extended description to record true differentiation. For example: "torso" and "torso (missing an arm)". Those would not be mergable, plus they would hopefully have different prices.

Lawrence

Stores can now be hidden from the catalog, stores with an excessive amount of lots for the same item will be notified, and then hidden until it is resolved. You can still buy direct from their store though. The buy tab looks much nicer now.

Aladine

and what about listings of different versions? Many common pieces exist in different versions, and to find the right one is important for buyers who want to complete or rebuild an old set.

Thor

If they are different versions then they are not identical listings.

Lawrence

Yes, this is only for very clear cases of the exact same item cluttering up the catalog.