Snapping great photos is step one (check out our photography guide for tips), but step two is just as important: writing a listing that makes collectors stop scrolling and start adding to cart. A clear, detailed listing builds trust and helps buyers know exactly what they’re getting.
Here’s a breakdown of each section you’ll fill out when posting a figure on Toy Box Alley — with some collector-flavored advice sprinkled in.
🏷️ Name
Keep it simple and accurate. Start with the character name, then add the line or series. Example:
“Luke Skywalker – The Vintage Collection (VC12)”
✏️ Short Description
Think of this as the “elevator pitch” for your figure. One or two sentences that tell buyers what makes it worth a click.
- Good: “Complete Boba Fett from The Black Series, includes blaster and jetpack, great condition.”
- Not so good: “Star Wars figure.”
📖 Full Description
This is where you can flex your collector knowledge. Give buyers the details they crave:
- Mention accessories, articulation, packaging status, or any quirks.
- Call out special features (soft goods cape, exclusive release, etc.).
- Be honest about condition — scuffs, missing pieces, or loose joints should be noted here.
Think of it like telling the story of your figure. Collectors love a good story.
💲 Price
Price it fairly based on the figure’s condition, rarity, and market value. Remember, collectors know their stuff — if your price is too high or too low, they’ll notice.
🎭 Genre
This is the universe or line your figure belongs to: Star Wars, Marvel, G.I. Joe, Masters of the Universe, etc. It helps buyers filter and hunt.
📅 Year
List the year the figure was released. Even newer figures can become collectibles over time, and year helps collectors place it in its proper era.
📏 Scale
Most figures are 3.75″, 6″, or 12″, but some lines run smaller or larger. Accurate scale helps buyers know if it will fit their display shelves (or battle scenes).
🔢 Product Number
If your figure or packaging includes an official product number, list it. Collectors love having that extra detail for verification.
🌊 Product Wave
Many lines are released in waves — listing the wave can help collectors track down missing pieces from a set. Example: “Black Series, Wave 23.”
📦 Product Condition
Condition is critical in the collector world. We’ve put together a dedicated condition guide to help you describe whether your figure is Mint, Near Mint, Good, or Fair. Be accurate and consistent — buyers appreciate honesty.
🖼️ Product Cardback
If your figure came on a specific cardback (like “Vintage Collection Empire Strikes Back card”), mention it. Packaging variations matter a lot to carded collectors.
🏷️ Product Alley Tag
Alley Tags are like collector shorthand. They’re keywords that help buyers search and identify your figure. Examples: “Jedi,” “Trooper,” “90s Kenner,” “SDCC Exclusive.”
🔀 Variant
If your figure has a known variant (different paint apps, misprinted card, running change), be sure to call it out. Variants can be grail-worthy, and serious collectors will thank you for flagging them.
Final Tip: Think Like a Buyer
Imagine you’re on the hunt for your holy grail figure. What details would you want to know before hitting “Buy”? That’s exactly what should go into your listing. Combine clear info with great photos, and your figure will be halfway to its new shelf before you know it.