ebay request sample / global source scheme - does it work?

[dmurray14]

hey,

i was sitting here taking another look at the global sources site and looking at all the free things you could possibly "sample." i was just wondering if anyone has tried this and whether this actually works. you see people doing it all the time on ebay and selling it as a technique to get real stuff - writing to companies and asking for a sample of an item - i've just never talked to anyone who's done it. anyone?

dan

 

[brtspears2]

Doubt it works, think you have better luck hanging out in hot deals for a few freebies.

 

[Kenny]

Once in a blue moon you might get something, but most of the time you won't. I tried it once (after getting the link for free) and I think you have to be a big company in order to get a sample. This is just so that the manufacturer knows they have a chance of selling items to you at a high volume.

 

[kami333]

Depends on the item, I've gotten plastic cases and stuff sent to me before. Told them I was the project manager of a technology oriented company and we were trying to get some samples (true in a way, they don't have to know that I'm the only employee). I doubt that it would work for higher priced items though.

 

[slackerinabox]

I actually got a letter from Global Source stating that it was a crime to pose as the owner of a business and that they would forward my activity to the FBI (I requested LCD monitor samples).. Luckily, I actually owned a very small business at the time and was really looking to purchase a few LCDs..