Cigar Geeks

Members Lounge => Trades / Splits => Topic started by: DogMan on 01/08/2013 01:24 PM

Title: Cigar Exchange - New life for Forgotten Smokes
Post by: DogMan on 01/08/2013 01:24 PM

 Trade Your Dog Rockets For LP9s and Anejos!

 

Okay, not really, but I have an idea, and I would like your frank and tactless feedback (which I will no doubt get), as well as your participation if it sounds good.

 

I know I'm not the only one with cigars in my humidor that I just don't ever seem to reach for. So....

                                                 --- update 16 January ---

The Concept

 

Trade those cigars you won't get around to smoking, have overstocked, should never have bought (DevilSite), or just don't care for anymore - without the hassle of finding a trading partner and setting up a trade. Just send in your sticks to the exchange and get back sticks up the value of those you've sent in. Pay only actual postage by cash or check - not Paypal

 

The Humidor (http://www.cigargeeks.com/index.php?action=humidors;area=public;member=Exchange)   The Directions (https://docs.google.com/document/d/1M_9SkH5kg2_KQ8AQrGuw3HArr2Y2cBQkige6EX1m_V0/edit) 

Title: Re: Cigar Exchange - New life for Forgotten Smokes
Post by: BigTA on 01/08/2013 01:28 PM
Interesting concept, I usualy just post what I have that I dont want and usualy there is someone to trade but your concept is intriging non the less.
Title: Re: Cigar Exchange - New life for Forgotten Smokes
Post by: tvolball on 01/08/2013 01:39 PM
What if we just set up a cigar exchange list on the web site and if someone is interested they can PM that person with the sticks they want and work out a deal. I would think that would work out better then shipping them all over the place. Besides that, what BigTA said is true, most people just post what they have  and the price and they usually go pretty quick
Title: Re: Cigar Exchange - New life for Forgotten Smokes
Post by: BXgreenhorn on 01/08/2013 01:40 PM
sounds interesting....
Title: Re: Cigar Exchange - New life for Forgotten Smokes
Post by: lowpro75 on 01/08/2013 01:41 PM
It almost sounds like a perpetual virtual pass and a lot of trouble for the one running it.
Title: Re: Cigar Exchange - New life for Forgotten Smokes
Post by: nwb on 01/08/2013 02:07 PM
The concept is a really good one, but.....  After running the Cigars for Troops effort, it takes a LOT of time and a LOT of space.  For instance, say someone sends you 20 cigars, but they are all different brands, vitolas, prices, etc.  Entering all that information in a virtual humidor, which you would almost have to do, takes more time than you think.  Then you have to find a good way to store them.  That doesn't even include the time it takes to package "buys" from members, get to the PO, etc.

However, I do like the idea of having a "virtual" exchange of sorts.  Maybe it could be incorporated into the humidor function, sort of like the previous smokes.  You can enter the cigar, your price, and any other information, click a button, and it gets moved to the exchange, which everyone can see. :confused:
Title: Re: Cigar Exchange - New life for Forgotten Smokes
Post by: lubrix on 01/08/2013 02:15 PM
I like the idea if you're up to the task.
Title: RE: Cigar Exchange - New life for Forgotten Smokes
Post by: Ken Kelley on 01/08/2013 02:16 PM
Very interesting idea! Sounds like a lot of work for someone way more dedicated to that sort of thing than I am.
Title: Re: Cigar Exchange - New life for Forgotten Smokes
Post by: Foe on 01/08/2013 02:19 PM
Yeah, it sounds great in theory...I'm having a helluva time with trading, i.e. not one successful trade in three years...so if the logistics of an exchange system can be overcome, I'm certainly all for it...
Title: RE: Cigar Exchange - New life for Forgotten Smokes
Post by: DogMan on 01/08/2013 02:26 PM
Okay, two things:

the advantage I see versus just "Post and Trade" is that you don't have to find a trader that wants what you have and has what you want. Just send in your sticks, "buy" what you want from inventory

Yes, it would be work. Part of the work (entering the sticks into inventory) would have to done by the depositor. There would need to be an online inventory or virtual humidor. Picking and sending orders would be some trouble, but I would do it, at least for a trial phase of 6-12 months. Also willing to set up a separate coolidor.

- loren
Title: RE: Cigar Exchange - New life for Forgotten Smokes
Post by: Brlesq on 01/08/2013 02:27 PM
I like the idea!  :cool:
Title: Re: Cigar Exchange - New life for Forgotten Smokes
Post by: CrazyK on 01/08/2013 02:31 PM
It sounds like a nice idea, I like the idea of going to a central location to look at what is up on offer. How would you handle the shipping and handling costs? On a per order basis, or would it just be a flat fee you think?
Title: Re: Cigar Exchange - New life for Forgotten Smokes
Post by: lowpro75 on 01/08/2013 02:31 PM
Quotenwb - 1/8/2013  3:07 PM

The concept is a really good one, but.....  After running the Cigars for Troops effort, it takes a LOT of time and a LOT of space.  For instance, say someone sends you 20 cigars, but they are all different brands, vitolas, prices, etc.  Entering all that information in a virtual humidor, which you would almost have to do, takes more time than you think.  Then you have to find a good way to store them.  That doesn't even include the time it takes to package "buys" from members, get to the PO, etc.

However, I do like the idea of having a "virtual" exchange of sorts.  Maybe it could be incorporated into the humidor function, sort of like the previous smokes.  You can enter the cigar, your price, and any other information, click a button, and it gets moved to the exchange, which everyone can see. :confused:

I think a virtual bulletin board of available sticks might be more feasible.
Title: RE: Cigar Exchange - New life for Forgotten Smokes
Post by: DogMan on 01/08/2013 02:44 PM
re: virtual bulletin board - Essentially that's what this would be, but the big plus I would hope for is that you don't need to spend any additional $$ out of pocket except for postage

actual postage cost would have to be promptly reimbursed to the operator (me) but I don't anticipate any handling or other costs. it would be one first class usps fee even if there were ten cigars contributed by six different members - in a non central bulliten board scenario, postage for that becomes prohibitive.

- loren
Title: Re: Cigar Exchange - New life for Forgotten Smokes
Post by: wlfwalleye on 01/08/2013 02:51 PM
While I believe your idea comes from the right place I can forsee way too many complications in something of this magnitude. What if someone sends in cigars
and then can't find anything he wants in the inventory, but the cigars he sent in were already taken? What if you have to work extra hours or you or a family member gets sick
and you have to take a break from the site for awhile?

I would suggest starting a thread where a member that wants to participate posts up a link for their (to trade) humidor and then you go through once a day and coppy all the links to a single post so they are always locked together on the front page.
Title: RE: Cigar Exchange - New life for Forgotten Smokes
Post by: DogMan on 01/08/2013 03:23 PM
I do agree with waffleyes that there are some potential issues, however I think they can be addressed

The main things I was trying for, that you don't get with a virtual bulletin board or collection of posts or whatever you want to call it, are:

1.  ability to choose from all available inventory w/o the owner wanting your inventory in trade (kind of like money is easier than barter). Your stix are good for "eXchangeBucks" that are in turn good for any other stix

2.  cut postage costs to reasonable levels

3.  very small additional $$ out of pocket (just postage)

I was mostly envisioning this as a way for us all to have fun trading those sticks that aren't so valuable to us in an inexpensive and simple (for everyone but me) manner. I certainly didn't see it taking the place of trades for high end sticks (no one will be sending me 10 paul stulac skulls, probably) or a place to obtain exactly that specific stick you've always wanted to try.

yes, there may not be anything you are crazy about in the inventory, but hey, you sent in stuff you weren't crazy about either. yes, I may be on vacation for two weeks, but it's not a business and you won't run out of smokes before I get back. It's just a way to clear out some stuff you probably won't smoke and try something different.
Title: RE: Cigar Exchange - New life for Forgotten Smokes
Post by: Brlesq on 01/08/2013 03:37 PM
QuoteDogMan - 1/8/2013  4:23 PM
yes, I may be on vacation for two weeks, but it's not a business and you won't run out of smokes


Yea, now I see what you're doing!  Getting Nate to send you his Pineapple White Owls so you can enjoy some Tropical-flavored smokes while poolside on vacation because you KNOW nobody will ever ask you to send those back out in trade!   :bright:
Title: Re: Cigar Exchange - New life for Forgotten Smokes
Post by: BigTA on 01/08/2013 03:41 PM
Almost all the trades I have been in have just been someone seiing something in my virtual humi and or the other way around and working out a trade, I think a virtual trade humidor would be nice, My last trade was with Wescat and it was from me just posting that I was looking for a paticular stick and he posted that he had some and he was able to find sticks he wanted in my humi and presto,
Title: RE: Cigar Exchange - New life for Forgotten Smokes
Post by: Vroomp on 01/08/2013 03:48 PM

QuoteBrlesq - 1/8/2013  4:37 PM  
QuoteDogMan - 1/8/2013  4:23 PM yes, I may be on vacation for two weeks, but it's not a business and you won't run out of smokes
Yea, now I see what you're doing!  Getting Nate to send you his Pineapple White Owls so you can enjoy some Tropical-flavored smokes while poolside on vacation because you KNOW nobody will ever ask you to send those back out in trade!   :bright:

 

:lmao:  :lmao:  

Title: Re: Cigar Exchange - New life for Forgotten Smokes
Post by: BlackIrish on 01/08/2013 04:18 PM
Quotenwb - 1/8/2013  3:07 PM

The concept is a really good one, but.....  After running the Cigars for Troops effort, it takes a LOT of time and a LOT of space.  For instance, say someone sends you 20 cigars, but they are all different brands, vitolas, prices, etc.  Entering all that information in a virtual humidor, which you would almost have to do, takes more time than you think.  Then you have to find a good way to store them.  That doesn't even include the time it takes to package "buys" from members, get to the PO, etc.

However, I do like the idea of having a "virtual" exchange of sorts.  Maybe it could be incorporated into the humidor function, sort of like the previous smokes.  You can enter the cigar, your price, and any other information, click a button, and it gets moved to the exchange, which everyone can see. :confused:

I like Nathan's idea.  Pablo's the humidor/database guru, but I think that you could add a field for each cigar listed in your humidor (just a checkbox needed, really) called "available for exchange?" or something like that, and perhaps another field for the offering price.  If it's possible to run a query across all of the humidors (not sure if the database is designed that way), you could generate a report of all the cigars that have that tag.
Title: Re: Cigar Exchange - New life for Forgotten Smokes
Post by: junglepete on 01/08/2013 05:39 PM
Interesting idea...if it was a virtual concept housed here on the site I would play. God knows I'd like to get rid of a bunch of 898 Robustos.
Title: Re: Cigar Exchange - New life for Forgotten Smokes
Post by: nkowal on 01/08/2013 06:14 PM
QuoteBlackIrish - 1/8/2013  5:18 PM

Quotenwb - 1/8/2013  3:07 PM

The concept is a really good one, but.....  After running the Cigars for Troops effort, it takes a LOT of time and a LOT of space.  For instance, say someone sends you 20 cigars, but they are all different brands, vitolas, prices, etc.  Entering all that information in a virtual humidor, which you would almost have to do, takes more time than you think.  Then you have to find a good way to store them.  That doesn't even include the time it takes to package "buys" from members, get to the PO, etc.

However, I do like the idea of having a "virtual" exchange of sorts.  Maybe it could be incorporated into the humidor function, sort of like the previous smokes.  You can enter the cigar, your price, and any other information, click a button, and it gets moved to the exchange, which everyone can see. :confused:

I like Nathan's idea.  Pablo's the humidor/database guru, but I think that you could add a field for each cigar listed in your humidor (just a checkbox needed, really) called "available for exchange?" or something like that, and perhaps another field for the offering price.  If it's possible to run a query across all of the humidors (not sure if the database is designed that way), you could generate a report of all the cigars that have that tag.

I like this idea. A "open to trade" checkbox would be a cool addition.
Title: Re: Cigar Exchange - New life for Forgotten Smokes
Post by: DogMan on 01/08/2013 06:56 PM
Quotejunglepete - 1/8/2013  3:39 PM

Interesting idea...if it was a virtual concept housed here on the site I would play. God knows I'd like to get rid of a bunch of 898 Robustos.

I sense lots of hesitation, of course, as well as perceived issues (likely true), but not necessarily a clear appreciation of what could be the benefits.

Any virtual checkbox setup leaves the buyer/trader either paying cash or trying to orchestrate a traditional trade that is attractive to both parties. If sticks from more than one member are desired, it quickly becomes a clusterf#$k and a shipping headache. It could be a nice addition to the site to note which stick each member wants to trade, but logistically it is nearly identical to the current setup, where I can post some sticks for trade in the forum, wait for replies, see if I'm interested in what's offered. It's like the difference between selling your house and buying a new one vs. trying to trade your house with another homeowner's

so I guess what I'm looking for is this:

Is it worth it to send your cigars away (maybe to start just the ones you don't value so much) to trade for other sticks in an undetermined and changing inventory, in order to get

1.  no cash upfront trades
2.  larger selection to trade for
3.  ability to trade most of the sticks you want to be rid of
4.  ability to wait and see what comes in later if you don't use all your exchange credit immediately

if it's not, I won't run with it, but if it sounds like something folks would do, I can keep going

- loren
Title: Re: Cigar Exchange - New life for Forgotten Smokes
Post by: nwb on 01/08/2013 08:48 PM
Hey, if you want to run with it, go for it!  It would be interesting to see how much participation you get, the logistics, etc.  Maybe run a trial?
Title: Re: Cigar Exchange - New life for Forgotten Smokes
Post by: lowpro75 on 01/08/2013 08:50 PM
Yeah, stop talking about it, just do it.  Maybe I'll send you some crappy cigars to start your inventory.
Title: Re: Cigar Exchange - New life for Forgotten Smokes
Post by: junglepete on 01/08/2013 08:52 PM
It's your idea and time so I support the effort.
Title: RE: Cigar Exchange - New life for Forgotten Smokes
Post by: Brlesq on 01/09/2013 07:47 AM
I still like the idea of this.  How to assign a $ value really needs to be worked out before this thing gets off the ground, though.  You said "more on that later", but its probably one of the most important parts of how this will work, and knowing this will help people determine if they want to participate.  

Pricing certainly can't be based on subjective values that a seller wants for his cigars.  That would be prone to abuse and over-valuations.  It would have to be tied to a static, objective price list that everyone could see.  For example, if you and I each bought the exact same cigar, but I paid $12 for in NY (with taxes) and you paid $4 on the internet, the value on the exchange would still have to be just one value for both of us, regardless of what either of us actually paid.   Do you have any ideas on this?

Assuming the kinks get worked out, count me in to helping seed some cigars to the initial run of this exchange.
Title: Re: Cigar Exchange - New life for Forgotten Smokes
Post by: mike.casey on 01/09/2013 07:55 AM
Dammit Bruce.... I was just about to get all of my $12 a piece Gran Habano Vintage 2002's boxed up to trade 1 for 1 with some T52's and you just had to go and throw a monkey wrench in it.
Title: Re: Cigar Exchange - New life for Forgotten Smokes
Post by: Brlesq on 01/09/2013 08:17 AM
Quotemike.casey - 1/9/2013  8:55 AM

Dammit Bruce.... I was just about to get all of my $12 a piece Gran Habano Vintage 2002's boxed up to trade 1 for 1 with some T52's and you just had to go and throw a monkey wrench in it.

Yeah, shot myself in the foot as well. I could have bought a bunch of CBid cigars and claimed NY prices!  But it is a pesky little detail that needs to be addressed.
Title: Re: Cigar Exchange - New life for Forgotten Smokes
Post by: nwb on 01/09/2013 10:58 AM
That's an excellent point, Bruce.  I see more abuse on cigars that have MSRP that are much higher than sale prices, and I'm not talking about Gurkhas.  For instance, if you have buy a fiver of a cigar on Joe's Jam at 60% of regular price, then how do you value said cigar?
Title: Re: Cigar Exchange - New life for Forgotten Smokes
Post by: Foe on 01/09/2013 11:27 AM
QuoteDogMan - 1/8/2013  4:56 PM

I sense lots of hesitation, of course, as well as perceived issues (likely true), but not necessarily a clear appreciation of what could be the benefits.

Any virtual checkbox setup leaves the buyer/trader either paying cash or trying to orchestrate a traditional trade that is attractive to both parties. If sticks from more than one member are desired, it quickly becomes a clusterf#$k and a shipping headache. It could be a nice addition to the site to note which stick each member wants to trade, but logistically it is nearly identical to the current setup, where I can post some sticks for trade in the forum, wait for replies, see if I'm interested in what's offered. It's like the difference between selling your house and buying a new one vs. trying to trade your house with another homeowner's

so I guess what I'm looking for is this:

Is it worth it to send your cigars away (maybe to start just the ones you don't value so much) to trade for other sticks in an undetermined and changing inventory, in order to get

1.  no cash upfront trades
2.  larger selection to trade for
3.  ability to trade most of the sticks you want to be rid of
4.  ability to wait and see what comes in later if you don't use all your exchange credit immediately

if it's not, I won't run with it, but if it sounds like something folks would do, I can keep going

- loren

I'm willing to send some cigars your way to seed this start-up...
Title: Re: Cigar Exchange - New life for Forgotten Smokes
Post by: lowpro75 on 01/09/2013 11:40 AM
I think you keep things simple by grouping the cigars into categories.  In theory they are all orphans or misfits anyway.  Put them into 2 tiers, one exchange buck or two exchange bucks.  I doubt you will be getting a lot of high end stuff to worry about.  An example of a one may be factory throwouts, an example of a two might be Man of War Seconds or CAO Brazilians.
Title: RE: Cigar Exchange - New life for Forgotten Smokes
Post by: DogMan on 01/09/2013 11:59 AM
QuoteBrlesq - 1/9/2013  5:47 AM

I still like the idea of this.  How to assign a $ value really needs to be worked out before this thing gets off the ground, though.  You said "more on that later", but its probably one of the most important parts of how this will work, and knowing this will help people determine if they want to participate.  

Pricing certainly can't be based on subjective values that a seller wants for his cigars.  That would be prone to abuse and over-valuations.  It would have to be tied to a static, objective price list that everyone could see.  For example, if you and I each bought the exact same cigar, but I paid $12 for in NY (with taxes) and you paid $4 on the internet, the value on the exchange would still have to be just one value for both of us, regardless of what either of us actually paid.   Do you have any ideas on this?

Assuming the kinks get worked out, count me in to helping seed some cigars to the initial run of this exchange.

To me, this is actually the biggest hurdle. I was thinking of starting with

"assign each stick the lower of what you paid for it or the lowest it is commonly available for"

There has to be some level of trust that I am not trying to dispose of stuff I overpaid for AT THE PRICE I OVERPAID FOR IT.

I'm open to any ideas, but community flagging might be the best option. As a group, it seems there is a good sense of what almost any sticks current value is.

I started to set up an "Exchange Humidor". Trying to figure out how to make it accessible to exchangers so they can enter their  own puts. anyone know?

Title: RE: Cigar Exchange - New life for Forgotten Smokes
Post by: nwb on 01/09/2013 12:12 PM
QuoteDogMan - 1/9/2013  12:59 PM
I started to set up an "Exchange Humidor". Trying to figure out how to make it accessible to exchangers so they can enter their  own puts. anyone know?

That is going to require some code, so I'd send SenorPablo a PM.
Title: Re: Cigar Exchange - New life for Forgotten Smokes
Post by: Brlesq on 01/09/2013 12:21 PM
Quotelowpro75 - 1/9/2013 12:40 PM

I think you keep things simple by grouping the cigars into categories. In theory they are all orphans or misfits anyway. Put them into 2 tiers, one exchange buck or two exchange bucks. I doubt you will be getting a lot of high end stuff to worry about. An example of a one may be factory throwouts, an example of a two might be Man of War Seconds or CAO Brazilians.


Richa Rich has a pretty good solution, although maybe with 3 or 4 tiers so that highest tier doesn't value both a MoW Second and a Padron the same. Maybe tie the tiers to value frames such as:

$1-3 = 1 credit
$4-6 = 2 credits
$7-9 = 3 credits
$10 and above = 4 credits

Then use posted prices at CI or Famous as a general guide.
Title: Re: Cigar Exchange - New life for Forgotten Smokes
Post by: lowpro75 on 01/09/2013 12:25 PM
QuoteBrlesq - 1/9/2013  1:21 PM

Quotelowpro75 - 1/9/2013  12:40 PM

I think you keep things simple by grouping the cigars into categories.  In theory they are all orphans or misfits anyway.  Put them into 2 tiers, one exchange buck or two exchange bucks.  I doubt you will be getting a lot of high end stuff to worry about.  An example of a one may be factory throwouts, an example of a two might be Man of War Seconds or CAO Brazilians.


Richa has a pretty good solution, although maybe with 3 or 4 tiers so that highest tier doesn't value both a MoW Second and a Padron the same. Maybe tie the tiers to value frames such as:

$1-3 = 1 credit
$4-6 = 2 credits
$7-9 = 3 credits
$10 and above = 4 credits

Then use posted prices at CI or Famous as a general guide.

Don't call me Richa.  And who's getting rid of Padrons?  PM me before you send them to the exchange.
Title: Re: Cigar Exchange - New life for Forgotten Smokes
Post by: Brlesq on 01/09/2013 12:34 PM
Quotelowpro75 - 1/9/2013  1:25 PM

Don't call me Richa.  And who's getting rid of Padrons?  PM me before you send them to the exchange.

Sorry, fixed that.  Must have been subliminal typing as I started to spell out what we all call you in PMs.    :biggrin:

And maybe a member would be willing to trade in a single 4 credit cigar to get four 1-credit cigars.  That's the idea of the exchange.  If I see some Flor de Baloney's posted, thats what I would do.
Title: Re: Cigar Exchange - New life for Forgotten Smokes
Post by: nwb on 01/09/2013 01:34 PM
Quotelowpro75 - 1/9/2013  1:25 PM
And who's getting rid of Padrons?  PM me before you send them to the exchange.

 :word:

Good idea about the tiers.  That's why we pay you two the big $.
Title: Re: Cigar Exchange - New life for Forgotten Smokes
Post by: 87North on 01/09/2013 01:47 PM
Quotenwb - 1/9/2013  1:34 PM

Quotelowpro75 - 1/9/2013  1:25 PM
And who's getting rid of Padrons?  PM me before you send them to the exchange.

 :word:

Good idea about the tiers.  That's why we pay you two the big $.

They're getting paid?

Title: Re: Cigar Exchange - New life for Forgotten Smokes
Post by: nwb on 01/09/2013 01:55 PM
Quote87North - 1/9/2013  2:47 PM
They're getting paid?

Yes, all Gurus get paid.  We just haven't started paying you yet.

 :biggrin:
Title: Re: Cigar Exchange - New life for Forgotten Smokes
Post by: 87North on 01/09/2013 02:06 PM
Quotenwb - 1/9/2013  1:55 PM

Quote87North - 1/9/2013  2:47 PM
They're getting paid?

Yes, all Gurus get paid.  We just haven't started paying you yet.

 :biggrin:

 :-(
Title: Re: Cigar Exchange - New life for Forgotten Smokes
Post by: Brlesq on 01/09/2013 02:06 PM
Quotenwb - 1/9/2013  2:55 PM

Quote87North - 1/9/2013  2:47 PM
They're getting paid?

Yes, all Gurus get paid.  We just haven't started paying you yet.

 :biggrin:

Good job, Nate!  Paul told us not to say anything to Wes about that.  If Paul starts including him in the profit sharing plan, its coming out of YOUR share, bigmouth!   :mad:
Title: Cigar Exchange - Ready For Beta !
Post by: DogMan on 01/09/2013 07:01 PM

Here's what's done so far. A new Virtual Humidor is open under the username "exchange" I've seeded it with some sticks I would like to trade. The link is below. There are also some instuctions/rules below.

What I would really like to know from y'all is

1. Would you consider participating?

2.  Are the instructions/rules clear and simple to understand?

3.  Are those valuations now in the VH reasonable according to the guidelines?

thanks for your input - loren

 

 

 

 

 

 

The Concept

   

Trade those cigars you won't get around to smoking, have overstocked, should never have bought (DevilSite), or just don't care for anymore - without the hassle of finding a trading partner and setting up a trade. Just send in your sticks to the exchange and get back sticks up the value of those you've sent in. Pay only actual postage.

   

http://www.cigargeeks.com/index.php?action=humidors;area=public;member=Exchange (http://www.cigargeeks.com/index.php?action=humidors;area=public;member=Exchange)

   

The Logistics

   

1.   Enter and Send your puts

   

Log in as CG user "Exchange". I'll give you the password when you're ready to ship. Enter your cigars in the "Exchange Inventory" virtual humidor

   

Package them up and send USPS with a delivery confirmation # to:

   

Loren Davis
12500  NW Jackson Quarry Rd
Hillsboro  OR  97124

   

In the package, include a separate slip of paper with the following info:

   

                                          
CG username                                                  DogMan
Real Name                                                       Loren Davis
Email Address                        Like this:           lorenbdavis@gmail.com
Shipping Address                                            12500  NW Jackson Quarry Rd
$ amount of credit for puts                              Hillsboro  OR  97124
                                                                       $54

   

2.    Select your takes (Anytime after your puts have arrived)

   

Take cigars valued up to your total Trade Credit balance, i.e. what you've put in (any leftover can be used later)

   

Log in as CG user "Exchange"

   

The Rules

   

1.     Valuation

   

The Trade Credit Value for each cigar is the amount you enter in the price field of your puts. You then are entitled to takes up to the aggregate value of your puts. Obviously, one could abuse this exchange by overvaluing his puts. So, the rules are:

   lowest price it is commonly       currently available for[/li]  [/list] [/list]    

2.     Reimbursement

   

You will promptly reimburse me for actual postage costs, or, in lieu of that, send a strip-o-gram to Rich at his place of work

   

The Suggestions

   

The Accounting

   

I will keep a simple spreadsheet of users, deposits, withdrawal, and balance. I'll try to get it posted so anyone can access it at anytime.

Title: Re: Cigar Exchange - New life for Forgotten Smokes
Post by: kola on 01/09/2013 07:23 PM
So ... I'll agree with you that it's not a business, but if it gets any significant amount of attention from the geek squad, it will very quickly feel like one, and you may very quickly wish it was one.  My concerns are not about the implementation details, it's more about DogMan spending every free moment managing how much each person sent in, how much credit they have burned. And don't forget packing, labeling, shipping ... it all takes time and effort. A lot of it.

And there is one implementation detail that no one has mentioned yet. What do you do about lost or damaged shipments? And the credits that got lost or damaged along with it?

I think it is a great idea, but to do it as a volunteer effort could very quickly become overwhelming.
Title: Re: Cigar Exchange - New life for Forgotten Smokes
Post by: cocon on 01/09/2013 07:39 PM
Good luck! I will be keeping an eye on this....
Title: RE: Cigar Exchange - Ready For Beta !
Post by: nwb on 01/09/2013 09:24 PM
QuoteDogMan - 1/9/2013  8:01 PM
You will promptly reimburse me for actual postage costs, or, in lieu of that, send a strip-o-gram to Rich at his place of work...

 :lmao:

That would be great.

Let's keep this thread current - I will probably send you some stuff.
Title: RE: Cigar Exchange - Ready For Beta !
Post by: tvolball on 01/10/2013 07:21 AM
It will be interesting to see how this goes.
Title: RE: Cigar Exchange - Ready For Beta !
Post by: tvolball on 01/10/2013 07:21 AM
It will be interesting to see how this goes.
Title: Re: Cigar Exchange - New life for Forgotten Smokes
Post by: lowpro75 on 01/10/2013 08:03 AM
Quotekola - 1/9/2013  8:23 PM

So ... I'll agree with you that it's not a business, but if it gets any significant amount of attention from the geek squad, it will very quickly feel like one, and you may very quickly wish it was one.  My concerns are not about the implementation details, it's more about DogMan spending every free moment managing how much each person sent in, how much credit they have burned. And don't forget packing, labeling, shipping ... it all takes time and effort. A lot of it.

And there is one implementation detail that no one has mentioned yet. What do you do about lost or damaged shipments? And the credits that got lost or damaged along with it?

I think it is a great idea, but to do it as a volunteer effort could very quickly become overwhelming.

The way I see it there are 2 kinds of problems in this world.  Mine and other peoples.  This one most definitely falls into the latter category.  Unless I start getting an more then the usual number of strip-o-grams at work, then people might start to ask questions. :biggrin:
Title: Re: Cigar Exchange - New life for Forgotten Smokes
Post by: lowpro75 on 01/10/2013 08:29 AM
Also, with regard to valuation, I have no desire to assign value cigars that I am essentially willing to give away, much less try to police the value of cigars that others don't want.  That is why I suggested a simpler system.
Title: Re: Cigar Exchange - New life for Forgotten Smokes
Post by: nwb on 01/15/2013 09:58 PM
So what's the status?  Are you waiting on people to help seed this?
Title: Re: Cigar Exchange - New life for Forgotten Smokes
Post by: Vroomp on 01/15/2013 10:03 PM
I couldn't get past all the instructions and,,,,,I only own Thompson Exclusives  :cry:
Title: Re: Cigar Exchange - New life for Forgotten Smokes
Post by: DogMan on 01/15/2013 10:11 PM
Quotenwb - 1/15/2013  7:58 PM

So what's the status?  Are you waiting on people to help seed this?

Still would like to go forward, but I got the feeling I was solving a problem no one had. I guess the status is this:

Can we get 8 - 10 geeks to commit to sending 10 - 20 sticks by, say, Feb 10, then I'd love to run with it.

So, any commitments?

Also, if the whole valuation thing is a sticking point, Rich had a good idea of just assinging 1,2,or 3 credits to each cigar. I'd go with that too - it is simpler

if only 2 or 3 want to play, it kind of misses the point.
Title: Re: Cigar Exchange - New life for Forgotten Smokes
Post by: DogMan on 01/15/2013 10:13 PM
QuoteVroomp - 1/15/2013  8:03 PM

I couldn't get past all the instructions and,,,,,I only own Thompson Exclusives  :cry:

I know - sorry

simpler version:

1. send sticks in

2. pick some to get back, of approx equal or lesser value than those you sent in
Title: Re: Cigar Exchange - New life for Forgotten Smokes
Post by: nwb on 01/16/2013 09:31 AM
I'll help get it started.  Shoot me PM with your address and the details to add them to the virtual humidor.
Title: Re: Cigar Exchange - New life for Forgotten Smokes
Post by: lubrix on 01/16/2013 09:56 AM
Quotenwb - 1/16/2013  9:31 AM

I'll help get it started.  Shoot me PM with your address and the details to add them to the virtual humidor.
Same here,I have to do a clean out soon.
Title: Re: Cigar Exchange - New life for Forgotten Smokes
Post by: DogMan on 01/16/2013 01:51 PM
OKAY! - three in so far (DogMan, NWB, Lubrix).  Any More?
Title: Re: Cigar Exchange - New life for Forgotten Smokes
Post by: Foe on 01/16/2013 01:55 PM
QuoteDogMan - 1/16/2013  11:51 AM

OKAY! - three in so far (DogMan, NWB, Lubrix).  Any More?

Yeah, PM me...
Title: Re: Cigar Exchange - New life for Forgotten Smokes
Post by: DogMan on 01/16/2013 05:09 PM

QuoteFoe - 1/16/2013  11:55 AM

QuoteDogMan - 1/16/2013  11:51 AM

OKAY! - three in so far (DogMan, NWB, Lubrix).  Any More?

Yeah, PM me...

Up to Four - any more takers? simplified instructions are here (https://docs.google.com/document/d/1M_9SkH5kg2_KQ8AQrGuw3HArr2Y2cBQkige6EX1m_V0/edit).  The humidor is here (http://www.cigargeeks.com/index.php?action=humidors;area=public;member=Exchange) (just my puts as of now)

and The Concept is here:

 

Trade those cigars you won't get around to smoking, have overstocked, should never have bought (DevilSite), or just don't care for anymore - without the hassle of finding a trading partner and setting up a trade. Just send in your sticks to the exchange and get back sticks up the value of those you've sent in. Pay only actual postage.

 

 

Title: Re: Cigar Exchange - New life for Forgotten Smokes
Post by: lubrix on 01/22/2013 10:43 AM
Loren - Big box coming your way!. 0312 2120 0000 4182 5890. - Lubrix
Title: Re: Cigar Exchange - New life for Forgotten Smokes
Post by: CrazyK on 01/22/2013 10:56 AM
Some pretty decent smokes in there! If it weren't logistically challenging to ship sticks back and forth across the border, I would be in. I have a bunch that I could send... I might be able to talk myself into this one...
Title: Re: Cigar Exchange - New life for Forgotten Smokes
Post by: nwb on 01/22/2013 11:26 AM
I'll be boxing something up this week to get to you.
Title: Re: Cigar Exchange - New life for Forgotten Smokes
Post by: DogMan on 01/22/2013 11:29 AM
QuoteCrazyK - 1/22/2013  8:56 AM

Some pretty decent smokes in there! If it weren't logistically challenging to ship sticks back and forth across the border, I would be in. I have a bunch that I could send... I might be able to talk myself into this one...

are we talking the us/canadian border?

last time I shipped something (an ebay sale) to canada it was simple and just a $7 for a small box.

is there something I should know that will be trouble?

Title: Re: Cigar Exchange - New life for Forgotten Smokes
Post by: DogMan on 01/22/2013 11:30 AM
Quotelubrix - 1/22/2013  8:43 AM

Loren - Big box coming your way!. 0312 2120 0000 4182 5890. - Lubrix

I'll keep an eye out and PM when it arrives
Title: Re: Cigar Exchange - New life for Forgotten Smokes
Post by: CrazyK on 01/22/2013 11:34 AM
QuoteDogMan - 1/22/2013  12:29 PM

QuoteCrazyK - 1/22/2013  8:56 AM

Some pretty decent smokes in there! If it weren't logistically challenging to ship sticks back and forth across the border, I would be in. I have a bunch that I could send... I might be able to talk myself into this one...

are we talking the us/canadian border?

last time I shipped something (an ebay sale) to canada it was simple and just a $7 for a small box.

is there something I should know that will be trouble?


It can be hit or miss. I haven't lost any yet, but I do know of customs at time opening packages and charging ridiculous duties and taxes.
Title: Re: Cigar Exchange - New life for Forgotten Smokes
Post by: Chrism305 on 01/22/2013 12:46 PM
OK Loren I will give it a shot.
Title: RE: Cigar Exchange - New life for Forgotten Smokes
Post by: Brlesq on 01/22/2013 01:25 PM
I didn't realize that you launched this.  I thought you were still working out the details on valuation.  I'm gonna have to take a closer look again.
Title: RE: Cigar Exchange - New life for Forgotten Smokes
Post by: DogMan on 01/22/2013 03:25 PM
QuoteBrlesq - 1/22/2013  11:25 AM

I didn't realize that you launched this.  I thought you were still working out the details on valuation.  I'm gonna have to take a closer look again.



Trying to get enough smokes in the humidor for exchange that I can consider it launched. hope you give it a try.

simplified instructions are here The Directions (https://docs.google.com/document/d/1M_9SkH5kg2_KQ8AQrGuw3HArr2Y2cBQkige6EX1m_V0/edit).  The humidor is here The Humidor (http://www.cigargeeks.com/index.php?action=humidors;area=public;member=Exchange)

and The Concept is here:

Trade those cigars you won't get around to smoking, have overstocked, should never have bought (DevilSite), or just don't care for anymore - without the hassle of finding a trading partner and setting up a trade. Just send in your sticks to the exchange and get back sticks up the value of those you've sent in. Pay only actual postage.
Title: RE: Cigar Exchange - New life for Forgotten Smokes
Post by: Vroomp on 01/22/2013 03:32 PM
Do you intend folks to do takes immediately or can we build up credit?
Title: RE: Cigar Exchange - New life for Forgotten Smokes
Post by: DogMan on 01/22/2013 03:47 PM
QuoteVroomp - 1/22/2013  1:32 PM

Do you intend folks to do takes immediately or can we build up credit?

Either one is fine with me - I figured if you see something you like, take it, if not, wait till you do. I will keep a credit balance for all participants posted.
Title: RE: Cigar Exchange - New life for Forgotten Smokes
Post by: Vroomp on 01/22/2013 03:52 PM

Do you have the capacity to store the thousands of cigars while we wait for something good?

 

Title: RE: Cigar Exchange - New life for Forgotten Smokes
Post by: DogMan on 01/22/2013 04:04 PM
QuoteVroomp - 1/22/2013  1:52 PM

Do you have the capacity to store the thousands of cigars while we wait for something good?

 


No, not thousands: I figure, so far, on a lower level of both enthusiasm for the puts and patience for the takes :-) However I can always get another cooler or two
Title: RE: Cigar Exchange - New life for Forgotten Smokes
Post by: Vroomp on 01/22/2013 04:13 PM
I will send my stuff after my curio-dor is finished next week even though I do not appreciate my highly sought after Thompson exclusives being valued at only $1. :biggrin:
Title: RE: Cigar Exchange - New life for Forgotten Smokes
Post by: Brlesq on 01/22/2013 04:17 PM
QuoteVroomp - 1/22/2013  5:13 PM
I will send my stuff after my curio-dor is finished next week even though I do not appreciate my highly sought after Thompson exclusives being valued at only $1. :biggrin:

Loren has a special address where you send those Thompson's.  c/o Sesame Street  :biggrin:
Title: RE: Cigar Exchange - New life for Forgotten Smokes
Post by: nwb on 01/22/2013 08:24 PM
QuoteBrlesq - 1/22/2013  5:17 PM

QuoteVroomp - 1/22/2013  5:13 PM
I will send my stuff after my curio-dor is finished next week even though I do not appreciate my highly sought after Thompson exclusives being valued at only $1. :biggrin:

Loren has a special address where you send those Thompson's.  c/o Sesame Street  :biggrin:

 :lmao:
Title: RE: Cigar Exchange - New life for Forgotten Smokes
Post by: DogMan on 01/22/2013 09:03 PM
QuoteVroomp - 1/22/2013  2:13 PM

I will send my stuff after my curio-dor is finished next week even though I do not appreciate my highly sought after Thompson exclusives being valued at only $1. :biggrin:

Uh, the directions state "max value  $1" and "whole dollar amounts only", so you have some latitude to also value them at nothing