How to post a good deal

A good deal post answers the question every shopper has: is this actually a good price, and what will I really pay? Here is how to write one.

Before you post

• Search first to see whether someone already posted it. If they did, add your details in the comments instead of posting it again.
• Check the price yourself, ideally signed out or in a private browser window, so you see what most shoppers will see.
• Make sure the deal is available to shoppers in the United States.

The title

Put the essentials in the title: the brand, the product, the key detail such as size, model or quantity, the price and the store. A pattern that works well is Brand Model, size or capacity, price at Store. Skip all caps, emoji and hype words. Let the price speak for itself.

The link

• Link directly to the product page, not to a search results page or the store's home page.
• Use a clean link. Remove tracking codes, and never use your own referral or affiliate link. PriceTrim may convert store links into affiliate links, which is disclosed on the site.

The price

• Give the price you saw, and say whether it needs a coupon, an add-to-cart step, a membership or a minimum order.
• Only include a previous price when it is real. A real previous price is one the store actually charged recently, or the usual price you have seen at major stores. A "list price" or "compare at" price that nobody actually charges does not count. If you mention a previous price, say how you know it.
• Include shipping, and any rebate along with the price before and after it.

The details

• The coupon code, if one is needed, and what it applies to.
• The expiration date or time, if the store gives one.
• Limits, such as one per customer, online only or in-store only.
• Condition: new, refurbished, open-box or used, and who provides the warranty.
• The seller, if it is a third party on a marketplace.

The category

Choose the category that best fits the product, so people browsing that category can find it.

What not to post

• Referral links, invite codes or anything that pays you when someone clicks or signs up.
• Your own store's products without saying it is your store.
• Deals that require someone to break a store's rules, lie or misuse a coupon.
• Coupon codes that are not public. See the coupon code rules.

After you post

Keep an eye on the comments. If the price changes or the deal ends, update your post or reply so everyone knows. Good, accurate posts earn votes and build your reputation.

Ready? Share a deal.