In the service, we provide both original prices as well as what we consider to be current day value for the items. For some accounts, the market values are automatically included in the subscription but for others, it is an add-on feature.
The market values can be found within an individual item, as well as within the reports of an Inventory account. Simply search for an item and click onto its title to open up the info page. The market values will be at the bottom of the page. If you do not see them there, then you most likely have an account where the values must be purchased as an add-on.
To add-on values, click HOME to open your account Dashboard ... locate the collectible to which you would like to activate values and click EDIT. Once the order page opens, confirm your choice and click SIGN UP! at the bottom of the page to activate the values.
HOW TO APPLY VALUES TO YOUR ITEMS ...
Before applying these values to your collection, it is important to fully understand how we determine the values listed, as well as the different symbols listed.
For Longaberger products, the symbols listed represent the item and its accessories; for example, 'B' stands for 'Basket Only', 'P' stands for 'Basket + Protector', 'L' stands for 'Basket + Liner', etc ... When you roll your mouse over the symbol listed, a small info window will pop up to clarify what the letter represents. And entire list of symbols can be viewed under the HELP menu. Click 'Reference' and select 'Longaberger' from the options. On the left-hand navigation, select SYMBOLS and the entire list of symbols associated with Longaberger will pop up.
Once you identify the best symbol associated with your piece, choose that symbol in the 'Pricing & Market Values' area and that price and value will attach to your item.
DEFINITIONS ...
ORG = represents the original price for the item
AVG = what the average item is valued in the market, based on supply and demand for the item. One aspect to consider when talking about 'average' is how the item's condition compares with the average item in the market. For example, if the average identical item in the market has been stored in a box for years, that would making the 'average' condition for this item to be 'mint'. If the item out there is very old, then the average item in the market could be faded and worn. But that would make a faded and worn item 'average', not low.
HIGH = this value represents the potential of the item's value and is usually supported by the highest value we have heard reported for the piece. Items can move from 'average' to 'high' in value with features that move it from an 'average' piece. For example having signatures, special features, above average condition (for that piece) or other features that make it more than average.
When valuing your collection for insurance purposes, the best option is to determine the unique value for each of your items based on its demand, condition and other characteristics making sure to document all features that make it unique and above average. Most insurance adjustors will accept or default to 'average' or 'low' so it is up to you to document why your item is worth more. If time is an issue, we recommend choosing the HIGH value for your items as it represents the potential of the collectible and should be used as the potential replacement cost. But be ready to accept the AVG in case of claim.
WHAT IF THE ITEM I HAVE ISN'T REPRESENTED BY THE SYMBOLS LISTED ...
With Longaberger products, there are countless possible combinations of product and accessories. We list the symbols that are most commonly seen in the secondary market. If you have a combination that is not represented, you can either choose to add your own value for the item by choosing 'Self Value', or select a symbol that represents the closest value of the combination of accessories you have. For example, if you have two protectors for a basket, you could select the value for 'Liner' to represent the costs of two protectors. If your item has 2 lids, you could choose the 'Combo' or 'Full Set' symbol. One thing to note with this approach, if you do select a symbol that is different from what you own, it is important to make a notation under 'Your Notes' to document for insurance purposes exactly what pieces are included with your item so there is no confusion should a claim need to be made.
