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FanimeCon Events and Discussionmentarianism => Live Programming and Events => Topic started by: Decantus on February 26, 2014, 10:49:20 AM

Title: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: Decantus on February 26, 2014, 10:49:20 AM
Swap Meet Registration will go live, Friday May 16th at 7PM PST

READ FIRST BEFORE POSTING

Welcome to the FanimeCon 2014 Swapmeet FAQ or Fans Ask Questions Thread.

This is going to be a compilation of all questions asked by you, the fans.  Please ask them here and I will add them to the top post.

Questions asked so far:

When is Swapmeet registration?
-Before Fanime ^^;

Sorry I can't give more info right now.  I'm going to be working with our Web team in the coming weeks to make sure that we have a smooth system like we did last year.

Where will Swapmeet be?
-There are a couple of places that we're looking at.  Last year we had an amazing space, however Artist Alley was pushed to South Hall where, I'm sure we can all agree, was not the best place.  I'm doing everything I can to make sure that our next location will be just as good.

I made an error with the previous posting on this, please re-read for accuracy
My friends are going to be selling with me but they're going to wait in line for their badges.  Can I sign in for them?
-Only 2 people per spot.  This is non Negotiable.  They can leave stuff with you to sell if they trust you, but they cannot be in the spot selling or "Hanging out".
-If you are signed up as either the Primary or Secondary on the form, you can check in.  If you are not, then we cannot allow this.  Make sure that both people are listed at sign-up for the spot to avoid confusion.  If you decide after signups that you want to add a second, please email me so that I can make the adjustment in our system to avoid confusion.

How much change do you recommend bringing?

I really depends on how much you're going to be selling and what you price everything at.  Keep in mind that Swapmeet is Day Zero and 1, so people haven't blown all their $20s yet.  If you're selling manga at $3 a pop, make sure you have plenty of $1s to make change for increments of $5.  If you're selling everything in multiples of $5s, make sure you have $5s and $10s.

If you're interested in being able to accept Plastic, you can look into Square Card Readers or Paypal if you have a smart phone.  We will not make access to Wifi available to attendees, so keep that in mind.

Do we need to account for tax?  And if so, do we give you a portion at the end of the night?

We do not take care of your taxes.  If you think you've sold enough that you should give a cut to the government, you should look into that.

Questions I remember from last year:

I need to leave and do something, can this friend watch my stuff?
-My question for you: Are they on the Seller's permit as your second?
>If yes: have fun.
>If no: No, they must be on the sheet as a seller in order for them to sell.  This is not up to me or FanimeCon, this is a San Jose City thing.
Then what do I do with my stuff?
-Take it with you?  FanimeCon is not responsible for your things if you leave them out.  If there is someone stealing, we will do everything we can to identify the individual and bounce them, but at the end of the day, it's your stuff and we can't keep an eye on it for you.

My friend is has registered for a spot, can we be next to each other?
-If you're in line together, then we will try to get you into a spot near each other.  Space is limited so there is no guarantee.
-As a side note, there has been a major problem in the past few years with "Professionals" selling at Swapmeet.  They have purchased multiple spots, either next to each other, or spread out over the hall.  This is not going to be tolerated, if we find you, you will be kicked out, NOT REFUNDED, and Banned from Swapmeet; possibly FanimeCon.  If you are a Dealer, contact Dealer's Hall and do it legitimately.  There is way more traffic in there, you get a much bigger space, many more days for you to sell, and everyone is happy.  We already have a few people flagged as such that are not going to be allowed back, if you try to circumvent this somehow, actions will be taken.

I have adult material to sell, is this okay?
-The specific guidelines will be detailed once we get closer to Registration but it's probably going to be the same as every year.
>1 container MAX
>Make sure you check ID
>Must be covered properly
>Must be legal to sell

I have a bunch of stuff to bring in, it's really heavy, can I use a dolly or hand cart?
-No, this is not allowed due to Union policies that we have to follow.
Can you help us?
-Within reason, we have a ton of people to check in and get to their spaces.  My staff has to be on their feet for hours running the event and we have many people checking in.  Consider the fact that last year we had over 150 spaces filled, if we helped everyone, we would be dying on our feet.  If it's just a poster or shopping bag that we're carrying, probably; but if it's a box of Manga, please bring your own muscle.

I'm disabled.  Look!  Here's an official thing from California stating so!  Can I get help?
-Please email me at swapmeet <at> fanime dot com, we can make arrangements.
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: keitoghostie on February 26, 2014, 08:06:10 PM
This is open to veteran sellers as well as Swap Meet staff:
additionally

Thanks in advance!
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: Admiral Donuts on February 26, 2014, 08:55:59 PM
The bigger float the better, but it depends on how much stock you have, how much it's worth, and what your items are priced. Something between $50 and $100 would probably be good.

I don't think you'll be selling enough to qualify for having to charge sales tax, so I wouldn't worry about it. The most you'd have to do is claim the money you make as income on your own taxes.
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: keitoghostie on February 26, 2014, 09:36:06 PM
Quote from: Admiral Donuts on February 26, 2014, 08:55:59 PM
The bigger float the better, but it depends on how much stock you have, how much it's worth, and what your items are priced. Something between $50 and $100 would probably be good.

I don't think you'll be selling enough to qualify for having to charge sales tax, so I wouldn't worry about it. The most you'd have to do is claim the money you make as income on your own taxes.
Thank you!
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: Decantus on February 27, 2014, 09:30:53 AM
Quote from: keitoghostie on February 26, 2014, 08:06:10 PM
How much change do you recommend bringing? I'm hoping to deal only in whole dollars so I'm mostly focused on $1 and $5 bills but any advice is appreciated!

I really depends on how much you're going to be selling and what you price everything at.  Keep in mind that Swapmeet is Day Zero and 1, so people haven't blown all their $20s yet.  If you're selling manga at $3 a pop, make sure you have plenty of $1s to make change for increments of $5.  If you're selling everything in multiples of $5s, make sure you have $5s and $10s.

If you're interested in being able to accept Plastic, you can look into Square Card Readers if you have a smart phone.  Depending on where we are, the signal strength might be sketchy and we're not providing WiFi to attendees, so keep that in mind.

QuoteDo we need to account for tax? and if so, how? (As in would we have to pay a certain amount back at the end of the night or would we pre-pay or something else?)

We do not take care of your taxes.  If you think you've sold enough that you should give a cut to the government, you should look into that.  I doubt you're going to sell the minimum to warrant that though, the Board of Equalization lists $100k as the minimum to get a tax account ^^

You will need to get a permit to sell at Swapmeet, Link here: http://www.boe.ca.gov/info/reg.htm (http://www.boe.ca.gov/info/reg.htm) This also lists all of the other information you're looking for on Taxes and the like.
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: Admiral Donuts on February 27, 2014, 11:53:06 AM
Quote from: Decantus on February 27, 2014, 09:30:53 AM
If you're interested in being able to accept Plastic, you can look into Square Card Readers if you have a smart phone.  Depending on where we are, the signal strength might be sketchy and we're not providing WiFi to attendees, so keep that in mind.

Oh yeah, get Square. Square is awesome.
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: sjamison1427 on March 02, 2014, 09:59:35 PM
I have a question in regards to adult items for the swap meet. So I see that it is specified to one container this year and, of course, the buyer's ID will need to be checked. What about buyer's who bring in fake ID's, will there be a briefing in regards to how to easily spot a fake ID.

I don't want to get in any trouble for accidentally selling to someone who is underage. Will the seller be responsible if another seller catches the same buyer's ID as fake or will it be seen as a mistake?

- Scott
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: Decantus on March 03, 2014, 12:46:37 AM
Quote from: sjamison1427 on March 02, 2014, 09:59:35 PM
I have a question in regards to adult items for the swap meet. So I see that it is specified to one container this year and, of course, the buyer's ID will need to be checked. What about buyer's who bring in fake ID's, will there be a briefing in regards to how to easily spot a fake ID.

I don't want to get in any trouble for accidentally selling to someone who is underage. Will the seller be responsible if another seller catches the same buyer's ID as fake or will it be seen as a mistake?

- Scott

We don't have an official training on spotting fake IDs.  Honestly it's all just common sense, but I doubt people are going to be buying fake IDs to buy adult material at Swapmeet when there's more than enough they can get on the internet.

If you really want to know how to spot a fake, this site has a neat 8-step checklist on spotting fakes.

http://www.wikihow.com/Spot-a-Fake-I.D (http://www.wikihow.com/Spot-a-Fake-I.D)
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: Michi on March 10, 2014, 10:34:16 PM
Quote from: Decantus on February 27, 2014, 09:30:53 AM
You will need to get a permit to sell at Swapmeet, Link here: http://www.boe.ca.gov/info/reg.htm (http://www.boe.ca.gov/info/reg.htm) This also lists all of the other information you're looking for on Taxes and the like.

Last year this was only necessary for certain sellers. Are the rules changing this year so that every swap meet participant must acquire a California Seller's Permit?
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: Decantus on March 11, 2014, 09:50:04 AM
Quote from: Michi on March 10, 2014, 10:34:16 PM
Quote from: Decantus on February 27, 2014, 09:30:53 AM
You will need to get a permit to sell at Swapmeet, Link here: http://www.boe.ca.gov/info/reg.htm (http://www.boe.ca.gov/info/reg.htm) This also lists all of the other information you're looking for on Taxes and the like.

Last year this was only necessary for certain sellers. Are the rules changing this year so that every swap meet participant must acquire a California Seller's Permit?

It's going to be the same as last year.  If I recall correctly, you will only need to get a CSP if you sell more than twice in a 12 month period.  If not, then there is a Temporary Sellers Permit form that you can fill out that counts as the same thing.  It will be posted on the Swap Meet page once Registration goes live.
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: Michi on March 13, 2014, 09:22:48 PM
Thank you for the clarification! Looking forward to Swap Meet this year. :)
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: sea.canter on March 19, 2014, 07:21:13 AM
Hello all.
I am addressing my questions to seasoned swap meeters and staff. Any tips/info. is greatly appreciated as this will be (hopefully) my first time selling at a swap meet. If the answers to my questions are posted some where, please send me the link. Thanks.
1. If it is allowed, do you recommend bringing a tarp to lay stuff on?
2. How big is the space we get and is it tape/roped off somehow?
3. Can I bring my own chair to sit in? It's one of those bbq chairs that collapses into a tube thingy.
4. If not, is it ok if I sit on the floor?
5. There has been much debate in other forums, at other conventions as to what can be sold. My specific question is: Can I sell my unopened Sailor Moon dolls? I bought them. I enjoyed looking at them on my shelf, but now I want to see them bring joy to another for a price ;).
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: Admiral Donuts on March 19, 2014, 11:29:04 AM
Quote from: sea.canter on March 19, 2014, 07:21:13 AM
1. If it is allowed, do you recommend bringing a tarp to lay stuff on?

I recommend it, it really helps to define your space and keeps everything organized.

Quote from: sea.canter on March 19, 2014, 07:21:13 AM
2. How big is the space we get and is it tape/roped off somehow?

Space size hasn't been announced yet, but it will likely be marked by tape on the floor.

Quote from: sea.canter on March 19, 2014, 07:21:13 AM
3. Can I bring my own chair to sit in? It's one of those bbq chairs that collapses into a tube thingy.

Yes. But it will probably take up a good deal of your space.

Quote from: sea.canter on March 19, 2014, 07:21:13 AM
4. If not, is it ok if I sit on the floor?

Yes, but note that you are not allowed to sit on the walls or ceiling.

Quote from: sea.canter on March 19, 2014, 07:21:13 AM
5. There has been much debate in other forums, at other conventions as to what can be sold. My specific question is: Can I sell my unopened Sailor Moon dolls? I bought them. I enjoyed looking at them on my shelf, but now I want to see them bring joy to another for a price ;).

That's exactly the kind of thing people are expected to sell. 18+ items have to be in an opaque container and marked as such, and I don't think you're allowed to sell dangerous things like knives, or unofficial stuff like bootlegs.
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: Decantus on March 22, 2014, 09:30:08 AM
Tarps, Blankets, Towels, etc. are allowed so long as they do not encroach on your neighboring spaces or walkways.

Live Weaponry is strictly prohibited not only by Swap Meet and FanimeCon, but San Jose City as well.  You will be asked to leave if you bring real weapons.  PROP/Cosplay weapons however:

Any weapon-like props must be authorized and peace bonded by Rovers immediately after sale. A copy of the FanimeCon Weapons Policy must be provided with every sale. Please contact the Swap Meet Staff upon registration request to be appraised of other restrictions that must be adhered to. For more information on FanimeCon's Code of Conduct, which will be accessible when the main site goes live.
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: regeener on March 23, 2014, 01:11:47 PM
I had a question about permits: I've sold at the Artist Alley before but I was thinking about doing the Swapmeet this year too. Would i have to have two separate Seller's Permits if i plan on doing both this year or would I only need one?
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: Decantus on March 23, 2014, 01:27:01 PM
Quote from: regeener on March 23, 2014, 01:11:47 PM
I had a question about permits: I've sold at the Artist Alley before but I was thinking about doing the Swapmeet this year too. Would i have to have two separate Seller's Permits if i plan on doing both this year or would I only need one?

The Seller's permit is valid for Swap Meet as well, however please note that you cannot sell anything that you are selling in Artist Alley in your Swap Meet space.
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: keitoghostie on March 23, 2014, 07:21:41 PM
Just wanted to check if
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: Decantus on March 24, 2014, 01:19:09 PM
Quote from: keitoghostie on March 23, 2014, 07:21:41 PM
Just wanted to check if

  • There is going to be a form/application for swap meet applicants going up prior to the con AND
  • it will be able to accommodate panelists who are planning on registering at-con.

Registration for Swap Meet will be online prior to the con.  The actual date for this is very dependent on other things right now but I'm hoping to get it up before the end of April.

So long as you have your badge number at check in, you will be fine.
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: keitoghostie on March 24, 2014, 01:39:02 PM
Thank you!
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: kookiekween99 on March 31, 2014, 06:30:04 PM
Any updates for when Swap Meet sign ups will be, or is it still a vague "soon"?
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: Decantus on April 01, 2014, 03:34:16 PM
Quote from: kookiekween99 on March 31, 2014, 06:30:04 PM
Any updates for when Swap Meet sign ups will be, or is it still a vague "soon"?

It still before Fanime ^^

I'm waiting for the venue to tell me space count so we can open registration.
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: kookiekween99 on April 02, 2014, 03:28:45 AM
Quote from: Decantus on April 01, 2014, 03:34:16 PM
Quote from: kookiekween99 on March 31, 2014, 06:30:04 PM
Any updates for when Swap Meet sign ups will be, or is it still a vague "soon"?

It still before Fanime ^^

I'm waiting for the venue to tell me space count so we can open registration.

Ah, thank you. I like this sort of transparency. Other departments should follow suit. ^^
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: Decantus on April 11, 2014, 10:22:33 AM
Quote from: kookiekween99 on April 02, 2014, 03:28:45 AM
Quote from: Decantus on April 01, 2014, 03:34:16 PM
Quote from: kookiekween99 on March 31, 2014, 06:30:04 PM
Any updates for when Swap Meet sign ups will be, or is it still a vague "soon"?

It still before Fanime ^^

I'm waiting for the venue to tell me space count so we can open registration.

Ah, thank you. I like this sort of transparency. Other departments should follow suit. ^^

I simply have the luxury of transparency.

Registration will be open earlier than last year.  Not that THAT'S a hard thing to do since it opened like May 16th or something like that.
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: warbearer on April 13, 2014, 07:25:09 PM
Quote from: Decantus on April 11, 2014, 10:22:33 AM
Quote from: kookiekween99 on April 02, 2014, 03:28:45 AM
Quote from: Decantus on April 01, 2014, 03:34:16 PM
Quote from: kookiekween99 on March 31, 2014, 06:30:04 PM
Any updates for when Swap Meet sign ups will be, or is it still a vague "soon"?

It still before Fanime ^^

I'm waiting for the venue to tell me space count so we can open registration.

Ah, thank you. I like this sort of transparency. Other departments should follow suit. ^^

I simply have the luxury of transparency.

Registration will be open earlier than last year.  Not that THAT'S a hard thing to do since it opened like May 16th or something like that.

You mean the registration might open in the middle of May?
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: Decantus on April 14, 2014, 04:36:45 PM
Quote from: warbearer on April 13, 2014, 07:25:09 PM
Quote from: Decantus on April 11, 2014, 10:22:33 AM
Quote from: kookiekween99 on April 02, 2014, 03:28:45 AM
Quote from: Decantus on April 01, 2014, 03:34:16 PM
Quote from: kookiekween99 on March 31, 2014, 06:30:04 PM
Any updates for when Swap Meet sign ups will be, or is it still a vague "soon"?

It still before Fanime ^^

I'm waiting for the venue to tell me space count so we can open registration.

Ah, thank you. I like this sort of transparency. Other departments should follow suit. ^^

I simply have the luxury of transparency.

Registration will be open earlier than last year.  Not that THAT'S a hard thing to do since it opened like May 16th or something like that.

You mean the registration might open in the middle of May?

Sooner, hopefully, I'll have an announcement on the Fanime Twitter and Facebook page once the date and time that it opens is set.  I'll also post it here so check back.
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: otakuya on April 16, 2014, 11:15:27 AM
What about having Thursday as "free" (as in badge-less)? I'd rather hang out at the swap meet for hours than waiting for a badge, then pick up my badge Friday morning instead.

And what are the tentative hours for swap meet on Thursday?
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: Decantus on April 16, 2014, 04:50:09 PM
Quote from: Otakuya on April 16, 2014, 11:15:27 AM
What about having Thursday as "free" (as in badge-less)? I'd rather hang out at the swap meet for hours than waiting for a badge, then pick up my badge Friday morning instead.

And what are the tentative hours for swap meet on Thursday?

Thursday is still Badgeless, the times will be posted soon.
Title: Swap meet - Seperate family accounts?
Post by: Hachimitsu on April 21, 2014, 01:31:11 PM
I have a big question regarding about families swap meet spots.. Can me and my sister have seperate spots? (even though we are kinda next to each other O_o!)
Title: Re: Swap meet - Seperate family accounts?
Post by: Admiral Donuts on April 21, 2014, 01:47:47 PM
Quote from: Hachimitsu-ink on April 21, 2014, 01:31:11 PM
I have a big question regarding about families swap meet spots.. Can me and my sister have seperate spots? (even though we are kinda next to each other O_o!)

Um... anybody who applies for a spot and gets it is going to have a separate spot? I don't think there's anything special in the rules about family members.
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: Admiral Donuts on April 21, 2014, 01:55:52 PM
So on the website it says this:

QuoteRemember, cash or barter are the only accepted payment methods for Swap Meet

Isn't this wrong now that some people are using Square?
Title: Re: Swap meet - Seperate family accounts?
Post by: Decantus on April 22, 2014, 08:59:07 AM
Quote from: Admiral Donuts on April 21, 2014, 01:47:47 PM
Quote from: Hachimitsu-ink on April 21, 2014, 01:31:11 PM
I have a big question regarding about families swap meet spots.. Can me and my sister have seperate spots? (even though we are kinda next to each other O_o!)

Um... anybody who applies for a spot and gets it is going to have a separate spot? I don't think there's anything special in the rules about family members.

If you want to have separate spots, you will have to reg and pay separately.  I cannot guarantee that you will get spots next to each other.  Time at which you reg will not have a bearing on where you will be placed, it will be first come-first choice at con.

Quote from: Admiral Donuts on April 21, 2014, 01:55:52 PM
So on the website it says this:

QuoteRemember, cash or barter are the only accepted payment methods for Swap Meet

Isn't this wrong now that some people are using Square?

Anyone can get a Square reader, not just businesses.  I have posted previously that Square Card Readers are allowed.  I can say that it's a gamble on your part since signal strength may or may not be enough for it to work.
Title: Re: Swap meet - Seperate family accounts?
Post by: Admiral Donuts on April 22, 2014, 11:47:04 AM
Quote from: Decantus on April 22, 2014, 08:59:07 AM
Anyone can get a Square reader, not just businesses.  I have posted previously that Square Card Readers are allowed.  I can say that it's a gamble on your part since signal strength may or may not be enough for it to work.

Yeah, that's the point I'm going for. You should get the website people to update the page (http://www.fanime.com/events/) because right now it sounds like Square isn't allowed/anticipated.
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: FanFicGuru on April 22, 2014, 07:34:22 PM
VERY IMPORTANT REGARDING SQUARE:

https://squareup.com/help/en-us/article/3807-square-s-deposit-schedule

Note the deposit schedule. Because of their schedules, any transactions done after 5 PM Thursday would typically post monday morning. Monday is memorial day, so you won't get the money that day. In other words, don't use square if you want to use the money during the con!
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: keitoghostie on April 22, 2014, 09:27:10 PM
Quote from: FanFicGuru on April 22, 2014, 07:34:22 PM
VERY IMPORTANT REGARDING SQUARE:

https://squareup.com/help/en-us/article/3807-square-s-deposit-schedule

Note the deposit schedule. Because of their schedules, any transactions done after 5 PM Thursday would typically post monday morning. Monday is memorial day, so you won't get the money that day. In other words, don't use square if you want to use the money during the con!
Yoooooo really important!
Thank you for sharing this info, dang.
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: Admiral Donuts on April 22, 2014, 10:35:33 PM
Quote from: FanFicGuru on April 22, 2014, 07:34:22 PM
Because of their schedules, any transactions done after 5 PM Thursday would typically post monday morning. Monday is memorial day, so you won't get the money that day. In other words, don't use square if you want to use the money during the con!

For some people this is probably a good thing... no blowing all your swap meet earnings in the Dealer's Hall.
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: LightandDarkSoul on April 22, 2014, 11:04:33 PM
Another way around that is using Paypal Here. Info and comparison: http://www.cardfellow.com/blog/paypal-here-vs-square/
I personally use Paypal here and, to me, it's a better option as you get your funds immediately. Only requirement is that you have to have an active, verified Paypal account.
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: Hachimitsu on April 24, 2014, 09:39:09 PM
Quote from: LightandDarkSoul on April 22, 2014, 11:04:33 PM
Another way around that is using Paypal Here. Info and comparison: http://www.cardfellow.com/blog/paypal-here-vs-square/
I personally use Paypal here and, to me, it's a better option as you get your funds immediately. Only requirement is that you have to have an active, verified Paypal account.

OKay paypal and square looks intersting but has anyone tried this one?

https://www.chasepaymentech.com/images/chase_mobile_checkout.jpg
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: kill3rsushi on April 29, 2014, 07:30:30 AM
Hello there,

Last year there was a lot of stress and confusion about participants who are also panelists. Because I have two panels, I have to wait to buy my badge at-con to receive the discount and therefore don't have a badge number or registration info handy by the start of swap-meet registration. Last year, I was able to coordinate directly with the swap meet director to reserve my spot and just showed them my badge on Friday after I'd gotten it before I was allowed to claim the spot and sell, but this year me and a friend are both selling and are in the same position of being panelists.

This could also be an issue for someone who buys their badge at the con could have, or if they're in artist alley or press or something. Can you tell us how we should fill out the forms if we won't have this problem with registration?

Thanks!
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: Decantus on April 29, 2014, 11:24:16 AM
Quote from: kill3rsushi on April 29, 2014, 07:30:30 AM
Hello there,

Last year there was a lot of stress and confusion about participants who are also panelists. Because I have two panels, I have to wait to buy my badge at-con to receive the discount and therefore don't have a badge number or registration info handy by the start of swap-meet registration. Last year, I was able to coordinate directly with the swap meet director to reserve my spot and just showed them my badge on Friday after I'd gotten it before I was allowed to claim the spot and sell, but this year me and a friend are both selling and are in the same position of being panelists.

This could also be an issue for someone who buys their badge at the con could have, or if they're in artist alley or press or something. Can you tell us how we should fill out the forms if we won't have this problem with registration?

Thanks!

You can still sign up for a space without having your badge number, this will get you into the spot and then I can make arrangements on my side.  Once you create your account and get to that point in the reg process, please email [email protected] and I can speak with you directly about the process going forward.
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: ash on April 29, 2014, 01:01:50 PM
Any news on when reg is gonna be up yet. I know you mentioned something about it being up before may.
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: Decantus on April 29, 2014, 01:33:38 PM
Quote from: ash on April 29, 2014, 01:01:50 PM
Any news on when reg is gonna be up yet. I know you mentioned something about it being up before may.

Almost there, just waiting on the paperwork to get finalized for changes in 2014 from the 2013 ones.  There should be an announcement on all FanimeCon Social Media soon.
Title: clothing racks and dollys
Post by: reikofanel on April 30, 2014, 11:49:28 AM
Regarding what's allowed in the spaces, I have several used costume items I will be selling this year and am thinking about getting a small portable clothing rack to display them on. Is this permitted?

Also, how stringent is the no dolly policy? I have about 4 boxes that will be hell to carry by hand. The year before last I used a small dolly to get my stuff into place and then took it back to be stowed in my car. I understand that rules change, but I just wanted to be clear on the cart/dolly policy even if it won't be in the way during the meet itself.

Looking forward to reg for the event being up!
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: keitoghostie on April 30, 2014, 02:12:45 PM
in the past, I know clothing racks and other vertical displays have not been permitted, but I'm not an official voice so I'm not sure if the policy has changed

also re: carrying stuff in - if you're unable to use a dolly I HIGHLY RECOMMEND investing in one or two of those blue Ikea bags! They're 59ยข each and are meant to tote bulky items and have worked REALLY WELL for me when I've had to carry multiple full boxes
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: Admiral Donuts on April 30, 2014, 05:29:16 PM
Quote from: reikofanel on April 30, 2014, 11:49:28 AM
Also, how stringent is the no dolly policy? I have about 4 boxes that will be hell to carry by hand. The year before last I used a small dolly to get my stuff into place and then took it back to be stowed in my car. I understand that rules change, but I just wanted to be clear on the cart/dolly policy even if it won't be in the way during the meet itself.

The dolly policy is pretty strict. Last year we were allowed to bring it to the room entrance and carried our stuff in from there. If I recall there was debate about WHY dollies weren't allowed, some were saying it was union rules about transporting stuff into the convention centre, some were saying it was about marking up the floor. I don't remember anyone giving a definitive answer, so if the location changes they might be allowed again...
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: Xeluu on April 30, 2014, 08:47:49 PM
It's my understanding from talking with various staff members that it's a union issue. It's the same thing dealers and artists have to deal with: if it requires a dolly, you have to hire the union and pay them a base amount.
I think they were able to get around this by having people using suitcases last year.
The rule has been around for years, but they've really started enforcing it the past few.

And I could be wrong, but that was my understanding of it.
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: Decantus on May 01, 2014, 09:41:48 AM
Dolly's, hand carts, other things with wheels are not allowed.  This is due to the Union rules of the Convention Center and their facilities.

Xeluu is right that you have to hire them to do it for you.

In past years we've been lenient about it, however this year it's going to be strict.  If you bring a dolly or something like that, we are going to send you back to your car.  Rolling luggage is sketchy too, it's under the same rules so please avoid it.  You will need to bring your own muscle because everything needs to be checked when you arrive for registration, you can't go back and get more stuff.

My minions can't help you beyond help getting to your space.  There are many of you and few of them.  If you have a disability as defined and recognized by the state, we can make arrangements, please message me here or email me at swapmeet <at> fanime dot com.
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: Anon on May 01, 2014, 10:01:47 AM
lol every year the whole dolly discussion is brought up, and every year people always question why and/or try to find the magic loophole. Since everybody always asks, I guess the next logical question that nobody ever bothered asking will be:

How do we go about actually hiring the union staff to move items to/from cars if the load is too much for a single person to handle?
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: Decantus on May 01, 2014, 10:34:16 AM
Quote from: Anon on May 01, 2014, 10:01:47 AM
lol every year the whole dolly discussion is brought up, and every year people always question why and/or try to find the magic loophole. Since everybody always asks, I guess the next logical question that nobody ever bothered asking will be:

How do we go about actually hiring the union staff to move items to/from cars if the load is too much for a single person to handle?

Union staff is not available to be hired to bring your stuff in.  Yes, this is a Catch-22, Union rules make it so that you can't use a wheeled apparatus to aid in transportation of your items, but you can't get Union members to help you.
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: Admiral Donuts on May 01, 2014, 11:39:25 AM
Quote from: Decantus on May 01, 2014, 10:34:16 AM
Union staff is not available to be hired to bring your stuff in.  Yes, this is a Catch-22, Union rules make it so that you can't use a wheeled apparatus to aid in transportation of your items, but you can't get Union members to help you.

This is the kind of thing I'd ask to be brought up to the FanimeCon lawyer. It's one thing if they provide a service and charge a rate (no matter how high) but if you can prove a service is unavailable, that's another thing. Although, unions aren't known for having agreements full of legal loopholes so it's probably a waste of time and money.
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: Admiral Donuts on May 01, 2014, 11:59:30 AM
Quote from: Anon on May 01, 2014, 10:01:47 AM
How do we go about actually hiring the union staff to move items to/from cars if the load is too much for a single person to handle?

The minimum rate for the union is around $250 for the first 1,000 lbs, too expensive for most swap meet sellers to make it worth it.

...can we get a rundown of how people are allowed to bring their stuff up? There's mention of it having to be a "single trip" but how many people? Can you use people other than the two registered sellers to bring your stuff from the car to the line? I think the rule is that you can't leave our stuff, but can one seller watch it in line while the other goes to get the rest? My understanding is that you have to have it all together when you're checking in, but waiting in line is a different story?

Not looking for loopholes as much as I'm trying to nail down what is and isn't allowed. Swap Meet is probably one of the best run events at Fanime and it's only gotten better in the couple of years I've been going.
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: Xeluu on May 01, 2014, 04:23:05 PM
Oh man, no rolling luggage either? Oh well. I know it's tricky walking that line of not getting in trouble with the union.

Question: I have art prints I've purchased over the years that I'm planning on getting rid of. Since it's a "used" art item, may I sell them here? (Obviously there's only one of each print since it would have been stupid to purchase more than one.)
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: keitoghostie on May 01, 2014, 05:42:14 PM
I'm not sure if there's an official rule on the matter but I feel kind of iffy full on selling used art prints - I'll ask my artist alley friends what their opinion on the matter is but I'll probably end up sticking the prints and stuff I have in a "free with purchase" box (along with some manga samplers and similar items) when I'm selling.
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: Xeluu on May 01, 2014, 06:19:10 PM
Additionally:
My friends and I were looking into applying to participate in the "Chopped Cosplay" which runs Friday from 6pm-7:30pm. I believe in the past the swap meet started at 7pm? Is there any way to participate in both, or am I going to have to choose one? (I think in the past set-up has started at 5pm) Or is it possible for someone else to check-in and run my swap meet spot to start and then take over when the contest is done? (Not a guaranteed I'm getting in, but Swap Meet sales in a priority for me this year.)
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: Ecchi ja Nai on May 01, 2014, 06:20:10 PM
The mention of not allowing rolling luggage is very disappointing, to say the least.  I can completely understand and am in total agreement against people using furniture dollies or hand trucks to bring their stuff in, but there's got to be some way of making this work.  I've amassed more stuff that I was hoping to sell this year than I have previously, and while it may not have been easy, I've always found some way of getting everything to my spot on my own, without the use of dollies, in a single trip.  If rolling luggage is expressly forbidden this year, I think I may as well not even attend.  Con-attendee stereotypes aside, have you see the average seller at the last few swap meets?  I can't see most people being able to handle much more than a single short comic box worth of stuff if everyone has to actually hand carry everything to their spot.

Next I assume there's going to be an announcement that the prices to sell are going to go up again and that the space allotted will be further reduced from what we've had before.

Quote from: Admiral Donuts on May 01, 2014, 11:59:30 AM
I'm trying to nail down what is and isn't allowed. Swap Meet is probably one of the best run events at Fanime and it's only gotten better in the couple of years I've been going.

I have to question that latter statement.  I mean, have you sold at previous swap meets?  Sure everything seems to run fine once all the sellers have been checked in, but there have been serious headaches the last couple of years just getting people lined up at the door.  I think the least hassle I've encountered was the year before they tried handing out con badges as sellers were checking in.  By no means am I implying that organizing swap meet is an easy undertaking, and it's certainly been one of the major things I've been looking forward to each year, but calling it the best run event and constantly improving - at least from a seller's point of view - leave me questioning what kind of experiences you've been having these last few years.  That, or you've got extremely low expectations for the rest of the con.

I will agree with you that I would like details to be released as soon as possible.  Saying that using rolling luggage is "sketchy" and should be "avoided," doesn't really cut it if I've got a bunch of manga to sell.  That stuff's heavy, and if I'm going to be turned away at the door because I've got wheels on the bottom of my bag, I may as well not lug them around to begin with.
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: PLUMPKIN on May 01, 2014, 06:30:26 PM
I would also like clarification on the rolling luggage situation.  I have a good amount of stuff that I'm hoping to sell at swap meet.  I am not disabled, but I have medically documented back problems that will make it difficult for me to carry everything in if I cannot use rolling luggage.  I'd like to avoid aggravating or potentially injuring my back.  Furthermore, every single piece of baggage I own has wheels on it.  I'd rather not have to buy new luggage just so I can sell.  I can try to carry in the luggage without using the wheels to circumvent the "no-wheels rule", but I'd rather not do anything to get me expelled from swap meet.

Clarification from Swap Meet staff would be much appreciated.  Thank you so much! :)
Title: Swap meet Karts and Rulings and...Excuses!
Post by: Hachimitsu on May 01, 2014, 07:45:08 PM
The last 4 fanimes has had the same rulings over and over again, regarding about wheels.
Both Artist alley and Swap meet (not sure about dealers hall)

The following excuses Why they weren't allowed after interviewing rovers and the guy who is in charge..


these are all the things i have reported over the past 5 years... since. 2009 I think... I remember one time someone asked me if the box I have has wheels but since i carry the huge damn thing from the gaurage to the fairemont, alot of items were droped into the tracks!

has anyone else by pass this?, I mean seriously I KNOW im notthe only one here, I had a talk with the guy who was incharge and he too didn't like this ruling idea as well...
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: Decantus on May 02, 2014, 09:53:56 AM
Art Prints (Keitoghostie)

This is a difficult question.  Our rule is that you're not allowed to sell Fan Art at swap meet, since that's something that should be in Artist Alley.  However, this is not YOUR fan art so... Let me check into it.  If you're just giving it away, I don't think that there will be a problem with it.

Conflicting Schedules (Xeluu)

Check in for Swap Meet starts at 6:30, Selling starts at 7:30.  If you register and get a spot, you have until 8:30 to check in before we give your spot away to the first in line on the wait list.  If you know you are going to be late, we can make arrangements prior to the con, but once Day Zero hits, you are subject to the previous statement.

Swap Meet Space price (Everyone)

$30 per space per day.  Same as last year.

Check in Line (Ecchi Ja Nai)

This is something that I've really been focusing on.  Check in line will be set before people start showing up, rather than having people mill about while we get things set.

Con Badge situation (Everyone)

4 years ago, we did try to do Badge pick up at Swap Meet.  This was a bad idea.  Last year, we had the server failure that delayed people getting their badges for hours.  This was bad, but not something that we can control.  What we CAN control is having you guys get stuck in that long pre-reg line and not getting your badges until 10pm.

Registration this year is more streamlined than ever.  The Registration team has put together a system that will cut reg down to 15-20 seconds per attendee.  But we are going a step further to make sure that you are going to be able to make it to swap meet check in.  If you get a space for Swap Meet, you are able to obtain a voucher from us that gives you access to the Priority Registration line that Artist Alley Vendors have.  You will need to come to Swap Meet Prior to getting your Con Badge, and I will give you this Voucher.

Rolling Luggage (Everyone)

To be honest, I'm fine with Rolling Luggage.  The major problem that we had with it in previous years is that it was a problem for the Convention Center marking up the floor.  This year, we don't have that problem.

Hope this clears up a few things.
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: Decantus on May 02, 2014, 10:04:21 AM
Quote from: Hachimitsu-ink on May 01, 2014, 07:45:08 PM
The last 4 fanimes has had the same rulings over and over again, regarding about wheels.
Both Artist alley and Swap meet (not sure about dealers hall)

The following excuses Why they weren't allowed after interviewing rovers and the guy who is in charge..

The problem in the past is that we haven't really taken the time to address these and enforce the rules clearly.  I'll be talking to Rovers so that we're on the same page about everything, but when it comes down to it, they have final say in rulings.

Quote

  • gives a hint you are part of the dealers hall trying to resell items


This is a major thing, there have been vendors trying to get into Swap Meet to dodge the Dealer's Hall costs/availability, so our stance is now to be hyper sensitive to this fact.

Quote

  • People who brought karts never put them away and left them on the side, creating traffic congestions

Not only is this a safety thing, but this is just plain courtesy.  Please be aware of your surroundings, you wouldn't want someone bleeding into the space that you paid for, so don't do it to someone else.

Quote

  • Violates the union labor laws and you need to hire one of them just to use a cart, rental is like what. $1200

This is just something that we have to deal with, Union Laws don't make sense 100% of the time, but we have to abide by them.  If I knew how to get around them, I would probably be making a ton of money as a lawyer.

Quote

  • We have rovers, you can ask them for assistance (but I noticed THERE aren't many left)

Do not ask Rovers for help carrying your stuff.

Quote

  • easy display stands? (seriously? how does that even work, we used ours as a CHAIR (3 years ago))

No display stands.  People keep trying to get around this and my ruling is now iron clad, it has to be on the floor or you will be asked to fix that, this WILL be enforced.

Quote

  • Stains the carpet (sounds reasonable but again.. the interior of the buildings aren't carpet...except that time from blackout year)

Not going to be an issue this year, but still a valid problem in the past.  Don't bring up blackout year... that was bad times.
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: Ecchi ja Nai on May 02, 2014, 10:14:20 AM
Quote from: Decantus on May 02, 2014, 09:53:56 AM
Hope this clears up a few things.

Absolutely.  To be honest I was a bit surprised to find out that the wheels vs. carpet situation was an actual issue with the convention center.  I've been to other conventions and trade shows, both specifically in San Jose and in other states, and especially in business settings you see rolling carriers and luggage everywhere.  I'm just glad this is no longer an issue.

And actually, I was just bringing up issues from previous years as examples for my previous post, but I am very excited and incredibly interested to see how the check in line and reg badges will work out this year.  I'm definitely hoping that at the end of the con, or at least after swap meet Friday, I'll be making a comment: "Huge success!"

Now if we could only get the actual swap meet reg online...  ;)
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: Decantus on May 02, 2014, 10:20:11 AM
Quote from: Ecchi ja Nai on May 02, 2014, 10:14:20 AM
Quote from: Decantus on May 02, 2014, 09:53:56 AM
Hope this clears up a few things.

Now if we could only get the actual swap meet reg online...  ;)

SoonTM

But more seriously, it's going to be on a Saturday at 12pm (Not tomorrow) so everyone has an equal chance to reg.  There will be announcements on Twitter, Facebook, and the main Fanime Site for when it's set in stone.  I've already seen the Reg process and it's 99% complete.  Just need to fix some wording so that everything is clear.
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: Admiral Donuts on May 02, 2014, 12:11:47 PM
Quote from: Decantus on May 02, 2014, 10:04:21 AM
QuoteStains the carpet (sounds reasonable but again.. the interior of the buildings aren't carpet...except that time from blackout year)
Not going to be an issue this year, but still a valid problem in the past.

So does this mean you know where Swap Meet is going to be held this year?

Quote from: Decantus on May 02, 2014, 10:20:11 AM
But more seriously, it's going to be on a Saturday at 12pm (Not tomorrow) so everyone has an equal chance to reg.

So it'll either be on Saturday the 10th or Saturday the 17th?
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: kookiekween99 on May 02, 2014, 12:21:07 PM
Quote from: Admiral Donuts on May 02, 2014, 12:11:47 PM
Quote from: Decantus on May 02, 2014, 10:04:21 AM
QuoteStains the carpet (sounds reasonable but again.. the interior of the buildings aren't carpet...except that time from blackout year)
Not going to be an issue this year, but still a valid problem in the past.

So does this mean you know where Swap Meet is going to be held this year?

Quote from: Decantus on May 02, 2014, 10:20:11 AM
But more seriously, it's going to be on a Saturday at 12pm (Not tomorrow) so everyone has an equal chance to reg.

So it'll either be on Saturday the 10th or Saturday the 17th?

Nah, probably the 24th. :P

(Note: this does not constitute actual information and is just me being silly.)
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: Decantus on May 02, 2014, 02:08:15 PM
Quote from: Admiral Donuts on May 02, 2014, 12:11:47 PM
Quote from: Decantus on May 02, 2014, 10:04:21 AM
QuoteStains the carpet (sounds reasonable but again.. the interior of the buildings aren't carpet...except that time from blackout year)
Not going to be an issue this year, but still a valid problem in the past.

So does this mean you know where Swap Meet is going to be held this year?

Quote from: Decantus on May 02, 2014, 10:20:11 AM
But more seriously, it's going to be on a Saturday at 12pm (Not tomorrow) so everyone has an equal chance to reg.

So it'll either be on Saturday the 10th or Saturday the 17th?

Yes
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: Decantus on May 02, 2014, 02:08:40 PM
Quote from: kookiekween99 on May 02, 2014, 12:21:07 PM
Quote from: Admiral Donuts on May 02, 2014, 12:11:47 PM
Quote from: Decantus on May 02, 2014, 10:04:21 AM
QuoteStains the carpet (sounds reasonable but again.. the interior of the buildings aren't carpet...except that time from blackout year)
Not going to be an issue this year, but still a valid problem in the past.

So does this mean you know where Swap Meet is going to be held this year?

Quote from: Decantus on May 02, 2014, 10:20:11 AM
But more seriously, it's going to be on a Saturday at 12pm (Not tomorrow) so everyone has an equal chance to reg.

So it'll either be on Saturday the 10th or Saturday the 17th?

Nah, probably the 24th. :P

(Note: this does not constitute actual information and is just me being silly.)

I hope not  :o
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: Admiral Donuts on May 02, 2014, 03:00:08 PM
Quote from: Decantus on May 02, 2014, 02:08:15 PM
Yes

...so where is Swap Meet being held this year?
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: keitoghostie on May 02, 2014, 04:49:55 PM
Quote from: Admiral Donuts on May 02, 2014, 03:00:08 PM
Quote from: Decantus on May 02, 2014, 02:08:15 PM
Yes

...so where is Swap Meet being held this year?
My curiosity is growing...

The two major carpetless spaces I can think of is the hall that housed it last year OR south hall??

On that note, I have never applied for swap meet before and I'm a bit worried about not being able to get a space - I work retail and am scheduled for 5/10 and will possibly be for 5/17 as well. How quickly have the spaces sold out in past years / how quickly would you expect them to sell out this year?
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: Kyra_Maverick on May 02, 2014, 04:51:00 PM
Quote from: Decantus on May 02, 2014, 10:20:11 AM
Quote from: Ecchi ja Nai on May 02, 2014, 10:14:20 AM

Now if we could only get the actual swap meet reg online...  ;)

SoonTM

But more seriously, it's going to be on a Saturday at 12pm (Not tomorrow) so everyone has an equal chance to reg.  There will be announcements on Twitter, Facebook, and the main Fanime Site for when it's set in stone.  I've already seen the Reg process and it's 99% complete.  Just need to fix some wording so that everything is clear.

I'm not sure if I'll be signing up for swap meet this year, but I wanted to thank you for picking a reasonable date/time to reg for it. Last time I sold a few years ago, sign ups were supposed to open at 12am on a random weekday, but because of server issues it didn't get set up until almost 12:30am. This is difficult for me as I work at 5:30am Monday - Friday, not to mention those who are still in school.
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: Decantus on May 02, 2014, 05:39:26 PM
Quote from: keitoghostie on May 02, 2014, 04:49:55 PM

The two major carpetless spaces I can think of is the hall that housed it last year OR south hall??

I liked last years spot, but we can't get that one because reasons.  South Hall actually has a noise curfew of 10:30pm so we're not able to use it.

Quote
On that note, I have never applied for swap meet before and I'm a bit worried about not being able to get a space - I work retail and am scheduled for 5/10 and will possibly be for 5/17 as well. How quickly have the spaces sold out in past years / how quickly would you expect them to sell out this year?

I don't actually know.  I didn't see the stats last year from when we did the full online reg for the first time.  I would expect it to be fairly quick, but not Downtown SJ Hotel through Fanime quick.
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: Anon on May 02, 2014, 05:46:31 PM
Quote from: Decantus on May 02, 2014, 10:04:21 AM
No display stands.  People keep trying to get around this and my ruling is now iron clad, it has to be on the floor or you will be asked to fix that, this WILL be enforced.

It both pleases and pains me to hear this, but at least the rule is laid out. Going to have to pick and choose what to put up for sale throughout the night for those of us with big collections of stuff.

On another note it sounds like you've got a general idea of the areas the swap meet will take place, will max capacity be an issue as it has become over the past few years? Last year even though the entire area wasn't filled with sellers, that Friday night was packed as tight as I'd seen, even more-so that one Friday night from a few years ago we were still sharing the 24hr gaming hall.

...oh lord, PLEASE tell me we're not sharing the space with the gaming hall once again...
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: Decantus on May 02, 2014, 10:30:55 PM
Quote from: Anon on May 02, 2014, 05:46:31 PM
Quote from: Decantus on May 02, 2014, 10:04:21 AM
No display stands.  People keep trying to get around this and my ruling is now iron clad, it has to be on the floor or you will be asked to fix that, this WILL be enforced.

It both pleases and pains me to hear this, but at least the rule is laid out. Going to have to pick and choose what to put up for sale throughout the night for those of us with big collections of stuff.

On another note it sounds like you've got a general idea of the areas the swap meet will take place, will max capacity be an issue as it has become over the past few years? Last year even though the entire area wasn't filled with sellers, that Friday night was packed as tight as I'd seen, even more-so that one Friday night from a few years ago we were still sharing the 24hr gaming hall.

...oh lord, PLEASE tell me we're not sharing the space with the gaming hall once again...

We are not sharing the space with the gaming hall.
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: FanFicGuru on May 03, 2014, 06:08:18 AM
Quote from: Decantus on May 02, 2014, 10:30:55 PM
Quote from: Anon on May 02, 2014, 05:46:31 PM
Quote from: Decantus on May 02, 2014, 10:04:21 AM
No display stands.  People keep trying to get around this and my ruling is now iron clad, it has to be on the floor or you will be asked to fix that, this WILL be enforced.

It both pleases and pains me to hear this, but at least the rule is laid out. Going to have to pick and choose what to put up for sale throughout the night for those of us with big collections of stuff.

On another note it sounds like you've got a general idea of the areas the swap meet will take place, will max capacity be an issue as it has become over the past few years? Last year even though the entire area wasn't filled with sellers, that Friday night was packed as tight as I'd seen, even more-so that one Friday night from a few years ago we were still sharing the 24hr gaming hall.

...oh lord, PLEASE tell me we're not sharing the space with the gaming hall once again...

We are not sharing the space with the gaming hall.

What he means to say is that Swap Meet this year will be in the style of a street fair, and we'll be peddling our wares outside of the convention center while shouting at passers-by to peruse our goods.

"GET YOUR QUESTIONABLY CLEAN ANIME SHIRTS HEAH! 5 WALL SCROLLS FOR A DOLLAH JUST ONE DOLLAH LADIES AND GENTS!"

Yeah. Pretty sure that's what's happening.
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: NDmion on May 03, 2014, 07:54:46 PM
Hi, I have been reading  the previous posts and I just have a few inquiries.
Do I need to register for a badge first to able to sign up for a swap meet spot? Attending Fanime will be predetermined if I get a spot.
Do I need a sellers permit? This will be the first time trying to sign up for the swap meet.
I have a friend who will be selling at the artist alley, could he take my place if I have to step out or do I have to register another person for my 2nd?
How does one sign up for a space? I can't seem to find it through the fanime website.
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: ewu on May 03, 2014, 11:01:43 PM
The SM head checks this forum regularly and should be able to get back to you with accurate responses to your questions.

Quote from: NDmion on May 03, 2014, 07:54:46 PM
Hi, I have been reading  the previous posts and I just have a few inquiries.
Do I need to register for a badge first to able to sign up for a swap meet spot? Attending Fanime will be predetermined if I get a spot.
Do I need a sellers permit? This will be the first time trying to sign up for the swap meet.
I have a friend who will be selling at the artist alley, could he take my place if I have to step out or do I have to register another person for my 2nd?
How does one sign up for a space? I can't seem to find it through the fanime website.
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: Anon on May 03, 2014, 11:05:44 PM
almost all of those questions were answered in the first post, but for S&Gs I can try to answer your questions MDmion with the information gathered from this years and previous years swap meet threads:

- yes, you need to register to get a space. Day zero is a badgeless day however, so if you're registered with the con and have proof of who you are, you can set up to sell.
- Sales permit: you will be given a form for a temporary sellers permit upon swap meet registration allowing you to sell at the swap meet. Same as it's been for years.
- if you have your friend marked on your sellers permit form as your assistant, then yes.
- registration for the swap meet is not up yet. Decantus said in an earlier post that it will open either next Saturday or the following Saturday at around noon
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: PLUMPKIN on May 04, 2014, 02:10:43 PM
Hello!

First, I just wanted to thank the Swap Meet staff for being so responsive to us thus far.  It's appeased a lot of my concerns (especially the bit about rolling luggage).

Second, I have two questions and I apologize if they're off-topic:
1) I'm staying at the Double Tree and taking over my swap meet merchandise using suitcases.  Are suitcases still banned from the shuttle bus?
2) This is for everyone.  I know that parking lots tend to fill up during Fanime.  If I'm going to be driving into downtown San Jose for swap meet alone, where would be the most ideal/economical place to park?

Thanks!!!
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: Admiral Donuts on May 04, 2014, 03:09:24 PM
Quote from: PLUMPKIN on May 04, 2014, 02:10:43 PM
1) I'm staying at the Double Tree and taking over my swap meet merchandise using suitcases.  Are suitcases still banned from the shuttle bus?

The best place to get an answer for this is the Hotels and Facilities sub-forum: http://forums.fanime.com/index.php/board,36.0.html

Quote from: PLUMPKIN on May 04, 2014, 02:10:43 PM
2) This is for everyone.  I know that parking lots tend to fill up during Fanime.  If I'm going to be driving into downtown San Jose for swap meet alone, where would be the most ideal/economical place to park?

This depends on a few things; where swap meet's held, how much you're bringing, and when they open Swap Meet reg. Parking in the convention centre parking garage is probably the easiest, there's a lot across from the road on the Hilton side, and there's another lot... near the movie theatre I think?
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: regeener on May 04, 2014, 04:47:09 PM
Quote from: PLUMPKIN on May 04, 2014, 02:10:43 PM

2) This is for everyone.  I know that parking lots tend to fill up during Fanime.  If I'm going to be driving into downtown San Jose for swap meet alone, where would be the most ideal/economical place to park?


Check out http://sjdowntownparking.com/ (http://sjdowntownparking.com/) for a list of the public and private parking lots around downtown San Jose.
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: kill3rsushi on May 06, 2014, 07:50:52 AM
I thought of another question. Since my friend and I were planning on selling in two separate spaces but plan on selling next to each other if possible and neither of us does this more than once a year, would it be possible to share the seller's permit we have to get? I don't know if they can get to a Board of Equalization office before the con, but I can, so if I put them down as my 2nd on my permit, would they be able to use their own spot?
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: Hachimitsu on May 06, 2014, 09:55:01 AM
Quote from: kill3rsushi on May 06, 2014, 07:50:52 AM
I thought of another question. Since my friend and I were planning on selling in two separate spaces but plan on selling next to each other if possible and neither of us does this more than once a year, would it be possible to share the seller's permit we have to get? I don't know if they can get to a Board of Equalization office before the con, but I can, so if I put them down as my 2nd on my permit, would they be able to use their own spot?

I am not sure if this sounds possible.. if they are selling it should be under their own name and not someone elses....
I put mines seperate from my sister because we have to pay the city tax (its after the whole talling up the total of things we sold er... ITS just like artist alley... and stuff)..
but that is a good question, I hope I am wrong that it is possible to share a permit, but again I really am not sure..
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: Anon on May 06, 2014, 10:37:23 AM
As long as you're just selling at the swap meet and not at artists alley as well, unless the process had changed from the past half decade, and unless you sell more than twice a year, you do not need to get an official ca state sales permit. You will be filling out an occasional sellers permit. The form is usually linked to during/after the swap meet registration process. You will then turn it in during check in.

This should quell your issue of needing to share your swap meet forms with a separate seller. If you DID put them on your form, then both of you would share your single space.
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: ash on May 06, 2014, 05:15:52 PM
Quote from: Decantus on May 02, 2014, 09:53:56 AM
Con Badge situation (Everyone)


Registration this year is more streamlined than ever.  The Registration team has put together a system that will cut reg down to 15-20 seconds per attendee.  But we are going a step further to make sure that you are going to be able to make it to swap meet check in.  If you get a space for Swap Meet, you are able to obtain a voucher from us that gives you access to the Priority Registration line that Artist Alley Vendors have.  You will need to come to Swap Meet Prior to getting your Con Badge, and I will give you this Voucher.



If I'm picking up my badge on Thursday, when and where can I get this voucher? For example, can I pick up my voucher at say 2:00pm or is there a set time that we can pick it up like 6:30 pm?

Thanks.
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: warbearer on May 09, 2014, 09:50:28 AM
I have a dumb question. When registering for swap meet, what is the minimum system or browser requirement? For example Safari, or Chrome versions.
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: PLUMPKIN on May 09, 2014, 04:04:24 PM
Any official word yet on when Swap Meet registration will take place?  I take it that it won't be tomorrow...
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: Christophe on May 09, 2014, 07:57:34 PM
If registration isn't tomorrow, there's only one Saturday left before the con itself and that happens to land on the Big Wow convention weekend; its the same venue as Fanime and has a decent amount of attendee crossover as a result.  I'll be willing to stay home until I make sure I get a swapmeet spot, but that's yet another burden on the local fans who likely want to participate in both.

With less than 2 weeks to go, there's precious few hours of free time left - people are trying to get their things together to take on their trips, to their hotel rooms etc.  Its at the point where the selection of the swapmeet goods will suffer because people won't have enough time between knowing they've got their spot and being able to round up the things they need to sell.

Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: warbearer on May 10, 2014, 12:21:48 AM
I guess it is not up today...
You think it will be on the day of Big Wow Comic Fest?

They should open swap meet registration before Bigwow
Title: Swapmeet - Registration
Post by: Hachimitsu on May 10, 2014, 03:04:51 AM
This is starting to worry me a lot.
- So, we aren't getting a spot like last year due to curfew?
- Registration forms from swap meet administrator has been submitted but waiting on registration admin to respond back?
- very few Assistance on swap meet this year (heard from one of my friends)
- Swap meet is going to be held outside? (in the cold? wait... IS SWAPMEET in SOUTH HALL!?[so bringing a sweater])

@Decantus
Thank you for doing the best for registering swap-meet to the event. I really hope you are doing the best you can to get this through. I think I understand now how frustrating you must be feeling waiting from other staff members around you to recieve confirmation.
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: warbearer on May 10, 2014, 06:44:20 AM
Maybe the registration starts on the 13th. Just a hunch....
Title: Re: Swapmeet - Registration
Post by: Admiral Donuts on May 10, 2014, 06:59:50 AM
Quote from: Hachimitsu-ink on May 10, 2014, 03:04:51 AM
This is starting to worry me a lot.
- So, we aren't getting a spot like last year due to curfew?
- Swap meet is going to be held outside? (in the cold? wait... IS SWAPMEET in SOUTH HALL!?[so bringing a sweater])

I think you misread Decantus' post:

Quote from: Decantus on May 02, 2014, 05:39:26 PM
I liked last years spot, but we can't get that one because reasons.  South Hall actually has a noise curfew of 10:30pm so we're not able to use it.

The one place Swap Meet won't be is South Hall, because South Hall has a curfew.
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: PacificPikachu on May 10, 2014, 12:03:13 PM
So... I guess it won't be up today? Darn, I was really hoping it would be. I work on Saturdays, but heard it would be up at noon on a Saturday so here I am on a work computer.

I'm relying on selling at Fanime's Swap Meet to help me save for a big Japan trip, so it's making me nervous that sign-ups haven't been posted. If I miss out on getting a spot, it's going to be a major issue for me. :(
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: Michi on May 10, 2014, 04:23:25 PM
I've had my swap meet goods sorted for a few months now, and the money I make will be going toward my honeymoon. :) I don't mind if registration is late as long as I can just register! Last year it was 10 days before the con, so it's looking like this year is even more last minute. :( Today would've been great but next Saturday I'll be at Anime Central and it'll be really difficult to get online and register! Oh well. I'll find a way. This will be my fourth swap meet in a row, I think. Wouldn't miss it! Not just for making money, I actually really enjoy the event and meeting people when they drop by my spot. :D
Title: Re: Swapmeet - Registration
Post by: Hachimitsu on May 10, 2014, 07:16:20 PM
Quote from: Admiral Donuts on May 10, 2014, 06:59:50 AM
Quote from: Hachimitsu-ink on May 10, 2014, 03:04:51 AM
This is starting to worry me a lot.
- So, we aren't getting a spot like last year due to curfew?
- Swap meet is going to be held outside? (in the cold? wait... IS SWAPMEET in SOUTH HALL!?[so bringing a sweater])

I think you misread Decantus' post:

Quote from: Decantus on May 02, 2014, 05:39:26 PM
I liked last years spot, but we can't get that one because reasons.  South Hall actually has a noise curfew of 10:30pm so we're not able to use it.

The one place Swap Meet won't be is South Hall, because South Hall has a curfew.

sorry, i forgot about that post.. but thank you for the reminder Mr. donut...
so.. i found out artist show (gallery) has posted on twitter today and uhm.. that was kinda surprising O_O! because the registration on artist show supposedly during the convention days....

HOW did artist show got noticed and swap meet still puzzles me about..
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: ash on May 12, 2014, 09:19:16 AM
I wonder where decantus is its been a while hahaha that's last min cosplay for ya
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: warbearer on May 12, 2014, 09:28:58 AM
I hope it does not come up when I am on the plane
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: Admiral Donuts on May 12, 2014, 11:26:41 AM
Quote from: warbearer on May 12, 2014, 09:28:58 AM
I hope it does not come up when I am on the plane

Unfortunately it will most likely come up when I am on a plane.
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: ash on May 12, 2014, 11:59:02 AM
Just sign up from ur cell hahaha I mean come on what's more important the planes safty or signing up for swapmeet. The swapmeet. DUH! Hahahaha
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: Decantus on May 12, 2014, 01:08:42 PM
Good lord... I go away for a few days...

Okay!  So first off, I'm sorry for the delay in response.  Please forgive me.

Second, Registration will be going up this week one way or another.  The site is done, and just needs to be pushed to production.  I'm just pending a final OKAY so I can blast the date out on social media and have a 48 hour announcement period so people have equal opportunity to sign up.

Vouchers will be available only for people that have not picked up their badges.  The Vouchers will be handed out by me at the Swap Meet reg table which will be opening at 6:30 for Sellers.  This is probably more relevant for people that are going to be selling on Thursday since Badge reg isn't until later.

There have been people asking me about reg'ing with Panel or Industry Badges.  Please email me once the reg system is up so that I can make arrangements.  If you have an Industry badge, you can sell at Swap Meet so long as you don't qualify/sell in Dealer's Hall.

More to come soon.  I'm back so ask away.
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: Decantus on May 12, 2014, 01:11:56 PM
Quote from: kill3rsushi on May 06, 2014, 07:50:52 AM
I thought of another question. Since my friend and I were planning on selling in two separate spaces but plan on selling next to each other if possible and neither of us does this more than once a year, would it be possible to share the seller's permit we have to get? I don't know if they can get to a Board of Equalization office before the con, but I can, so if I put them down as my 2nd on my permit, would they be able to use their own spot?

Just fill out the Temporary Seller's Permit.  I don't think you will be selling enough to have to get a full Seller's Permit.

I have to say that you're probably NOT going to be next to your friend, sorry.
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: Decantus on May 12, 2014, 01:13:32 PM
Quote from: warbearer on May 09, 2014, 09:50:28 AM
I have a dumb question. When registering for swap meet, what is the minimum system or browser requirement? For example Safari, or Chrome versions.

I think as long as you're not using Netscape you should be fine ^^
Title: Re: Swapmeet - Registration
Post by: Decantus on May 12, 2014, 01:20:54 PM
Quote from: Hachimitsu-ink on May 10, 2014, 03:04:51 AM
This is starting to worry me a lot.
- So, we aren't getting a spot like last year due to curfew?
- Registration forms from swap meet administrator has been submitted but waiting on registration admin to respond back?
- very few Assistance on swap meet this year (heard from one of my friends)
- Swap meet is going to be held outside? (in the cold? wait... IS SWAPMEET in SOUTH HALL!?[so bringing a sweater])

@Decantus
Thank you for doing the best for registering swap-meet to the event. I really hope you are doing the best you can to get this through. I think I understand now how frustrating you must be feeling waiting from other staff members around you to recieve confirmation.

Okay fine.

We're in the Civic Center this year.

And don't worry about the size of my battalion, we'll have you covered.

Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: keitoghostie on May 12, 2014, 02:28:11 PM
Quote from: Decantus on May 12, 2014, 01:20:54 PM
We're in the Civic Center this year.

whoa, neat!
that sounds really promising, i'm excited!
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: Anon on May 12, 2014, 03:16:49 PM
Just so we're clear, and for those with poor reading comprehension, you're talking about the City National Civic, the theater looking place across the street and separate from the convention center?
Title: Re: Swapmeet - Registration
Post by: Admiral Donuts on May 12, 2014, 03:43:24 PM
Quote from: Anon on May 12, 2014, 03:16:49 PM
Just so we're clear, and for those with poor reading comprehension, you're talking about the City National Civic, the theater looking place across the street and separate from the convention center?

Thanks for clearing it up, the only things called "civic center" on Google maps were a fair distance from the convention center.
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: YuffieK on May 12, 2014, 04:39:21 PM
I'm currently trying to apply for a (temporary) seller's permit, and I can't complete it without some information.
What is a phone number I can put down for the event/building?
What is the space rental cost going to be?

Also, if I am signing up for a swap meet spot and want to share the spot with a friend, if their name is also on the permit along with mine will we only need the one permit for the both of us? Or will we each need separate seller's permits?

Edit: What NAICS code do we use for the permit application? Does this count as Retail?
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: Ecchi ja Nai on May 12, 2014, 06:20:11 PM
I know it's going to seem like there's just no pleasing some people, or at least no pleasing this guy, but I'm kinda disappointed with the location.  First and foremost, did anyone not find lugging stuff across the street and over the light rail tracks bothersome?  I remember two years ago when swap meet was at the Fairmont, there was a mass of people crossing the street with stuff both before and after, so I would think it's a fair assumption that the majority of sellers are either staying at one of the attached hotels or at least park in the convention center lot.  Even without boxes and luggage and the like, there's always a herd of people crossing at that intersection anyway; why would you have the event at a removed location, strictly from a safety standpoint?

And given that the expansion work on the convention center was just completed, is any of that new space being put to use during the con?  Or perhaps the carpets in the new ballrooms are still too nice to let people trample all over it.

Speaking of the Fairmont, I'm trying to recall the relative size of space that was available there.  Even without that second room open on Friday, I think there was still more floor space there than what the civic center offers.  It's hard to judge, though, because even though I wind up there every year for MusicFest, the floor's already full of chairs, mixing equipment and people.  Can't find any definitive dimensions to compare, especially since I'm hashing this out at work, but I could be wrong on this one.

Obviously not everyone is able to book a room at one of the attached hotels, nor will everyone be able to find parking in the garage, but I still think it's a mistake to have swap meet anywhere else but in the convention center itself, or the south hall were it possible.  The less need for people to cross San Carlos street, the better, and I'm sure cross traffic would appreciate it as well.
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: Ecchi ja Nai on May 12, 2014, 06:33:21 PM
Quote from: YuffieK on May 12, 2014, 04:39:21 PM
I'm currently trying to apply for a (temporary) seller's permit, and I can't complete it without some information.

Assuming you're only selling at Fanime's swap meet, and not on other occasions/run a retail store, there's a form that's provided by Fanime which will be posted on their website when everything is ready.  You do not need to go through the Board of Equalization's site unless you sell more than once a year.  They tend to have the required forms posted in the forums as well, either in this thread or on another official swap meet thread.  In the past it's been a simple one-page form with a second page of instructions/information in pdf format that you print out.  You won't need anything else besides some basic personal info - your name, address, con badge number and the like - and then a brief rundown of what you're planning on selling.  Then the official signature and date at the bottom will seal the deal on your end.

If, however, you do need an actual temporary permit from the BoE, your best bet would be to contact Decantus directly for whatever specifics he can provide.

I do recall from an earlier response that Decantus mentioned it's $30 (per space) per day.  He's still being coy regarding the size of the spaces, though.
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: warbearer on May 12, 2014, 07:11:35 PM
Quote from: Decantus on May 12, 2014, 01:08:42 PM
Good lord... I go away for a few days...

Okay!  So first off, I'm sorry for the delay in response.  Please forgive me.

Second, Registration will be going up this week one way or another.  The site is done, and just needs to be pushed to production.  I'm just pending a final OKAY so I can blast the date out on social media and have a 48 hour announcement period so people have equal opportunity to sign up.

Vouchers will be available only for people that have not picked up their badges.  The Vouchers will be handed out by me at the Swap Meet reg table which will be opening at 6:30 for Sellers.  This is probably more relevant for people that are going to be selling on Thursday since Badge reg isn't until later.

There have been people asking me about reg'ing with Panel or Industry Badges.  Please email me once the reg system is up so that I can make arrangements.  If you have an Industry badge, you can sell at Swap Meet so long as you don't qualify/sell in Dealer's Hall.

More to come soon.  I'm back so ask away.

That's the day when I am flying...
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: Decantus on May 12, 2014, 07:28:55 PM
Quote from: warbearer on May 12, 2014, 07:11:35 PM
Quote from: Decantus on May 12, 2014, 01:08:42 PM
Good lord... I go away for a few days...

Okay!  So first off, I'm sorry for the delay in response.  Please forgive me.

Second, Registration will be going up this week one way or another.  The site is done, and just needs to be pushed to production.  I'm just pending a final OKAY so I can blast the date out on social media and have a 48 hour announcement period so people have equal opportunity to sign up.

Vouchers will be available only for people that have not picked up their badges.  The Vouchers will be handed out by me at the Swap Meet reg table which will be opening at 6:30 for Sellers.  This is probably more relevant for people that are going to be selling on Thursday since Badge reg isn't until later.

There have been people asking me about reg'ing with Panel or Industry Badges.  Please email me once the reg system is up so that I can make arrangements.  If you have an Industry badge, you can sell at Swap Meet so long as you don't qualify/sell in Dealer's Hall.

More to come soon.  I'm back so ask away.

That's the day when I am flying...

You'll be flying an awful long time then.  I haven't said when it will be.
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: Anon on May 12, 2014, 07:32:21 PM
Quote from: Ecchi ja Nai on May 12, 2014, 06:33:21 PM
I do recall from an earlier response that Decantus mentioned it's $30 (per space) per day.  He's still being coy regarding the size of the spaces, though.

I can only hope the spot sizes don't shrink any further from the 5'x10'. Price increases I think I could deal with (begrudgingly), but shrinking the spot to a square shorter than I am tall is kinda cramped, to say the least

Quote from: Ecchi ja Nai on May 12, 2014, 06:20:11 PM
I know it's going to seem like there's just no pleasing some people, or at least no pleasing this guy, but I'm kinda disappointed with the location.  First and foremost, did anyone not find lugging stuff across the street and over the light rail tracks bothersome?  I remember two years ago when swap meet was at the Fairmont, there was a mass of people crossing the street with stuff both before and after, so I would think it's a fair assumption that the majority of sellers are either staying at one of the attached hotels or at least park in the convention center lot.  Even without boxes and luggage and the like, there's always a herd of people crossing at that intersection anyway; why would you have the event at a removed location, strictly from a safety standpoint?

And given that the expansion work on the convention center was just completed, is any of that new space being put to use during the con?  Or perhaps the carpets in the new ballrooms are still too nice to let people trample all over it.

Speaking of the Fairmont, I'm trying to recall the relative size of space that was available there.  Even without that second room open on Friday, I think there was still more floor space there than what the civic center offers.  It's hard to judge, though, because even though I wind up there every year for MusicFest, the floor's already full of chairs, mixing equipment and people.  Can't find any definitive dimensions to compare, especially since I'm hashing this out at work, but I could be wrong on this one.

Obviously not everyone is able to book a room at one of the attached hotels, nor will everyone be able to find parking in the garage, but I still think it's a mistake to have swap meet anywhere else but in the convention center itself, or the south hall were it possible.  The less need for people to cross San Carlos street, the better, and I'm sure cross traffic would appreciate it as well.

I share your concerns as well, for the sake of safety concerns of crossing areas, unloading and loading before and after the swap meet, and to bring up safety concerns again, many people did not feel safe having to go near that park area late at night. As for the size, I can't really comment as I've never set foot in the civic center, but I sure hope its big enough to hold both the sellers and the HUGE amount of people that come on the Friday night of sales. Don't want another fire hazard issue with capacity being maxed out like 3 years ago in the gaming hall.

There's also the fact that its totally disconnected from the convention center. I know every year I see people lined up across the street for something, and I think to myself, "huh, what's going on over there? I could go over there and check... nah, that's all the way across the street, nevermind." In 2012, I remember hearing people say they didn't even know there was a swap meet going on at a different location. Granted the Fairmont was a little farther than across the street, but not connected to the convention center just isn't convenient enough when it comes to making people come to spend money.

Unfortunately, I think we're probably too late in voicing these concerns, as I imagine making any change in venue would be impossible at this point. Maybe its just my own assumption but the swap meet sort of has the bottom of the totem pole feeling when it comes to the various events at Fanime, and whatever venue they have to pick from is the leftovers... well, except for last year though, last year's location was friggin' awesome.

Quote from: Decantus on May 12, 2014, 07:28:55 PM
You'll be flying an awful long time then.  I haven't said when it will be.

Didn't you say you would have it opened up on a Saturday around the noontime hour?
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: Decantus on May 12, 2014, 07:36:00 PM
Quote from: YuffieK on May 12, 2014, 04:39:21 PM
I'm currently trying to apply for a (temporary) seller's permit, and I can't complete it without some information.
What is a phone number I can put down for the event/building?
What is the space rental cost going to be?

Also, if I am signing up for a swap meet spot and want to share the spot with a friend, if their name is also on the permit along with mine will we only need the one permit for the both of us? Or will we each need separate seller's permits?

Edit: What NAICS code do we use for the permit application? Does this count as Retail?

Unless you're selling at more than a few events in a year time, or if you plan on selling more than $10000 in items, you do not need to sign up for this kind of permit for swap meets.

This is provided during the Registration process, but you will be required to print and fill out this: http://www.boe.ca.gov/pdf/boe410d.pdf (http://www.boe.ca.gov/pdf/boe410d.pdf)
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: Decantus on May 12, 2014, 07:39:40 PM
Quote from: Anon on May 12, 2014, 07:32:21 PM
Quote from: Ecchi ja Nai on May 12, 2014, 06:20:11 PM
I know it's going to seem like there's just no pleasing some people, or at least no pleasing this guy, but I'm kinda disappointed with the location.  First and foremost, did anyone not find lugging stuff across the street and over the light rail tracks bothersome?  I remember two years ago when swap meet was at the Fairmont, there was a mass of people crossing the street with stuff both before and after, so I would think it's a fair assumption that the majority of sellers are either staying at one of the attached hotels or at least park in the convention center lot.  Even without boxes and luggage and the like, there's always a herd of people crossing at that intersection anyway; why would you have the event at a removed location, strictly from a safety standpoint?

And given that the expansion work on the convention center was just completed, is any of that new space being put to use during the con?  Or perhaps the carpets in the new ballrooms are still too nice to let people trample all over it.

Speaking of the Fairmont, I'm trying to recall the relative size of space that was available there.  Even without that second room open on Friday, I think there was still more floor space there than what the civic center offers.  It's hard to judge, though, because even though I wind up there every year for MusicFest, the floor's already full of chairs, mixing equipment and people.  Can't find any definitive dimensions to compare, especially since I'm hashing this out at work, but I could be wrong on this one.

Obviously not everyone is able to book a room at one of the attached hotels, nor will everyone be able to find parking in the garage, but I still think it's a mistake to have swap meet anywhere else but in the convention center itself, or the south hall were it possible.  The less need for people to cross San Carlos street, the better, and I'm sure cross traffic would appreciate it as well.

I share your concerns as well, for the sake of safety concerns of crossing areas, unloading and loading before and after the swap meet, and to bring up safety concerns again, many people did not feel safe having to go near that park area late at night. As for the size, I can't really comment as I've never set foot in the civic center, but I sure hope its big enough to hold both the sellers and the HUGE amount of people that come on the Friday night of sales. Don't want another fire hazard issue with capacity being maxed out like 3 years ago in the gaming hall.

There's also the fact that its totally disconnected from the convention center. I know every year I see people lined up across the street for something, and I think to myself, "huh, what's going on over there? I could go over there and check... nah, that's all the way across the street, nevermind." In 2012, I remember hearing people say they didn't even know there was a swap meet going on at a different location. Granted the Fairmont was a little farther than across the street, but not connected to the convention center just isn't convenient enough when it comes to making people come to spend money.

Unfortunately, I think we're probably too late in voicing these concerns, as I imagine making any change in venue would be impossible at this point. Maybe its just my own assumption but the swap meet sort of has the bottom of the totem pole feeling when it comes to the various events at Fanime, and whatever venue they have to pick from is the leftovers... well, except for last year though, last year's location was friggin' awesome.

Quote from: Decantus on May 12, 2014, 07:28:55 PM
You'll be flying an awful long time then.  I haven't said when it will be.

Didn't you say you would have it opened up on a Saturday around the noontime hour?

My options were, SJ Civic Center, Fairmont Hotel, or South Hall.  Fairmont is too far away, and all of your concerns apply more so to it.  South Hall we would close at 10:30pm so there would be no point having Swap Meet.

As for the release time, the best laid plans often go awry.  At this point, it's more important to be able to get everyone reg'd and not have an At-Con Snafu.
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: Decantus on May 12, 2014, 07:41:26 PM
Quote from: Ecchi ja Nai on May 12, 2014, 06:33:21 PM
Quote from: YuffieK on May 12, 2014, 04:39:21 PM
I'm currently trying to apply for a (temporary) seller's permit, and I can't complete it without some information.

Assuming you're only selling at Fanime's swap meet, and not on other occasions/run a retail store, there's a form that's provided by Fanime which will be posted on their website when everything is ready.  You do not need to go through the Board of Equalization's site unless you sell more than once a year.  They tend to have the required forms posted in the forums as well, either in this thread or on another official swap meet thread.  In the past it's been a simple one-page form with a second page of instructions/information in pdf format that you print out.  You won't need anything else besides some basic personal info - your name, address, con badge number and the like - and then a brief rundown of what you're planning on selling.  Then the official signature and date at the bottom will seal the deal on your end.

If, however, you do need an actual temporary permit from the BoE, your best bet would be to contact Decantus directly for whatever specifics he can provide.

I do recall from an earlier response that Decantus mentioned it's $30 (per space) per day.  He's still being coy regarding the size of the spaces, though.

Still $30, spaces are 9' by 4'
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: Admiral Donuts on May 12, 2014, 07:47:17 PM
Quote from: Decantus on May 12, 2014, 07:28:55 PM
You'll be flying an awful long time then.  I haven't said when it will be.

Quote from: Decantus on May 02, 2014, 10:20:11 AM
But more seriously, it's going to be on a Saturday at 12pm (Not tomorrow) so everyone has an equal chance to reg.

I don't mean to call you out on this but you kinda did, so you can't expect people to not assume it's when reg is gonna be... :-\

Important question, does the City National Civic have the same union as the convention center and/or the same rules about handtrucks?
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: Decantus on May 12, 2014, 07:55:43 PM
Quote from: Decantus on May 12, 2014, 07:39:40 PM
As for the release time, the best laid plans often go awry.  At this point, it's more important to be able to get everyone reg'd and not have an At-Con Snafu.

2 CAN PLAY AT THIS GAME

I do wish that I could have gotten reg up on a weekend, but the fact that it has taken this long to build the reg system into the new site code, means that I cannot have 3 days between reg and Con starting to get everything hammered out.

And Yes they do have the same Union rules.
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: Ecchi ja Nai on May 12, 2014, 07:58:50 PM
Gotta admit, when I was thinking about the space available in the Civic Center, I was strictly thinking of it from a seller's point of view.  If we get anywhere near the crowds swap meet has been pulling the in last few years...

It's got a maximum seating capacity of 3036 people.  That number sounds like a lot, but the rooms wound up being crowded as all get out for a couple hours.  Plus when you factor in that the space that's going to be taped off for the sellers, just guesstimating, that would that bring it down to only about 1000 people walking around at a time?

This is going to be way early, but I'd like to put in my request for swap meet to be moved back into the actual convention center.  There's got to be space to accommodate everyone in there now.  Gaming doesn't seem to take up the entire far hall; I say move gaming to one of the new ballrooms.  Most people are sitting or standing still, so there shouldn't be much foot traffic.  Arcade cabinets and other machines could be put on to some type of surface that won't damage the carpet, I'm sure.  Let swap meet, plus some other function, take over the large hall on the Hilton side.

I don't always check out Artists Alley, and never participate there as a seller since I can't do the artz, but I actually really liked it at the South Hall last year.  I don't know if there were other issue that came up internally regarding that spot, or if the artists had problems with the location, but I thought there was plenty of room to walk from table to table, there were tons of people who were able to represent their craft, and it was very easy to walk from the convention center and back.  No need to cross any streets if you're already at the con.  All in all, I liked how it worked out last year, but if AA needs to be in the big hall at the convention center, find some way to get swap meet into one of the other main halls.
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: Anon on May 12, 2014, 08:10:46 PM
Quote from: Decantus on May 12, 2014, 07:39:40 PM
My options were, SJ Civic Center, Fairmont Hotel, or South Hall.  Fairmont is too far away, and all of your concerns apply more so to it.  South Hall we would close at 10:30pm so there would be no point having Swap Meet.

As for the release time, the best laid plans often go awry.  At this point, it's more important to be able to get everyone reg'd and not have an At-Con Snafu.

I don't know, for the past few years, things really slow down after the 10pm hour. If doors open to the public for sales at 6 or 6:30, 3.5-4 hours of sales pretty much gets all the major sales out the door, the only ones that come at the late night hours are the wishy-washy buyers who have mind battles with their bank accounts and credit cards. My point is would closing up at 10:30pm be such a bad thing? Or, by 10:30pm do you mean everything locked up and everybody, even sellers, are to be removed from the premises?
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: Admiral Donuts on May 12, 2014, 08:24:30 PM
Quote from: Ecchi ja Nai on May 12, 2014, 07:58:50 PM
This is going to be way early, but I'd like to put in my request for swap meet to be moved back into the actual convention center.  There's got to be space to accommodate everyone in there now.  Gaming doesn't seem to take up the entire far hall; I say move gaming to one of the new ballrooms.  Most people are sitting or standing still, so there shouldn't be much foot traffic.  Arcade cabinets and other machines could be put on to some type of surface that won't damage the carpet, I'm sure.  Let swap meet, plus some other function, take over the large hall on the Hilton side.

Are you talking about 2014 or 2015?

As an aside, I'm really curious about what's going in the three main halls this year. Artist's Alley is in the new space, Dealer's Hall and gaming will probably be in 2 & 3 as per usual, so that leaves Hall 1.
Title: Re: Swapmeet - Registration
Post by: Hachimitsu on May 12, 2014, 08:57:16 PM
Quote from: Decantus on May 12, 2014, 01:20:54 PM

Okay fine.

We're in the Civic Center this year.

And don't worry about the size of my battalion, we'll have you covered.
I am trying to deciper if you meant by the whole region or just a specific point but you don't have to put the helvetica Bold 24 point type face...

I only know one place where that is locate.....
ON the plus side we got THURSDAY and friday for swap meet so I am looking forward to see it comming...
just abit shocked on it's location...

btw the reason I asked about the location is because of the permits! I am sorry if I offend you or annoyed you a lot but it is important for all of us to be prepared.
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: chocobolicious on May 13, 2014, 12:00:58 AM
I signed up for my temporary sellers permit using the convention center address as my selling point(since I thought and failed thinking that's where it would be)...Do I need to apply for another?  I'll call about it tomorrow after work, but I figured I'd ask here just in case someone else here did the same thing.
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: Ecchi ja Nai on May 13, 2014, 01:40:29 AM
Quote from: Admiral Donuts on May 12, 2014, 08:24:30 PM
Are you talking about 2014 or 2015?

As an aside, I'm really curious about what's going in the three main halls this year. Artist's Alley is in the new space, Dealer's Hall and gaming will probably be in 2 & 3 as per usual, so that leaves Hall 1.

I was talking about 2015.  I'm already resigned to the new location for this year.  Plus, with barely more than a week before Day 0, there really isn't the time to make other arrangements.  If nothing else, I'm assuming we can't be in any of the primary halls because they're already designated for other uses.  I didn't realize AA is being held in the new ballroom.  I thought they'd be back in Hall 1, which is why I was wondering what the newly expanded space would be used for.  Since that's not the case, now I'm wondering what Hall 1 is going to be used for.  Maybe Dealer's Hall is going to be larger this year?  Regardless, like you point out, there's a full hall that isn't being used for the same purpose as what we're used to from previous years.

And re: Hachimitsu-ink, I'm sorry, but I gotta say I have a hard time following many of your messages.  I don't mean to be a jerk by pointing it out or anything, but dang.  It's like I can figure out what you're saying, but I gotta think about it for a bit.

Having swap meet start on Thursday, Day 0, isn't anything new.  I can't recall when Fanime first started holding a swap meet, but it's been held over two nights for as far back as I can remember going to them.  And again, assuming you're not planning on selling at multiple events - like other swap meets, flea markets, pop-up shops or the like - or making an obscene amount of money from your sales, you don't need to submit a permit application with the Board of Equalization, AKA: the state tax dudes.  The location won't really matter because the form that Fanime requires/provides to you only needs your own personal information.  For the few people who might actually require a state-issued sellers permit, 1)I'd think you'd already be familiar with the process and 2) you can contact Decantus directly with a private message.  I believe he also made an email address available.  Since he's the department head for this year's swap meet, he'd be the best person to contact for clarification on any unusual circumstances, and I'm sure he'd cross-post any pertinent information here.

Another thing is, we don't even have access to register for a sellers space yet.  Nobody here knows for sure if they're going to be able to sell or not; everyone seems to be jumping the gun a bit on some of the prep work.  Never mind the fact that I've had basically all of my stuff packed up and priced for the last couple of weeks now.  Because, you know...
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: EJAY420 on May 13, 2014, 01:43:37 AM
What is this civic center we speak of? Explain explain.
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: Decantus on May 13, 2014, 01:50:28 AM
Quote from: EJAY420 on May 13, 2014, 01:43:37 AM
What is this civic center we speak of? Explain explain.

The Civic Center is the building across the street from the Convention Center.  If you stand in front of McEnry and look straight across, that's the entrance to the hall that we're using.
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: Decantus on May 13, 2014, 01:54:11 AM
Quote from: Anon on May 12, 2014, 08:10:46 PM
Quote from: Decantus on May 12, 2014, 07:39:40 PM
My options were, SJ Civic Center, Fairmont Hotel, or South Hall.  Fairmont is too far away, and all of your concerns apply more so to it.  South Hall we would close at 10:30pm so there would be no point having Swap Meet.

As for the release time, the best laid plans often go awry.  At this point, it's more important to be able to get everyone reg'd and not have an At-Con Snafu.

I don't know, for the past few years, things really slow down after the 10pm hour. If doors open to the public for sales at 6 or 6:30, 3.5-4 hours of sales pretty much gets all the major sales out the door, the only ones that come at the late night hours are the wishy-washy buyers who have mind battles with their bank accounts and credit cards. My point is would closing up at 10:30pm be such a bad thing? Or, by 10:30pm do you mean everything locked up and everybody, even sellers, are to be removed from the premises?

10:30 is when we would have had to be locked up, everyone out, clean up done, which means that I would have to start kicking people out at 9:30pm.  I would have no flexibility to extend it out another 30 minutes to an hour like we have been for the last 2 years.

From what I noticed, it's fairly consistent all of Thursday since people are filing in from the Pre-Reg line.  Friday, we tend to have a packed house most of the night and a few stragglers at the end when we have to kick people out.
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: Decantus on May 13, 2014, 02:01:38 AM
To be clear to everyone, if I could have had it in the main hall, I would.  The Main hall is the most convenient, has the most foot traffic, and has the most space.  Problem is that the space is being used this year by Dealer's, and I'm not about to start stepping on Dealer's Hall Seller's toes.

My first choice that I was trying for was Park Side Hall, where the Black and White Ball is held.  There's a ton of room in there, and easier access than the Fairmont.  Next Year, we'll see what we can do.  Since it will be my second year, and I hopefully won't have to re-do any of the reg site stuff again, I hope to find a place that's: easy to access, has plenty of room for growth, and can be our permanent home.
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: Decantus on May 13, 2014, 02:06:25 AM
Quote from: Ecchi ja Nai on May 12, 2014, 07:58:50 PM
Gotta admit, when I was thinking about the space available in the Civic Center, I was strictly thinking of it from a seller's point of view.  If we get anywhere near the crowds swap meet has been pulling the in last few years...

It's got a maximum seating capacity of 3036 people.  That number sounds like a lot, but the rooms wound up being crowded as all get out for a couple hours.  Plus when you factor in that the space that's going to be taped off for the sellers, just guesstimating, that would that bring it down to only about 1000 people walking around at a time?

This is going to be way early, but I'd like to put in my request for swap meet to be moved back into the actual convention center.  There's got to be space to accommodate everyone in there now.  Gaming doesn't seem to take up the entire far hall; I say move gaming to one of the new ballrooms.  Most people are sitting or standing still, so there shouldn't be much foot traffic.  Arcade cabinets and other machines could be put on to some type of surface that won't damage the carpet, I'm sure.  Let swap meet, plus some other function, take over the large hall on the Hilton side.

I don't always check out Artists Alley, and never participate there as a seller since I can't do the artz, but I actually really liked it at the South Hall last year.  I don't know if there were other issue that came up internally regarding that spot, or if the artists had problems with the location, but I thought there was plenty of room to walk from table to table, there were tons of people who were able to represent their craft, and it was very easy to walk from the convention center and back.  No need to cross any streets if you're already at the con.  All in all, I liked how it worked out last year, but if AA needs to be in the big hall at the convention center, find some way to get swap meet into one of the other main halls.

I know there's some concern that people aren't going to know where Swap Meet is being held, but I guarantee that we're doing everything we can At-Con to make sure that people know where we are.  We're going to have Signs at Registration, I'll have staff going to the Reg Wait line making announcements, Info Desk will know where we are, and hopefully the stream of people going to it is going to help as well.

As for going into Hall 3 (I think it's Hall 3 that you're talking about), If we have to share it with Gaming, that's not going to happen.  If gaming moves, maybe.  I'm not about to actively try to push them out.  Maybe the Auditorium in the Hilton where they usually have the Gainax Panel, I was thinking about that one too for next year.
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: ash on May 13, 2014, 05:53:48 AM
Any word on how many spaces are going to be available.
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: warbearer on May 13, 2014, 08:08:48 AM
what is the closest place to park in the civic center
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: keitoghostie on May 13, 2014, 08:41:10 AM
@Decantus, I know a lot is up in the air but will we be getting some significant advance notice (at least a day before) for swap meet reg?

Quote from: EJAY420 on May 13, 2014, 01:43:37 AM
What is this civic center we speak of? Explain explain.
Across the street from the convention center, where Masquerade is usually held.
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: Decantus on May 13, 2014, 08:51:38 AM
Quote from: ash on May 13, 2014, 05:53:48 AM
Any word on how many spaces are going to be available.

About as many as we had in the Fairmont.  Not nearly as many as Hall 2.
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: Decantus on May 13, 2014, 08:52:54 AM
Quote from: keitoghostie on May 13, 2014, 08:41:10 AM
@Decantus, I know a lot is up in the air but will we be getting some significant advance notice (at least a day before) for swap meet reg?

I intend to give 48 hours notice before Reg goes up.
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: keitoghostie on May 13, 2014, 09:06:11 AM
Quote from: Decantus on May 13, 2014, 08:52:54 AM
Quote from: keitoghostie on May 13, 2014, 08:41:10 AM
@Decantus, I know a lot is up in the air but will we be getting some significant advance notice (at least a day before) for swap meet reg?

I intend to give 48 hours notice before Reg goes up.
Awesome! Much appreciated!
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: Pika1979 on May 13, 2014, 12:43:57 PM
I know someone asked before but I did not see the question answered. What will be the cart rules for this location?
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: Decantus on May 13, 2014, 01:26:10 PM
Quote from: Pika1979 on May 13, 2014, 12:43:57 PM
I know someone asked before but I did not see the question answered. What will be the cart rules for this location?

No carts, rolling luggage ok.
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: Admiral Donuts on May 13, 2014, 03:32:41 PM
Quote from: Decantus on May 13, 2014, 02:01:38 AM
To be clear to everyone, if I could have had it in the main hall, I would.  The Main hall is the most convenient, has the most foot traffic, and has the most space.

I can understand why Swap Meet is in a place that's being used for other things later in the con, it didn't make much sense last year for the Swap Meet space to go unused for the rest of the con when space was at a premium due to renovations.
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: metapod100 on May 13, 2014, 04:47:34 PM
1) For Swapmeet is it $30 for one day (Thursday or Friday)?

2) If I registered to pick up my badge at Clockwork Alchemy, can I still get the voucher for sellers?
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: warbearer on May 13, 2014, 11:52:48 PM
Quote from: metapod100 on May 13, 2014, 04:47:34 PM
1) For Swapmeet is it $30 for one day (Thursday or Friday)?

2) If I registered to pick up my badge at Clockwork Alchemy, can I still get the voucher for sellers?

regarding the first question, swapmeet is $30 per day
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: Hachimitsu on May 14, 2014, 03:07:19 AM
Quote from: Decantus on May 13, 2014, 02:01:38 AM
To be clear to everyone, if I could have had it in the main hall, I would.  The Main hall is the most convenient, has the most foot traffic, and has the most space.  Problem is that the space is being used this year by Dealer's, and I'm not about to start stepping on Dealer's Hall Seller's toes.

I SOO wanna hug you and thank you for continue having swap meet as an awesome event T_T!....
I know it sounds weird but seriously, it's one of the reasons why i love this con..

now I need to contact registration because I am having problems where to obtain the badge?
through registration? Artist alley? (I have a group of people with me)..ehh it's confusing and such O_O!...
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: Decantus on May 14, 2014, 12:55:34 PM
Swap Meet Registration will go live, Friday May 16th at 7PM PST.
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: ash on May 14, 2014, 01:12:28 PM
Muhahahahha finallllllyyyyyyyyy
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: GamerscloseT on May 14, 2014, 03:42:56 PM
Paying for our spots, is it going to be like last year where when we registered we payed online? Or like the year before when we payed as we checked in at the con?. Just asking so we know if we have to pay immediately on the spot.
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: Kiara on May 14, 2014, 03:45:10 PM
Just Awesome.

I will be in the middle of nowhere with no cell reception on a camp-out Thursday-Sunday. 48 hours is nowhere near enough notice. I've done the swap meet for the last 3 years, the 48 hour announcement is ridiculous.
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: Decantus on May 14, 2014, 04:05:18 PM
Quote from: dunpeal on May 14, 2014, 03:42:56 PM
Paying for our spots, is it going to be like last year where when we registered we payed online? Or like the year before when we payed as we checked in at the con?. Just asking so we know if we have to pay immediately on the spot.

Payment will be online again.
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: Michi on May 14, 2014, 06:11:40 PM
I'll be at a group dinner... Maybe we'll be wrapping up by then so it won't be too rude when I pull out my phone to register for swap meet.  :-X

Quote from: Kiara on May 14, 2014, 03:45:10 PM
Just Awesome.

I will be in the middle of nowhere with no cell reception on a camp-out Thursday-Sunday. 48 hours is nowhere near enough notice. I've done the swap meet for the last 3 years, the 48 hour announcement is ridiculous.

Maybe ask if a friend can sign up for you?
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: warbearer on May 14, 2014, 07:10:49 PM
Looks like I will be able to register on time.
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: Oniko on May 14, 2014, 07:46:38 PM
Got my permit for AA, do I need one for Swap meet?  Worried I wont have enough time to get it.
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: Yaminogame on May 14, 2014, 11:17:11 PM
So swap meet is going to be 2 days this year? Thursday and friday? For thursday what time does it start...?

And I am confused. Are you saying we need a seller's permit this year? I never had one before for swap meet.
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: ash on May 15, 2014, 05:04:31 AM
Quote from: Yaminogame on May 14, 2014, 11:17:11 PM
So swap meet is going to be 2 days this year? Thursday and friday? For thursday what time does it start...?

And I am confused. Are you saying we need a seller's permit this year? I never had one before for swap meet.

As far as I can remember swapmeet has always been both days. On Thursday it starts at 6:30 for sellers.  And no you do not need to buy a permit to sell at swapmeet but youwill have to fill out a temperary sellers form like its always been.
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: Decantus on May 15, 2014, 10:09:15 AM
Quote from: Oniko on May 14, 2014, 07:46:38 PM
Got my permit for AA, do I need one for Swap meet?  Worried I wont have enough time to get it.

If you have a Seller's Permit for Artist Alley, that will apply for Swap Meet.

If you do not have a Seller's Permit, you can fill out the Occasional Seller's Permit that is provided during the reg process.
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: Decantus on May 15, 2014, 10:14:13 AM
Quote from: Yaminogame on May 14, 2014, 11:17:11 PM
So swap meet is going to be 2 days this year? Thursday and friday? For thursday what time does it start...?

And I am confused. Are you saying we need a seller's permit this year? I never had one before for swap meet.

Swap Meet is Thursday and Friday, Seller's check in starts at 6:30pm, buyers are let in at 7:30pm.  At 8:30pm we will start assigning no shows to the wait list.  Reg closes at 9pm.

You don't need a Seller's Permit.  Having one is nice if you're in AA, because it applies to both.  The Occasional seller's permit is what you have filled out in the past, a link is provided during the reg process for you to fill out and bring with you.
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: Oniko on May 15, 2014, 01:09:13 PM
Quote from: Decantus on May 15, 2014, 10:09:15 AM
Quote from: Oniko on May 14, 2014, 07:46:38 PM
Got my permit for AA, do I need one for Swap meet?  Worried I wont have enough time to get it.

If you have a Seller's Permit for Artist Alley, that will apply for Swap Meet.

If you do not have a Seller's Permit, you can fill out the Occasional Seller's Permit that is provided during the reg process.

I should have been more clear, I meant I have a temp sellers permit.  AA is one event.  Swap meet would be my second event.  (More than 2 events a year you need a full permit)  Can I sill just use my AA temp permit?
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: seerakosumosu on May 15, 2014, 01:39:10 PM
I think you can have Fanime count as one event instead of counting various events that occur during Fanime as different events.
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: Ruzuki on May 15, 2014, 08:41:45 PM
Swap Meet is ONLY Thurs and Fri? Im not even going to arrive in San Jose till 6:30 on Fri... Im going to have to rush to get there before 7:30, but if I take a cab from the hotel I probably can pull it off.....

This may have already been answered, but are we going to be required to actually have our badge to sell Friday? I dont know if Ill have time to get my badge if I have to get there quickly to not lose my spot...
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: FanFicGuru on May 15, 2014, 10:02:33 PM
Quote from: Ruzuki on May 15, 2014, 08:41:45 PM
Swap Meet is ONLY Thurs and Fri? Im not even going to arrive in San Jose till 6:30 on Fri... Im going to have to rush to get there before 7:30, but if I take a cab from the hotel I probably can pull it off.....

This may have already been answered, but are we going to be required to actually have our badge to sell Friday? I dont know if Ill have time to get my badge if I have to get there quickly to not lose my spot...

My understanding is the Thursday swap meet is non-badged, but Friday will require a badge.
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: Admiral Donuts on May 16, 2014, 01:30:00 PM
Is there a URL yet for the reg site?
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: Decantus on May 16, 2014, 02:06:41 PM
Quote from: Ruzuki on May 15, 2014, 08:41:45 PM
Swap Meet is ONLY Thurs and Fri? Im not even going to arrive in San Jose till 6:30 on Fri... Im going to have to rush to get there before 7:30, but if I take a cab from the hotel I probably can pull it off.....

This may have already been answered, but are we going to be required to actually have our badge to sell Friday? I dont know if Ill have time to get my badge if I have to get there quickly to not lose my spot...

To sell you have to be badged.  If you need special arrangements to be made, please email swapmeet at fanime dot com after getting into the reg site.
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: Decantus on May 16, 2014, 02:07:44 PM
Quote from: Oniko on May 15, 2014, 01:09:13 PM
Quote from: Decantus on May 15, 2014, 10:09:15 AM
Quote from: Oniko on May 14, 2014, 07:46:38 PM
Got my permit for AA, do I need one for Swap meet?  Worried I wont have enough time to get it.

If you have a Seller's Permit for Artist Alley, that will apply for Swap Meet.

If you do not have a Seller's Permit, you can fill out the Occasional Seller's Permit that is provided during the reg process.

I should have been more clear, I meant I have a temp sellers permit.  AA is one event.  Swap meet would be my second event.  (More than 2 events a year you need a full permit)  Can I sill just use my AA temp permit?

If you're using the Occasional Seller's Permit for AA, you will need to fill out a second one for Swap Meet.
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: Decantus on May 16, 2014, 02:08:29 PM
Quote from: Admiral Donuts on May 16, 2014, 01:30:00 PM
Is there a URL yet for the reg site?

It will be up and announced Today at 7pm.
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: bsan89 on May 16, 2014, 03:35:03 PM
Wait, so we can't bring our own dolly or cart to haul our stuff?
I have 4-6 boxes of stuff to sell. I can carry 3 at most if i stack up to my head...

Any suggestion if this is the case?
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: Admiral Donuts on May 16, 2014, 03:37:28 PM
Quote from: bsan89 on May 16, 2014, 03:35:03 PM
Wait, so we can't bring our own dolly or cart to haul our stuff?
I have 4-6 boxes of stuff to sell. I can carry 3 at most if i stack up to my head...

Any suggestion if this is the case?

Maybe talk to other sellers and find someone to help you out if you do the same for them?
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: Ruzuki on May 16, 2014, 05:26:01 PM
Quote from: Decantus on May 16, 2014, 02:06:41 PM
Quote from: Ruzuki on May 15, 2014, 08:41:45 PM
Swap Meet is ONLY Thurs and Fri? Im not even going to arrive in San Jose till 6:30 on Fri... Im going to have to rush to get there before 7:30, but if I take a cab from the hotel I probably can pull it off.....

This may have already been answered, but are we going to be required to actually have our badge to sell Friday? I dont know if Ill have time to get my badge if I have to get there quickly to not lose my spot...

To sell you have to be badged.  If you need special arrangements to be made, please email swapmeet at fanime dot com after getting into the reg site.

Thanks, I will do that.
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: yoshikochan on May 16, 2014, 06:19:00 PM
Since swap meet won't be in the convention center, I'm worried about foot traffic.

For Friday, could you let anyone in (without badges) like you do on Thursday? That would also help if reg is anything...like...last...year.....
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: Black_Convoy on May 16, 2014, 06:41:18 PM
When it was at the Fairmont it was amazing attendance despite the new location. I'm hoping that people hunt dem bargains wherever we go!
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: Ikariya on May 16, 2014, 06:57:03 PM
Sooo, its past 7pm where's the URL =)
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: keitoghostie on May 16, 2014, 06:57:50 PM
It's still 6:57?

The url is http://apps.fanime.com/2014/swapmeet/ (posted on twitter)
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: yoshikochan on May 16, 2014, 07:07:21 PM
Help! i'm stuck at step 5: "Check with Swap Meet team for Validation"
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: Xeluu on May 16, 2014, 07:08:30 PM
Same issue with Yoshiko-chan. Stuck at the validating stage.
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: PacificPikachu on May 16, 2014, 07:09:22 PM
I'm a panelist--it won't let me get past part 5 without the badge number, so please e-mail me back ASAP! I sure hope that won't mess up my chances.
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: bsan89 on May 16, 2014, 07:09:59 PM
Ouch on wait-list already for friday
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: yoshikochan on May 16, 2014, 07:13:06 PM
I was told in an earlier space that I had a space (not wait-listed)... Will not be happy if being stuck on step 5 changes that status. Is the space reserved at this point? Since clearly this event has filled up a lot faster than last year.
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: PLUMPKIN on May 16, 2014, 07:14:06 PM
Also stuck at step 5.  Hopefully the 20 minute rule doesn't apply since I already verified my e-mail address.
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: Vasyenka on May 16, 2014, 07:17:05 PM
Another stuck on step five! ;w; Been there for almost ten minutes ago and I have "Check with Swap Meet team for Validation".
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: Kinema on May 16, 2014, 07:17:29 PM
Well glad to know that I'm not the only one stuck on step 5.  :/
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: Anon on May 16, 2014, 07:18:00 PM
step 5'd, +1

and wow, 13-ish minutes to fill up Friday night already?
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: Xeluu on May 16, 2014, 07:18:34 PM
Hoping someone will respond when they get a response from staff on the issue of being stuck at Stage 5. I'm wondering if everyone is? If someone has made it all the way through it would also be nice to know.
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: warbearer on May 16, 2014, 07:19:13 PM
Me too I am stuck at step five
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: Ecchi ja Nai on May 16, 2014, 07:19:42 PM
Did anyone get a reg number before 700?
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: seerakosumosu on May 16, 2014, 07:20:07 PM
Obviously we're all stuck on step 5. Also, you should have received an email about Thursday and/or Friday status as "In Process" so I don't think we have to worry, just wait for them to approve us.
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: PacificPikachu on May 16, 2014, 07:20:56 PM
Quote from: seerakosumosu on May 16, 2014, 07:20:07 PM
Obviously we're all stuck on step 5. Also, you should have received an email about Thursday and/or Friday status as "In Process" so I don't think we have to worry, just wait for them to approve us.

Seconding. I think we're maybe supposed to be stuck on Step 5, until our info is verified by the team. Just a guess, but that seems to be the case as far as I can tell. Sure hope my spot is held by when I filled out the rest!
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: Ecchi ja Nai on May 16, 2014, 07:21:52 PM
I think once you put in your Fanime registration info, that's when you'll be sent another verification email that will take you to step 6 (and beyond!).  Just going by memory of previous years.  Don't know when those emails are expected to go out, though.
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: ash on May 16, 2014, 07:22:11 PM
im stuck on step 4 it wont let me accept the agreement
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: Michi on May 16, 2014, 07:22:23 PM
Did it seriously sell out in less than 15 mins? I clicked the link in my email and it didn't recognize my confirmation, and then when I got back into my account, I was wait listed. Man. I logged on right at 7. :(
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: Anon on May 16, 2014, 07:24:31 PM
Quote from: ash on May 16, 2014, 07:22:11 PM
im stuck on step 4 it wont let me accept the agreement

scroll to the almost bottom, tick the box, then hit the ok button with whatever it says on it
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: warbearer on May 16, 2014, 07:25:01 PM
Mine still says in process
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: Oniko on May 16, 2014, 07:28:23 PM
Oops, lost track of time and forgot.
Well I got thursday at least.

Question:  Fiance wants to help me at swap meet.  Is he considered a helper status or a seller status?  In AA they dont need permits, this is why I ask.  Also I would like to add him, only found out after he can help.
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: Xeluu on May 16, 2014, 07:29:18 PM
Quote from: Oniko on May 16, 2014, 07:28:23 PM
Oops, lost track of time and forgot.
Well I got thursday at least.

Question:  Fiance wants to help me at swap meet.  Is he considered a helper status or a seller status?  In AA they dont need permits, this is why I ask.  Also I would like to add him, only found out after he can help.
Did you manage to get past Stage 5? Or are you stuck like the rest of us?
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: Anon on May 16, 2014, 07:30:35 PM
Quote from: Oniko on May 16, 2014, 07:28:23 PM
Oops, lost track of time and forgot.
Well I got thursday at least.

Question:  Fiance wants to help me at swap meet.  Is he considered a helper status or a seller status?  In AA they dont need permits, this is why I ask.  Also I would like to add him, only found out after he can help.

put him down as a helper on your occasional sellers agreement
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: yoshikochan on May 16, 2014, 07:32:21 PM
What's everyone's account IDs? Mine is 745. I have a friend who's 773.

I'm wondering if they're going to go one number at a time or if they have some mass system in place. Like... if we're all 700 to 900 or something we have a guaranteed space. (We're guessing that the numbers started with 701.)
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: KyraEnsui on May 16, 2014, 07:32:55 PM
Stuck on stage 5 too. =/
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: warbearer on May 16, 2014, 07:33:34 PM
At least no one crashed
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: Michi on May 16, 2014, 07:34:00 PM
I'm #818 and got wait listed for Friday.
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: Ecchi ja Nai on May 16, 2014, 07:34:46 PM
Quote from: yoshikochan on May 16, 2014, 07:32:21 PM
What's everyone's account IDs? Mine is 745. I have a friend who's 773.

Dang, I was hoping numbers started at 790...  ;)

But your assumption is the same as mine.  At least I haven't seen anything that says I'm waitlisted.
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: Oniko on May 16, 2014, 07:34:58 PM
Quote from: Xeluu on May 16, 2014, 07:29:18 PM
Quote from: Oniko on May 16, 2014, 07:28:23 PM
Oops, lost track of time and forgot.
Well I got thursday at least.

Question:  Fiance wants to help me at swap meet.  Is he considered a helper status or a seller status?  In AA they dont need permits, this is why I ask.  Also I would like to add him, only found out after he can help.
Did you manage to get past Stage 5? Or are you stuck like the rest of us?

I'm waiting for verification, probably to make sure my badge is legit.
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: Anon on May 16, 2014, 07:35:57 PM
Quote from: Michi on May 16, 2014, 07:34:00 PM
I'm #818 and got wait listed for Friday.

ouch, you got in a few places in their DB after me, I got in on both days w/ no wait list
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: Michi on May 16, 2014, 07:36:49 PM
Quote from: Anon on May 16, 2014, 07:35:57 PM
Quote from: Michi on May 16, 2014, 07:34:00 PM
I'm #818 and got wait listed for Friday.

ouch, you got in a few places after me, I got in on both days w/ no wait list

:( I'm at ACen with no wifi struggling to connect, it really sucked!
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: Pika1979 on May 16, 2014, 07:38:29 PM
so i do not have my badge number.... what do i do get it?
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: warbearer on May 16, 2014, 07:39:19 PM
Quote from: Pika1979 on May 16, 2014, 07:38:29 PM
so i do not have my badge number.... what do i do get it?

Try searching for email under fanireg

My ID is 772
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: keitoghostie on May 16, 2014, 07:40:58 PM
I'm #749.

Also if anyone is worried about being stuck at step 5, it looks like you're set once you get past step 3:
QuoteIf you make it to step 3 within the 20 minutes, you'll keep your place in line.

Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: Anon on May 16, 2014, 07:42:03 PM
Quote from: Michi on May 16, 2014, 07:36:49 PM
Quote from: Anon on May 16, 2014, 07:35:57 PM
Quote from: Michi on May 16, 2014, 07:34:00 PM
I'm #818 and got wait listed for Friday.

ouch, you got in a few places after me, I got in on both days w/ no wait list

:( I'm at ACen with no wifi struggling to connect, it really sucked!

Ack that sucks, sorry. Hey, while we're here waiting on the whole step 5, how is ACen, compared to Fanime? I think I want to go next year if GSC is going to be selling wonfes exclusive/early figures like they did this year. Is it larger scale and stuff? Whats the surrounding area like?

On topic for the thread: I doubt they'd be doing the checks by hand to confirm legit registrations in the swap meet db vs the con registration db, so I'm guessing their systems had a communication error along the way?
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: Dracil on May 16, 2014, 07:51:48 PM
I hear ACen is having some awesome angela concerts, plus some friendly WUGers from Japan. That con definitely knows what's important.

Fanime spends our registration money on VTA advertisements apparently.
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: Zelyhon on May 16, 2014, 07:54:31 PM
Okay.  Seems like we're having a problem with Step 5 of the registration process.  I'm getting in touch with Decantus to get the finer details worked out and make sure people can get registered.  Just popping in to let people know we've seen the problem and are working on it.

Ben Levy
Swap Meet Second
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: warbearer on May 16, 2014, 07:55:44 PM
Quote from: Zelyhon on May 16, 2014, 07:54:31 PM
Okay.  Seems like we're having a problem with Step 5 of the registration process.  I'm getting in touch with Decantus to get the finer details worked out and make sure people can get registered.  Just popping in to let people know we've seen the problem and are working on it.

Ben Levy
Swap Meet Second

Thanks for the notification.
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: Swizzlstik Cosplay on May 16, 2014, 07:57:08 PM
I'm #779 and I got both nights. Also stuck at Step 5, but I'm also a staff member so I'm waiting not only for verification for moving on, but an e-mail oking me to keep going.

Now we play the waiting game.
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: yoshikochan on May 16, 2014, 08:01:25 PM
Thanks Ben!

:'> I have to go to dinner now. Hoping to come back to a fixed reg site.
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: Decantus on May 16, 2014, 08:05:09 PM
Hello Everyone,

When entering your badge ID, please instead use your Confirmation number from the email that was sent to you by Badge Registration.

Sorry for the confusion.
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: Xeluu on May 16, 2014, 08:06:43 PM
Quote from: Decantus on May 16, 2014, 08:05:09 PM
Hello Everyone,

When entering your badge ID, please instead use your Confirmation number from the email that was sent to you by Badge Registration.

Sorry for the confusion.
You mean the number that starts with the letter A from the post-card e-mail, right? For group people is it all the same number? And what if you've already done that?
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: keitoghostie on May 16, 2014, 08:07:24 PM
If we're waiting for the panelist/staff/etc instructions, how long should we expect to wait for them?
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: PacificPikachu on May 16, 2014, 08:11:05 PM
Quote from: keitoghostie on May 16, 2014, 08:07:24 PM
If we're waiting for the panelist/staff/etc instructions, how long should we expect to wait for them?

Yes, I'd like to know this, too. I think my spots for both days are reserved (and I sure hope so), but I'd love to get it paid for and totally done as soon as possible!
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: time4chowder on May 16, 2014, 08:12:41 PM
Quote from: Decantus on May 16, 2014, 08:05:09 PM
Hello Everyone,

When entering your badge ID, please instead use your Confirmation number from the email that was sent to you by Badge Registration.

Sorry for the confusion.

1. Does "In Process" mean we obtained a spot in Swap Meet?

2. Should we keep staring at our computer screen's for a confirmation email so we don't lose our spot?

3. What should the badge ID be if the seller is Press or Staff since they have no actual badge ID?

Thank you!
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: Black_Convoy on May 16, 2014, 08:13:22 PM
Quote from: Decantus on May 16, 2014, 08:05:09 PM
Hello Everyone,

When entering your badge ID, please instead use your Confirmation number from the email that was sent to you by Badge Registration.

Sorry for the confusion.

I'm guessing this has nothing to do with advancing to step 6?
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: Shinsengumi on May 16, 2014, 08:27:25 PM
Quote from: Decantus on May 16, 2014, 08:05:09 PM
Hello Everyone,

When entering your badge ID, please instead use your Confirmation number from the email that was sent to you by Badge Registration.

Sorry for the confusion.

The one with a letter and 7 numbers right?
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: time4chowder on May 16, 2014, 08:29:53 PM
Quote from: Shinsengumi on May 16, 2014, 08:27:25 PM
Quote from: Decantus on May 16, 2014, 08:05:09 PM
Hello Everyone,

When entering your badge ID, please instead use your Confirmation number from the email that was sent to you by Badge Registration.

Sorry for the confusion.

The one with a letter and 7 numbers right?

I presume yes because that's the only Confirmation Number on the entire email.
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: Anon on May 16, 2014, 08:34:19 PM
Quote from: Decantus on May 16, 2014, 08:05:09 PM
Hello Everyone,

When entering your badge ID, please instead use your Confirmation number from the email that was sent to you by Badge Registration.

Sorry for the confusion.

Yep, did that, still waiting at step 5. Has anybody completed the process yet or has everybody already given up and gone to do other things on a Friday night?
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: BunofGovt on May 16, 2014, 08:38:10 PM
EDITED:  I got Thursday and not Friday, which I can live with. I think there was another link I was supposed to click on but I was trying to confirm a helper/seller so missed it.  Missed the link to pay (really anxious to get through the process my bad).  Logged out and just now logged back in to finish paying, glad that was still available!

Now the question is, someone asked a few pages back but I didn't see an answer, can we have someone (not a seller/helper) with us in line to help us get our stuff into the center?  Could they help me move my bins in line, and watch my stuff while I go back and forth taking my stuff to my spot?
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: kill3rsushi on May 16, 2014, 09:21:37 PM
Hey there, sorry to be an ass, but I'd like to formally complain about how this just went down. I was sitting there refreshing the forums and events page like an idiot only to find out second hand from a friend via text message that the link was posted somewhere (FACEBOOK???) and now I am waitlisted. I didn't even stand a chance of getting in because I wasn't looking in the right places.

I have been doing Swap Meet for years now, and it's basically how I finance the convention and one of the major highlights for me. The delay in posting information is forgivable since it can be out of the organizer's hands if there's other bureaucratic  crap that might be someone else's fault, but posting a public link on Facebook without updating the main website or forum community who cared enough to ask questions (SOME EVEN MONTHS IN ADVANCE) just seems downright wrong. Last year, communication from organizers was great and while signups went up waaaaaay later than they should have, it all worked out. This was not the case this year, and from what I am reading here now, it looks like being online at the right time on the right page might not even have been enough.

The worst part? I moved out of my parent's house this year, and instead of donating/ebay listing all my extra stuff, I bought a little storage unit thinking it would be worth it to store until Fanime came around. Now I am out the $130+ I spent on storing my stuff, and I won't be able to sell at all probably... all because nobody bothered to post something on the forum or official site about which link to use.

I'm beyond disappointed. I am livid. If swap meet doesn't pan out for me this will have to mark the end of my time going to Fanime con, and that's a damn shame after 8 years. This is an OK con, but at $75 for a ticket and the other investments involved (hotel, transportation, storage, food, time off from work, time in lines, etc) it's just not worth the trouble anymore as it's not as good as it used to be. Swap Meet was just about the last major draw for Fanime for me and now it's blown away.

Again, I hate to sound self centered and entitled in all this, but I feel uncontrolably upset. I just spent an hour refreshing the wrong pages while on a family vacation with nothing to show for it. I'd like some communication or reassurance about how this happened and why.
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: Anon on May 16, 2014, 09:29:40 PM
Quote from: kill3rsushi on May 16, 2014, 09:21:37 PM
Hey there, sorry to be an ass, but I'd like to formally complain about how this just went down. I was sitting there refreshing the forums and events page like an idiot only to find out second hand from a friend via text message that the link was posted somewhere (FACEBOOK???) and now I am waitlisted. I didn't even stand a chance of getting in because I wasn't looking in the right places.

I'd have to agree with this, the only reason I managed to get in on it just in time was because I decided to check twitter for a possible update. The first post of this thread was not updated, nor was the main Fanime site entry at http://www.fanime.com/events/#swap-meet

On a different note, I can say I completed the process for payment and got the links for the 2 forms we'll be needing.
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: PacificPikachu on May 16, 2014, 09:33:48 PM
Quote from: Anon on May 16, 2014, 09:29:40 PM
Quote from: kill3rsushi on May 16, 2014, 09:21:37 PM
Hey there, sorry to be an ass, but I'd like to formally complain about how this just went down. I was sitting there refreshing the forums and events page like an idiot only to find out second hand from a friend via text message that the link was posted somewhere (FACEBOOK???) and now I am waitlisted. I didn't even stand a chance of getting in because I wasn't looking in the right places.

I'd have to agree with this, the only reason I managed to get in on it just in time was because I decided to check twitter for a possible update. The first post of this thread was not updated, nor was the main Fanime site entry at http://www.fanime.com/events/#swap-meet

On a different note, I can say I completed the process for payment and got the links for the 2 forms we'll be needing.

How did you manage to do that? Did you receive an e-mail, or refresh the page, or...?
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: Admiral Donuts on May 16, 2014, 09:34:46 PM
Quote from: kill3rsushi on May 16, 2014, 09:21:37 PM
Hey there, sorry to be an ass, but I'd like to formally complain about how this just went down. I was sitting there refreshing the forums and events page like an idiot only to find out second hand from a friend via text message that the link was posted somewhere (FACEBOOK???) and now I am waitlisted. I didn't even stand a chance of getting in because I wasn't looking in the right places.

This is why I asked a few hours in advance what the URL was. It was posted on Facebook and Twitter a half-hour ahead of when it was posted here. the link should have gone out with the 48 hour notification.
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: Anon on May 16, 2014, 09:37:36 PM
Quote from: PacificPikachu on May 16, 2014, 09:33:48 PM
How did you manage to do that? Did you receive an e-mail, or refresh the page, or...?

yeah, left the page open and refreshed it. Didn't get any email or anything telling me I was clear for step 6 or anything
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: PacificPikachu on May 16, 2014, 09:46:54 PM
Quote from: Anon on May 16, 2014, 09:37:36 PM
Quote from: PacificPikachu on May 16, 2014, 09:33:48 PM
How did you manage to do that? Did you receive an e-mail, or refresh the page, or...?

yeah, left the page open and refreshed it. Didn't get any email or anything telling me I was clear for step 6 or anything

Thanks! Still no luck here. Just gotta keep waiting and refreshing I suppose.
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: warbearer on May 16, 2014, 09:51:31 PM
Me neither. I am still stuck at step five. I just fix my confirmation number. I hope I still get space for the two days
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: svchan on May 16, 2014, 09:52:23 PM
I refreshed my page (which was still open) about 3 minutes ago when I saw Anon getting to step 6 (didn't get any notification saying that it was clear to go to step six) and was able to pay and complete the application.  My number was 732.
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: yoshikochan on May 16, 2014, 09:59:41 PM
Help! I'm now listed as Valid but my Seller 2 is not valid. It reads "Badge Information Does Not Match" but I've double checked with my friend and I'm sure it does.
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: Anon on May 16, 2014, 10:03:12 PM
correct email entered for the actual badge registration?
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: Vasyenka on May 16, 2014, 10:03:57 PM
I've never sold at a swap meet in California before, but I have some questions!

1) Since I am not selling anything handmade nor do I sell frequently, to clarify I am able to put EXEMPT on my Seller's Permit form, right?

2) The next step in regards to this says "However, you must also contact the Swap Meet staff, and submit California's BOE-410-D form to claim this status.". Does this mean I e-mail the BOE-410-D form to the Swap Meet staff? Are they the only ones I send this to, or am I supposed to send that form elsewhere as well?

I'm really sorry if these questions are simple, but as I've said I've never sold in California (I'm from New Mexico), so this is my first time for dealing with this sort~ ;w; Thank you so much in advance!
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: Anon on May 16, 2014, 10:07:44 PM
Quote from: Vasyenka on May 16, 2014, 10:03:57 PM
I've never sold at a swap meet in California before, but I have some questions!

1) Since I am not selling anything handmade nor do I sell frequently, to clarify I am able to put EXEMPT on my Seller's Permit form, right?

2) The next step in regards to this says "However, you must also contact the Swap Meet staff, and submit California's BOE-410-D form to claim this status.". Does this mean I e-mail the BOE-410-D form to the Swap Meet staff? Are they the only ones I send this to, or am I supposed to send that form elsewhere as well?

I'm really sorry if these questions are simple, but as I've said I've never sold in California (I'm from New Mexico), so this is my first time for dealing with this sort~ ;w; Thank you so much in advance!


1) yes
2) just fill it out and bring it with you, you'll turn it in during the check-in process
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: yoshikochan on May 16, 2014, 10:08:51 PM
Yes, positive. ~.~ At this point, I'd be fine with deleting seller 2 to make sure I can get my space, but I don't know if I can do that. That and she will be my seller 2, so...
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: Decantus on May 16, 2014, 10:11:11 PM
So at this point, if you are still not able to get past step 5, we will be manually approving.  Please sit tight and you should be notified when this has been done.
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: warbearer on May 16, 2014, 10:11:43 PM
I just fixed the badge number
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: Vasyenka on May 16, 2014, 10:11:50 PM
Quote from: Anon on May 16, 2014, 10:07:44 PM
1) yes
2) just fill it out and bring it with you, you'll turn it in during the check-in process

So I needn't submit anything else, just print it/fill it out and bring it to the con (I've already paid for my spot~)? My apologies, I just want to be extra sure!
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: KoruKinshi on May 16, 2014, 10:12:02 PM
I'm #740, and I still have yet to see any activity.  Stuck at step 5.  What's going on back there?  I don't want to lose my spots because of system difficulties...
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: yoshikochan on May 16, 2014, 10:13:38 PM
I have friends who told me they're done and paid. I'm not one of them. :(
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: Anon on May 16, 2014, 10:15:06 PM
Quote from: Vasyenka on May 16, 2014, 10:11:50 PM
So I needn't submit anything else, just print it/fill it out and bring it to the con (I've already paid for my spot~)? My apologies, I just want to be extra sure!

yes. You'll be turning in 2 forms during check-in: the BoE form and the Swap Meet Agreement form
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: Vasyenka on May 16, 2014, 10:16:28 PM
Quote from: Anon on May 16, 2014, 10:15:06 PM
yes. You'll be turning in 2 forms during check-in: the BoE form and the Swap Meet Agreement form
Awesome, thank you so much!
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: PacificPikachu on May 16, 2014, 10:17:38 PM
Quote from: Decantus on May 16, 2014, 10:11:11 PM
So at this point, if you are still not able to get past step 5, we will be manually approving.  Please sit tight and you should be notified when this has been done.

Thanks for the update! I'll be waiting for the notification.
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: Yaminogame on May 16, 2014, 10:20:35 PM
Thanks for that NONexisting 48 hour notice we were promised.I didnt know about the swap meet going up at 7pm and totally missed it. I really needed a spot...:(
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: Admiral Donuts on May 16, 2014, 10:31:55 PM
Quote from: Yaminogame on May 16, 2014, 10:20:35 PM
Thanks for that NONexisting 48 hour notice we were promised.I didnt know about the swap meet going up at 7pm and totally missed it. I really needed a spot...:(

It was posted in the thread and the OP was edited.

Edit: Also Facebook and Twitter. Granted, they should have put something on the actual website...
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: warbearer on May 16, 2014, 10:33:36 PM
Still waiting for notification
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: yoshikochan on May 16, 2014, 10:38:36 PM
Finally registered!

Guys, try hitting "Refresh"

Rather than hitting refresh, I kept pressing "update badge info" then "return to step 5" and the status wasn't changing. I was afraid it was like Comic-con's system where refresh might screw you over. But finally I hit refresh and it worked.

... That or they finally got around to manually approving Step 5 and that was a total coincidence.
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: Ruzuki on May 16, 2014, 10:39:51 PM
Well, didnt get selected. Forgot till WAY too late. Oh well, next year I can plan better for it!
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: Yaminogame on May 16, 2014, 10:41:06 PM
It was said there was going to be a 48 hour warning. Not a 4 hour warning. I was checking the website not facebook
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: Yaminogame on May 16, 2014, 10:43:01 PM
Wait i see it now on facebook on may 14... it's still wasnt announced well at all! It's really not that fair...
:( I really needed swap meet to make money before my boyfriend comes from Japan to visit me. :( is there anyone who would share part of their space with me?
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: svchan on May 16, 2014, 10:45:44 PM
Quote from: Admiral Donuts on May 16, 2014, 10:31:55 PM
Quote from: Yaminogame on May 16, 2014, 10:20:35 PM
Thanks for that NONexisting 48 hour notice we were promised.I didnt know about the swap meet going up at 7pm and totally missed it. I really needed a spot...:(

It was posted in the thread and the OP was edited.

Edit: Also Facebook and Twitter. Granted, they should have put something on the actual website...

OP doesn't have the link (though it is there within the actual thread).  The actual site still has it as 'coming soon'. I think we can all agree that consistency with the notifications would have been more helpful for many who feel like they were caught unaware because the notifications didn't all line up.
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: seerakosumosu on May 16, 2014, 10:46:31 PM
Other cons have taught me that you need to check every avenue that the con uses to release information, such as the site, forums, and social media accounts. The constantly checking bird gets the worm.
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: matthewlow on May 16, 2014, 11:24:39 PM
Thank you for all your hard work on getting us registered one by one. Four hours later, finally in!

Question though: It says that badge pick up is on the bottom floor of the SJ Convention Center. However, I set to pick up badges at the DoubleTree where Clockwork Alchemy's pick up is, as that's my hotel. Will the voucher to get badges faster work there? What should I do? Thanks!

Also, should the group leader and the swap meet primary be the same person for the voucher to work, or does it not matter?
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: Zelyhon on May 16, 2014, 11:31:23 PM
Okay.  Manual approvals of most of the Step 5-ers have gone out.  There are a few that have not.  Those who left the badge blank (presumably because you are staff or panels or the like) have not yet been approved, but we'll be sending e-mails to all of you regarding the blank spot to check out what's going on.  If you haven't received approval and don't fall within the above group, there may be some processing error or other thing we need to get in touch with you about regarding your spot and we will be in touch shortly.

Otherwise, we'll go over the sign-up list in the next day or two to look over it and make sure everything is alright and that there aren't duplicates or anything like that.

Also, many of you requested specific spots or spots near other people.  We will do what we can at the convention to try and fulfill requests, but we cannot guarantee anything.

We apologize for any confusion or inconvenience regarding the sign-up process this year.  If you have specific questions or concerns, we'd be happy to hear them to either try and address them for the convention this year or, if that's not possible, to try and remedy the issue for next year.

Ben Levy
Swap Meet Second
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: PacificPikachu on May 16, 2014, 11:38:49 PM
I got my spot all paid for and fully registered finally, so I'm happy! Now I can finally relax a bit and just focus on preparing for the con.
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: bsan89 on May 17, 2014, 12:44:59 AM
Quote from: kill3rsushi on May 16, 2014, 09:21:37 PM
Hey there, sorry to be an ass, but I'd like to formally complain about how this just went down. I was sitting there refreshing the forums and events page like an idiot only to find out second hand from a friend via text message that the link was posted somewhere (FACEBOOK???) and now I am waitlisted. I didn't even stand a chance of getting in because I wasn't looking in the right places.

Sorry to hear that, I think you need to PM the OP as they seem to be in charge of swap meet. I have the worst luck being # 811 while people who has 794 get in. LOL I think the cut off was at 800.

Well maybe we'll get lucky in 1 weeks.
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: LightandDarkSoul on May 17, 2014, 03:26:18 AM
Unfortunately for me I was halted at step 3 :( There goes my chance of getting rid of some of my old stuff... CURSE YOU WORK!
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: yoshikochan on May 17, 2014, 10:49:10 AM
Thanks Ben! You guys ran a great swap meet last year ~ and despite the unexpected Step 5 snafu, I was impressed that the site didn't crash and the registration process was *otherwise* smooth. We all know you guys did your best ~ looking forward to next weekend, hurray!
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: Oniko on May 17, 2014, 12:38:43 PM
What address should I put on the temp permit?
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: Kazuma_uzumaki on May 17, 2014, 08:52:42 PM
Quote from: kill3rsushi on May 16, 2014, 09:21:37 PM
Hey there, sorry to be an ass, but I'd like to formally complain about how this just went down. I was sitting there refreshing the forums and events page like an idiot only to find out second hand from a friend via text message that the link was posted somewhere (FACEBOOK???) and now I am waitlisted. I didn't even stand a chance of getting in because I wasn't looking in the right places.

I have been doing Swap Meet for years now, and it's basically how I finance the convention and one of the major highlights for me. The delay in posting information is forgivable since it can be out of the organizer's hands if there's other bureaucratic  crap that might be someone else's fault, but posting a public link on Facebook without updating the main website or forum community who cared enough to ask questions (SOME EVEN MONTHS IN ADVANCE) just seems downright wrong. Last year, communication from organizers was great and while signups went up waaaaaay later than they should have, it all worked out. This was not the case this year, and from what I am reading here now, it looks like being online at the right time on the right page might not even have been enough.


I am also in this situation. Going to Fanime is pricey. Swap Meet was how I made my money to support the lovely venders and Artists of Fanime.
As it is the end of May, many of us are busy college students on Finals. My particular finals are this week. To stop my self from distractions, I stopped using FB for a short while (and I don't use Twitter). Of course, I checked the Fanime Site fairly often to see if any information about Swap Meet would come up. Nothing. Every day was the same news posts. I get a text from a friend saying "Hey, aren't the swap meet reg up?" I didn't believe him because the MAIN SITE had nothing (Of course, now I see that the bottom of the site has a twitter area...) Even the Swap Meet area of the events page still says "More Info coming soon.
I signed up 2 hours after the 7pm opening aaaaaaand... waitlisted. Not everyone uses FB and Twitter religiously and relies on the main site to update accordingly.
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: BunofGovt on May 17, 2014, 09:16:07 PM
I was checking the forums when I could but it was getting a message from my friend on Wednesday telling me swap meet reg would be on Friday at 7pm.  Even then, on Friday I skipped the main website and went straight to this thread (about 7:20) and then I checked the last few pages to see if the link had been posted.  I saw the URL link on keitoghostie's post on page 11 (I think) and clicked it right away, and managed to get a spot for Thursday. 

I'm on Twitter and FB but I haven't been getting tweets from Fanime so I didn't bother checking that at all (my notification settings must need adjusting), and I haven't had any FB notifications from Fanime either (I guess I need to check those settings as well). 
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: srossi455 on May 17, 2014, 10:49:01 PM
Quote from: Kazuma_uzumaki on May 17, 2014, 08:52:42 PM
Quote from: kill3rsushi on May 16, 2014, 09:21:37 PM
Hey there, sorry to be an ass, but I'd like to formally complain about how this just went down. I was sitting there refreshing the forums and events page like an idiot only to find out second hand from a friend via text message that the link was posted somewhere (FACEBOOK???) and now I am waitlisted. I didn't even stand a chance of getting in because I wasn't looking in the right places.

I have been doing Swap Meet for years now, and it's basically how I finance the convention and one of the major highlights for me. The delay in posting information is forgivable since it can be out of the organizer's hands if there's other bureaucratic  crap that might be someone else's fault, but posting a public link on Facebook without updating the main website or forum community who cared enough to ask questions (SOME EVEN MONTHS IN ADVANCE) just seems downright wrong. Last year, communication from organizers was great and while signups went up waaaaaay later than they should have, it all worked out. This was not the case this year, and from what I am reading here now, it looks like being online at the right time on the right page might not even have been enough.


I am also in this situation. Going to Fanime is pricey. Swap Meet was how I made my money to support the lovely venders and Artists of Fanime.
As it is the end of May, many of us are busy college students on Finals. My particular finals are this week. To stop my self from distractions, I stopped using FB for a short while (and I don't use Twitter). Of course, I checked the Fanime Site fairly often to see if any information about Swap Meet would come up. Nothing. Every day was the same news posts. I get a text from a friend saying "Hey, aren't the swap meet reg up?" I didn't believe him because the MAIN SITE had nothing (Of course, now I see that the bottom of the site has a twitter area...) Even the Swap Meet area of the events page still says "More Info coming soon.
I signed up 2 hours after the 7pm opening aaaaaaand... waitlisted. Not everyone uses FB and Twitter religiously and relies on the main site to update accordingly.

Similar situation. I got home at 7:40 and decided to check the forum to see if a reg date had been set. Instead I see posts about trouble during the reg process, so confused I check the main site and nothing. I find one forum link and it says "coming soon". I finally find another link that let's me register for an account and I'm waitlisted. Not cool. I look forward to and rely on swap meet each year, and I've been watching theis forum since April. Now I'm being punished because I don't use Facebook or Twitter, even though I've been regularly checking the main site and this forum. If you know the demand for swap meet is going to be this great, there should be a bigger space to hold it in. This may prevent me from even attending the con.
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: seerakosumosu on May 17, 2014, 11:22:43 PM
I got a swap meet space for both days and am willing to share with someone. Since I
am flying up I can only bring two suitcases of items and will most likely only need to
use about half the allotted space. In case you have a lot of merchandise I'm skilled at
artfully arranging things and making maximally efficient use of space.  ;)

My only caveat is that I'm trying to minimize the expenses of the con as it's costing me
a lot to fly up there, so I'm looking for someone who wants to share my space but is
willing to pay for the entire spot for both days, just like people who missed out on artist
alley are willing to do. My reason for attending the con is to sell at the swap meet and I'm
not even sure if I will do well as this is both my first time attending Fanime and my first
time paying so much for a swap meet spot at an anime con. So I thought this would be a
good idea that could benefit both parties.

Please send me an email at seerakosumosu[at]gmail[dot]com titled "Fanime 2014 Swap Meet"
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: bsan89 on May 18, 2014, 02:27:15 AM
Quote from: seerakosumosu on May 17, 2014, 11:22:43 PM
I got a swap meet space for both days and am willing to share with someone. Since I
am flying up I can only bring two suitcases of items and will most likely only need to
use about half the allotted space. In case you have a lot of merchandise I'm skilled at
artfully arranging things and making maximally efficient use of space.  ;)

My only caveat is that I'm trying to minimize the expenses of the con as it's costing me
a lot to fly up there, so I'm looking for someone who wants to share my space but is
willing to pay for the entire spot for both days, just like people who missed out on artist
alley are willing to do. My reason for attending the con is to sell at the swap meet and I'm
not even sure if I will do well as this is both my first time attending Fanime and my first
time paying so much for a swap meet spot at an anime con. So I thought this would be a
good idea that could benefit both parties.

Please send me an email at seerakosumosu[at]gmail[dot]com titled "Fanime 2014 Swap Meet"

Email sent :)
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: LightandDarkSoul on May 18, 2014, 02:31:04 AM
Quote from: seerakosumosu on May 17, 2014, 11:22:43 PM
I got a swap meet space for both days and am willing to share with someone. Since I
am flying up I can only bring two suitcases of items and will most likely only need to
use about half the allotted space. In case you have a lot of merchandise I'm skilled at
artfully arranging things and making maximally efficient use of space.  ;)

My only caveat is that I'm trying to minimize the expenses of the con as it's costing me
a lot to fly up there, so I'm looking for someone who wants to share my space but is
willing to pay for the entire spot for both days, just like people who missed out on artist
alley are willing to do. My reason for attending the con is to sell at the swap meet and I'm
not even sure if I will do well as this is both my first time attending Fanime and my first
time paying so much for a swap meet spot at an anime con. So I thought this would be a
good idea that could benefit both parties.

Please send me an email at seerakosumosu[at]gmail[dot]com titled "Fanime 2014 Swap Meet"

I would like to share with you, but the whole "I pay for the whole spot for both days (total of $60) even though you are still there selling" seems unfair (unless I'm misinterpreting something). In artist alley, most commonly if the table is shared then both parties agree to pay only half of the table, and AA tables are more expensive than the swap meet spaces.  So it's only fair that I should pay half regardless of your money stand point. If you have enough money to fly out from where ever you are coming from, then you should be able to pay for half a spot ($30 for both days) Just saying :/
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: Oniko on May 18, 2014, 12:49:30 PM
I need an address still please.

Everything is so late I'm not even sure I'll be able to get my temp permit in time at this point.
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: Zelyhon on May 18, 2014, 03:13:18 PM
One other issue has come to our attention:

Those of you who are signed up for both Swap Meet and Artist's Alley may have noticed a bit of conflicting information from the two groups.  Swap Meet will be issuing vouchers to get your badge early on Thursday to be properly badged for selling.  Artist's Alley, meanwhile, has sent out information saying that you need to pick your badge up at Artist's Alley on Friday and that's the only way to get it.  Both of these things can't happen at the same time if you're an artist who is also selling on Friday.

If you fall into that group, here's what we're going to be doing.  We'll be making a list along with Artist's Alley of those who fit into this category.  We'll be checking registration with AA ahead of the convention.  Once we have a list, we'll be able to check in people on Thursday who are also selling at Artist's Alley if you have valid ID (which everyone is required to have anyways).

Please note that this does not apply to people selling on Friday.  If you are selling on Friday, you must have your badge to sign in for Swap Meet, even if you are also selling in Artist's Alley.


If you think you fall into this group, please send me a private message on the forum with your name and badge number so we can make sure to check you against the list.

Ben Levy
Swap Meet Second
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: Yaminogame on May 18, 2014, 04:11:55 PM
Quote from: seerakosumosu on May 17, 2014, 11:22:43 PM
I got a swap meet space for both days and am willing to share with someone. Since I
am flying up I can only bring two suitcases of items and will most likely only need to
use about half the allotted space. In case you have a lot of merchandise I'm skilled at
artfully arranging things and making maximally efficient use of space.  ;)

My only caveat is that I'm trying to minimize the expenses of the con as it's costing me
a lot to fly up there, so I'm looking for someone who wants to share my space but is
willing to pay for the entire spot for both days, just like people who missed out on artist
alley are willing to do. My reason for attending the con is to sell at the swap meet and I'm
not even sure if I will do well as this is both my first time attending Fanime and my first
time paying so much for a swap meet spot at an anime con. So I thought this would be a
good idea that could benefit both parties.

Please send me an email at seerakosumosu[at]gmail[dot]com titled "Fanime 2014 Swap Meet"
I need a spot:( for Friday.
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: LightandDarkSoul on May 18, 2014, 07:12:43 PM
Quote from: Yaminogame on May 18, 2014, 04:11:55 PM
Quote from: seerakosumosu on May 17, 2014, 11:22:43 PM
I got a swap meet space for both days and am willing to share with someone. Since I
am flying up I can only bring two suitcases of items and will most likely only need to
use about half the allotted space. In case you have a lot of merchandise I'm skilled at
artfully arranging things and making maximally efficient use of space.  ;)

My only caveat is that I'm trying to minimize the expenses of the con as it's costing me
a lot to fly up there, so I'm looking for someone who wants to share my space but is
willing to pay for the entire spot for both days, just like people who missed out on artist
alley are willing to do. My reason for attending the con is to sell at the swap meet and I'm
not even sure if I will do well as this is both my first time attending Fanime and my first
time paying so much for a swap meet spot at an anime con. So I thought this would be a
good idea that could benefit both parties.

Please send me an email at seerakosumosu[at]gmail[dot]com titled "Fanime 2014 Swap Meet"
I need a spot:( for Friday.

Yaminogame, that's the same person that emailed you
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: Michi on May 19, 2014, 12:15:40 AM
Is it worth it to show up early on Friday and try for a dropped spot since I'm wait listed?
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: yoshikochan on May 19, 2014, 05:28:23 AM
Just to be clear... Swap Meet is at the same time, right?

"Swap Meet will be open to fans Thursday and Friday Starting at 7:30pm and will close at Midnight."

I noticed some posts saying we'd get kicked out at 10:30 pm, but then it sounded like that was if we were in South Hall, and Civic Center is still okay for the Midnight closing.

Any info on when check-in will be, and if we'll have pre-assigned spaces?
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: srossi455 on May 19, 2014, 09:48:11 AM
Quote from: Michi on May 19, 2014, 12:15:40 AM
Is it worth it to show up early on Friday and try for a dropped spot since I'm wait listed?
I emailed the swap meet department regarding possible space availability and was told wait list instructions are being sent out soon. Hopefully those instructions arrive by Wednesday so I don't end up wasting my time. Although I can say that in the past I have been able to get in after the pre regs all filed in, but I believe Fanime has become far more crowded since then.
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: keitoghostie on May 19, 2014, 10:39:24 AM
Quote from: yoshikochan on May 19, 2014, 05:28:23 AM
Just to be clear... Swap Meet is at the same time, right?

"Swap Meet will be open to fans Thursday and Friday Starting at 7:30pm and will close at Midnight."

I noticed some posts saying we'd get kicked out at 10:30 pm, but then it sounded like that was if we were in South Hall, and Civic Center is still okay for the Midnight closing.

Any info on when check-in will be, and if we'll have pre-assigned spaces?
Check in will be 6:30-8:30pm, and it seems as if the spaces are assigned based on lineup order?
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: Decantus on May 19, 2014, 01:11:10 PM
Check in starts at 6:30pm both days, we will start letting people in to buy at 7:30pm.  If you have not registered or have not made "late check in" arrangements with me via email, your spot will be refunded and given to the next applicant on the wait list.

The 10:30 time was only if we were in South Hall.  Since we didn't have to be in there, we can stay open the full time.  The advertized time is Midnight to start clean up, but we usually allow you to run late if it's still busy.

Further instructions for People with spots and Waitlisted people will be sent out today or tomorrow.  I know it's really close to the con, but we're working as fast as we can.

If anyone is still stuck at Step 5 right now, it's because we're still awaiting some form of verification before approval is done.

For spot selection, it's completely random.  There is no priority or At-Con selection.
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: Kuudere on May 19, 2014, 10:51:14 PM
Quote from: Decantus on May 19, 2014, 01:11:10 PM
Check in starts at 6:30pm both days, we will start letting people in to buy at 7:30pm.  If you have not registered or have not made "late check in" arrangements with me via email, your spot will be refunded and given to the next applicant on the wait list.

If I'm reading this right...this may fix my problem...

When my boyfriend registered myself and a friend for swap meet, he accidentally selected both Thursday and Friday when we just wanted a Thursday spot. When he passed the first page, there was no way to go back and change it, and he was afraid that if he started over we'd lose our chance at getting any spot. Supposedly we're approved for both days, I think...

So if we just didn't show up on Friday, we might be refunded for that day? It'd be nice to get it taken care of before the con so the people who do want to sell Friday can just take our spot and not stress about whether they will get a spot or not. But I'll be happy just to not have to pay for a day we aren't interested in.

I know swap meet staff is super busy right now, but hopefully I can get some clarity on this issue! I know there's someone out there who would gladly take my Friday off my hands if there were a way to do so.
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: Zelyhon on May 19, 2014, 11:27:33 PM
Quote from: Michi on May 19, 2014, 12:15:40 AM
Is it worth it to show up early on Friday and try for a dropped spot since I'm wait listed?
I would say so.  There are always drops and no-shows.  We're going to be pretty stringent on the whole "If you're not there by 8:30 and haven't made arrangements, you lose your spot" thing.  There should be a specific area for waitlisted people hoping to get into Swap Meet.  Entry for the wailisted people will be based on "First Come, First Served."  When you arrive, if you are on the waitlist, you will take a number which determines the order we give out spots in.

If you are waitlisted and you show up to take a number to get in, you will need to be back at the Civic Center by around 8:00 or so.  This is so we can do a short pre-emptive check of your items and paperwork to make sure everything is in order.  This way, when we see how many spots are available, you'll be able to get in and start selling more quickly.  Please be sure to be back by 8:00 so we don't have any holdups of the line.  If you're not there at 8:30 with your stuff and your number, you will not be able to take a space and it will pass on to the next in line.

At this time, the wait list is currently full.  If you are not signed up or on the wait list for a particular day at this time, I am sorry but you will not be able to sell at Swap Meet this year.  If there is any change with regards to this, we will post that information here.
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: Zelyhon on May 19, 2014, 11:28:51 PM
Quote from: Kuudere on May 19, 2014, 10:51:14 PM
Quote from: Decantus on May 19, 2014, 01:11:10 PM
Check in starts at 6:30pm both days, we will start letting people in to buy at 7:30pm.  If you have not registered or have not made "late check in" arrangements with me via email, your spot will be refunded and given to the next applicant on the wait list.

If I'm reading this right...this may fix my problem...

When my boyfriend registered myself and a friend for swap meet, he accidentally selected both Thursday and Friday when we just wanted a Thursday spot. When he passed the first page, there was no way to go back and change it, and he was afraid that if he started over we'd lose our chance at getting any spot. Supposedly we're approved for both days, I think...

So if we just didn't show up on Friday, we might be refunded for that day? It'd be nice to get it taken care of before the con so the people who do want to sell Friday can just take our spot and not stress about whether they will get a spot or not. But I'll be happy just to not have to pay for a day we aren't interested in.

I know swap meet staff is super busy right now, but hopefully I can get some clarity on this issue! I know there's someone out there who would gladly take my Friday off my hands if there were a way to do so.
If he just didn't show up at con, he probably wouldn't be refunded.  We might be able to take care of that ahead of time, though, since you've brought it up.  Private message me or Decantus the name and badge number the spot was registered under and we'll see what we can do.
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: Kuudere on May 19, 2014, 11:42:55 PM
I sent you a message. Thanks for looking into it for me!
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: sklathill on May 20, 2014, 01:10:20 AM
So for this swapmeet space, my girlfriend is listed as the primary contact/seller and I'm the secondary seller.

I'm planning on being there at least by 6:30 for the swap meet setup, but she might not be there until after 8 PM thanks to another Fanime event she's taking part in.

Is that going to be a problem?
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: KyraEnsui on May 20, 2014, 07:45:58 AM
Quote from: Decantus on May 19, 2014, 01:11:10 PM
Check in starts at 6:30pm both days, we will start letting people in to buy at 7:30pm.  If you have not registered or have not made "late check in" arrangements with me via email, your spot will be refunded and given to the next applicant on the wait list.

The 10:30 time was only if we were in South Hall.  Since we didn't have to be in there, we can stay open the full time.  The advertized time is Midnight to start clean up, but we usually allow you to run late if it's still busy.

Further instructions for People with spots and Waitlisted people will be sent out today or tomorrow.  I know it's really close to the con, but we're working as fast as we can.

If anyone is still stuck at Step 5 right now, it's because we're still awaiting some form of verification before approval is done.

For spot selection, it's completely random.  There is no priority or At-Con selection.

This answers my question about being late to check in. Thanks! I'm picking up my badge at CA and they don't start until 5pm. I will email about being a bit late if I do.
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: metapod100 on May 20, 2014, 08:45:45 AM
If anyone is willing to share their space and split the cost on either day, send me an email.
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: srossi455 on May 20, 2014, 09:11:26 AM
8:30 huh? Sounds like I'll be standing in line for awhile hoping to grab a spot. Will potential sellers on the wait list still be allowed to get their badges early?
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: dooditzmike on May 20, 2014, 09:20:24 AM
If anyone does have a spot at the swap meet and is willing to share with me. Let me know! I'll pay for the entire spot (Friday) so you don't have to worry about it :D
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: Decantus on May 20, 2014, 01:03:04 PM
Quote from: sklathill on May 20, 2014, 01:10:20 AM
So for this swapmeet space, my girlfriend is listed as the primary contact/seller and I'm the secondary seller.

I'm planning on being there at least by 6:30 for the swap meet setup, but she might not be there until after 8 PM thanks to another Fanime event she's taking part in.

Is that going to be a problem?

As long as you were signed up as the second during the reg process, it's fine.  Make sure that she brings the required documents.
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: bsan89 on May 20, 2014, 06:16:17 PM
Quote from: Decantus on May 19, 2014, 01:11:10 PM
Check in starts at 6:30pm both days, we will start letting people in to buy at 7:30pm.  If you have not registered or have not made "late check in" arrangements with me via email, your spot will be refunded and given to the next applicant on the wait list.

The 10:30 time was only if we were in South Hall.  Since we didn't have to be in there, we can stay open the full time.  The advertized time is Midnight to start clean up, but we usually allow you to run late if it's still busy.

Further instructions for People with spots and Waitlisted people will be sent out today or tomorrow.  I know it's really close to the con, but we're working as fast as we can.

If anyone is still stuck at Step 5 right now, it's because we're still awaiting some form of verification before approval is done.

For spot selection, it's completely random.  There is no priority or At-Con selection.

Had wait-listed email been send out?
I don't think I'm too far in the line.
Not sure if I should wait or look for someone
who's willing to share their space. 
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: srossi455 on May 20, 2014, 06:33:10 PM
Quote from: bsan89 on May 20, 2014, 06:16:17 PM
Quote from: Decantus on May 19, 2014, 01:11:10 PM
Check in starts at 6:30pm both days, we will start letting people in to buy at 7:30pm.  If you have not registered or have not made "late check in" arrangements with me via email, your spot will be refunded and given to the next applicant on the wait list.

The 10:30 time was only if we were in South Hall.  Since we didn't have to be in there, we can stay open the full time.  The advertized time is Midnight to start clean up, but we usually allow you to run late if it's still busy.

Further instructions for People with spots and Waitlisted people will be sent out today or tomorrow.  I know it's really close to the con, but we're working as fast as we can.

If anyone is still stuck at Step 5 right now, it's because we're still awaiting some form of verification before approval is done.

For spot selection, it's completely random.  There is no priority or At-Con selection.

Had wait-listed email been send out?
I don't think I'm too far in the line.
Not sure if I should wait or look for someone
who's willing to share their space.

I don't think there is a "too far" up on the wait list. I was told that having a swap meet account meant you're on the wait list. I can say that I'm getting a bit nervous being this close to Fanime without proper wait list instruction, but I'm keeping faith in the swap meet department. Plus I have so much inventory that it might be difficult to share a space.
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: Decantus on May 21, 2014, 10:01:56 AM
I'll post the wait list instructions in here for everyone since it looks like most people on the Official Waitlist will be able to get in.  What this means is that if you've created an account, but received the "Spaces not Available" status, you will be Wait list-Wait listed, if that makes sense.  Official Wait listed people will have priority, but you can still possibly make it in.

QuoteHere is some information for you.

1. Wait list will be admitted starting at 8:30pm ending at 9pm.  Show up at 8pm to check in, letting us know that you are here and still want a spot.

2. If you intend to sell, please bring a copy of the Swap Meet Seller's Agreement and your BOE-410-D, links below.

http://www.fanime.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/11/Fanime-Swap-Meet-Application-Form-2014.pdf

http://www.boe.ca.gov/pdf/boe410d.pdf

-I will not have any forms printed up, if you ask me, I will direct you to the FedEx Office down the street and you will have until 9pm before all registration ends.

3. We will not have a place for your stuff, leave it in your car until you know you've secured a spot.

4. If you are fortunate enough to get a spot, please observe the following.  No Handcarts, dollies, pushcarts, wagons, wheelbarrows, two-wheelers, or other cargo assistants apparatuses are to be used to ferry your goods to Swap Meet.
-Rolling luggage is allowed.
-If you do not adhere to this rule, you will be turned away at the door and if you do not return before 8:30 your spot will be treated as a no show.
-My staff will not be helping you carry your stuff, we have many people participating and my staff is limited.
-If you try to re-negotiate this rule with me at con, I will consider you as forfeiting your spot, do not test me on this rule.

5. Please bring exact change for you spot if possible.  Spots are $30.

That covers the more important stuff,  If you have any other questions, please feel free to email me or ask in the forums.

I do expect to get most into a space, but even if you're not able to get a spot, stop by and check it out!  Never know what you're going to find.
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: srossi455 on May 21, 2014, 11:48:13 AM
Quote from: Decantus on May 21, 2014, 10:01:56 AM
I'll post the wait list instructions in here for everyone since it looks like most people on the Official Waitlist will be able to get in.  What this means is that if you've created an account, but received the "Spaces not Available" status, you will be Wait list-Wait listed, if that makes sense.  Official Wait listed people will have priority, but you can still possibly make it in.

Wait, there's a two tier waitlist? So this means if I show up early enough to get a number in line, I can still be passed up and turned away? This seems contrary to the word I received about automatically being placed on the waitlist upon creating an account. Also, I still have not been told if waitlisted (or waitlisted-waitlisted) people will be able to use the priority registration line to obtain their badges.
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: metapod100 on May 21, 2014, 11:56:05 AM
If I am selling new items and this is the only time I am selling, will I need a Temporary Seller's Permit?
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: bsan89 on May 21, 2014, 01:01:11 PM
Quote from: Decantus on May 21, 2014, 10:01:56 AM
I'll post the wait list instructions in here for everyone since it looks like most people on the Official Waitlist will be able to get in.  What this means is that if you've created an account, but received the "Spaces not Available" status, you will be Wait list-Wait listed, if that makes sense.  Official Wait listed people will have priority, but you can still possibly make it in.

QuoteHere is some information for you.

1. Wait list will be admitted starting at 8:30pm ending at 9pm.  Show up at 8pm to check in, letting us know that you are here and still want a spot.

2. If you intend to sell, please bring a copy of the Swap Meet Seller's Agreement and your BOE-410-D, links below.

http://www.fanime.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/11/Fanime-Swap-Meet-Application-Form-2014.pdf

http://www.boe.ca.gov/pdf/boe410d.pdf

-I will not have any forms printed up, if you ask me, I will direct you to the FedEx Office down the street and you will have until 9pm before all registration ends.

3. We will not have a place for your stuff, leave it in your car until you know you've secured a spot.

4. If you are fortunate enough to get a spot, please observe the following.  No Handcarts, dollies, pushcarts, wagons, wheelbarrows, two-wheelers, or other cargo assistants apparatuses are to be used to ferry your goods to Swap Meet.
-Rolling luggage is allowed.
-If you do not adhere to this rule, you will be turned away at the door and if you do not return before 8:30 your spot will be treated as a no show.
-My staff will not be helping you carry your stuff, we have many people participating and my staff is limited.
-If you try to re-negotiate this rule with me at con, I will consider you as forfeiting your spot, do not test me on this rule.

5. Please bring exact change for you spot if possible.  Spots are $30.

That covers the more important stuff,  If you have any other questions, please feel free to email me or ask in the forums.

I do expect to get most into a space, but even if you're not able to get a spot, stop by and check it out!  Never know what you're going to find.

I have a few question since I'm taking my chance for Friday Swap meet wait-list.

1.) What is the "Official Wait-list" Mine said, "

Waitlisted

Unfortunately, it appears that our main count is full for this day.
You have been placed on the waitlist. If spaces open up within this week, we will notify you."

2.) Does it matter what my application #? I'm # 811.
I get the feeling I will be wait an hour in line just to be turn away... :(
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: srossi455 on May 21, 2014, 04:30:49 PM
Quote from: bsan89 on May 21, 2014, 01:01:11 PM
I have a few question since I'm taking my chance for Friday Swap meet wait-list.

1.) What is the "Official Wait-list" Mine said, "

Waitlisted

Unfortunately, it appears that our main count is full for this day.
You have been placed on the waitlist. If spaces open up within this week, we will notify you."

2.) Does it matter what my application #? I'm # 811.
I get the feeling I will be wait an hour in line just to be turn away... :(

It sounds like you're on the official wait list. Judging by the earlier comment Decantus made it sounds like you have a good chance to get in. When I made an account it just said "Space unavailable", so my chance seems fair at best, but that won't stop me from trying. If I can't get in, this Fanime trip is ruined.
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: Zelyhon on May 21, 2014, 06:32:39 PM
Quote from: srossi455 on May 21, 2014, 04:30:49 PM
Quote from: bsan89 on May 21, 2014, 01:01:11 PM
I have a few question since I'm taking my chance for Friday Swap meet wait-list.

1.) What is the "Official Wait-list" Mine said, "

Waitlisted

Unfortunately, it appears that our main count is full for this day.
You have been placed on the waitlist. If spaces open up within this week, we will notify you."

2.) Does it matter what my application #? I'm # 811.
I get the feeling I will be wait an hour in line just to be turn away... :(

It sounds like you're on the official wait list. Judging by the earlier comment Decantus made it sounds like you have a good chance to get in. When I made an account it just said "Space unavailable", so my chance seems fair at best, but that won't stop me from trying. If I can't get in, this Fanime trip is ruined.

I'm not sure where you heard that the "spaces unavailable" was the waitlist, but it appears that was in error.  Essentially, there are four groups of people:
Registered:  These are the people who got spaces.  They are guaranteed to get their spot, assuming they show up and their paperwork is all in order
Wait List:  These are the people who tried to sign up after all the spots were registered and accounted for.  Once we find how many vacant spots there are, they will fill the spots first.
"Spaces Not Available":  These are the people who tried to sign up after all the spots were registered and the spots on the waitlist capped (which wasn't an absurdly high number of people).  After the Wait List people get their spots, if there are any empty spaces left, those who received the "Spaces Not Available" message might be able to get a spot.  As Decantus said above, there is still some hope they might be able to get spaces.
Didn't register, shows up at the door:  These are the people who didn't realize or didn't bother to sign up online.  They will not be receiving spots.  Sorry.


Based on how things in the registration process are shaking down, it looks like many/most/all of those on the formal waitlist for each day will get a spot (But no promises).  After those people get their spots, it will be open to those who tried to sign up after all spaces for the swap meet and the wait list were filled.  Those will be on a first-come, first-serve basis.  However, we will not be able to check you in and give you a number until 8:00, after those who got spots have signed in and been lead to their spots and we've taken care of letting in the public.  After that, we will be able to start processing the waitlist and the Spaces Not Available waitlist before declaring the number of open spots at 8:30 and letting people in to set up.

There is one thing to be aware of.  Those who are on the Spaces Not Available waitlist DO NOT have priority registration.  Registration does not have that list and is not pulling the badges for the priority registration.  Those who are registered for Swap Meet and those who received notice that they were on the waitlist DO have priority registration and should have received instructions on the process.  If you are a seller, regardless of which list you are on, you MUST have your valid Fanime badge, your seller's agreement, your temporary seller's permit, and a valid ID to sign up.  Thus, if you do not have priority registration, be sure to get in line early to pick up your Fanime badge before Swap Meet on whichever day you are trying to get in.

If you have questions relating to which list you are on, please private message me and I will try to let you know.  I'll be checking the forums right up until I head over for set-up tomorrow.
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: srossi455 on May 21, 2014, 06:53:10 PM
Quote from: Zelyhon on May 21, 2014, 06:32:39 PM

I'm not sure where you heard that the "spaces unavailable" was the waitlist, but it appears that was in error.  Essentially, there are four groups of people:

I was told this directly in an email from Patrick when I emailed the department after creating an account. It must have been a mistake or a misunderstanding of the process.
Title: SELLERS PERMIT - LOCATION
Post by: Hachimitsu on May 22, 2014, 11:58:37 AM
City National Civic
135 W San Carlos St
San Jose, CA 95113


so is this right? is this the location?

I like how the main page does not provide information, the main forum says "Location is unknown at this time", and one of the users continue to Ask the same question "what do I add for the location of my sellers permit"
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: keitoghostie on May 25, 2014, 09:00:33 AM
I just want to say thank you to all swapmeet staff and volunteers! I had a wonderful time selling on Friday and really appreciate all you did to make things work!
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: PLUMPKIN on May 26, 2014, 11:33:23 PM
I just wanted to thank and commend the Swap Meet Staff for an excellent job this year!  I know that you guys had a lot of hurdles and barriers, but despite everything you all remained patient, courteous, and poised.

I was lucky enough to snag a Friday night spot.  When I reached the registration desk, I was greeted by very friendly staff members.  The entire process was streamlined and efficient, and I was at my spot within 5 minutes of check-in.  While there was that fire alarm scare, staff members resolved the situation quickly and to everyone's satisfaction.  During the actual event, the swap meet head went around to check in with and socialize with everyone, which was a really nice touch.  Overall, I had a great time at swap meet and actually made some decent money!  If I happen to gather enough stuff, I'm hoping to sell again next year!

Thank you again to the Swap Meet Staff!  Well done!
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: FanFicGuru on May 27, 2014, 09:14:22 AM
As a member of swap meet staff - thank you for your kind words! I know Decantus has been working really hard on being as transparent as possible and making the overall experience the best for everyone involved.

Regarding the line - Unfortunately there are much higher powers (AKA - the fire marshal) that dictated how many people could be in the civic center at any given time. As the staff member who was helping to decide how many people to let in at any given time, let me tell you I was trying to be as lenient as I could without endangering people. With that being said, we did our best to make sure people weren't lounging around inside the civic center too much in order to free up valuable space and get more people in there as soon as possible. All of your patience was appreciated, and I think the attendees really help make the swap meet one of the most popular events at fanime.

Regarding space assignment - I know we got some feedback from people regarding the random assignments and the fact that we didn't honor any of the requests that came through. With spaces getting filled in about 10 minutes, and in order to ensure fairness to everyone involved, we utilized a random number generator to assign sellers their spots. We also did this to help dissuade people from forming "super-spots" that start looking more like a dealers booth, which has definitely happened in previous years.

For the most part, I'd say 90% of sellers came with all of their proper paperwork and weren't in violation of any rules that Decantus set out in the numerous emails he sent to sellers. I understand it can be frustrating when a policy that has seemingly been "overlooked" in previous years is enforced suddenly and strictly (see: not using hand-trucks/dollys), but again, these rules often come from the venue and violation of them could jeopardize our ability to continue using said venue for future events. Of course, once we start enforcing these policies consistency is key in order to avoid any semblance of favoritism, as well as preserving fairness for all involved.

I would hope that with the huge demand for this event and the seemingly obvious mis-match between the size of venue and the size of the audience, we will see a venue change next year that may be able to accommodate more sellers and more buyers...but ultimately that will depend on our available facilities.

I'm sure Decantus will have a few things to say, but on behalf of staff I wanted to thank all of those who came out to sell, and the patient buyers who braved the son of linecon to browse their wares!

See you next year!
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: InsaneDavid on May 27, 2014, 09:39:20 AM
Quote from: FanFicGuru on May 27, 2014, 09:14:22 AM
I would hope that with the huge demand for this event and the seemingly obvious mis-match between the size of venue and the size of the audience, we will see a venue change next year that may be able to accommodate more sellers and more buyers...but ultimately that will depend on our available facilities.

I'm sure Decantus will have a few things to say, but on behalf of staff I wanted to thank all of those who came out to sell, and the patient buyers who braved the son of linecon to browse their wares!

Swapmeet staff and rovers did a great job of keeping the line moving and organized.  I didn't mind the line so much as lining up outside at night and getting swarmed by insects and the downtown San Jose transients.  With all the new facility space it kind of left me scratching my head as why swap was given a raw deal and we were all standing outside but I understand that you had no control over that and did the best that you could - which in all honesty was excellent.

I think South Hall would be a perfect fit for swap meet however I am aware there's a noise ordinance in that area of the convention center.  Maybe it's time for swap to take place earlier?  Maybe all day Friday with two six hour rotational seller sets or something like that?  I don't know but when the only real complaint is there's not enough space, that's about the best complaint you can have.  Great job!
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: FanFicGuru on May 27, 2014, 12:07:02 PM
Quote from: InsaneDavid on May 27, 2014, 09:39:20 AM
Quote from: FanFicGuru on May 27, 2014, 09:14:22 AM
I would hope that with the huge demand for this event and the seemingly obvious mis-match between the size of venue and the size of the audience, we will see a venue change next year that may be able to accommodate more sellers and more buyers...but ultimately that will depend on our available facilities.

I'm sure Decantus will have a few things to say, but on behalf of staff I wanted to thank all of those who came out to sell, and the patient buyers who braved the son of linecon to browse their wares!

Swapmeet staff and rovers did a great job of keeping the line moving and organized.  I didn't mind the line so much as lining up outside at night and getting swarmed by insects and the downtown San Jose transients.  With all the new facility space it kind of left me scratching my head as why swap was given a raw deal and we were all standing outside but I understand that you had no control over that and did the best that you could - which in all honesty was excellent.

I think South Hall would be a perfect fit for swap meet however I am aware there's a noise ordinance in that area of the convention center.  Maybe it's time for swap to take place earlier?  Maybe all day Friday with two six hour rotational seller sets or something like that?  I don't know but when the only real complaint is there's not enough space, that's about the best complaint you can have.  Great job!

The problem with holding swap meet any earlier is conflict with Dealers hall hours. I don't know the specifics, but my general understanding is that if dealers Hall is open, swap meet can't be. Thus, it takes place on. Day 0 (dealers hall still closed) and starting at 7:30 PM Friday (once dealers hall is closed).

A Saturday night block might work, we will see where next year takes us!
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: Anon on May 27, 2014, 01:49:04 PM
QuoteThe problem with holding swap meet any earlier is conflict with Dealers hall hours. I don't know the specifics, but my general understanding is that if dealers Hall is open, swap meet can't be. Thus, it takes place on. Day 0 (dealers hall still closed) and starting at 7:30 PM Friday (once dealers hall is closed).

Haha, my assumption as to why the swap meets were held so late was right! My friends had been asking me every year as to why we were setting up and selling so late into the night, and it was honestly the first reason I could think of. In a way it works out fine IMO, because it allows us that sell on Friday night to go to the dealers hall and price match what we could potentially sell things for.

QuoteFor the most part, I'd say 90% of sellers came with all of their proper paperwork and weren't in violation of any rules that Decantus set out in the numerous emails he sent to sellers. I understand it can be frustrating when a policy that has seemingly been "overlooked" in previous years is enforced suddenly and strictly (see: not using hand-trucks/dollys), but again, these rules often come from the venue and violation of them could jeopardize our ability to continue using said venue for future events. Of course, once we start enforcing these policies consistency is key in order to avoid any semblance of favoritism, as well as preserving fairness for all involved.

I think this begs the question, was swap meet kicked out of the convention center and the previous venues because of the hand truck/dolly violations? My friend said it best, if there's one thing that's been consistent over the past 4 years, its the swap meet location always changing, sometimes for the better, sometimes for the worse.



I figured the long delay in letting people in to the swap meet hall was for fire hazard/max occupancy regulations. From a seller's standpoint that made it both good and bad, as it meant keeping prices we had set in place for the duration of the meet, because at around 10pm-11pm in the previous years, we were starting to look at lowering prices to make sales for those who were still debating buying something. This time around we knew we still had a line full of people waiting to just get in, so marking stuff down prematurely would have turned into a loss. Like I said though, its both good and bad, 'cause then you don't get those people who were having those debates with themselves to come back in a few hours to make that purchase and possibly look to see if a markdown had occurred.

Overall though I also would like to say thanks and good job to the staff. I know I'm usually one to decry and yell foul here on the forum for the swap meets on a yearly basis, but I felt you guys did a bang-on job for what you had to work with. I can only hope for next year that we get moved back to the convention center, if the event hasn't been banned from there totally.

As for the future, I don't know if adding a Saturday block would be beneficial. Having it on Thursday means the swap meet sellers get first crack at people's wallets, and Friday is the last we see of people's full wallets. Saturday there's too many other events occurring, people's funds have already been significantly depleted from 2 full days of dealers hall purchases, and I personally am already exhausted after staying up to 2am-3am for two nights in a row. (What can I say, I'm a lightweight when it comes to convention party schedules all the young'uns can pull)

Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: PacificPikachu on May 27, 2014, 11:09:29 PM
I agree that the Swap Meet generally went very well this year! I think a different venue would be better for next year, and I heard some annoyance at the long lines for the buyers (though I know you couldn't do much about that), but working with what you guys were given, as a seller I was quite pleased! Thanks to the staff for working hard to make sure everything went as smoothly as possible! My Japan savings are much closer to my goal now as a result of this successful Swap Meet. :)
Title: Re: Official Swapmeet FAQ (Fans Ask Questions)
Post by: KyraEnsui on May 28, 2014, 07:33:41 AM
Beside the long lines to get into the swap meet for buyers; as a seller, checking in and items examination went very smooth! You guys were great with the process.

Hopefully, we can get a different venue to hold swap meet. Sitting on a hard floor was rough.