Unlike auctions, where the selling price is based on bidding, the seller fixes the price for items at the time an item is listed. Shoppers can easily search for specific books, CDs, movies and video games or browse for items that are categorized and surrounded with product descriptions, reviews and artwork. Just like any online retail store, shoppers fill their shopping cart and check out with a credit card. When a buyer selects an item for purchase, sellers are sent an email notifying them to ship the item. Once the seller confirms that the item is being shipped, the buyer's credit card is charged.
Sellers also receive an allowance for shipping costs.