How to Read a Liquidation Manifest
What each manifest column means, what it does not promise, and how to use it to price a lot.
The standard columns
Most manifests list item description, SKU or UPC, quantity, unit retail (MSRP), extended retail, and sometimes condition. The extended retail total is what produces the lot's estimated retail value.
What a manifest does not tell you
A manifest describes what was scanned into the lot. It does not certify that every unit is present, functional, complete, or sellable. Treat it as an inventory description, not a warranty.
How to use it for pricing
Group the manifest by category and by unit retail band. Identify the small number of SKUs that carry most of the value — most lots are top-heavy. Then ask what those specific items are worth in your channel, in the condition described, after your costs. That number, not the extended retail total, should drive your bid.