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DO ask the other person what pin they want to trade for.

Chip and Dale pins

Image: Martin Lewison, Flickr (license)

The reason that it’s so easy to trade with cast members is that they technically can’t refuse to trade with you (each guest is permitted to trade two pins with each cast member per day). You get to decide which of their pins you want to take and which of your pins to give them in return, meaning that the trade almost always lands in your favor.

That’s not at all the case with guest pin trading. You can tell the other pin trader which pin(s) you’re interested in trading for, but you must then allow them the opportunity to do the same with your pins. If both parties are satisfied with their selection, then you can make the trade. If you’re trading with or for children, make sure they engage in the same polite etiquette—most traders are happy to make deals with kids as well as adults, but demanding that someone trade you a particular pin or refusing to allow them to make their own selection isn’t going to earn you any friends.

DO be prepared to haggle.

Pin trading in Frontierland

Image: Loren Javier, Flickr (license)

Don’t be put off if you can’t come to an agreement right away. It often takes some time and flexibility to work out a swap that makes everyone happy. This is a great opportunity to put your newfound pin knowledge to the test—and, should you feel uncertain about the value of your pin or unsure about how to barter for the one you want, ask your trade partner how they like to conduct trades (by dollar value, edition size/rarity, etc.). The best trades are reached through compromise and consideration.

DO remember to be respectful.

Disney pin trading... with Tigger

Image: Loren Javier, Flickr (license)

No one is obligated to make a trade with you—and vice versa! While this may seem like a no-brainer, there have been countless reports of pin traders stampeding to the nearest pin shop on release days, cheating each other out of valuable pins, even stealing pin bags and lanyards in the parks. Trading pins can be a fun hobby, but it’s just that: a hobby. If you’re just not feeling a trade, a kind “No, thank you” or “Thanks for your time” goes a long way, especially if you plan to continue interacting with pin traders in the future.

DON'T feel pressured to make a trade you don't feel good about.

Laod Bhang's Pin Traders cart in Disney California Adventure

Image: Loren Javier, Flickr (license)

It’s just a fact: Not every trade experience is going to be the best trade experience. Maybe the other pin trader is acting standoffish or making rude comments. Maybe you’ve been trying to work out a deal for 20 minutes and just can’t find that middle ground. Maybe you promised your daughter you’d go on a Lotso Strawberry Churro run and don’t have time to work out a fair deal. Maybe you just have an uneasy feeling in your gut. Whatever the case, it’s better to step away rather than let a bad trade spoil your day at the parks. Be courteous and kind, of course, but trust your instincts and know when it’s time to walk away.

DO remember to have fun!

Disney pin lanyard

Image: Ashley Varela

Pin trading, as with many other hobbies, can veer into competitive and cutthroat territory (particularly during highly-anticipated pin releases). Don’t be the person who gets so sucked into the rush of trading and bartering that you forget to have fun—or, worse, spoil the fun of other guests!

What other practices have you found useful while pin trading at the parks? Sound off in the comments below!

 
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