Starting with a new tool can feel intimidating, especially if you have never used a spreadsheet before. But here is the truth: a superbuy spreadsheet is just a table with rows and columns. If you can fill out a form, you can use this tool.
This guide breaks down every single step into small, easy pieces. By the end, you will have your first superbuy spreadsheet up and running, with real items inside it. No skipped steps. No confusing jargon. Just follow along.
Step 1: Choose Your Platform
The first decision is where your spreadsheet will live. We recommend Google Sheets because it is free, works on every device, and automatically saves your work. Microsoft Excel is also fine if you already have it.
If you choose Google Sheets, create a free Google account at google.com. Once you are logged in, go to sheets.google.com and create a blank spreadsheet. This will be your home base for tracking purchases.
For beginners, Google Sheets is the better choice because you can access it from your phone, tablet, and computer without installing anything.
Step 2: Set Up Your Columns
In the first row of your spreadsheet, type these column headers: Item, Link, Seller, Price, Shipping, Total, Date, Status, Notes. These nine columns will handle everything you need.
If you want to skip this setup, grab our free beginner template which already has these headers and some sample data. You can simply delete the sample rows and add your own items.
The Total column is where you add the Price and Shipping together. This gives you the true cost of each item, which is what you actually pay.
| Column | What to Put | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Item | Product name | Nike Air Force 1 |
| Link | Product URL | oocbuy.com/... |
| Seller | Store name | SneakerWorld |
| Price | Item cost | $85.00 |
| Shipping | Delivery cost | $12.00 |
| Total | Price + Shipping | $97.00 |
| Date | Order placed | 2026-06-01 |
| Status | Progress | Ordered |
| Notes | Extra info | Size 10, white |
Step 3: Add Your First Item
Now comes the fun part. Find an item you want to buy. Copy the product name and paste it into the Item column. Copy the product link and paste it into the Link column. Find the seller name and add it to the Seller column.
Next, add the item price and shipping cost. Many beginners skip the shipping column, which is a mistake. Shipping can range from $5 to $50, so it completely changes the total cost.
Add the order date in the Date column. For Status, type Researching if you are still comparing, or Ordered if you have already bought it. In the Notes column, add anything you want to remember, like size or color.
Step 4: Compare Multiple Sellers
This is where your superbuy spreadsheet becomes powerful. Find the same item from two or three different sellers. Add each seller as a separate row in your spreadsheet.
Look at the Total column. One seller might charge $85 plus $15 shipping. Another might charge $95 plus $5 shipping. Both total $100, but the second seller has a lower item price, which might be better for refunds or returns.
Also check the seller ratings. A seller with a 98% rating and 5,000 sales is usually safer than a seller with 92% and 50 sales. Record this in your Notes column.
Step 5: Update and Maintain
After you place an order, change the Status from Researching to Ordered. When the seller ships the item, change it to Shipped. When it arrives, change it to Delivered.
This tracking habit takes 10 seconds per update but saves you hours of confusion later. You will always know exactly what you have bought, what is on the way, and what has arrived.
Once a month, review your spreadsheet. Look for spending patterns. Are you buying more than you planned? Are certain sellers consistently cheaper? This monthly review turns your spreadsheet into a shopping intelligence tool.
Ready to Start Your First Spreadsheet?
Download our free templates and start organizing your shopping today.
Related Resources
- What Is a Superbuy Spreadsheet?— Understand the basics before you start
- Free Templates— Download pre-made templates to skip the setup
- Safety Tips— Protect yourself while shopping online