On suchen.expert, you can either use a search term to search for various matching adverts or use a full advert ID to open a specific advert directly. Which method is appropriate depends on whether you want to discover offers or already know a specific advert.
Discovering matching adverts using a search term
Enter a common and, as far as possible, unambiguous term in the search field. Results are displayed once you have entered at least three letters. Prefer full words to uncommon abbreviations because the results depend on which terms appear in the adverts.
A search term is suitable if you want to see and compare several offers. ‘Bicycle’ gives you a broader selection that may also include adverts on related topics. ‘20-inch children’s bicycle’ narrows the search more precisely, provided that these characteristics are mentioned in the adverts.
If you receive too many results, add an important characteristic or select an appropriate category. If you receive too few results, remove individual qualifiers, check the spelling or try a more general term. You can find further examples under Using search terms effectively – get better results on Suchen Expert.
Consider the search scope before entering your query
Where you start the search determines its scope. On the home page, the search is global and can take account of content from various types and categories. On a search or results page, the search is carried out only within the type currently open.
This applies both to search terms and to advert IDs. For example, if you are in the ‘Lost’ type, the search there cannot display an advert from ‘Marketplace’. Removing a category broadens the results only within the open type and does not make the search global.
The article Global search vs. results search – the difference explained simply provides a detailed comparison.
Searching directly with an advert ID
Every advert has a unique ID number. If you know this ID, enter it in full in the search field. Unlike a general search term, the ID is used to identify the exact corresponding advert.
If you do not know the advert’s type, it is best to use the global search on the home page. If you know which type the advert belongs to, you can also open that type first and enter the ID there.
An ID search returns a result only if the number is complete and correct, the search scope matches the advert, and the advert is still active and publicly available. Adverts that have been deleted or deactivated, or are no longer publicly visible, cannot be found or opened through the search.
If the ID returns no result
Work through the following points in order:
- Compare the ID you entered with the number you received, character by character.
- Remove any spaces or additional characters that you may have copied accidentally.
- Start the search on the home page if you are not sure which type the advert belongs to.
- Open the appropriate type if you are searching on a search page and know the type.
- Bear in mind that an advert that has since been removed or is no longer public can no longer be reached through the search.
For further details, see Find a specific listing – Search by ID on Suchen Expert.
Choosing the appropriate search method
Use a search term if you do not yet know a specific advert, want to compare several offers or want an overview. Use the full advert ID if you want to find a specific advert again that you have already seen or that another person has mentioned.
If you know only part of an ID, use appropriate search terms instead. An incomplete ID does not uniquely identify the advert you want.
