Abstract: The present invention involves a sales system for selling a selected inventory of commercial carpets over the Internet. Such an inventory may include carpets that are over-runs, off-color, discontinued styles, or have minor manufacturing defects. It should also be pointed out that while some of these carpets may be classified as “seconds,” a large quantity of carpets, such as those from discontinued styles and close-outs, are first quality merchandise. The sales system simultaneously addresses the needs of carpet customers such as small business customers seeking a larger selection of commercial carpets at lower prices; carpet dealers seeking easier means to acquire and sell commercial carpets with acceptable profit margins through their retail outlets; and carpet manufacturers seeking to dispose of certain types of carpets thereby increasing their revenue stream.

Abstract: A carpet sample system that provides a specification card useable alone, or in conjunction with a carpet sample, and a handle that can be used with a single carpet type or a large bundle. For knowledgeable customers, the specification card alone will provide a swatch of carpet and technical data, the cards being storable on a shelf. To display one type of carpet, a folded member will hold the card and carpet sample between the loose edges; and, a handle is provided at the opposite edge. To display several types of carpet, the folded member provides the same handle, while specification cards and carpet samples are held on each side of the handle. An index card can be provided, with a swatch of each type of carpet and appropriate legends. A backing sheet and compression block can make the large package more attractive.