When you receive your item in the mail, inspect it right away to make sure it matches the description in the seller's listing. Next, leave the seller Feedback about your experience buying this item and your satisfaction with the purchase.

If something is unsatisfactory, please consider contacting the seller before leaving Feedback. Most times it is simply a misunderstanding that the seller will be happy to correct.

If the item is different from what was described in the listing, you may be eligible for eBay's buyer protection programs.

Waiting for your item

• The amount of time that it takes for an item to arrive often depends on the shipping method. Some sellers may offer you a choice of shipping methods. Expedited shipping can be useful if you need the item right away, but if you don't need the item immediately, you may choose a less expensive shipping service.

• You can review the cost and estimated delivery times for each shipping option offered in the "Shipping and handling" section on the item page or in the "Order details" section when you purchase the item using the Pay Now button.

• When a seller ships your item to you, the seller might let you know how long you should expect to wait. Some sellers may also include tracking information in their email to you. You can use this tracking information to track items sent by USPS and to track items sent by UPS.

• You may also be able to track your item from My eBay if the seller prints the shipping label using PayPal.

It may also take additional time if you paid for the item with certain payment methods. Sellers may wait to receive your payment, for the payment to clear, or both before they ship your item.

If your item is taking longer to reach you than you’d expected, you can contact your seller and ask about the shipment. The seller's email address is on the email you received after the listing ended and is also available by clicking the seller's User ID on the item page.

You can also request full contact information for any eBay member with which you are involved in a transaction.

If you don’t receive your item a significant amount of time after the seller said it would arrive (at least 10 days), you may be eligible for eBay's buyer protection programs.

Learn more about steps to take to avoid fraud and how to file a complaint.