A clear return policy can reassure buyers

If you have a clear return policy, chances are that you're more successful than other sellers on eBay. eBay’s research shows that difficulty in returning items is the most common shopping barrier for buyers. As a result, sellers who clearly spell out return policies in their listings have an edge on the competition. Typically they sell a higher percentage of their items.

eBay’s research also shows that only a very small percentage of sold items are actually returned.

Return policy options to consider:

• Refund (for example, returns accepted for full money back or store credit)

• 100% Satisfaction Guaranteed (for example, returns accepted, no questions asked)

• Time Limit (for example, returns accepted within 30 days after the item is delivered)

Mention the details up front

Consider including details like the following to make your return policy clear and complete:

• Restocking fee: Mention if you will charge a restocking fee, and if so, what it would be.

• Shipping and handling charges: Clearly state who would pay for return shipping and handling, you or the buyer and if you will refund the original shipping charges.

• Item condition: Clearly state the condition of the returned item that would be acceptable to you, for example, "unopened box" or "opened box with all original materials."

How to specify your return policy

In the Additional Information section of the Sell Your Item form, take the following steps:

Contact your trading partner with concerns

eBay encourages buyers and sellers to try and work out any conflict that may arise when dealing with returns. Please visit the Communicating with Your Trading Partner page for more information.