2 minutes article

Terms of sale policy

All terms of sale must follow eBay policies for buying and selling.

Setting and meeting expectations in a listing's terms of sale ensures a smooth transaction and buyer satisfaction, while helping eBay remain a reputable marketplace.

What is the policy?

Sellers should provide clear and accurate terms and conditions, and are required to meet the expectations they have set in their listings. These should include:

  • Shipping services, costs, and handling time. A shipping service that ensures safe and timely delivery, including when offering free shipping, should be used.
    Note: Transactions with a total order cost (total of item(s), shipping and tax) of $750 or more are required to have signature confirmation to be protected if the buyer reports they didn't receive the item. Learn more about signature confirmation requirements.
  • The forms of payment accepted and that can be selected in eBay checkout
  • A returns policy:
    • Clearly stated criteria under which a return will be accepted
    • Clearly stated time period in which the buyer must notify the seller about a return
    • Who will pay return shipping
    • How refunds will be issued
  • Clearly stated taxes or applicable government-imposed fees
  • Compliance with the Presale listings policy, where applicable
  • Having items in an inventory or having an existing agreement with a third party to fulfill the delivery of the item under the terms of the listing
  • When using a pricing promotion, following the rules in the Pricing and Promotions Terms and Conditions - opens in new window or tab

Activity on eBay is required to follow this policy, the eBay User Agreement and all applicable laws, as well as respect the rights of third parties. If it doesn’t, eBay may take action consistent with applicable laws and the eBay User Agreement, and may even be legally required to do so. Such actions may include, as an example only: Removing the listing or other content, issuing a warning, restricting activity or account suspension.

 

Why does eBay have this policy?

Buyers and sellers are entering a contract when they complete transactions, so it's necessary to have clear details on what the transaction entails in order to guarantee satisfaction. This policy also helps sellers meet our performance standards.

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