Overview of eBay rules and policies
When you sell on eBay, keep in mind that it’s a global platform connecting hundreds of millions of users. Without a comprehensive set of rules such a large system would quickly turn chaotic. Read and observe eBay policies to sell legally and keep the marketplace a safe place for everyone.
Shipping performance policy — Item Not Received rate
While growing your eBay business, keep in mind that the Item Not Received rate is critical for your success on the platform. Do your best to ensure that your packages are delivered within the estimated time. Learn how your shipping performance is evaluated and what best practices you should follow.
Service standard policy — bad buyer experience rate
eBay encourages all sellers provide stellar service to their customers. Buyer experience is regularly evaluated, and those who fail to maintain it on a decent level get higher BBE rate. Learn how to avoid mismatched expectations and keep your buyers happy.
International selling policy
Given the nature of eBay's global marketplace, your eBay listings may be viewed and purchased by, and shipped to, buyers around the world. Sellers are responsible for complying with all laws and regulations applicable to the international sale, purchase, and shipment of items.
Images, videos and text policy
You may use images, videos or text on eBay as long as your use of that content does not infringe third-party rights and the content follows eBay rules and policies.
Condition of returned items policy
If a buyer returns an item, it should be returned in the same condition in which it was received, and it should include all items that were in the original package.
eBay Verified Rights Owner Program and Intellectual property policy
eBay respects intellectual property rights and doesn’t allow listings that violate them. That’s why it’s best to write your own description and take your own photos instead of borrowing them from other websites. If you use such content without owners’ permission, your listings may be reported and removed from eBay.
Shipping hazardous materials
eBay has quite a large list of hazardous materials: for example, lithium batteries, cleaning supplies, perfumes and auto parts (to name just a few). If you want such items to be delivered without delay and potential penalties, you have to observe the hazmat policy — to label, package and ship them correctly.
Frequently asked questions
Where can I check my performance?
eBay has all your rates and metrics displayed on the Performance Dashboard. The data is updated on the first Wednesday of each evaluation period.
My account has been restricted due to high Item Not Received rate. What should I do?
In this case, the restriction will be automatically removed as soon as your INR rate improves and reaches the market average in the following evaluation cycles. However, you need eligible transactions to improve your performance. If eBay ends all your listings, the restriction is permanent and doesn’t imply any further re-evaluation.
What item categories belong to hazardous materials?
There are 9 hazmat classes according to eBay policy: Gases, Flammable solids, Flammable liquids, Explosives, Toxic, Oxidizing substances, Radioactive, Corrosive, and Miscellaneous. Each of them presents a specific hazard during transportation. Some of these classes are broken down into subclasses with specific attributes and requirements. Learn more
Can I get a penalty if I don’t comply with the hazmat regulations?
Yes. eBay’s policy reflects government rules, and violating them may result in penalties or even imprisonment.
What can I do if my listing has been removed after a VeRO report?
When eBay removes listings that allegedly violate intellectual property rights, it sends you an email that explains the reason and includes the contact info of the rights owner. If you think your listing was reported by mistake, contact the rights owner directly and request them to retract their report. Learn more