Why Has My eBay Listing Not Gone Live Yet?

Introduction

Struggling with why your eBay listing isn't live yet? This could be a common issue for new sellers, as eBay goes to great lengths to ensure buyer safety and prevent fraud. Following this guide will help you navigate the process and avoid delays.

Understanding eBay's Verification Process

When you upload a listing on eBay, it may not appear live immediately. This is because eBay has strict processes in place to verify the listing, especially for new sellers in certain categories. This ensures that only legitimate items are listed and helps protect both buyers and sellers.

For newer sellers, or when listing items in categories that are deemed as high-risk (like electronics or new/unopened items), the verification process can take anywhere from a few hours to a few days. Therefore, it's important to be patient and understand that this is a necessary step.

Payment Hold and Hold Duration

Another important aspect to understand is the payment hold. When you list an item, eBay will hold your payment for a certain period to ensure customer satisfaction. In the USA, or if you track your shipments, this hold typically lasts up to 21 days. For non-USA sellers, the hold can last up to 24 days.

Restrictions for New or Occasional Sellers

As a new or an occasional seller, you may face limitations on the number and value of listings you can create. These restrictions are in place to further protect buyers and prevent fraudulent activities.

If you encounter issues with submitting listings, you can contact the Security Centre via the page footer. However, before diving into selling, it's wise to start by buying items on eBay. This will not only help familiarize you with the platform but also give you valuable insights into buyer behavior and seller practices.

Enhancing Your Seller Profile

To bypass some of these restrictions and improve your listing approval rate, consider enhancing your seller profile. A few easy steps can make a significant difference:

Buy from different regions: Buy from your own country, the USA, and Asia at least once to understand the variation in shopping experience and seller feedback. Check seller feedback: Pay attention to the feedback left by your sellers. Aim for at least 99% positive feedback and check if the seller consistently leaves feedback on shipment. Use quality packaging: Invest in a digital scale and poly envelopes. Proper packaging not only carries your product safely but also gives a good first impression to buyers. Understand shipping costs: Familiarize yourself with the shipping rates and methods offered by the postal service in your country. Bookmark these details for easy reference.

Conclusion

The process of creating and listing items on eBay can be nuanced, especially for new sellers. However, by understanding the verification process and taking proactive steps to enhance your profile, you can streamline the listing process and enjoy a smoother selling experience on the platform.