To cancel an order – whether it's a Buy It Now transaction or you've won an auction – you'll need to contact the seller and ask them to cancel it for you.

Are you a seller looking to cancel a transaction? Read our article on canceling a transaction

If you need to cancel the order, you'll need to speak to the seller. Here's how:

1. Go to Purchase history and find the order you want to cancel.
2. From the More actions dropdown, select Contact seller.
3. Choose Request to cancel this order, then Contact the seller.
4. Explain to the seller why you need to cancel, and select Send.

Tip
If you need to cancel your order, tell the seller as quickly as possible.

If the seller agrees to cancel the order, they have 10 days to refund you through the same method you used to pay.

If your purchase contained more than one item, the entire transaction will need to be canceled – you can't cancel individual parts of an order.

If the seller has already shipped your order, or if they don't accept your cancellation request, you'll need to wait until you receive the item and then start a return.

You can't cancel a transaction if you've already opened an item not received case, or if the seller has opened an unpaid item case.

If the seller opened an unpaid item case, you can either pay for the item or state your reason for not making payment. However if you don't make payment, you risk having an unpaid item recorded on your account.

The eBay shopping cart lets you save fixed-price items you want to buy while you continue shopping. When you're ready, you can check out and pay for multiple items in one go.

How to add an item to your shopping cart

To add an item to your shopping cart, simply select Add to cart beneath the Buy It Now button on any fixed-price listing.

To view the items you've previously placed in your cart, select the cart icon at the top of the eBay screen. You can then proceed to checkout, or continue shopping. Until you pay, items in your cart can still be bought by other members.

Listings for vehicles, auction-style listings without a Buy It Now option, and Classified Ad listings can't be added to the shopping cart.

How to pay for items in your cart

Generally, you can pay for all of the items in your cart together, even if they're from different sellers. Simply select Proceed to checkout.

If you'd rather pay one seller at a time, select Pay only this seller.

There are a few situations where you'll have to check out separately:

• If the seller hasn't specified shipping costs for your location, select Message to seller on the checkout page to ask them for shipping options
• If the seller hasn't specified rules for combining shipping costs on multiple items, select Request total from seller on the cart page
• If you're buying from different sellers and they don't all accept the same payment method, or you're buying items listed in different currencies, you'll have to make separate payments

Tip
Don't leave an item in your cart for too long. Until you pay, other members can still buy it.

How to remove an item from your cart

If you're no longer interested in an item in your cart, select Remove next to the item. You also have the option to Save for later if you'd still like to keep track of the item.

Saved items can be viewed further down the shopping cart page, and you can easily add them back to your cart by selecting Add back to cart.

Top Takeaway

You'll see Add to cart beneath the Buy It Now button on any fixed-price listing.

eBay Motors makes it easy to search for vehicles and parts by year, make, and model. You can also shop by category, or filter your results so you only see local listings.

Like most product categories on eBay, you can bid on vehicles, parts, and accessories, buy them at a fixed price, or on some listings, make the seller a Best Offer. Most Motors listings come with a free vehicle history report, and most vehicle purchases are covered by the Vehicle Purchase Protection (VPP).

Keep in mind that if you want to bid $25,000 or more, you'll need to provide a valid credit card (your card won't be charged).

Buying a new vehicle on eBay Motors

We've partnered with local dealers to help you find the new vehicle you want at the price you want. If you're shopping for a new vehicle, we can help you search for, research, and customize a brand-new vehicle from local dealers for a low price.

You can:

• Select the make and model you want
• Choose whatever options you'd like
• Secure a low, no-haggle price for the vehicle you want
• Select a local dealer to buy the vehicle from
• Contact the dealer to arrange pickup and payment details

How it works

Follow these steps to find and buy your new vehicle:

You'll see a list of available vehicles with no-haggle prices from local dealers.

You'll see an eBay Motors Price Certificate.

1. From eBay Motors, go to the New section under What are you looking for?
2. Select a make and model, and then enter your ZIP code.
3. Click the Search button.
4. Select the features you'd like, from exterior color to engine size.
5. Select the options you'd like.
6. Select the vehicle you want and enter your contact information. Your contact information is secure and you're under no obligation to purchase the vehicle.
7. Print this certificate and contact your local dealer to arrange pickup and payment details.
8. When you pick up your vehicle, present your price certificate to the dealer.

What you should know

• Dealers will do their best to match the vehicle you built to the vehicles that are available to purchase. If your exact vehicle isn't in stock, your dealer will help you find a similar car at a similar price
• Our prices don't include government fees and taxes, finance charges, dealer documentation fees, title and license fees, emission testing charges, and dealer-installed accessories
• You won't pay for the vehicle on eBay. All financing and payment details will be worked out with the dealer
• If you change your mind about options and features, talk to your dealer to negotiate a new low price for your vehicle
• If you have any questions about a vehicle you selected, contact your dealer

Tips for buying a vehicle

Buying a new or used car is often a big investment, so it's good to do some research. We've gathered some tips to help you get started:

• First, research the type of vehicle and options you need
• If you're shopping for a used vehicle, check its Kelly Blue Book value before you decide what you're willing to pay
• Be realistic in your expectations of used or older vehicles – expect normal wear and tear
• Inspect the vehicle in person if you can. If that's not possible, have a vehicle inspection service visit the vehicle to ensure it's as described in the listing
• On eBay, review the seller's feedback rating, and contact the seller with any questions. Don't bid or buy if they don't respond to your questions or can't be reached by email or phone
• Consider the additional costs associated with buying a vehicle, such as insurance, shipping, registration, and taxes

Bidding on vehicles

When you bid on a vehicle on eBay, it's considered non-binding. However, you shouldn't bid unless you intend to complete the purchase. Please read our User Agreement for details, and learn more about our bidding policies:

• Non-binding bid policy
• Shill bidding policy

Blocked from bidding

Sellers can make their listings unavailable to a specified list of bidders, such as those with low feedback scores. If you've been blocked from bidding, you'll receive an error message saying you're not allowed to bid on that seller's listings. Unfortunately, this also means that you're not allowed to bid with another user ID. Doing so could result in suspension from eBay.

You might consider contacting the seller and asking them to remove your block. To contact them, simply select Ask a question in their listing.

Vehicle history reports

Many Motors listings include a vehicle history report from AutoCheck® – you'll find it in the Vehicle History Report tab. If the seller hasn’t provided a report, you’ll have the option to buy one. The report gives you access to important details about used cars. You can see if the vehicle has ever been:

• Stolen, salvaged, or rebuilt
• Turned in under a lemon law
• In a flood or hail storm
• In an accident or fire (if reported)
• A victim of potential odometer rollback
• Used as a rental or fleet vehicle
• Used as a police vehicle or taxi
• Abandoned or forfeited
• Reported as having a lien

The report shows the vehicle's title details, including all ownership transfers and DMV transactions. It also includes an AutoCheck® Score, which shows how a vehicle measures up against others of the same make and model. Reports don't include personal information about the vehicle's previous owners, such as names and addresses. Learn more about AutoCheck®.

Where the information comes from

AutoCheck uses a vehicle's unique 17-digit Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) to determine its history.

AutoCheck gathers report information from hundreds of data sources, including:

• State Departments of Motor Vehicles (DMV)
• Auto auctions
• Canadian Motor Vehicle Departments
• Consumer protection agencies
• Auto dealers
• Other state agencies

All data acquired from these sources meet the federally mandated Drivers Privacy Protection Act (DPPA) and/or other industry guidelines.

About the AutoCheck score

The AutoCheck Score is a rating that evaluates all of a vehicle's history data using one score, which is based on a 100-point scale for each vehicle.

The AutoCheck Score is determined by:

• The age of the vehicle at the time of the report
• The number of miles on the vehicle given at the time the report was run
• The vehicle class as reported by Automotive News. This list of vehicle makes and models is published annually and is recognized as an industry standard. Examples of vehicle classes include "Sport utility - entry level" and "Mid-range cars – standard."
• The number of owners the vehicle has had
• The vehicle's use and history (things like taxi use, accidents, and theft history impact the score)

Frequently asked questions

Shipping vehicles

The buyer typically makes shipping arrangements and pays the costs associated with picking up or shipping the vehicle. Check the seller's description to see if additional shipping options are offered.

To get information on shipping a vehicle, select Shipping and payments in the listing. You'll see estimated quotes based on your location and the location of the vehicle.

For more information, visit our Shipping Center.

eBay Motors protection programs

To help ensure a smooth transaction and provide peace of mind when you're buying a vehicle, we've got a range of resources and purchase protection programs available.

Inspections and reports:

• Vehicle inspection: Catch easily missed details with a 150-point vehicle inspection report
• Vehicle history report: Get the facts about a pre-owned car before you buy it

Payment and financing:

• PayPal for deposits: Use PayPal to provide the seller with a deposit
• Safe buying tips: Learn how to pay safely, and why you should never use instant cash transfer methods
• eBay Motors Security Center: Get information on how you can protect yourself from scams and fraudulent activities
• eBay Motors Financing Center: We can help you secure a loan for a vehicle by connecting you to a number of financial partners that offer vehicle financing options. You can also try:
  • Checking the listing you're interested in to see if the seller offers any financing options.
  • Selecting the Financing tab in the listing for payment options. Then enter the amount you want to finance and your state of residence to get information about finance companies, and a payment calculator to get an estimate of your monthly payments.

Tip
Vehicles offered on Craigslist, AutoTrader, or other online sites are not eBay transactions, even if they claim to be. If you're bidding on a vehicle on eBay, it will appear in My eBay, under Bids/Offers. If you suspect a potential scam, let us know by emailing car@ebay.com.

Purchase protection for vehicles: Vehicle Purchase Protection (VPP) is included in most vehicle purchases and covers up to $100,000 or the vehicle's purchase price, whichever is lower.

Vehicle Purchase Protection (VPP) Overview

• VPP provides protection at no additional cost for certain losses associated with fraud, such as non-delivery of the vehicle, undisclosed title defects, and certain undisclosed vehicle defects when your purchase meets the VPP eligibility and coverage requirements
• Together with eBay, an independent service provider will determine whether you have suffered a loss that is reimbursable by the VPP program and the reimbursement amount
• VPP is not an insurance policy, a warranty, or a solution for buyer’s remorse. You should perform appropriate due diligence when considering the purchase of any vehicle
• Restrictions Apply. Click here to read the eligibility requirements and coverage restrictions

Purchase protection for parts and accessories: Most purchases are covered by the eBay Money Back Guarantee.

Buying parts and accessories

If you're buying a part or accessory, check the product specifications and read the seller's description carefully to make sure the item is compatible with your vehicle.

To find compatible parts, go to eBay Motors, select your vehicle's year, make, and model, enter keywords such as product or brand name, then select Search Parts & Accessories.

To make it easier next time you need a part, you can add your vehicle to My Vehiclesand you won't have to enter those details again.

Follow these steps to add a vehicle:

1. From the Motors page, select Add a new vehicle.
2. Choose your vehicle type and select your vehicle's year, make, and model from the drop-down menus.
3. You can add optional details and a photo. You can also choose whether the information is public.
4. Select Save Changes.
5. Next time you want to find parts, select Find parts for my vehicle on the Motors page.

Top Takeaway

Be sure to review the vehicle history report if you're shopping for a used car, and check if the vehicle is covered by the Vehicle Purchase Protection (VPP).

Returns, missing items, and refunds for buyers

In most cases, if your order doesn’t arrive, or is faulty or damaged, you’ll get your money back or a replacement. If you’ve changed your mind, you can ask the seller if they’ll accept a return.

Are you a seller? Read our article on managing refunds and return requests

If your item hasn't arrived, you can let the seller know and they'll have to either send a replacement or give you your money back. If your item has arrived, but there's something wrong with it, or it doesn't match the listing description, you can return it. Most sellers are also willing to accept returns if you've just changed your mind.

Here's how the refund process works on eBay:

1. Let the seller know you've got a problem – If your item hasn't arrived or if it has and you want to return it.
2. Try to work things out with the seller – They've got 3 business days to make things right for you, and you can always keep track of what's going on.
3. Seller wasn't able to help? Ask eBay to step in – If the seller hasn't fixed things for you in 3 business days, let us know and we'll help resolve the issue.

Let the seller know you've got a problem

If something's gone wrong with your order, the first step is to let the seller know there's a problem. If your item has gone missing, or if it's damaged or faulty, most sellers are happy to work with you to resolve the issue. Either way, you're covered by the eBay Money Back Guarantee.

Get help with an item that hasn't arrived

If you're still waiting for your item to arrive, you can check to see when it's due to be delivered. If the estimated delivery date has passed, let the seller know so they can help you out. They'll either provide you with additional delivery information, send you a replacement, or offer you a refund.

Return an item for a refund

If there's something wrong with your item, you can return it to the seller for a refund or a replacement. If you've changed your mind about the item, check with the seller to see if they'll accept your return.

Help with guest purchases

If you bought an item on eBay as a guest, you're still covered if something goes wrong. Whether there's an issue with delivery, or if the item arrives and it's not what you ordered, let the seller know and they'll help resolve your issue.

Try to work things out with the seller

Once you've let the seller know there's an issue, they have 3 business days to make things right for you. You'll be able to check on the status of your request during that time, and if the seller accepts your return, you might then need to ship the item back.

Check the status of your request

Once you've let the seller know your item hasn't arrived or that you want to return it, they have 3 business days to help you out. You can check back regularly for updates and to find out what you need to do next.

Return shipping for buyers

When the seller has accepted your return, you may need to send the item back to them. Who pays the shipping costs depends on why you're returning it. If the item was damaged or faulty, they're responsible for the return shipping costs – if you changed your mind, who covers the cost will depend on the seller's return policy.

Seller wasn't able to help? Ask eBay to step in

Sometimes, there might be an issue you're unable to resolve with the seller. When that happens, we're here to step in and help. We'll review the request, and get back to you and the seller with our decision. If you're not happy with our decision, and you have extra information you'd like us to consider, you can appeal. We'll review the new information and get back to you with our final decision.

Ask eBay to step in and help for buyers

Most of the time sellers will be able to resolve your issue, but if the seller hasn't been able to fix things for you after 3 business days, you can ask us to step in and help. We'll consider all the details and be as fair as possible with our decision.

Appeal eBay's decision on a case for buyers

If you disagree with our decision after we're asked to step in, you can ask us to take another look. In order to request an appeal, you'll have to provide additional details for us to take into consideration, such as photographs showing what's wrong with the item. We'll review the new information, and get back to you with our final decision, which usually takes 48 hours.

If you didn't get your item, you're covered under the eBay Money Back Guarantee. We'll make sure you either receive the item you ordered, or get your money back.

Are you a seller looking to respond to an item not received case? Read our article on  responding to an item not received case

If your item hasn't arrived, you're protected by the eBay Money Back Guarantee and can either ask the seller for a refund, or for them to send you out a replacement item (if they have one).

Check your item's delivery information

If your item hasn't arrived yet, the first thing to do is check the delivery information. You can find your item's delivery information by selecting it from your recent purchases above, or in your purchase history. In the delivery information, you can:

• View the estimated delivery date – Your item's estimated delivery date tells you when you should expect to receive the item. If the date hasn't passed yet, your item is probably still in transit.
• Make sure your shipping address is correct – If the shipping address you provided to the seller is incorrect, select Contact the seller and ask them to send the item to your new address. If they haven't shipped your item already, they'll be able to send it to the correct address. If they've already shipped the item, you'll need to get in touch with the carrier to see if they can redirect your order to the correct address.

Tip
Check with a neighbor in case you weren't home when the package arrived and they took delivery of it for you.

Let the seller know your item hasn't arrived

If the estimated delivery date for your item has passed, and you still haven't received your item, let the seller know. To get started, select the item that's not arrived above, or follow these steps:

1. Go to Purchase history.
2. Select More actions beside your item and then I didn't receive it.
3. Tick the box beside I want a refund or I want the item.
4. You have the option of adding a message to the seller.
5. Select Send request.

Report an item that hasn't arrived

You have 30 days from the estimated delivery date to inform the seller that you didn't receive your item. Once you've told them there's a problem, the seller has 3 business days to provide a delivery update, offer a replacement, or give you a refund.

Once you've let the seller know, you can check on the status of your request at any time.

Get your refund

If the seller offers to give you your money back, they have 6 business days to issue your refund. When they do, you'll receive an email letting you know.

It usually takes 3 to 5 business days for a PayPal refund to go through. If you paid with a credit card, it may take up to 30 days to process, depending on your card provider.

Get help from eBay

Most of the time, if your item hasn't arrived, the seller will resolve your issue for you. However, if after 3 business days the seller hasn't been able to resolve your problem, we're always ready to step in and help.

Learn more about asking eBay for help.

If your item arrives damaged or faulty, you can return it for a refund. If you've changed your mind and want to send it back, you can ask the seller if they'll accept a return.

Are you a seller and need help with a return request? Read our article on handling return requests

If the item you received doesn't match the description in the original listing, or if it arrived faulty or damaged, you're covered under the eBay Money Back Guarantee. You can return it even if the seller's returns policy says they don't accept returns.

If you no longer want an item, you'll be able to see in the listing if the seller offers returns, how long you have to request a return, and any other conditions. You can check the listing by selecting the item in your Purchase history.

Once you start a return, the seller has 3 business days to resolve your issue. If your problem isn't solved at the end of those 3 days, you can ask us to step in and help.

Start a return

To start a return, select the item you want to send back from your recent purchases above, or follow the steps below:

1. Find the item in your Purchase history and select Return this item.
2. Select your reason for the return.
3. If the item arrived damaged, broken, or faulty, you have the option to add up to 10 pictures showing any scratches or defects.
4. Select Send.

Return your item

Once you've started a return, you can check on the status of your request at any time.

Tip
In some cases, you may be able to request a replacement (another of the same item) or exchange (a different, but similar item). You can request a replacement or exchange if the seller offers them in their return policy, and the total refund value of your item is less than $250.

After you've started your return, what happens next?

The seller has 3 business days to get back to you. How they'll respond depends on the reason for your return.

You received the wrong item, or it arrived faulty or damaged

Here's how the seller may respond:

Accept your return request and offer a full refund – You'll return the item and the seller issues you a full refund, including the original shipping cost. The seller will also pay for return shipping.

Offer you a partial refund and let you keep the item – This can be a good compromise when you're not completely satisfied with your purchase – for example, if it arrived with a minor scratch – but you're happy to keep it.

Offer you a replacement or an exchange – Some sellers may offer the option of returning an item for a replacement or exchange instead of a refund.

Send you a message – The seller may ask you for some more details about your return request.

When the seller replies, we'll send you an email with details of the next steps.

You changed your mind about an item

Here's how the seller may respond:

Accept your return request and offer a full refund – You'll return the item and the seller issues you a full refund - depending on their returns policy, this may or may not include the original shipping cost. Check the seller's return policy in the listing to see who is responsible for return shipping costs.

Offer you a partial refund and let you keep the item – This can be a good compromise when the seller doesn't accept returns, but wants to offer you a gesture of goodwill – say if you ordered the wrong thing by accident.

Offer you a replacement or an exchange – Some sellers may offer the option of returning an item for a replacement or exchange instead of a refund.

Decline your return request – Sellers can only decline your return request if you changed your mind about an item and they stated in the listing that they don't accept returns, or if you missed the seller's deadline to start a return.

Send you a message – The seller may ask you for some more details about your return request.

When the seller replies, we'll send you an email with details of the next steps.

Send the item back

When the seller accepts your return, you'll receive an email to your messages with the subject “Send the item back”. You'll need to send it back within 5 business days, using tracked shipping. Who covers the shipping costs depends on why you're returning it. Find more information about return shipping.

When you're sending the item back, repack it carefully, and remember it has to be in the same condition as when you received it. This means it can't be used or altered in any way, and you'll need to include any additional items or paperwork that came with it, such as:

• All original packaging such as boxes, bags, tags, and UPCs
• Accessories such as cords and remote controls
• Certificates, manuals, warranty, and rebate cards
• "Free gifts" or bonus items
• All items included in a bundle

Get your refund

Once the seller receives the item back from you, or once they've agreed to refund you and let you keep the item, they have 6 business days to issue your refund. When they do, you'll receive an email letting you know.

It usually takes 3 to 5 business days for a PayPal refund to go through. If you paid with a credit card, it may take up to 30 days to process, depending on your card provider.

Get help from eBay

Most of the time if you have an issue with a purchase the seller will be able to solve it for you. However, if after 3 business days the seller hasn't been able to resolve your problem, we're always ready to step in and help. Once the 3 business days has passed, you can ask us to step in at any time up to 30 days after your purchase.

Learn more about asking eBay for help.

Misuse of returns or the eBay Money Back Guarantee

The eBay Money Back Guarantee is designed to protect both buyers and sellers. If we decide that a member is misusing returns on eBay, or the eBay Money Back Guarantee, they may be subject to a range of actions, including limits on buying and selling privileges and account suspension. Examples of misuse include:

• Selecting an inaccurate reason for returns
• Disregarding item conditions required for returns
• Requesting an excessive number of returns

Frequently asked questions about returns

f you've asked your seller to help with a problem and they're not able to resolve it for you within 3 business days, you can ask us to help you out.

When something goes wrong with an order, most sellers do their best to fix things for you – sometimes though, they aren't able to resolve your issue or you can't come to an agreement with them. When this happens, you can ask eBay to step in and help.

When you can ask eBay to step in

Once you've let the seller know there's an issue with your order, they have 3 business days to make things right. After that, you can ask us to step in.

However, if you and the seller are working on a solution, you don't need to ask us to step in as soon as the 3 business days are up. Most sellers want to fix problems for their buyers, so if you're still talking, feel free to give them a bit longer to figure things out - you have up to 30 days after your purchase to ask us to step in and help.

How to ask us to step in

If you and the seller aren't able to come to a resolution, ask us to step in by finding the item in your Purchase history, choosing See return details, and then selecting Ask eBay to step in.

What happens after you ask eBay to step in

After we're asked to step in, we'll review your case and resolve it in the fairest way possible. We normally come back with an answer within 48 hours, though occasionally it might take longer if we need more information. Once we've made a decision, we'll send you and the seller an email to let you know.

If we close the case in your favor, you should receive your refund within 48 hours.

If you don't agree with our decision, you can always appeal by providing new information within 30 days of the case being closed.

f you've asked your seller to help with a problem and they're not able to resolve it for you within 3 business days, you can ask us to help you out.

When something goes wrong with an order, most sellers do their best to fix things for you – sometimes though, they aren't able to resolve your issue or you can't come to an agreement with them. When this happens, you can ask eBay to step in and help.

When you can ask eBay to step in

Once you've let the seller know there's an issue with your order, they have 3 business days to make things right. After that, you can ask us to step in.

However, if you and the seller are working on a solution, you don't need to ask us to step in as soon as the 3 business days are up. Most sellers want to fix problems for their buyers, so if you're still talking, feel free to give them a bit longer to figure things out - you have up to 30 days after your purchase to ask us to step in and help.

How to ask us to step in

If you and the seller aren't able to come to a resolution, ask us to step in by finding the item in your Purchase history, choosing See return details, and then selecting Ask eBay to step in.

What happens after you ask eBay to step in

After we're asked to step in, we'll review your case and resolve it in the fairest way possible. We normally come back with an answer within 48 hours, though occasionally it might take longer if we need more information. Once we've made a decision, we'll send you and the seller an email to let you know.

If we close the case in your favor, you should receive your refund within 48 hours.

If you don't agree with our decision, you can always appeal by providing new information within 30 days of the case being closed.

If you prefer not to use PayPal, credit and debit card payments are often accepted by sellers.

Are you a seller looking to accept credit card payments? Read our article on  getting paid with credit and debit cards

Here's how to pay for an eBay purchase using a card:

1. On the checkout page, choose Credit or debit card, and enter your card details.
2. Select Remember this card for future orders if you'd like us to save the card details.
3. Review your order, including shipping. Then select Confirm and pay.

Updating a saved credit or debit card

You can update your credit or debit card information at any time:

1. Go to the Account section of My eBay, then select Personal Information.
2. In the Financial Information section, under Checkout saved payment methods, select Edit next to the credit or debit card you want to change.
3. Enter your updated information, and select Continue.
4. After reading the Credit or Debit Card Usage Agreement, choose Authorize credit card or Authorize debit card.

Tip
You can pay with a credit or debit card for any item where a seller accepts PayPal.

Paying with two cards on eBay

When you're buying an item on eBay, payment must come from a single card. However, you can add multiple cards to your PayPal account, and then transfer funds from different cards to your balance. Learn more about using PayPal on eBay.

Accepted credit cards

If you're paying with a credit or debit card in eBay checkout, you can use Visa, MasterCard, Discover Card, and Amex. Some sellers may decide to accept a more limited selection of cards. The listing will show which payment methods a seller accepts, but contact the seller if you have any questions.

Top Takeaway

You can pay for most items on eBay using a credit or debit card, including Visa, MasterCard, Discover Card, and Amex.

When you're ready to pay, simply head to checkout. You'll be able to check the details of your order and confirm how and where you want it delivered.

How to check out

If you've got items in your shopping cart, select Proceed to checkout. You can choose to pay for some of the items or all of them at once.

If you've already bought an item, select Pay Now from your Purchase history, the item page, or the confirmation email.

Here's how to complete your transaction:

1. Choose your payment method and enter any required information.
2. Check your shipping address. We'll show your default address, but if you want the item sent somewhere else, select Change. You can then either select another address you've used before, or Add a new address.
3. Do a final check that the item shown is the right one and select a shipping option.
4. If you have an eBay coupon or discount offer, enter the redemption code and select Apply.
5. Select Confirm and pay.

Tip
If you have a particular request for the seller – such as special shipping instructions or details for a custom order – select Message to seller. We'll pass the message along after you've completed your purchase.

Problems with checking out

If you see Transaction canceled when checking out, you can either try again later, or follow these steps:

1. Log in to your PayPal account.
2. Select Send Money.
3. Choose Pay for eBay items.
4. Select Pay in the action column.
5. Select More Funding Options if you want to change the source of funds for the payment.
6. Choose Send Money to complete the payment.

You can also contact PayPal for help.

If we've sent you a discount offer or a coupon, you can use it to help pay for your eBay purchases.

We'll email you when you have a coupon available, and you'll see the coupon code in the Account section of My eBay.

To receive discount offers, make sure your Communication preferences are set to receive marketing emails from us.

To spend your coupon or redeem our offer, enter the redemption code in the Gift cards, coupons, eBay Bucks section at checkout, then select Apply to see your new order total.

You can pay for all or part of a purchase using an eBay coupon.

Tip
If you've been sent a coupon or discount offer to an email address that isn't the one you use for PayPal, you'll need to add that email address to your PayPal account.

Here are some things to remember when using a coupon or discount offer:

• You'll need to pay with PayPal to use an eBay coupon or discount offer
• You can only use one coupon or offer per purchase
• Coupons and discount offers are usually only valid for a limited time and can't be transferred between eBay accounts
• Coupons and discount offers come in different forms. Always check the terms and conditions for full details of the coupon or offer so you know what's included and what's not

Top Takeaway

To spend a coupon or redeem a discount offer, simply enter the redemption code at checkout. Check the terms and conditions for full details of the coupon or offer.

If you're buying for someone else and aren't sure what they'd like, an eBay gift card is a great option. We have gift cards for every occasion, and you can even choose custom designed cards based on the recipient's interests.

eBay gift cards are available in digital and physical versions, and can be used towards the purchase of almost any item on our site.

When you buy something on eBay, you can apply your gift card at checkout. Any unused amount will go to the eBay gift card balance on your account. If you don't have enough money on your gift card to buy your item outright, you simply need to cover the remaining balance using another payment method, such as a credit card or PayPal.

Buying a gift card

Digital gift cards are sent via email, and there are plenty of designs and occasions to choose from. Take a look at our range of gift cards and decide which best suits you.

Physical gift cards are mailed to an address you choose, with free shipping. Many local retailers stock physical gift cards too so you can pick one up anytime. See our full list of participating retailers for more.

Redeeming eBay gift cards

When you're ready to use your gift card to pay for an item, simply enter the redemption code in the Gift cards, coupons, and eBay Bucks field toward the bottom of the page at checkout.

• With digital cards, you'll find the code in the email you receive
• With physical cards, you'll need to scratch off the security coating from the back of the card to reveal the code

If there's a remaining balance on your gift card after you check out, we'll add it to your eBay account. You can use it the next time you buy an item on eBay.

To view your balance, simply go to our Gift Card Balance Checker and enter your 13-digit redemption code.

Tip
If you return an item you bought with an eBay gift card, the amount you used on the gift card will be refunded. You can then use the gift card redemption code again, as long as you're using the same eBay account.

Gift card restrictions

There are a few restrictions when using eBay gift cards.

• The seller must accept PayPal
• You must have a PayPal account that is linked to your bank account or credit card
• eBay gift cards can't be used to buy bullion, coins, paper money, virtual currency, coupons, or other gift cards
• Up to eight gift card and/or promotion codes are accepted per transaction. The codes include eBay gift cards, eBay Bucks, and coupons

You'll find more information about eBay gift cards on our frequently asked questionspage.

Protecting yourself from gift card scams

To make sure your eBay gift card codes are safe from scammers, follow these tips:

• Never give your eBay gift card redemption code or number to anyone
• Only redeem eBay gift cards when paying for an item at checkout on eBay
• Remember, if we need you to update your account or provide any information to eBay, we always send a copy of our request to your Messages folder in My eBay. So always check there first. We'll never ask you to email us your personal information

If you receive what you believe to be a suspicious or scam email, let us know by forwarding it to spoof@ebay.com.

Top Takeaway

When you're ready to use your gift card to pay for an item, simply enter the redemption code at checkout.

Most sales go smoothly on eBay, but from time to time, buyers may not pay for an item they won in an auction or bought using Buy It Now.

If that happens, sellers can open an unpaid item case against the buyer. If we find that the buyer didn't pay, we'll record the unpaid item on that buyer's account.

However, the unpaid item record can sometimes be removed if the buyer provides proof that they paid, or that the seller changed terms of the transaction, such as the price, shipping costs, or payment method after the sale. The buyer can also appeal if they believe their account was accessed by someone else at the time the item was bought.

Tip
When you win an auction or buy an item using Buy It Now, you're contractually obliged to pay for it.

How to appeal an unpaid item

If you've had an unpaid item recorded on your eBay account and want to appeal it, you should file an Unpaid Item Appeal form.

You'll need to provide proof that you either paid for the item, the seller changed the terms after you won it or bought it, or that your account was taken over at the time. Here's what we accept as forms of proof:

1. Email communication between you and the seller showing the item was paid for (include the email headers from the emails).
2. A copy of your payment confirmation email from PayPal or a confirmation email from another payment service (include the email headers from email).
3. If the seller left you positive feedback for the transaction, include the item number in the Unpaid Item Appeal form and we'll look into it.
4. Communications that the seller excused you from the transaction, such as an email from the seller saying you didn't have to go through with the sale (include the email headers from the emails).

Appeal your unpaid item

Top Takeaway

Unpaid item records can sometimes be removed if the buyer provides proof that they paid, or that the seller changed the price, shipping costs, or payment method after the sale.

You can follow your package online all the way to your shipping address when the seller uploads tracking information.

Are you a seller looking to add tracking to your item? Read our article on tracking items you've sold

How to track an item

If your seller is using a tracked shipping service, it's easy to follow your item's progress.

Here's how:

1. Find the item in your Purchase history.
2. The tracking number will be displayed as a link. Open the link to see what stage your item has reached in its journey to you.

If you don't see a tracking number for the item in your Purchase history, check if the item is marked as "shipped". If it is, contact the seller and ask them to upload the number.

Tip
Once the seller has uploaded the tracking number to eBay, you'll be able to view carrier information and the item's current location.

How to track an item you bought as a guest

If you bought an item as a guest, you can still get the tracking details. You'll need the order confirmation which we sent to the email address you entered at checkout.

Here's how:

1. Find your order confirmation email. The subject line starts with "Guest Order".
2. In the body of the email, select View order details.

You'll then be able to view a delivery status bar with carrier information, the tracking number, and the item's current location.

If you don't see the tracking info, you can email the seller from the order details page.

Top Takeaway

For you to be able to track your item, your seller has to be using a tracked delivery service. Additionally, your seller must upload their carrier's tracking number to eBay.

Estimated delivery dates let you know when you can expect an eBay item to arrive.

Are you a seller looking for information on estimated delivery dates? Read our article on  estimated delivery dates for items you've sold

You can find an estimated delivery date on any eBay listing that offers shipping. The estimate will usually cover a range of days, but can get more precise after you confirm your delivery address during checkout.

After completing your purchase, you'll see an updated estimate in your purchase history along with any tracking information if it's been uploaded by your seller.

Estimated delivery dates are based on:

• Handling time – Sellers set their handling time. This can range from the same working day, to up to 30 business days from when they receive payment
• Shipping or courier services – Delivery times can vary depending on which service is used. Most sellers offer a variety of delivery options, so you can choose the service you prefer when you're checking out
• Cleared payment – If you're using a payment method such as a bank transfer, where the money isn't available to the seller immediately, the seller may wait until the payment is in their account before they send your item

Tip
If you need to get your item urgently, check to see if your seller offers an express delivery option.

Weekend delivery

Whether an item can be delivered during the weekend depends on the shipping options provided by the seller. An item's estimated delivery date is based on working days, so weekends and public holidays aren't included in that calculation.

If the seller doesn't offer weekend delivery, you can contact them to ask if it's possible. If the seller agrees to your request, you may have to pay additional shipping fees.

Fast 'N Free on eBay

If you see a listing with the Fast 'N Free logo, you can expect to get your item within four business days, and you won't be charged any delivery fees.

Top Takeaway

You'll see a more precise estimated delivery date after you confirm your delivery address during checkout.

You can find a seller's shipping rates in the Shipping section of every eBay listing. We always show the shipping cost separately to the item cost to make clear exactly how much you're paying for delivery.

Are you a seller looking for information on shipping rates? Read our article on shipping rates for sellers

To learn more about the seller's shipping options – including any express shipping services or combined shipping discounts – and whether tracking is available, select See details next to where the shipping cost is shown at the top of the listing. Alternatively, select the Shipping and payments tab.

Tip
When you're searching for an item, use the Free shipping filter to see listings that don't charge for delivery.

Increased shipping rates after a sale

Once you've bought an item, sellers can't increase shipping rates without your agreement. If the seller makes a change that you don't agree with, and you can't resolve the issue directly with them, contact us and we'll step in to help.

You may be able to change the shipping address or the shipping service you selected for an eBay purchase, but you'll need to contact the seller before they ship the item to you.

Are you a seller looking for information on shipping options? Read our article on setting up shipping options

How to change your shipping address

When you're buying an item, we'll pre-populate your preferred shipping address in the order summary, which you'll see just before checkout. Make sure this is where you want your item to be sent before completing your purchase.

If you want to make a change, select a different address in the Ship to field on the checkout page. If the address you want your item delivered to isn't shown, select Add a new address and complete the required details.

You can also change your preferred shipping address in the Addresses section of My eBay. From here you can also add new addresses or delete old ones.

If you've already completed your purchase but need to make a change, contact the seller as soon as possible to let them know.

Tip
If your item has been sent already, you'll have to ask your seller whether they can redirect the package, or work with them to arrange a reshipment.

How to change your shipping method

If you've already confirmed your order, but need to change the delivery method you selected, you can ask the seller if it's possible. If they agree, you can work with them to decide on a new shipping method.

How to change your shipping method after payment

If you've already paid for an item, you'll need to ask the seller to cancel your order, and then repurchase the item with different shipping details.

Here's how:

1. Go to Purchase history and find the order you want to cancel.
2. From the More actions dropdown, choose Contact seller.
3. Choose Request to cancel this order, and then Contact the seller.
4. Explain to the seller why you need to cancel, and select Send.

If the seller agrees to cancel the order, you can repurchase the item and select a new shipping method.

If the seller has already shipped your order, or if they don't accept the cancellation, you'll receive your package by the method originally selected.

Top Takeaway

If you've already paid for an item, you'll have to contact the seller to find out whether they can change the shipping method.

Some items that aren't easy to ship, such as large pieces of furniture, may be marked as 'Pickup only'. This gives you the chance to inspect the item in person and avoid shipping costs.

Are you a seller looking to offer local pickup on your listing? Read our article on offering local pickup

How to arrange a local pickup

If your seller's item is listed as 'Pickup only', you'll receive information on the item's location at checkout. If you need to know more before purchasing, select Ask a question in the listing.

After making your purchase, contact the seller to arrange a time and place to collect your item, and agree on how you'll pay for it.

In addition to PayPal or credit card, you can sometimes pay by internet banking, check, or money order – either beforehand or when you pick up your item. Sellers may also accept cash for local pickup purchases. Items collected in person are still covered by eBay Money Back Guarantee.

Here's how to find local pickup listings:

1. Select Advanced next to the search bar.
2. Enter your search terms.
3. Under Shipping options, choose Local pickup.
4. Add your location details and select Search.

Tip
If you're unclear about the pickup process, contact the seller by selecting Ask a question in the listing.

Buying limits and restrictions

To make sure buyers don't bid on, or buy, more than they're comfortable with, we occasionally place limits on a member's buying activity. We may also restrict buying if we believe a member has violated an eBay policy.

What are buying limits?

Sometimes we limit how much a member can buy on eBay. This is to encourage responsible buying, and keep our marketplace safe for buyers and sellers.

If your buying activities have been limited, it may be because:

• You're new to the site, and are making a lot of purchases or buying expensive items
• You've suddenly and significantly increased your bidding or buying activity
• You have a number of unpaid items on your account
• You're the highest bidder on a number of auctions, but haven't paid for any items yet

Tip
The best way to avoid buyer restrictions is to familiarize yourself with eBay's buying policies.

Removing buying limits

If your buying activities have been limited, we'll send you an email explaining why, and what you need to do to have the limits removed. For example, we may need you to confirm that you're completing purchases that you've bid on or we may need to verify your identity.

Avoiding buying limits

Buying limits are very rarely applied, but here are some tips to help you avoid them:

• Only bid on or buy items you plan to pay for
• Pay for items as soon as possible
• Improve your feedback profile by paying promptly and leaving feedback for sellers
• Verify your identity by adding a credit card as a payment method to your account

To add a credit card to your account:

1. Select Personal information.
2. Under Financial Information, select Edit.
3. Enter your credit card details and choose Continue. You may be charged a small amount to authorize the account, but this will be refunded within 10 days.

What are buying restrictions?

If you have a buying restriction on your account, you won't be able to buy items or bid on auctions until the issue is resolved.

Why are buying restrictions applied?

Generally, restrictions are applied when it appears you might be violating our site policies. Buying restrictions can be applied to your account if:

• There's evidence of shill bidding. This is a policy violation that involves someone known by the seller – such as a family member, friend, flatmate, or online connection – bidding on an item to artificially increase its price or search standing
• You have multiple accounts, and one or more has a buying restriction already placed on it
• Your account is under review for other policy violations

Removing buying restrictions

If you receive a restriction, you'll receive an email as well as a message in My eBayexplaining why it was applied, and what you need to do to have it removed.

Rules for bidding $15,000 or more

To place a bid of $15,000 or more, you need to provide a valid credit card (your card won't be charged). This requirement helps make sure that members making large purchases are of legal age and serious about completing the transaction.

For bids on eBay Motors, you'll need to provide a valid credit card to place bids of $25,000 or more.

You only need to provide this information once. We encourage you to take these steps before bidding on an item that might go above this price.

Top Takeaway

If you receive a restriction, you'll also receive an email explaining why it was applied, and what you need to do to have it removed.

There are different ways to contact a seller on eBay, and they depend on whether or not you've already bought an item from them.

Are you a seller needing to contact a buyer? Read our article on contacting a buyer

Contacting a seller before you buy an item

Not all sellers accept questions before you buy an item. For those that do, here's how to get in touch:

1. Select Contact Seller from the Seller Information section at the top of the listing.
2. On the Find answers page, choose the topic that best matches your question.
3. If you can't find a solution to your question, select Contact the seller.
4. Enter the topic and your question for the seller.
5. Select Send a copy to my email address if you'd like to keep a copy of the message.
6. Enter the verification code shown and select Send.

Tip
Make sure your contact information is up to date so sellers are able to get in touch after a purchase.

Contacting a seller after you buy an item

To contact a seller after you've bought from them:

1. Go to Purchase history and select the item.
2. Select Contact seller.

One of our top priorities is protecting our members, so we don’t allow contact information to be used to complete sales off our site. When this happens, it poses a risk of fraud and buyers and sellers aren’t covered by our protection programs if something goes wrong. If a seller asks you to complete a transaction outside of eBay, please let us know.

Read our policies on False or missing contact information and Offers to buy and sell outside of eBay for more information.

To make sure eBay is a safe place to buy and sell, we have policies that members have to follow. If you're having a problem with a seller because they're not following our policies, let us know and we'll look into it.

If the issue you're having with the seller is to do with an item that hasn't arrived, or that's faulty, damaged, or doesn't match the listing description, you shouldn't report them to us – instead, read our returns articles for help getting your money back.

You should only report a seller if you think they're violating our policies, for example:

• They offer to sell you a listed item outside of eBay
• They don't intend to complete the sale
• They sent threatening messages or used abusive or vulgar language
• They published another member's contact information
• The seller has provided you with false contact information
• You suspect the seller is under the age of 18

This isn't an exhaustive list – you'll find all of our policies here.

If the seller isn't violating any of our policies, and your issue is related to a purchase, you shouldn't report the seller to us, but you can still get help. Read our returns articlesto find more information if:

• The item hasn't arrived
• The item is damaged or faulty
• The item didn't match the seller's listing description

Tip
If you've spotted an item that shouldn't be listed on eBay, you don't have to report the seller, you can just let us know by reporting the item.

How to report a seller

If you think that a seller is violating one of our policies, please contact us.

What to do if eBay ended a listing you were trying to purchase

If you bought an item, and then received a message from us saying that the listing has been removed, you don't need to report the seller to us, but you'll need to open a returnto get your money back.

We take all reports seriously, but please make sure your claims are accurate. Learn more about false reporting of policy violations.

Keeping our members safe is a top priority for us, so we have zero tolerance for fraud on eBay. If you spot something suspicious, let us know.

How to avoid seller fraud

Any attempt by sellers to misrepresent themselves, or the products they're selling, is seller fraud. Here are some warning signs to look out for:

• Short duration listings: Fraudulent sellers often want to close a deal quickly. The longer their listing is on eBay, the greater their chances of being caught – so be cautious when you see one-day listings. However, there are valid exceptions to this, such as tickets to an event happening soon
• Heavily discounted or sold-out items: Be wary if a seller has lots of high-value items at suspiciously low prices, or a stock of hard-to-find goods that are sold out everywhere else. If a deal seems too good to be true, it probably is
• Off-eBay contact or payment: eBay Messages is the safest way to contact other members. Always be careful if a seller asks for your personal contact details, such as an email address or phone number. They may be trying to get you to complete a purchase off eBay, for example by paying cash or transferring money to an overseas account. This is against our policy, and your purchase wouldn't be covered by eBay Money Back Guarantee
• Unsafe payment methods: We don't allow some payment methods on eBay because the payment can't be traced or recovered if there's a problem. You shouldn't go ahead with a transaction if a seller asks you to pay using a method that's not included in our Accepted payments policy

Tip
Be wary if you see a listing from an account that was previously only used for buying, but is now selling a large number of high-value items.

What to do if you suspect a seller is fraudulent

If you think you're dealing with a fraudulent seller, report it to us as soon as possible. We'll look into it.

Report an issue

Top Takeaway

Always be careful if a seller asks for your personal contact details, such as an email address or phone number.

You can find the best and most reputable sellers on eBay by looking at their seller rating, feedback score, and the number of items they've sold.

Are you a seller looking for information on performance standards? Read our article on seller levels and performance standards

How feedback scores and seller ratings work

When you buy an item on eBay, you can rate your experience with the seller. The ratings you give are then added to the seller's overall feedback, and detailed seller rating scores.

You can view a seller's feedback score on their listings beneath their username – it's displayed as a percentage. If a seller has a score of 99.5%, it means that 99.5% of the buyers who left feedback for that seller had a positive experience.

In addition to the percentage feedback score, you'll also see a seller's star rating – the number in brackets next to their username. This shows how many buyers have left feedback for a seller. The more buyers who have rated their experience positively with a seller, the more assured you can be of getting great service.

Tip
A silver shooting star in a seller's star rating means they've received positive feedback over 1 million times.

For a more detailed view of a seller's performance, you can also view their detailed seller rating. This is a breakdown of how buyers have rated that seller in the following areas:

• Item description – How accurately it was described
• Communication – Did the seller communicate well with their buyer?
• Shipping time – How quickly the seller shipped the item
• Shipping and handling charges – Were the costs reasonable?

To view a seller's detailed seller ratings, go to their Feedback profile by selecting the number in brackets next to their username. Here you'll find stars next to the four different areas, with 1 star being the lowest rating and 5 stars being the highest.

Leaving detailed seller ratings

You can leave up to 4 detailed seller ratings at the same time you leave an overall Feedback rating and comment up to 60 days after the transaction. To leave detailed seller ratings:

1. Go to the Feedback Forum .
2. Click Leave Feedback on the right side of the page.
3. Rate your overall experience as positive, neutral, or negative. After you leave an overall rating, you can add a descriptive comment and leave detailed seller ratings.
4. Click the stars to rate each aspect of your transaction.

Types of eBay sellers

Our best sellers earn Top Rated and Premium Service status, which means they've provided a great experience for their buyers:

• Top Rated Sellers consistently deliver outstanding customer service. Members can become Top Rated Sellers whether they sell a little or a lot, provided they meet our highest levels of customer service. Top Rated Sellers also become eligible to receive the eBay Premium Service badge on their listings
• eBay Top Rated Plus sellers are Top Rated Sellers who offer specific shipping and returns options, e.g. free shipping to buyers in the United States and 30+ day money back returns. Their listings will display an eBay Premium Service badge

Top Takeaway

When you buy an item on eBay, you can rate your experience with the seller. The rating you give is then added to the seller's overall feedback score.