eBay has recently adjusted its “Simple Delivery” postage method shortly after introducing it for the majority of its listings. Starting April 15, most new eBay listings were required to utilize “Simple Delivery” for shipping arrangements.
This new method mandates that sellers must use eBay for coordinating the delivery of their items once sold, instead of relying on external shipping services. “Simple Delivery” involves eBay calculating the parcel size to determine the postage cost. Upon a sale, sellers are then required to either drop off the item at a carrier location or schedule a home delivery.
Sellers are provided with a QR code or label by eBay for posting their items. However, certain listings are exempt from using “Simple Delivery,” such as low-priced items, bulky items, and items available for local pick-up.
eBay has expanded the list of exemptions, stating that “Simple Delivery” will be optional for items priced at £10 and under, letter-sized items, and specific sub-categories. This list includes more than 30 categories like antiques, books, cameras, coins, furniture, and stamps. An eBay representative mentioned that this flexibility is aimed at enhancing the customer experience tailored to different product types traded on the platform.
While eBay claims sellers can save up to 20% on postage costs with “Simple Delivery,” it does alter the time frame for receiving funds from sales. Funds are released two days after the carrier confirms the delivery. eBay has been notifying sellers about this change via email.
In addition to the recent “Simple Delivery” adjustment, eBay introduced a new buyer fee in February this year. The fee, incorporated into the item price, consists of a flat fee of 75p per item, plus 4% of the cost up to £300, and 2% for costs between £300 and £4,000. There are no buyer fees for certain categories like car, motorcycle, vehicle listings, property, and classified ads.
Last October, eBay eliminated all selling fees, enabling sellers to retain more earnings from their transactions. This removal includes final value fees, regulatory operating fees, and insertion fees for most items sold on eBay. However, selling fees still apply to car, motorcycle, and vehicle listings, with fashion items exempt since early last year.