1 min overview

Rules and policies for buyers

We want to make buying on eBay a safe and enjoyable experience for all. To help do this, we’ve put in place a number of policies and guidelines to protect our users. 

Many of these are based on local laws and regulations, but others are based on our experience of what will help ensure a fair marketplace for everyone. So, before you bid or buy on eBay, read our policies for buyers listed below.

Frequently Asked Questions

 

What rules and requirements are there for eBay buyers?

When you bid on or buy an item, you're agreeing to the rules we've put in place for our community. You can find out more details on these rules in the articles below.

What kind of items are listed on eBay?

Almost anything you can think of. But there are certain categories of items that we restrict. Check out our list of prohibited and restricted items.

Invalid bid retraction policy

Read our guidelines on retracting a bid, and why we have rules in place to prevent members gaining an unfair advantage when buying an item.

Non-binding bid policy

Learn about the guidelines for participating in auctions in the motors and real estate categories.

Abusive buyer policy

Learn about our expectations for buyer behaviour on eBay.

Condition of returned items policy

Learn about our guidelines when returning an item. Buyers may be liable for the loss in an item's value if it's not returned to the seller in the same condition as it was received.

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.

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