FAQ

What is Authenticity Guarantee for Watches?

Authenticity Guarantee helps you buy and sell watches on eBay with confidence. Our authentication team physically inspects all eligible items before they are sent to buyers.

How does Authenticity Guarantee work?

All listings with the 'Authenticity Guarantee badge are eligible for authentication. For select watches priced between AU $1,000 and $2,499.99, Authenticity Guarantee may also be available as an optional add-on at checkout. Any Buyer Protection fee and postage are excluded when determining whether a watch meets these price thresholds.

Once you purchase an eligible item, it’s sent to an authentication centre to be inspected by category experts who perform a multi-point inspection to verify the item's authenticity and that the condition matches the listing.

Upon passing inspection, the item is carefully packaged and delivered via express shipping. A signature is required for items over $750.

If the item doesn’t pass inspection, you’ll automatically receive a full refund. For items with minor discrepancies, we’ll contact you to confirm whether you would like to continue with the purchase or receive a refund.

Will I be charged a fee for Authenticity Guarantee?

Authenticity Guarantee is free for eligible watches priced AU $2,500 and above.

For select watches priced between AU $1,000–$2,499.99, Authenticity Guarantee is available as an optional add-on for AU $100 at checkout.

What watches are eligible for Authenticity Guarantee? 

Currently, watches listed in the primary category of Wristwatches and sold for AU $2,500.00 or more are eligible for Authenticity Guarantee. Watches listed in the primary category of Wristwatches and sold for AU $1000-$2,499.99 are eligible for an optional add-on Authenticity Guarantee. Auction items in the Wristwatch category that are expected to sell above AU $2,500.00 are also covered by Authenticity Guarantee.

Smart watches, watch parts and accessories are not eligible for authentication. Items specified as customised will not be authenticated. Customised is defined as original brand parts that have been replaced with non-brand parts, parts not original to the model or era, or components that are modified from the original design. Listings that offer only local pickup or with an item location outside Australia won’t be eligible for Authenticity Guarantee.

Only items purchased on eBay.com.au and paid for at eBay checkout are eligible for Authenticity Guarantee. Purchases with a delivery address outside Australia are not eligible for Authenticity Guarantee.

Are vintage watches eligible for Authenticity Guarantee?

A vintage watch is eligible for Authenticity Guarantee if all eligibility criteria are met. Vintage watches that are verified as authentic by the authentication expert may contain replacement parts that are not from the original manufacturer if the original manufacturer no longer makes that part.

Vintage timepieces and many used watches may not be water resistant to their original rating. Please consult a watchmaker before exposing your watch to water. Mechanical watches are more delicate than other types of watches. Take care before undertaking any activity which might place shock on the watch.

What handbags are eligible for Authenticity Guarantee?

Authenticity Guarantee for handbags is available on handbags or briefcases of selected brands (set out below), in new or pre-owned condition, listed in the Women's Bags & Handbags, Men's Bags & Briefcases, Men's Wallets and Women’s Wallets, Handbag accessories, ID/Document holders, Key chains, Rings & Finders, Belts, Hats, Organisers, & Day Planners categories, and sold for $330 or more. Auction items are also eligible for the Authenticity Guarantee service if the item meets these conditions.

Any Buyer Protection fee and postage are excluded when determining whether a handbag meets these price thresholds.

What sneakers are eligible for Authenticity Guarantee?

Currently, Authenticity Guarantee is available for sneakers in new and pre-owned conditions, listed in the Mens', Womens' Athletic Shoes and Girls’, Boys’, Baby, Unisex Kids shoe categories, and sold for $140 or more via fixed price or auction listings.

Eligible items have a blue Authenticity Guarantee tick in search results and at the top right of the item page.

Any Buyer Protection fee and postage are excluded when determining whether a sneaker meets these price thresholds.

Listings sold as a “lot” with multiple pairs of sneakers and items specified as “customised” are currently not eligible for authentication. "Customised" is defined as shoes that have been modified from their original state. Examples of this include shoes with personalised elements, custom artwork, or any modifications that did not come with the original sneaker.

What happens at the authenticator?

After the Authentication centre receives the item, the authentication team first confirms the item and collateral materials are consistent with the listing title, description and images. Then they will perform a multi-point physical authentication inspection. The eBay authenticator will not inspect any aftermarket documentation of provenance for authenticity.

The eBay authenticator does not verify the timekeeping accuracy of your watch. Vintage and many used watches may require servicing by an experienced watchmaker to restore accurate timekeeping. If you have any questions about the functions or warranty of your watch, please refer to the seller’s description. Authenticity Guarantee does not offer a warranty.

Who is conducting the authentication process?

eBay’s authentication team includes experienced industry experts, brand-certified watchmakers and technicians, using advanced technical equipment in a state-of-the-art facility.

How long will the authentication process take? How long until I get my item?

After you purchase your eligible item, the seller is required to send the item to an authentication centre, where the authentication team will inspect the item within two business days of receipt. Once authenticity is verified, the item will be sent to you with secure express delivery including signature confirmation.

How do I track the status of my item?

The order status will be updated in your My eBay purchase history and in the View Order Details section. The delivery status can be seen on My eBay Purchase History. The authentication status can be seen on View Order Details. You’ll also receive an order update email when your item has been inspected by our authenticators as part of Authenticity Guarantee.

Will I receive the original packaging with my purchase?

Yes, if the seller has included original packaging as described in the listing, all components will be sent to you.

What if the item does not pass inspection?

If the item’s authenticity cannot be verified or the item’s condition is not consistent with its listing, it will be returned to the seller, and you'll receive a full refund to your original payment method. If the item passes our authenticity checks but has a minor discrepancy with its listing, we may contact you to confirm whether you would like to proceed with the purchase or receive a refund. If you paid a fee for optional Authenticity Guarantee and the item does not pass inspection, that fee will also be refunded.

Can I return items purchased with Authenticity Guarantee? 

Buyers can return an item if the seller accepts returns, as stated in the listing, and the return takes place within the seller’s return window. In the unlikely event that you receive an item that is not consistent with the listing, the item will be eligible for a return. 

Are authenticated items protected by the eBay Money Back Guarantee? 

Items that go through the Authenticity Guarantee process are covered by eBay Money Back Guarantee provided all eligibility criteria are met. For full details, please read our eBay Money Back Guarantee policy.

eBay Money Back Guarantee and any other buyer protections we provide as part of the Authenticity Guarantee service are in addition to any rights you may have against the seller under Australian Consumer Law.

How does the return process work?

If the seller offers returns on the item you purchased, you can request a return. We’ll provide a return label to send it back to the authentication centre. Within two business days of receiving the item, the authenticator will inspect it to confirm that the item returned matches the item originally sent to you by verifying the authenticity and condition. Once verified by the authenticator, it will be sent to the seller and a refund will be processed. 

Why was the item sent back to me by the authenticator after I opened a return?

If the authenticator determines the returned item is not the same item or is not in the same condition, the item will be sent back to you and you won’t receive a refund.

Is there an authentication card?

Yes, all items verified as authentic come with a card which provides details about the item such as brand, model, reference number, movement type, case material, bracelet type and serial number, as applicable.

Can I choose to not have my item authenticated?

For watches priced AU $2,500 or more, you cannot choose to bypass the authentication service.

For watches priced between AU $1,000-$2,499.99, you can choose to add optional Authenticity Guarantee to your purchase.

Is Authenticity Guarantee associated with any brands sold on eBay?

No, the Authenticity Guarantee service is not affiliated with or endorsed by any of the brands sold on eBay.

What is Authenticity Guarantee?

eBay's Authenticity Guarantee is a service designed to help you buy and sell on eBay with confidence. Our Authenticators physically inspect all eligible items before they are sent to buyers and inspect all returns prior to sending them back to the seller.

How does Authenticity Guarantee work?

It's easy! Browse and shop eBay's listings with the “Authenticity Guarantee” badge. When you buy an eligible item, the seller posts it directly to a team of qualified, professional Authenticators. The Authenticators will thoroughly inspect and verify your item's authenticity, and confirm the item and accessories are consistent with the listing title, description and images before sending it to you with tracked express delivery.

Will I be charged a fee for Authenticity Guarantee?

No. Until further notice there is no additional fee for Authenticity Guarantee for either the buyer or the seller. As part of the Authenticity Guarantee service, eBay covers the cost of authentication as well as tracked express delivery from the Authentication Facility to the buyer.

What items are eligible for Authenticity Guarantee?

Authenticity Guarantee for handbags is available on handbags or briefcases of selected brands (set out below), in new or pre-owned condition, listed in the Women's Bags & Handbags, Men's Bags & Briefcases, Men's Wallets and Women’s Wallets, Handbag accessories, ID/Document holders, Key chains, Rings & Finders, Belts, Hats, Organisers, & Day Planners categories, and sold for $330 or more. Auction items are also eligible for the Authenticity Guarantee service if the item meets these conditions.

Eligible listings have a blue Authenticity Guarantee tick in the search results and on the item page.

What happens at the Authentication Facility?

Once the item arrives at the Authentication Facility, the Authenticator first confirms the item and collateral materials (such as accessories, dust bags, receipts and packaging) are consistent with the listing title, description, and images. Then they will perform a multi-point authentication inspection. Finally, the handbag will receive a unique Authenticity Guarantee card and a swing tag.

Is there an authentication card?

Yes, all items verified by our Authenticators come with an Authenticity Guarantee card with details about the item, such as brand and model. The card also has a QR code-enabled page, that brings up more details about your item.

How does my Authentication Guarantee card with QR capabilities work?

Scan the QR code on the Authenticity Guarantee card with the camera feature of your smartphone device to view detailed information about your handbag. Enjoy!

Who is providing the authentication services?

eBay's team of professionally trained authenticators vet and verify each bag, using detailed, physical inspection and advanced technical equipment in a state-of-the-art facility.

How long will the authentication process take? How long until I get my item?

After you purchase an eligible item, the seller is required to send the item to the Authentication Facility, where our Authenticators inspect the item within two business days of receipt. Once the item is verified, it will be sent to you with tracked express delivery, including signature on delivery.

How can I track the progress of my purchase?

Tracking information is available on the Purchase History page (in your My eBay), where you'll be able to track the delivery of your order and see exactly where it is in the authentication process. As part of the Authenticity Guarantee service, you will also receive an order update email when your item has been inspected.

Is signature confirmation required upon delivery?

Signature confirmation is required for all items that cost over $750 (excluding postage costs).

Will I receive the original packaging with my purchase?

If the seller has included original packaging as described in the listing, all components will be sent to you (the buyer).

What if the item does not pass inspection?

If the Authenticators cannot verify the item's authenticity or the item's condition is not consistent with its listing, you (the buyer) will be notified and be issued a full refund to your original payment method. We will also notify you if the item passes our authenticity checks, but the item has a minor discrepancy with its listing. You will be able to review the authenticator’s notes and pictures, and confirm whether you still want to go ahead with your purchase. If you go ahead with your purchase, your item will still be eligible for protection under the eBay Money Back Guarantee if it otherwise meets all the eligibility criteria under the eBay Money Back Guarantee policy.

What should I do if I want to change or cancel my order?

If you need to cancel an order, let the seller know as quickly as possible. If the seller has already sent your order, they won't be able to cancel it. Unfortunately, we cannot accommodate address changes at this time, so please double-check to make sure you've entered the correct address. Learn more about cancelling your order.

Where is my item being delivered to, and why is it not my address?

Your bag will first be sent to the Authentication Facility. Once verified, the Authenticator will send your bag to the address entered at checkout.

Can I return items purchased with Authenticity Guarantee?

You (the buyer) can return an item if the seller accepts returns, as stated in the listing, and the return takes place within the seller's return window. In the unlikely event that you receive an item that is not consistent with the listing, the item will be eligible for a return.

All returns must be sent to the Authenticators for verification (to check that the item is still in the same condition and has all relevant collateral materials, such as accessories, dust bags, receipts and packaging). Once the return is verified, the Authenticators will send the item back to the seller and your refund will be processed.

Does the eBay Money Back Guarantee protect authenticated items?

Items that go through the Authenticity Guarantee process are covered by the eBay Money Back Guarantee provided that all eligibility criteria are met. This applies even if we’ve asked you to review an item during our inspection process and you agreed to continue with the purchase. For full details, please read our eBay Money Back Guarantee policy.

The eBay Money Back Guarantee and any other buyer protections we provide as part of the Authenticity Guarantee service are in addition to any rights you may have against the seller under Australian Consumer Law.

How does the return process work?

If you (the buyer) are returning an item, it will first be sent to the Authentication Facility. Within two business days of receiving the item, the Authenticator will verify the authenticity and condition of the returned item to confirm that it matches the original item, including any collateral materials such as accessories, dust bags, receipts and packaging.

For the item to be eligible for a return, the swing tag must be attached to the item and untampered with.Once verified, the Authenticator will send the item to the seller and a refund will be processed. eBay currently covers the return postage costs from the buyer to the Authentication Facility and also from the Authentication Facility to the seller.

Why was the item sent back to me by the Authenticator after I returned it?

If the authenticator determines the returned item is not the same item, is not in the same condition, missing collateral materials (such as accessories, dust bags, receipts and packaging) that were originally sent, or the swing tag has been tampered with or removed, the item will be sent back to you (the buyer) and the return will be denied.

Can I choose not to have my item authenticated?

No, eBay's Authenticity Guarantee is a service designed to protect buyers and sellers.

Is Authenticity Guarantee associated with any brands sold on eBay?

No, neither eBay nor the Authenticity Guarantee service is affiliated with or endorsed by any of the brands sold on eBay.com.au. The authentication services are provided independent of the brands sold on eBay.com.au.

What is Authenticity Guarantee?
eBay's Authenticity Guarantee is a service designed to help you buy and sell sneakers on eBay with confidence. Our eBay Authenticators physically inspect all eligible items before they are sent to buyers.

How does Authenticity Guarantee work?
It's easy! Browse and shop eBay listings with the "Authenticity Guarantee" badge. When you buy an eligible item, the seller posts it directly to a team of qualified, professional Authenticators. The Authenticators thoroughly inspect and verify your item's authenticity, and confirm the item and accessories are consistent with the listing title, description and images before sending it on to you with tracked express delivery.

How much does Authenticity Guarantee cost?
Until further notice there is no additional fee for Authenticity Guarantee for either the buyer or the seller. As part of the Authenticity Guarantee service, eBay currently covers the cost of authentication, as well as fast, tracked delivery from the authentication facility to the buyer.


Which items are eligible for Authenticity Guarantee?

Currently, Authenticity Guarantee is available for sneakers in new and pre-owned conditions, listed in the Mens', Womens' Athletic Shoes and Girls’, Boys’, Baby, Unisex Kids shoe categories, and sold for $140 or more via fixed price or auction listings.
Eligible items have a blue Authenticity Guarantee tick in search results and at the top right of the item page.

Listings sold as a “lot” with multiple pairs of sneakers and items specified as “customised” are currently not eligible for authentication. "Customised" is defined as shoes that have been modified from their original state. Examples of this include shoes with personalised elements, custom artwork, or any modifications that did not come with the original sneaker.
We plan to add brands and models to our Authenticity Guarantee program over time. Check back for updates.

Are used sneakers eligible for Authenticity Guarantee?
Preowned sneakers over $140 that fit the above eligibility criteria are eligible for Authenticity Guarantee.

Is signature confirmation required upon delivery?
Signature confirmation is required for all items that cost over $750 (excluding postage costs).

What happens at the authenticator?
Upon receiving the sneakers, our authentication team first verifies that the contents are consistent with the listing details. Then a multi-point, physical inspection is performed for the listing details. This process includes thorough physical inspection of the shoe's structure, materials, tags, and logos. The packaging and accessories are also reviewed for authenticity. Finally, an eBay Authenticity Guarantee QR code tag is attached to the shoes and programmed with the unique details of each product.

What is the eBay Authenticity Guarantee tag?
An eBay Authenticity Guarantee tag will be attached to each pair of sneakers once it has been verified by our authentication team. The Authenticity Guarantee tag is fastened to the sneaker and activated with our digital stamp of authenticity and customized with the product details. By scanning the QR tag with your smartphone, you will receive a prompt and be able to view the authenticity report of your sneakers. The tag also makes it easy to re-list the sneaker in the future. In addition, the eBay Authenticity Guarantee tag must be attached to the item and untampered to be eligible for a return.

Who is providing the authentication service?
Our authentication team provides the service. The team are professionally trained authenticators who thoroughly inspect and verify sneakers at a state of the art facility to ensure a high standard of service to eBay users.

Are authenticated items protected by eBay Money Back Guarantee?
Authenticated items are covered by eBay Money Back Guarantee, assuming all other eligibility criteria are met. For full details, read our eBay Money Back Guarantee policy. If you have an issue with your authenticated item outside the eBay Money Back Guarantee time frames, please contact eBay Customer Service as you may be eligible for some additional protections.
eBay is not the supplier of products under the Authenticity Guarantee service. The eBay Money Back Guarantee policy and any other buyer protections we provide as part of the Authenticity Guarantee service are in addition to any rights you may have against the seller under Australian Consumer Law.

How long will the authentication process take? How long until I get my item?
After you purchase your eligible item, it is sent to eBay's Authenticators, who will inspect your item within two business days of receipt. Once authenticity is verified, the item will be sent on to you with free, tracked delivery.

How do I track the status of my item?
Once your item has been inspected, you'll receive an order update email with the next steps. You can check the status of your order throughout the Authenticity Guarantee process in your Purchase history.

Will I receive the original packaging with my purchase?
Yes, if the seller has included original packaging in their listing, all components will be sent to you.

What if the item does not pass authentication checks?
If the item's authenticity cannot be verified or the item is not consistent with its listing, we'll notify the buyer and a full refund will be issued to their original payment method.

What should I do if I want to change or cancel my order?
You can request to cancel your order through the Purchase history page within an hour of purchase if the seller has not yet sent the item. Unfortunately address changes cannot be accommodated at this time, so please double-check to make sure you've entered the correct address. Learn more about cancelling your order.

Where is my item posting to and why isn't it my address?
Your shoes will first be sent to eBay's sneaker authentication centre. Once they are authenticated, your shoes will be forwarded on to the delivery address you entered at checkout.

How can I track the progress of my purchase?
Tracking information will be uploaded on the Purchase history page where you'll be able to track the shipment of your order and see exactly where it is in the authentication process.

Can I return items purchased with Authenticity Guarantee?
You can return an item if the seller accepts returns, as stated in the listing, and the return takes place within the seller's return window. In the unlikely event that you receive an item that is not consistent with the listing, the item will be eligible for a return.

All returns must be sent to the Authenticators for verification (to check that the item is still in the same condition and has all relevant accessories, or that the item is not consistent with the listing). Once the item has been re-authenticated, it will be returned to the seller and the buyer's refund will be processed.

How does the return process work?
If the buyer is returning the item, it will first be sent to eBay's Authenticators. Within two business days of receiving the item, the authenticator will verify the authenticity and condition of the returned item to confirm that it matches the original item, including any original packaging or accessories (for clarity this includes the item's box where applicable).

For the item to be eligible for a return, the eBay Authenticity Guarantee tag must be attached to the item and untampered with. Once verified by the Authenticators, it will be posted to the seller and a refund will be processed. Who pays for postage costs for returning the item to the authenticator depends on the seller's return policy and the reason for the return.

Why was the item sent back to me by the authenticator after I returned it?
If the authenticator determines the returned item is not the same item, is missing any accessories (including the item's box where applicable) or is not in the same condition, the item will be sent back to the buyer and the return will be closed.

Do I have to pay GST on my order?
eBay is required to collect GST (Goods and Services Tax) on orders up to AU $1,000 imported into Australia. If you're buying an item located outside Australia and you select an Australian delivery address, eBay will add GST to the total at checkout. The seller receives payment for the order (item price + postage costs), and eBay remits the GST to the Australian Taxation Office (ATO). If GST was collected, you can view and download a tax invoice from the Order details page in your Purchase history. For orders valued at over AU $1,000, the GST is generally collected at the Australian border. You may need to pay it as part of clearing your parcel through customs. For more information about buying from overseas sellers, see our article about international purchases and postage.

Can I choose to not have my item authenticated?
No, eBay's Authenticity Guarantee is a service designed to protect buyers and sellers.

I sell on eBay now, do I need to do anything?
If your listings meet the eligibility requirements then they will be automatically included in the Authenticity Guarantee program. In order to properly protect you and the buyer, our authentication process will be more stringent about how items are described and the item condition selected. You should take some time to review your listings in Athletic Shoes categories and double-check that you have accurately described and depicted the item, including photos of any defects or cosmetic imperfections of the sneaker, the box and accessories.

How do I know if my listing is eligible for eBay's Authenticity Guarantee program?
Make sure you accurately describe and photograph your item and follow steps 1-3.
Meet the eligibility requirements.
Select the appropriate item condition when you list your sneakers for sale:
 

"New with box": A brand-new, unused and unworn item in the original packaging (such as the original box). If using stock images or screenshots, all original accessories (laces, keychains, bags, etc.) must be included. If taking your own photos, everything pictured will be assumed included.


"New without box": A brand-new, unused and unworn item that is not in original packaging or may be missing original packaging materials (such as the original box). For example, new shoes (with absolutely no signs of wear) that are no longer in their original box fall into this category.


"New with defects": A brand-new, unused item. Possible imperfections range from colour variations to scuffs, cuts or nicks that occasionally occur during the manufacturing or delivery process. This also includes natural yellowing due to age. The item may be missing the original packaging materials or accessories (such as original box or laces). New factory seconds and/or new samples may fall into this category. Ensure all defects are photographed and noted in the description.


"Pre-Owned”: An item that has been used, worn or showing signs of wear to the outsole, insole and/or lining of the shoe. The item may be missing the original packaging materials or accessories (such as original box or laces).


Accurately describe your item in detail and take as many photographs as needed. Ensure that you capture any defects including tears in the box and any anomalies on the shoe, etc. If using stock images or screenshots, all original accessories (laces, keychains, bags, etc.) must be included. If taking your own photos, everything pictured will be assumed included. Accurate documentation & photographs will ensure your item can flow through the authentication process smoothly.

How can I confirm my item qualified for Authenticity Guarantee?
A blue tick with "Authenticity Guarantee" will automatically appear on your item's listing page. Upon making a sale, you can check the details on the Orders tab in Seller Hub or under Sold in My eBay. If eligible, you'll also receive a confirmation email indicating your item was sold with Authenticity Guarantee.

If I list my sneaker for $140 and accept a Best Offer below $140, will it be eligible for Authenticity Guarantee?
Yes. Your item will be eligible for Authenticity Guarantee and sent to our experts for inspection. Items with a Buy It Now price of $140 or more with either auction format or Best Offer are also eligible.

Can I offer combined postage?
Authenticity Guarantee items will not be eligible for combined postage since each authenticated item is split into a separate order for processing. Please send all orders individually.

What should I do if I need to cancel the order?
If you can't complete a sale with a buyer, you can cancel the order by locating the sale on the Orders tab in Seller Hub (or the Sold section in My eBay) and following the cancellation process. The buyer will be notified of the order cancellation immediately. Learn more about cancelling an order.

When I sell my item, where am I sending the item?
eBay will provide you with the address of our authentication centre along with the buyer's name and a unique ID number. Be sure to use the exact address eBay provides, including the unique ID number. Once your shoe is verified and authenticated, it will be forwarded on to the buyer's delivery address at no cost to you.

How do I provide tracking information?
Once you've sent the item, you'll need to upload tracking information in My eBay or Seller Hub. Providing tracking information ensures your item will be authenticated and you'll be covered by seller protections. It also allows buyers to track the progress of their purchase through each step of our authentication process. Post it through eBay and have tracking uploaded for you. We partner with Sendle & Australia Post to provide you with easy and affordable options for posting your sneakers.

Why would my item be returned to me by the authenticator?
Your item may be returned to you if it does not pass our authentication checks, or if the item condition is not consistent with your photographs and item description. You won't be charged for the cost of posting the return and a refund will be issued to the buyer immediately.
What will happen if my item is lost or damaged while it's with the eBay authenticator?
In the unlikely event your item is lost or damaged while in the possession of our Authenticators, eBay will cover such loss or damage of the item.


What will happen if my item is damaged or lost in transit when the authenticator sends it to the buyer?
In the unlikely event your item is lost or damaged, please notify eBay Customer Service.

What is Authenticity Guarantee for Clothes, Shoes and Accessories?

Authenticity Guarantee helps you buy and sell clothes, shoes and accessories on eBay with confidence. Where Authenticity Guarantee applies to a purchase, our authentication team physically inspects the item before it is sent to the buyer.

How does Authenticity Guarantee work?

Listings eligible for mandatory Authenticity Guarantee will display the ‘Authenticity Guarantee’ badge. For eligible clothes, shoes and accessories priced between AU $100 and AU $329.99, buyers may choose to add Authenticity Guarantee at checkout for a fee of AU $20

When Authenticity Guarantee applies to a purchase, the seller is required to send the item to an eBay authentication facility, where it will undergo a multi-point inspection to verify its authenticity and confirm that its condition and any accessories are consistent with the listing. Once the item passes inspection, it will be securely delivered to the buyer. 

Will I be charged a fee for Authenticity Guarantee?

Authenticity Guarantee is available at no additional cost to buyers and sellers for eligible items that meet the AU $330 mandatory eligibility threshold.

For eligible items priced between AU $100 and AU $329.99, buyers may choose to add Authenticity Guarantee at checkout for AU $20.

What items are eligible for Authenticity Guarantee?

Authenticity Guarantee is available for select Clothing, Shoes & Accessory items from eligible brands listed here.

Clothing, Shoes & Accessory items must be listed in the men’s or women’s clothing categories, in new or pre-owned condition. You can identify eligible items by looking for the blue Authenticity Guarantee tick in the search results and in the top right of the item page.

  • Items specified as customised will not be authenticated. ‘Customised’ is defined as garments that have been modified from their original state. Examples include items with personalised elements, custom artwork, or any modifications that did not come with the original item.
  • We plan to add brands and models to our Authenticity Guarantee service over time. Check back for updates.

Only items purchased on eBay.com.au are eligible for Authenticity Guarantee. Authenticated items may be shipped to buyers in Australia, including PO boxes and Parcel Lockers.

Miscategorised or customised items, and ‘lot’ listings, are not eligible for Authenticity Guarantee and will be forwarded to the buyer without authentication, following a condition check. Sealed items are also not eligible for Authenticity Guarantee. 

How do I choose the appropriate item condition when I list my item?

Being clear and accurate about your item's condition lets the buyer know whether they’re getting something new, used or something in between. On the listing form, simply choose the best match for your item from these preset item-condition options:

Clothing, Shoes & Accessories: Clothing

  • New with tags: This item is brand new and has never been worn. It still has the original tags and/or original packaging
  • New without tags: This item is brand new and has never been worn, but doesn't have tags and/or is missing the original packaging. The item doesn't have flaws or imperfections
  • New with imperfections: This item is brand new, has never been worn, but has some type of defect. New irregular items may fall into this category. The original tags may or may not be attached
  • Pre-owned - Excellent: This item has been previously worn; however, it is in excellent condition. Any signs of wear should be shown and described in the seller's listing
  • Pre-owned - Good: This item has been gently used but is in good condition. It might have a few signs of wear, but all imperfections should be shown and described in the seller's listing
  • Pre-owned - Fair: This item has significantly visible imperfections and signs of wear. All imperfections should be shown and described in the seller's listing

Clothing, Shoes, Accessories: Shoes

  • New with box: A brand-new, unused and unworn item in the original packaging (such as the original box or bag) and/or with the original tags attached
  • New without box: A brand-new, unused and unworn item that is not in original retail packaging or may be missing original packaging materials (such as the original box or bag). The original tags may not be attached. For example, new shoes (with absolutely no signs of wear) that are no longer in their original box fall into this category
  • New with defects: A brand-new, unused and unworn item. Possible cosmetic imperfections range from natural colour variations to scuffs, cuts or nicks, hanging threads or missing buttons that occasionally occur during the manufacturing or delivery process. The item may be missing the original retail packaging materials (such as original box or tag). New factory seconds and/or new irregular items may fall into this category. The original tags may or may not be attached. Please see the seller's listing for full details and description of any imperfections
  • Pre-owned - Excellent: This item has been previously worn; however, it is in excellent condition. Any signs of wear should be shown and described in the seller's listing
  • Pre-owned - Good: This item has been gently used but is in good condition. It might have a few signs of wear, but all imperfections should be shown and described in the seller's listing
  • Pre-owned - Fair: This item has significantly visible imperfections and signs of wear. All imperfections should be shown and described in the seller's listing
     

Clothing, Shoes, Accessories: Accessories

  • New with tags: A brand-new, unused and unworn item (including handmade items) in the original packaging (such as the original box or bag) and/or with the original tags attached
  • New without tags: A brand-new, unused and unworn item (including handmade items) that is not in original packaging or may be missing original packaging materials (such as the original box or bag). The original tags may not be attached
  • New with defects: A brand-new, unused and unworn item. Possible cosmetic imperfections range from natural colour variations to scuffs, cuts or nicks, hanging threads or missing buttons that occasionally occur during the manufacturing or delivery process. The apparel may contain irregular or mismarked size tags. The item may be missing original packaging materials (such as the original box or tag). New factory seconds and/or new irregular items may fall into this category. The original tags may or may not be attached. Please see the seller's listing for full details and description of any imperfections
  • Pre-owned - Excellent: This item has been previously worn; however, it is in excellent condition. Any signs of wear should be shown and described in the seller's listing
  • Pre-owned - Good: This item has been gently used but is in good condition. It might have a few signs of wear, but all imperfections should be shown and described in the seller's listing
  • Pre-owned - Fair: This item has significantly visible imperfections and signs of wear. All imperfections should be shown and described in the seller's listing

Clothing, Shoes, Accessories: Underwear

  • New with tags: A brand-new, unused, and unworn item in the original packaging (such as the original box or bag) and/or with the original tags attached
  • New without tags: A brand-new, unused, and unworn item that is not in original retail packaging or may be missing original retail packaging materials (such as the original box or bag). The original tags may not be attached

What happens at the Authentication Facility? 

Upon receiving the item, eBay’s authentication team first verifies that the contents are consistent with the listing details.

Next, a multi-point, physical inspection is performed for authenticity. This process includes thorough physical inspection of the item's structure, materials, tags, and logos. The packaging and accessories are also reviewed for authenticity. Please note even if your item is listed as ‘New with tags,’ the item or the packaging may have minor flaws due to aging, manufacturing flaws, or defects that are uncontrollable by the seller.

Finally, an eBay Authenticity Guarantee QR tag is attached to the item or the card is enclosed, and programmed with the unique details of each product.

What is the eBay Authenticity Guarantee tag?

An eBay Authenticity Guarantee tag will be attached to each item once it has been verified by our authentication team. The Authenticity Guarantee tag is fastened to the item, activated with our digital stamp of authenticity and customised with the product details. By scanning the QR tag with your smartphone, you will receive a prompt and be able to view the authenticity report of your item. The tag also makes it easy to re-list it in the future. In addition, the eBay Authenticity Guarantee tag must be attached to the item and untampered for the item to be eligible for a return.

Why can’t I message the seller after I purchase my item?

Messaging capability is turned off at the point of purchase, at which time your item is routed to our authentication facility and all tracking information and notifications are available on the eBay platform.

Can I choose to not have my item authenticated?

No, eBay's Authenticity Guarantee is a service designed to protect buyers and sellers.

Is Authenticity Guarantee associated with any brands sold on eBay?

No, the Authenticity Guarantee service is not affiliated with or endorsed by any of the brands sold on eBay.