Frequently Asked Questions about Local Trading
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How are regions defined? |
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Regions are centred around a large metropolitan area. We are continually launching new index pages for existing regions and will be adding new regions in the near future.
For example, if you are a seller in Berwick-upon-Tweed, you can select Manchester. Or, you can choose not to pick a region at all ("None"). Similarly, if you are a buyer in a small town, search the region closest to home.
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As a seller, how does using the regional listing option help me? |
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You receive extra visibility at no additional cost. Your items will continue to show up in "All eBay" searches and they also appear in your selected region's search results. So you have a chance to appear in both global and local marketplaces at the same time free!
You'll especially benefit if you're selling large or fragile items, which you may find hard to deliver over long distances.
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As a buyer, what are the benefits of searching regionally? |
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By using regional searching features, you can find items closer to home. You'll save time and money on delivery and handling costs too even on smaller items.
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I don't see my favourite category. Why aren't categories on the Regional pages the same as eBay's home page? |
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Not all categories appear on the Regional pages, which is why you might not see your favourite. Regions can't list all categories featured on eBay's main home page because local pages are smaller and more specialised. However, if you want to suggest a new category, please send us an email with your suggestion.
Hint: The best way to seach for specific items within the Go Local! regional pages is to use the search feature. Or, if you want to find an item locally and would like to go through eBay's main home page:
- Pick the category you want,
- Conduct a search and
- Once you have your search results, select the region of your choice.
Remember, categories on the Regional pages are actually links to specific searches. This format will let you see all items in a main regional category without showing sub-categories (as in the main eBay home page). Then you'll be able to find out what items people are more likely to trade locally.
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I have concerns about trading with someone locally. What if the buyer/seller wants to meet in person to see the item? |
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Whenever you do business with a new trading partner, it is wise to be cautious. Here are some tips that apply to all situations, as well as regional trading:
- For sellers, make sure you state inspection, delivery, and payment terms clearly in your item listing. Some regional buyers may legitimately hope to save money on postage costs by picking up your item instead of paying for delivery. However, if you do not wish to meet buyers in person, say something like, "Delivery only. No personal callers." in your listing. Be clear about this!
- If you decide to meet with the other person, pick a public place like a local coffee shop or library. It's always a good idea to bring a friend, too.
- Rest assured that eBay does not give your street address out to anyone. If you choose to give someone your address, consider using a work address, a PO Box, or some other address other than your residence.
- For buyers, always check with a seller before you bid if you're unclear about delivery terms. Don't assume that you will be able to pick up the item, even if it is in the same town. And don't assume they will deliver either.
- And, last but not least, check their Feedback Profile before you start bidding!
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Do I have to select a region when I want to sell an item? |
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No. You can select a region, or you can choose "None" if you prefer to skip this option. |
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Will my region selection appear on the item listing? |
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Yes. The region you select will appear on your item listing at the top of the page in the "Country/Region" field. Your item will also be included automatically in regional search results. If someone searches your region for your type of item, your listing will appear in the search results.
However, you can always specify a location when you fill out the Sell Your Item form. For example, you can pick the London region, and then put "Peckham, London" in the location window of the Sell Your Item form. Your item will appear in search results for the London region, and your item listing will say, "Peckham, London" under Location. This might persuade buyers close to Peckham to place a bid.
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If you have any questions, please contact customer support.
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