Buying -- Getting Started

Welcome to eBay! It's easy to learn what you need to know to make your first purchase.

Step 1: Register

Registration is free and simple. Register now, or learn more about registering. You can also take a guided tour of registration.

Step 2: Find items

You can find items by browsing or searching.

Browse when you’re not exactly sure what you’re looking for, or when you just want to explore the range of items in a particular category. To browse, click on a category in the left column of the eBay home page.
Search when you’re looking for a specific item that you can describe using a few words. To search, enter a few words to describe the item in the Search box, which is found at the top-right corner of most eBay pages.

Learn more about finding items.

Step 3: Consider buying formats

There are numerous ways to buy items on eBay. Some buying formats include auction-style listings where sellers list items for sale to the highest bidder, and Buy It Now, which enables you to buy an item when you want it, at a known set price.

Learn more about buying formats.

Step 4: Consider payment methods

Each seller accepts different payment methods. Carefully read an item description before you buy to find out what methods the seller accepts. Most sellers accept PayPal because it transfers funds immediately.

Learn more about payment methods.

Step 5: Use My eBay (optional)

My eBay enables you to track all of your eBay activities – including buying, selling and feedback from one page. Once you've registered, you’ll have your own My eBay page. Here you can watch what’s happening with items you’re interested in.

Learn more about using and customising My eBay.

Step 6: Connect with eBay members (optional)

Once you’ve registered, you can participate in eBay's community discussion boards and chats. Connect with other members to get tips, ask for help, or just have fun. eBay Customer Support representatives also offer assistance on many boards and chats.

See the full list of chat boards.

Related Help topics

Contact Customer Support

If you're looking for more help or have a question to ask, contact us.