Auction Format

When to choose the classic eBay way to sell

Most listings on eBay use the standard online auction format.

A typical auction-style listing works this way:

The seller offers one or more items and sets a starting price.
Buyers visit the listing and bid on the item during the online auction's duration.
When the auction-style listing ends, the high bidder or bidders buy the item from the seller for the high bid.

The auction-style format is flexible. When you use it, you will be given many options, including giving buyers an opportunity to buy at a fixed price (Buy It Now), selling multiple identical items, and setting a hidden minimum-selling price (reserve price.)

Auction format is probably the right format for you, unless:

You would rather offer your item only at your specified price, and not accept bids in the auction process. In that case, choose Fixed Price.
You are selling a car, truck or other vehicle. You can also list your item in a Classified Ad.
You have many items for sale and want to open an eBay Shop. In that case, set up your Shop.

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