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BUSINESS SELLER NEWS

Spring 2012

In the rapidly changing ecommerce environment buyer's expectations are higher than ever. We're investing to increase buyer loyalty and provide you with a world-class platform to drive your sales. Get ready for the new features launching from April, find out more below.

Handling time changes

By the end of June, you'll be able to give reasons for longer handling times in the case of presale or custom items.

The new same-day handling time option that was originally announced in our spring 2012 Business seller news has been delayed until late 2012.

Detail

Giving reasons for longer dispatch times

Between early May and late June, you'll be able to use business policies to specify why an item needs a handling time of more than 3 days. For example, you may want to be clear that you're selling a custom-made item.

You'll be able to select from a list of common reasons for long handling time. You won't be able to create additional reasons or customise existing ones.

Your selected reason for long handling time will be shown on the item page, providing such information clearly may help to reduce buyer questions and improve your detailed seller ratings for dispatch time.

What you need to do
By end of June If your item needs a handling time of more than 3 days, select a reason to explain the longer handling time for that item using business policies.

Frequently asked questions

Why has the same-day handling option, originally announced as part of these updates, been delayed?

The introduction of a same-day handling time option has been delayed until late 2012, due to the technical requirements for a solution that works as expected for both buyers and sellers. We will provide more details closer to launch.

Will the same-day handling option be available for the Christmas period?

At this time, we cannot guarantee that the same-day handling option will be available for Christmas. We'll update sellers as soon as the same-day handling option becomes available.

Will it be compulsory to select reasons for long handling time?

This feature is available to sellers on an optional basis.

What are the benefits of selecting reasons for long handling time?

Where longer handling times are necessary, stating the reasons helps to give buyers accurate expectations of delivery and may help increase your sales.

How do I prevent eBay displaying messaging to buyers about my long handling time?

Sellers won't be able to opt out of displaying the message. Our testing has shown that highlighting listings with long handling times can provide considerable benefits to both buyers and sellers by ensuring accurate delivery expectations are set.

When will the new settings display on my Good 'Til Cancelled listings?

Good 'Til Cancelled listings will automatically reflect changes to long handling time settings immediately.

Benefits

For you

  • Fewer questions about long handling times
  • Help improve detailed seller ratings

For your customers

  • Increased satisfaction and loyalty

Resources

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