It may seem like a lot of rules, but they help provide a better and safer experience on eBay. To help make things run smoothly, make sure you review and follow these rules when you list your items. We realise sometimes not following an eBay policy is an honest mistake. If your item is allowed, you may just need to edit your listing so that it meets our guidelines.
Top questions
- What are the rules and policies for listing items on eBay?
- How can I report a listing that appears to be violating eBay rules and policies?
- How can I end my listing early?
- Why did eBay remove my listing?
Solve a problem
I'm not sure whether the item I'm selling is allowed on eBay
There are some items that, due to legal restrictions and other considerations, aren't allowed or can only be listed under certain conditions. If you're not sure whether your item is allowed, you can learn why some items are prohibited or restricted and see a detailed list of items you can't sell.
Activity on eBay is required to follow this policy, the eBay User Agreement and all applicable laws, as well as respect the rights of third parties. If it doesn’t, eBay may take action consistent with applicable laws and the eBay User Agreement, and may even be legally required to do so. Such actions may include, as an example only: Removing the listing or other content, issuing a warning, restricting activity or account suspension.
I want to edit my listing
- Go to your active listings on My eBay - opens in new window or tab.
- Find the listing you want to change.
- Select the down arrow beside Sell Similar, and then select Revise.
My listing was removed and I don't know why
First, check your messages in My eBay. If we remove a listing, we'll send an email explaining why. If you don't see it, check your spam folders. Learn more about removed listings.
I don't think buyers are finding my listing
When you create your listing, be as descriptive as possible:
- Write an effective title and description
- List your item in the right category
- Use product details (if they're offered)
- Fill out all item specifics suggested for your item
Help topics
Basics
Prohibited and restricted items
Find out if the item you want to sell is prohibited or subject to restrictions
Become a better seller by providing excellent customer service and following the guidelines in this policy
Rules about intellectual property
Find out how we're protecting copyrights, trademarks, and other intellectual property rights
Policies about avoiding eBay fees
Before listing items, be sure to learn the rules about avoiding eBay fees
Use only images or text that you create yourself or those from the eBay product catalogue. Don’t use photos or text from other eBay users or websites
Payment methods you can offer
Find out the payment methods you can—and can't—offer
Listings policies you should know
Search and browse manipulation policy
Find out how to list items in the appropriate category, how describe items accurately, and how to include a keyword or a brand name that doesn't manipulate eBay's search feature
Links, logos, and videos policy
Find out the types of links you can—and can't—include in your listing description
No item listings and inappropriate comments policy
Listings that don't offer anything for sale or those that offer intangible items aren't allowed. A listing also shouldn't include personal opinions, political views, or offensive comments about eBay members.
Rules about the following types of listings:
Item location misrepresentation policy
Learn how to accurately describe your item's location
How to
Find out how to create better listings that follow the rules
Find out what we can investigate and the actions we'll take