Ebay tracking

What is eBay?

eBay is an American e-commerce platform that has established itself as one of the most iconic online marketplaces in the world. Founded on September 4, 1995 by Pierre Omidyar, a Franco-American entrepreneur of Iranian descent, the company revolutionized commercial exchanges between individuals through its online auction system. What was initially just a side project hosted on a personal website became, in just a few years, a global e-commerce giant, connecting millions of buyers and sellers around the world.

eBay's history begins in the San Francisco Bay area, California. Pierre Omidyar, who graduated with a degree in computer science from Tufts University in 1988, launched AuctionWeb as a simple online auction service. Legend has it that the first sale on the platform was a broken laser pointer, sold for a few dollars. This anecdote perfectly illustrates eBay's founding concept: to create a marketplace where any object, no matter how unusual, could find a buyer. By 1996, the site had already hosted 250,000 auctions, a figure that exploded to two million in the first month of 1997.

In 1997, Omidyar renamed his service eBay, a name born from a compromise. His first choice was Echo Bay, inspired by a recreational area near Lake Mead in Nevada, but the domain echobay.com was already taken by a Canadian mining company. By removing a few letters, eBay.com was born. That same year, the company launched an aggressive advertising campaign that considerably accelerated its growth. By mid-1997, eBay was hosting nearly 800,000 auctions per day, a volume that testified to the public's enthusiasm for this new form of commerce.

• Date of creation: September 4, 1995, Labor Day in the United States, under the name AuctionWeb
• Founder: Pierre Omidyar, Franco-American entrepreneur born in Paris in 1967 to Iranian parents
• Headquarters: San José, California, United States
• Stock market listing: 1998, propelling Pierre Omidyar to billionaire status at just 31 years old
• Revenue: Over 10 billion dollars annually
• Active users: More than 130 million active buyers worldwide
• Active sellers: Approximately 19 million sellers on the platform
• Gross merchandise volume (GMV): Nearly 75 billion dollars annually

Since its creation, eBay has evolved considerably. While auctions remain emblematic of the platform, the majority of transactions are now conducted at fixed price via the "Buy It Now" option. The company has also made numerous acquisitions over the years, with 59 companies according to the latest counts, including PayPal in 2002, which was later resold, as well as StubHub, a specialist in reselling event tickets. eBay currently holds approximately 4.5% of the global e-commerce market, with balanced geographic distribution of its activity: 50.9% of revenues come from the United States and 49.1% from international markets.

eBay's market positioning is distinguished by its ability to connect both individual and professional sellers with buyers worldwide. Unlike traditional e-commerce businesses that manage their own inventory, eBay functions as a marketplace where each seller is responsible for their listings, inventory management, and shipping their items. This decentralized approach allows for unparalleled product diversity, from rare collectibles to new items from major brands, including electronics, fashion, automotive parts, and household items.

In which countries does eBay deliver?

eBay offers worldwide geographic coverage, allowing buyers from almost every country to access items sold around the globe. The platform connects users from more than 190 countries and territories, making it one of the most international marketplaces that exists. This global presence constitutes one of eBay's major assets for buyers seeking items that are difficult to find locally.

eBay has dedicated local sites in many countries to offer an experience adapted to consumption habits and languages of each market. The platform has specific versions in 14 countries, including major markets such as the United States (ebay.com), the United Kingdom (ebay.co.uk), Germany (ebay.de), France (ebay.fr), Italy (ebay.it), Spain (ebay.es), Australia (ebay.com.au), Canada (ebay.ca), and Japan. Each local site offers adapted features, an interface in the national language, and payment options corresponding to the country's habits.

• North America: United States, Canada, Mexico with dedicated sites and strong commercial activity
• Europe: United Kingdom, Germany, France, Italy, Spain, Netherlands, Belgium, Austria, Switzerland, Poland, and all European Union countries
• Asia-Pacific: Australia, Japan, Singapore, Hong Kong, Malaysia, Philippines, India with growing presence
• Latin America: Brazil, Argentina, Chile, and other South American countries accessible via international programs
• Rest of the world: Middle East, Africa, and other regions accessible via international shipping

When a buyer wishes to purchase an item sold by a seller located in another country, several options are available. If the seller offers direct international shipping, they will ship the package from their country to the destination while handling customs formalities themselves. Alternatively, eBay has implemented programs facilitating these cross-border exchanges, such as eBay International Shipping, which considerably simplifies the process for both parties.

The eBay International Shipping program, formerly known as Global Shipping Program, is a particularly interesting solution for international purchases. Thanks to this service, participating American and British sellers only need to ship their package to a national logistics center. eBay and its partners then take care of international shipping, customs clearance, and final delivery to the buyer's country. This program covers more than 200 destinations worldwide and offers integrated tracking throughout the journey.

For purchases within the European Union, transactions are facilitated by the absence of customs formalities between member states. A buyer can thus order without difficulty from a seller located in another EU country, with delivery times generally comparable to those of a domestic shipment. European sellers use local and cross-border transport networks to ship their packages, often offering multiple shipping options suited to each buyer's preferences.

What carriers does eBay use?

Unlike traditional e-commerce businesses that manage their own logistics, eBay functions as a marketplace where each seller is responsible for shipping their items. The platform does not have its own delivery fleet but relies on a vast network of carrier partners with which it has negotiated agreements to facilitate shipments and offer competitive rates to sellers.

National postal services play a leading role in eBay deliveries worldwide. In France, La Poste and Colissimo represent preferred options for many sellers thanks to their complete territorial coverage and accessible rates. In the United States, USPS (United States Postal Service) handles a significant share of shipments, while Royal Mail dominates in the United Kingdom and Deutsche Post/DHL in Germany. These postal operators generally offer the best value for money for standard packages and benefit from technical integrations with eBay enabling automatic shipment tracking.

• National postal services: La Poste/Colissimo (France), USPS (United States), Royal Mail (United Kingdom), Deutsche Post/DHL (Germany), Poste Italiane (Italy)
• International express carriers: UPS, FedEx, DHL Express, TNT for urgent and valuable shipments
• Parcel locker networks: Mondial Relay and Relais Colis in France, very popular for their convenience and attractive rates
• National carriers: Chronopost for express delivery in France, DPD, GLS, Hermes (Evri in the United Kingdom)
• Specialized partners: Convelio for valuable and art objects, SpeedPAK (via Orange Connex) for shipments from China

eBay has developed a shipping platform in partnership with Packlink, which allows sellers to access negotiated rates from multiple carriers. From this interface, sellers can compare offers, purchase shipping labels, and print shipping slips directly from home. Delivery addresses are automatically imported from eBay orders, reducing the risk of error and speeding up the shipping process.

Parcel locker networks such as Mondial Relay in France or Hermes in the United Kingdom offer eBay sellers particularly competitive rates. Buyers appreciate this option, which allows them to choose a local business affiliated with the carrier's network to pick up their package. The advantages are multiple: extended opening hours, ability to pick up the package at a time that suits them, no risk of failed home delivery. The package remains available for several days, giving the buyer time to organize themselves. This solution is often more economical than home delivery.

For valuable items, artworks, or large items, eBay offers a partnership with Convelio, a French carrier specialized in transporting precious objects. Professional sellers in the Art and Antiques or Home and Garden categories can select this carrier when listing, with two levels of service: door-to-door transport or white glove service for even more careful handling.

For international shipments from China, where many eBay sellers are based, the SpeedPAK program developed in partnership with Orange Connex offers an optimized solution. Chinese sellers entrust their packages to a local logistics center which then takes care of consolidated transport to destination countries. This service improves delivery times and offers complete tracking integrated into eBay, from shipment in China to final delivery.

What are eBay shipping timeframes?

Shipping timeframes on eBay vary considerably depending on several factors: the seller's location, the shipping method chosen, the destination, and any customs formalities for international shipments. eBay displays an estimated delivery date on each listing, calculated based on the shipping timeframe announced by the seller, the carrier selected, and the seller's delivery history.

For domestic purchases, timeframes are generally short and predictable. A package shipped via standard postal service typically arrives within two to five business days. Express options allow delivery within 24 to 48 hours depending on the area. Parcel locker delivery usually takes three to five business days. These estimates also depend on the seller's responsiveness: eBay recommends shipping orders within one to two business days after payment receipt.

• Standard domestic delivery: 2 to 5 business days on average depending on carrier and destination
• Express domestic delivery: 24 to 48 hours with services like Chronopost or UPS Express
• Parcel locker delivery: 3 to 5 business days with Mondial Relay or Relais Colis
• Intra-European delivery: 3 to 7 business days depending on countries and carriers
• International delivery outside Europe: 1 to 3 weeks depending on destination and shipping method
• Delivery from China: 2 to 4 weeks in standard, 7 to 14 days with SpeedPAK or express services

When a seller indicates a shipping timeframe of one business day, they have until 11:59 PM the following business day after payment receipt to hand over the package to the carrier. Weekends and public holidays are not counted as business days. This clarification is important because it means an order placed on Friday evening could not be shipped until the following Monday. eBay encourages professional sellers to offer short shipping timeframes to improve their visibility in search results.

For international purchases, timeframes naturally increase depending on distance and formalities to be completed. A package shipped within the European Union can arrive in three to five days, while intercontinental shipment will generally take one to two weeks. Purchases from China, very common on eBay, often require two to four weeks in standard delivery, although express services can reduce this timeframe to one week.

The eBay International Shipping program helps make timeframes more reliable for international shipments. By centralizing shipments through logistics centers, eBay can optimize flows and reduce uncertainties related to customs clearance. Buyers benefit from more accurate delivery estimates and continuous tracking throughout their package's international journey.

Weekend and public holiday delivery depends entirely on the carrier chosen by the seller. In France, some services like Chronopost offer Saturday delivery, but few carriers ensure Sunday or public holiday distributions. Buyers in a hurry should check the specific conditions of the selected delivery method before finalizing their order.

What are eBay shipping fees?

Shipping fees on eBay are set by each seller individually, which explains the considerable variability in rates from one listing to another. Some sellers offer free shipping by incorporating the cost into the item price, while others display separate shipping fees. eBay encourages transparency on these fees, which must be clearly indicated before the buyer commits to the purchase.

Free shipping is a powerful sales argument on eBay. Listings offering this option benefit from better visibility in search results and display an attractive promotional message. For the seller, this implies incorporating the estimated shipping cost into the sale price. This strategy proves particularly effective for light and compact items, where shipping fees represent a significant portion of the total price.

• Free shipping: Offered by many sellers, particularly for light items or high-priced items
• Economy shipping: From a few euros for small packages, prioritizing cost over speed
• Standard shipping: Generally between 4 and 10 euros in France for a medium-sized package with tracking
• Express shipping: Between 10 and 25 euros depending on weight and destination for reception within 24-48 hours
• Parcel locker delivery: Often more economical than home delivery, from 2.49 euros excluding tax for professionals via Mondial Relay
• International shipping: Variable depending on destination, weight, and carrier, ranging from 10 to 50 euros or more

Professional sellers have access to negotiated rates through the eBay Shipping Platform. These preferential rates, lower than public prices charged at post offices or agencies, allow sellers to offer competitive shipping fees while preserving their margin. The platform offers significant discounts from Chronopost, Mondial Relay, and other partner carriers.

eBay allows sellers to create promotions on shipping fees to boost sales. For example, a seller can offer free shipping for any order exceeding a certain amount, such as 25 or 50 euros. These thresholds encourage buyers to consolidate their purchases and increase average cart value. Sellers can also offer shipping discounts for multiple item purchases, encouraging bulk buying.

It is important to note that commissions charged by eBay on each sale now apply to the total transaction amount, including shipping fees. An item sold for 20 euros with 4 euros in shipping fees will have the commission calculated on the basis of 24 euros. This policy encourages seller transparency and discourages practices of displaying a low price with excessive shipping fees.

For international purchases, additional fees may apply beyond the initial shipping fees. Customs duties and import taxes are generally the responsibility of the buyer for shipments outside the European Union. eBay recommends that sellers clearly mention this information in their listings to avoid any misunderstanding. The eBay International Shipping program simplifies this matter by often including customs fees in the price displayed to the buyer.

What are eBay shipping options?

eBay offers great flexibility in shipping options, allowing each seller to configure the shipping methods they wish to offer. This diversity allows buyers to choose the option that best matches their needs in terms of timeframe, cost, and convenience. During checkout, the different options available for each item are clearly presented with their rates and estimated timeframes.

Home delivery remains the most widespread option on eBay. The package is sent directly to the address provided by the buyer and handed over in person or placed in the mailbox depending on its size. In case of absence, the courier may leave a delivery notice indicating the collection terms, whether a new delivery attempt, a deposit at the post office or at a parcel locker. This option is particularly suitable for buyers who can be present at their home or who have a secure mailbox.

• Standard home delivery: Delivery to the buyer's address with tracking, average timeframe of 2 to 5 days
• Express home delivery: Priority distribution within 24 to 48 hours with carriers like Chronopost or UPS
• Parcel locker delivery: Deposit in a local business or automated locker for buyer pickup
• Automated locker delivery: Available through certain networks like Mondial Relay Lockers, accessible 24/7
• Hand-to-hand delivery: Direct exchange between seller and buyer for local transactions

Parcel locker delivery is gaining increasing success in Europe and many countries. This option allows the buyer to choose a local business affiliated with the carrier's network to pick up their package. The advantages are numerous: extended opening hours, ability to pick up the package at a time that suits them, no risk of failed delivery. The package remains available for several days, giving the buyer time to organize themselves. This solution is often more economical than home delivery.

Automated lockers represent a modern evolution of parcel locker delivery. These secure boxes, accessible 24 hours a day, allow you to pick up your package anytime using a code received by SMS or email. Many carriers are actively developing these locker networks, and eBay incorporates this option into the shipping methods offered to buyers. This solution is particularly suitable for people with off-hours schedules or those wanting maximum flexibility.

For certain bulky, heavy, or fragile items, or when the seller and buyer are geographically close, hand-to-hand delivery is an interesting alternative. This option, configurable by the seller in their listing, helps avoid transport costs and risks. The buyer and seller arrange a meeting for the exchange, usually in a public place for greater security. This method also allows the buyer to inspect the item before finalizing the transaction. Once the exchange is completed, the seller must mark the item as delivered in eBay to properly close the sale.

eBay sends automatic notifications to buyers at each important step of the delivery process. An email or mobile notification signals the shipment of the item, then alerts may indicate that the package is in delivery and finally confirm successful delivery. These communications allow the buyer to track their package without having to regularly check the order page. The seller can also receive delivery confirmation, useful for anticipating a possible review or in case of a claim.

What should I do if my eBay order is lost or damaged?

eBay's Buyer Protection program protects buyers in the vast majority of transactions conducted on the platform. This program covers situations where the item is not delivered, arrives damaged or defective, or does not match the listing description. Thanks to this protection, buyers can shop with confidence, knowing they can obtain a refund if the transaction does not go as planned.

The first step in case of a problem is to contact the seller directly via eBay messaging. This must be done within 30 days from the estimated delivery date. Most sellers are willing to find an amicable solution, whether a refund, replacement shipment, or partial compensation. Direct communication often resolves issues quickly without having to escalate the dispute.

• Timeframe to report a problem: 30 days from the estimated delivery date
• Seller's response timeframe: 3 business days to propose a solution
• eBay intervention: Possible if seller does not respond or if no agreement is reached
• Refund timeframe: Generally 3 to 5 business days, up to 30 days depending on payment method
• Disputing a decision: Possible within 30 days after dispute closure with new evidence

If your package has not arrived by the estimated delivery date, start by checking the tracking information available on eBay. The package may be awaiting customs clearance, pending delivery after a failed attempt, or simply delayed. If tracking indicates the package was delivered but you have not received it, check with your neighbors or building manager. Once these checks are complete, contact the seller to inform them of the situation.

For items received damaged or defective, eBay requires providing photographic evidence of the problem. Up to 10 photos can be attached to the return request, clearly showing defects, cracks, scratches, or any other damage. These images will serve as proof in case of disagreement with the seller. If the item does not match its description, even if the seller does not normally accept returns, the buyer is entitled to a full refund including return shipping costs.

When the seller does not respond within three business days or refuses to propose a satisfactory solution, the buyer can request eBay's intervention. The platform then examines the elements of the case, particularly tracking information, photographic evidence, and message exchanges, to make a decision. If eBay rules in favor of the buyer, they receive a full refund. The seller may be debited the corresponding amount if they do not process the refund themselves.

Return shipping fees are the responsibility of the seller if the item is non-conforming, damaged, or defective. eBay can provide a prepaid return label that the buyer prints and sticks on the package before depositing it at the indicated collection point. If the return is motivated by simple change of mind and the seller does not offer free returns, return fees can be deducted from the refund. The return package tracking is visible in the eBay return request for both parties.

How do I contact eBay?

eBay provides its users with several contact channels to obtain help regarding their purchases, sales, or account. Customer service is accessible by phone, email, live chat, and through a comprehensive online help center. These different options allow everyone to choose the communication method that suits them best depending on the urgency and nature of their request.

The online help center is the main entry point for resolving most issues. This comprehensive knowledge base answers the most frequently asked questions concerning purchases, sales, payments, returns, and account management. Detailed articles guide users step by step through common procedures. To access it, simply click "Help" at the bottom of any eBay page or go directly to the dedicated help page.

• France telephone: 01 73 00 17 10 (from France) or +33 1 73 00 17 10 (from abroad)
• Telephone hours: Monday to Friday, 7 AM to 7 PM
• France complaints email: [email protected]
• France mailing address: eBay France – 21, rue de la Banque – 75002 Paris
• European headquarters: eBay GmbH, Albert-Einstein-Ring 2-6, 14532 Kleinmachnow, Germany
• Live chat: Available 7 days a week via the eBay help page

Phone contact is recommended for urgent or complex issues requiring direct exchange with an advisor. The number 01 73 00 17 10 allows you to reach eBay France's customer service, billed at the rate of a local call. Advisors can assist you with questions concerning an ongoing transaction, a dispute with a seller or buyer, a payment problem, or any other difficulty related to using the platform. Wait times may be longer during peak hours.

Live chat offers a practical alternative to phone. Available seven days a week, this service allows you to exchange in writing with an eBay advisor in real time. This option is particularly suitable for people who prefer to keep a written record of their exchanges or who cannot phone. To access it, go to the help page and select the chat contact option after describing your problem.

For written requests or formal complaints, email is an appropriate channel. The address [email protected] is specifically dedicated to complaints for French users. A contact form is also available through the help center to submit a detailed request. Email responses may take several business days depending on the complexity of the request and volume of inquiries.

Postal mail remains an option for official requests, particularly regarding personal data or complaints requiring documentary support. The address eBay France – 21, rue de la Banque – 75002 Paris can be used for this type of correspondence. For legal questions or requests concerning data protection, the European headquarters in Germany can also be contacted.

Before contacting customer service, eBay recommends gathering all relevant information: order number, item ID, screenshots of exchanges with the seller, and precise description of the problem. These elements will allow the advisor to handle your request more efficiently. For disputes, it is preferable to have first attempted to resolve the issue directly with the seller before requesting eBay's intervention.

Understanding tracking statuses

When you track an eBay package online, different statuses may appear to inform you of delivery progress. These statuses are standardized by eBay, regardless of the carrier used or the country of origin of the shipment. Here are the main statuses and their meaning: