eBay Glossary – Every eBay Term Explained

A

AAMOF (As A Matter Of Fact)

A shorthand phrase sometimes used in eBay community forums or buyer–seller messages, typically to emphasize facts in discussions or negotiations.

Active Content

Refers to code elements such as JavaScript, Flash, or plug-ins once used in eBay listings for interactivity. eBay banned active content in 2017 to improve security, loading speed, and mobile compatibility.

AdCommerce

eBay’s retired advertising program that allowed sellers to promote their listings via sponsored ads across the platform. Today, this function is replaced by Promoted Listings and eBay Ads tools.

Address Verification System (AVS)

A security feature used in payment processing where the billing address entered by a buyer is compared with the address on file with the credit card issuer to prevent fraud.

Anchor Store

The highest-tier eBay Store subscription offering maximum benefits, including the lowest selling fees, premium listing tools, advanced analytics, and priority customer support. Best suited for high-volume sellers.

API (Application Programming Interface)

A set of tools and protocols that allow developers and businesses to connect external applications with eBay. Sellers use the eBay API for automated listing, inventory management, and order fulfillment.

ASQ (Ask Seller a Question)

An eBay communication feature that allows potential buyers to contact sellers directly about product details, shipping, or policies before making a purchase.

AS-IS

A selling condition where the item is listed in its current state with no guarantees, warranties, or return options. Commonly used for second-hand, damaged, or collectible goods.

Auction Duration

The length of time an auction listing remains active on eBay, typically 1, 3, 5, 7, or 10 days. Sellers choose this to control visibility and urgency.

Auction-Style Listing

A selling format where buyers bid competitively on an item, and the highest bidder at the end of the auction wins. Often used for rare, unique, or collectible products.

Auction Reserve Price

A minimum price set by the seller in an auction listing. If bids don’t reach this threshold, the item will not be sold. Helps sellers protect against selling valuable items too cheaply.

Automated Relisting

A feature that automatically reposts unsold items once an auction or fixed-price listing ends, saving sellers time and improving visibility for recurring inventory.

Auto (Autographed)

A common abbreviation used in eBay listings, especially in collectibles and sports memorabilia, to indicate that the item is signed by a celebrity, athlete, or public figure.

Auto-Accept / Auto-Decline

eBay seller settings that automatically accept or reject Best Offer submissions from buyers based on minimum and maximum price thresholds set by the seller.

Authentication Guarantee

An eBay program that ensures eligible items (like luxury watches, sneakers, handbags, and trading cards) are authenticated by third-party experts before reaching the buyer, boosting trust and reducing fraud.

B

BB (Be Back)

A shorthand used in eBay communities or chats to indicate the seller or buyer will return shortly.

Best Match

eBay’s default search algorithm that determines the order of search results based on relevance, listing quality, seller performance, and buyer engagement. Optimizing for Best Match helps sellers increase visibility and sales.

Best Offer

A listing feature that allows buyers to propose a price lower than the listed amount, giving sellers the flexibility to accept, decline, or counteroffer. Commonly used in fixed-price listings.

Bid

The amount a buyer offers in an auction-style listing. The highest bid at the end of the auction wins the item.

Bid History

A record of all bids placed on an auction-style listing, showing bidder usernames and bid amounts (with privacy protections).

Bid Increment

The minimum amount a new bid must exceed the current bid in an auction. eBay automatically calculates increments based on item price.

Bid Retraction

A feature that allows a buyer to withdraw a bid under certain conditions, such as entered the wrong amount or seller agreed to cancel. Misuse may affect buyer ratings.

BIN (Buy It Now)

A fixed-price listing option that lets buyers purchase an item immediately without participating in an auction. Offers a faster sale for sellers and convenience for buyers.

Blocked Bidder / Buyer List

A tool that allows sellers to restrict certain buyers from bidding or purchasing, often used for buyers with poor history or unpaid items.

Bold Listing Upgrade

A listing enhancement that makes the title bold in search results, increasing visibility and potentially improving click-through rates.

Booth (eBay store/shop)

Another term for an eBay Store, where sellers showcase multiple listings under a branded storefront.

BST (Buyer/Seller Transaction)

Refers to any transaction between a buyer and seller on eBay, including purchases, payments, and shipping.

Bulk Listing Tool

eBay tools that allow sellers to list multiple items at once, saving time and streamlining inventory management.

Business Policies (Payment, Shipping, Returns)

Templates that standardize payment methods, shipping rules, and return options for all listings, helping sellers save time and maintain consistency.

Business Protection (Buyer Protection / Money Back Guarantee)

eBay’s program to protect buyers if items are not received or significantly not as described, ensuring safe transactions.

Business Seller Account

A type of eBay account for businesses, offering additional features, analytics, and access to bulk selling tools.

Buyer’s Premium

A fee sometimes added in auctions (more common on third-party auction platforms, occasionally referenced in eBay discussions) for using eBay’s services.

Buyer Requirements

Settings that allow sellers to limit who can bid or buy, based on factors such as feedback score, location, or unpaid item history.

C

Catalog Listing

A listing that links to an existing eBay product catalog entry, helping buyers find items faster and improving search visibility. Catalog listings often include standard product details like images, title, and brand.

Category ID

A unique number assigned by eBay to each product category. Sellers use Category IDs when listing items, especially via bulk upload tools or APIs, to ensure accurate categorization and discoverability.

Category-Specifics

Attributes required or recommended for items in certain categories, such as brand, size, color, or model. Filling out specifics improves search relevance and buyer confidence.

Charity Listings (Giving Works)

Listings that allow sellers to donate a portion of sales to registered charities. Buyers can support causes while purchasing, and sellers can increase engagement through charitable programs.

Checkout

The process where a buyer reviews their cart, enters payment details, and confirms the purchase. eBay checkout ensures payment security and proper order processing.

Classified Ad Listing

A listing format where the item is advertised but sold offline. Buyers contact the seller to complete the transaction outside of eBay, commonly used for high-value or local-only items.

Combined Shipping Discount

A feature that allows sellers to offer reduced shipping costs when buyers purchase multiple items, encouraging higher order values.

Condition ID

A code used to define the condition of a product (e.g., New, Used, Refurbished). Accurate condition listing improves buyer trust and reduces returns.

Consignment

A selling arrangement where a seller lists items on behalf of another party and pays them after the sale. Common in collectibles and antiques.

Cross-Border Trade

Selling items internationally using eBay’s Global Shipping Program (GSP) or other international shipping options, expanding market reach.

CSV (Comma Separated Values)

A file format used for bulk uploading listings, importing, or exporting inventory and order data. CSV files are compatible with eBay File Exchange and other management tools.

CTR (Click-Through Rate)

A metric that measures the percentage of people who click on a listing after seeing it in search results. Optimizing titles, images, and keywords can increase CTR.

Custom Label (SKU field in Seller Hub)

A seller-defined stock-keeping unit (SKU) used to track inventory, manage listings, and organize products internally. It does not appear to buyers but is crucial for inventory management.

D

DSR (Detailed Seller Ratings)

A feedback system where buyers rate sellers on Item Description, Communication, Shipping Time, and Shipping Charges. High DSR scores improve seller reputation and search visibility.

Dispute Console

An eBay tool that allows sellers and buyers to manage and resolve disputes, including unpaid items, returns, or item not as described cases.

Domestic Shipping

Shipping of items within the seller’s home country, typically faster and less expensive than international shipping. Sellers often offer multiple domestic shipping options to improve buyer convenience.

Drop-Shipping

A business model where the seller does not keep inventory on hand. Instead, when an item sells, it is shipped directly from a supplier or manufacturer to the buyer. eBay allows drop-shipping from wholesalers but not from other retailers like Amazon.

Duration (Listing Duration)

The total time a listing is active on eBay. Options include 1, 3, 5, 7, 10 days, or Good ‘Til Cancelled (GTC). Duration affects visibility, bidding activity, and sales velocity.

Duplicate Listings Policy

eBay’s policy that prohibits listing identical items multiple times in the same category. Duplicate listings can confuse buyers, dilute search results, and may result in fees or restrictions.

E

eBay Bucks (loyalty program)

A rewards program where eligible buyers earn a percentage of their purchases as eBay Bucks, which can be redeemed for future purchases, encouraging repeat buying.

eBay Catalog

A structured database of product information that allows sellers to link listings to existing catalog entries, improving search visibility and listing consistency.

eBay File Exchange

A bulk listing tool for high-volume sellers that allows uploading, revising, and managing listings using CSV files. Ideal for inventory management and large-scale selling.

eBay Labels

Prepaid shipping labels generated through eBay that provide discounted postage rates and tracking features, simplifying fulfillment for sellers.

eBay Managed Payments

eBay’s integrated payment system that processes payments from buyers directly to sellers, streamlining transactions and reducing reliance on third-party processors like PayPal.

eBay Money Back Guarantee

A program that protects buyers if items are not received or are significantly not as described, ensuring safe transactions and building trust on the platform.

eBay Partner Network (EPN)

eBay’s affiliate program where individuals or businesses earn commissions by driving traffic or sales to eBay listings.

eBay Seller Hub

A central dashboard where sellers can manage listings, track sales, monitor performance, and access analytics tools for their eBay store.

eBay Store

A branded online storefront on eBay where sellers can showcase multiple listings, offer promotions, and enhance visibility through custom categories and design.

eBay Top Rated Seller

A status awarded to sellers who meet performance standards, including high DSR scores, shipping speed, and low defect rates, providing additional credibility and search benefits.

End Item (ending listing early)

A feature that allows sellers to end an active listing before its scheduled completion, often used when an item is no longer available or sold elsewhere.

Escrow

A secure payment arrangement where a third party holds funds until both buyer and seller meet agreed-upon conditions. Common for high-value eBay transactions.

Estimated Delivery Date (EDD)

The date provided by eBay or the seller indicating when the buyer can expect to receive the item, factoring in processing and shipping times.

EU VAT Number

A Value Added Tax identification number required for sellers doing business within the European Union to comply with tax regulations.

F

FVF (Final Value Fee)

A commission fee eBay charges sellers after a successful sale, calculated as a percentage of the total selling price including shipping.

Fixed Price Listing

A type of listing where items are sold at a set price rather than through an auction, giving buyers the option to purchase instantly.

Fraud Prevention Tools

Features and safeguards provided by eBay, such as buyer/seller verification, payment protection, and suspicious activity monitoring, to help reduce fraudulent transactions.

Feedback

A system where buyers and sellers rate each other based on transaction experience, contributing to overall trust and reputation on eBay.

Feedback Score

The numerical rating a seller earns from buyers (positive minus negative feedback). A higher score improves credibility and buyer confidence.

Featured Plus Listing (legacy upgrade)

A discontinued upgrade option that allowed sellers to highlight their listings at the top of search results, giving higher visibility.

File Exchange

eBay’s bulk listing management tool, enabling sellers to create, revise, and manage large inventories using CSV file uploads.

Flat Rate Shipping

A shipping method where the seller charges one set fee for delivery regardless of the buyer’s location, simplifying cost transparency.

For Parts or Not Working (Item condition)

An item condition category used when products are non-functional, damaged, or sold strictly for parts or repair.

Free Listing Promotions

Limited-time offers from eBay that allow sellers to list items without paying insertion fees, helping boost sales while reducing upfront costs.

Fulfillment Policy

Seller-defined rules within eBay’s business policies that determine handling times, shipping services, and delivery options for orders.

G

Gallery Plus (Listing Upgrade)

A paid upgrade that displays larger photos of your product in search results, increasing click-through and visibility.

Global Shipping Program (GSP)

eBay’s international shipping service that allows sellers to ship domestically to a U.S. shipping center, and eBay handles customs, duties, and international delivery.

Good ’Til Cancelled (GTC)

A listing duration option where fixed-price listings automatically renew every 30 days until the item sells or the seller ends it.

Gross Merchandise Value (GMV)

The total value of all goods sold on eBay over a specific period, often used to measure marketplace growth and performance.

Guaranteed Delivery

An eBay program that ensures buyers receive items within a specified timeframe, improving buyer confidence and increasing sales conversions.

Give Feedback

The process where buyers or sellers leave ratings and comments after a transaction to help build trust and maintain eBay’s reputation system.

Good Faith Violation

A seller’s breach of eBay’s rules or policies that appears to be unintentional but still results in warnings, penalties, or listing removal.

Gift Services

Optional seller-offered services such as gift wrapping, gift messaging, or special packaging available on select listings.

H

Handling Time

The number of business days a seller needs to ship an item after receiving payment. Shorter handling times often improve buyer trust and increase visibility in search results.

HTML (HyperText Markup Language)

The standard coding language used for structuring eBay listing descriptions, enabling sellers to format text, add images, and create tables.

Hit Counter

A tool that shows the number of views a listing has received, helping sellers measure item popularity and buyer interest.

High Bidder

The current highest bidder in an eBay auction-style listing.

Hold (on Funds)

A temporary delay placed by eBay or PayPal on releasing a seller’s funds, usually for new sellers, risky transactions, or account verification.

Hidden Reserve Price

A minimum selling price set by the seller in an auction listing. Bidders must reach this threshold before the item can be sold, but the reserve is not shown to buyers.

Holiday Returns Policy

An extended returns window offered during the holiday shopping season, often required by eBay to improve customer experience and boost seasonal sales.

I

Invoice

A detailed bill sent to the buyer after a purchase, showing the item price, shipping, taxes, and total amount due. Sellers can combine multiple purchases into one invoice to simplify checkout.

Insertion Fee

The listing fee eBay charges sellers to post an item for sale. This is separate from the Final Value Fee (FVF) charged when the item sells.

Item Not Received (INR)

A common buyer protection case opened when a buyer claims they haven’t received their purchased item within the expected delivery time.

Item Specifics

Detailed attributes (such as brand, size, color, material) that sellers add to listings to improve search visibility and buyer confidence.

International Shipping

The process of shipping items from one country to another, either via seller-managed services or through eBay’s Global Shipping Program (GSP).

Inventory Management

The system or tools sellers use to track stock levels, monitor sales velocity, and avoid overselling on eBay.

Immediate Payment

A feature where buyers must pay right away when they purchase via “Buy It Now,” preventing unpaid orders.

J

JavaScript

A programming language sometimes used in eBay listings for interactivity, though active content restrictions limit its usage for security reasons.

JIT (Just-In-Time Inventory)

An inventory management strategy where sellers stock only what is needed based on demand, reducing storage costs but requiring reliable suppliers and fast fulfillment.

Job Lot

A bulk sale of multiple items, often mixed or unsorted, sold together under one listing. Commonly used for clearance or wholesale.

Joint Account (Business Partnership)

An eBay business account owned or managed by two or more partners, typically registered as a business seller account.

JPEG (Joint Photographic Experts Group)

A commonly used image file format on eBay listings, known for balancing quality and file size, ensuring faster page loading.

K

Keyword

A word or phrase buyers use in eBay search to find products. Optimizing listings with relevant keywords improves visibility and ranking.

Keyword Spamming

The prohibited practice of adding irrelevant or excessive keywords to a listing title or description in order to manipulate eBay’s search results. This can lead to listing removal or account penalties.

Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)

The metrics sellers track to measure performance on eBay, such as sales, conversion rate, feedback score, and defect rate.

Kit / Bundled Listing

A listing that combines multiple related products sold together (e.g., camera + lens + bag) under one SKU to increase value and order size.

Knowledge Base

eBay’s help center and seller resources, where sellers can find official guides, rules, and troubleshooting support.

Knock-Offs (Counterfeit Items Policy)

Fake or counterfeit products imitating branded items. eBay strictly prohibits selling knock-offs under its Counterfeit Items Policy, and violations can result in listing removal, account suspension, or legal action.

L

Landing Page

The first page a buyer lands on after clicking an eBay ad, promotion, or external link. Optimized landing pages increase conversions.

Lead Time

The time between an order being placed and it being shipped. Shorter lead times help sellers maintain good account standing and improve buyer satisfaction.

Listing

An item offered for sale on eBay, which includes title, photos, description, price, shipping, and return policy.

Listing Duration

The length of time a listing remains active (e.g., 7-day auction, 30-day fixed-price, or Good ‘Til Cancelled).

Listing Designer

A now-retired eBay feature that allowed sellers to customize listing templates with predesigned themes.

Local Pickup

A shipping option where buyers collect the purchased item in person, often used for large, heavy, or fragile items.

Low Inventory Alerts

Notifications in Seller Hub or third-party tools that warn sellers when stock levels are running low, preventing overselling.

Loyalty Program

Reward programs (e.g., eBay Bucks) that encourage repeat purchases by giving buyers points, cashback, or credits.

LAA (List After Auction)

A feature that allows sellers to relist unsold auction items as fixed-price listings once the auction ends.

Layout Options

Different formatting and design settings sellers can apply to their listings for improved buyer experience and branding.

Live Auction (Retired Format)

A discontinued real-time auction feature on eBay where buyers placed bids live, similar to traditional in-person auctions.

Local Pickup

A delivery method where buyers collect items directly from the seller instead of having them shipped, often used for bulky or fragile items.

Lot (Grouped Items Sold Together)

Multiple related or bulk items sold under one listing, commonly used for wholesale or clearance sales.

Low Starting Bid Strategy

A pricing tactic where sellers begin an auction with a very low starting bid to attract attention, increase bids, and potentially drive higher final selling prices.

M

Managed Payments

eBay’s in-house payment processing system, replacing PayPal as the primary way buyers pay and sellers receive funds. It allows sellers to manage payments directly in Seller Hub.

MAP (Minimum Advertised Price)

A pricing policy set by manufacturers that restricts sellers from advertising products below a certain price, ensuring consistent brand value across marketplaces like eBay.

Markdown Manager

An eBay promotional tool that lets sellers create discounts, sales events, and price reductions to attract buyers and increase conversion rates.

Maximum Bid

The highest amount a buyer is willing to pay in an auction listing. eBay’s automated bidding system places incremental bids up to this limit.

Media Mail (USPS Option)

A low-cost shipping service in the U.S. for books, CDs, DVDs, and other educational media, often used by eBay sellers to reduce shipping costs.

MPN (Manufacturer Part Number)

A unique identifier assigned by manufacturers to individual parts or products, used in eBay listings to improve search accuracy and product matching.

Multi-Quantity Listing

A fixed-price listing format where sellers can offer multiple units of the same product under one listing, simplifying inventory management.

My eBay

The personalized dashboard for buyers and sellers, where users can track purchases, watch items, manage listings, and check account activity.

N

NARU (No Longer a Registered User)

A status applied to an eBay account that has been suspended or closed, meaning the user can no longer buy or sell on the platform.

New Listing Tool

eBay’s updated interface for creating listings, designed to simplify product entry, improve SEO, and ensure compliance with eBay policies.

Non-Paying Bidder (NPB)

A buyer who wins an auction but fails to pay. Sellers can open an Unpaid Item Case to recover fees and relist the item.

Non-Performance

A seller policy violation that occurs when a seller fails to deliver items as described, ships late, or cancels transactions excessively.

Notification Preferences

Settings in My eBay where users can control which alerts, emails, and updates they receive regarding purchases, sales, and account activity.

O

OBO (Or Best Offer)

A feature on fixed-price listings that lets buyers negotiate with sellers by submitting an offer lower than the listed price. Sellers can accept, decline, or counter the offer.

Order Details

The transaction summary for a purchase, including item information, buyer details, shipping address, and payment status. Accessible via My eBay or Seller Hub.

Order Management

The process of tracking, fulfilling, and updating customer orders on eBay. This includes payment processing, shipping, handling returns, and resolving disputes.

Outbound Shipping

The process of sending purchased items from the seller to the buyer, including shipping labels, carrier services, and delivery times.

Out of Stock Option

An eBay setting that allows sellers to keep fixed-price listings active even when inventory is temporarily out of stock, preserving sales history and SEO ranking.

P

PayPal (Legacy Payment Processor)

Previously the primary payment method on eBay, PayPal allowed buyers to pay securely and sellers to receive funds quickly. It has largely been replaced by eBay Managed Payments.

Payment Hold

A temporary withholding of funds by eBay or PayPal until the transaction is verified, tracking is uploaded, or buyer feedback confirms delivery. Common for new sellers or high-risk sales.

Payment Policy

Part of eBay’s Business Policies that defines accepted payment methods, immediate payment requirements, and handling of buyer payments.

PDF Invoice

A downloadable invoice in PDF format generated through eBay or third-party tools, often used for business transactions or record-keeping.

PowerSeller

A recognition program for sellers who consistently achieve high sales volume, excellent customer service, and positive feedback.

Private Listing

A listing where bidder and buyer identities are hidden from the public to protect privacy, often used for high-value or sensitive items.

Processing Time

The time sellers set between receiving an order and shipping the item, also known as handling time.

Product Identifier (UPC, EAN, ISBN, MPN

Standardized product codes used in eBay listings to improve search visibility, reduce errors, and comply with catalog requirements.

Promotions Manager

An eBay tool that allows sellers to create discounts, sales events, and special offers to drive traffic and boost conversions.

Q

QTY (Quantity)

Refers to the number of units available or sold in a listing. In multi-quantity listings, buyers can purchase more than one item at a time.

Question to Seller

A feature in eBay listings that allows buyers to send inquiries directly to the seller regarding product details, shipping, or policies before making a purchase.

R

Relist

The action of putting an unsold item back on eBay after a listing ends. Sellers can choose manual relisting or use eBay’s automated relist option.

Reserve Price

The minimum price a seller is willing to accept in an auction-style listing. If bidding doesn’t reach this price, the item won’t be sold.

Return Policy

The seller-defined terms for accepting returns, including timeframes, conditions, and whether buyers or sellers pay return shipping.

Returns / Refunds

eBay’s process for handling buyer returns and issuing refunds if an item is defective, not as described, or unwanted. Covered under eBay’s Money Back Guarantee.

Revise Listing

An option that allows sellers to update or edit active listings, including price, quantity, title, and item specifics, depending on listing format and restrictions.

RRP (Recommended Retail Price)

The suggested selling price set by the manufacturer, often shown in listings to highlight discounts and attract buyers.

S

Sales Tax Table

A seller tool that lets sellers set up tax collection rules by state, country, or region to comply with tax regulations.

Second Chance Offer

A feature allowing sellers to offer an item to non-winning bidders at their highest bid price if the winning bidder doesn’t complete the transaction or if the seller has multiple units.

Seller Account

An eBay account registered for selling, requiring verification, payment method setup, and agreement to eBay’s selling policies.

Seller Dashboard

A centralized performance overview showing seller ratings, policy compliance, and account health.

Seller Hub

eBay’s main selling interface, offering tools for listing, order management, marketing, analytics, and performance monitoring.

Seller Protection Policy

eBay’s set of policies that protect sellers against fraudulent buyers, false claims, or unfair returns.

Seller Standards (Performance Metrics)

eBay’s benchmarks that measure seller performance, including on-time shipping, defect rate, and customer service quality.

Seller Verification

eBay’s process of confirming a seller’s identity and business details, often required for compliance and security.

Selling Manager Pro

A subscription tool offering advanced listing management, reporting, and automation features, designed for high-volume sellers.

SEO (Search Engine Optimization on eBay)

The practice of optimizing titles, descriptions, and item specifics to improve visibility in eBay’s search engine (Cassini).

Shipping Calculator

An eBay tool that helps sellers and buyers estimate shipping costs based on package weight, size, and delivery location.

Shipping Label

A label generated through eBay or third-party services that includes shipping details, tracking number, and carrier information.

Shipping Policy

A part of eBay’s business policies that defines shipping methods, costs, handling time, and delivery locations.

Shopping Cart

A feature that allows buyers to add multiple items before checkout, making it easier to purchase from different sellers at once.

SNIPE (Automated Last-Second Bidding)

A bidding strategy where buyers place a bid at the very last moment of an auction to win without giving competitors time to respond.

Sniping Software

Automated tools that execute last-second bids on auction listings, often used by buyers to increase chances of winning.

Sourcing

The process sellers use to find products to list on eBay, including wholesale, retail arbitrage, liquidation, or dropshipping.

SSL (Secure Sockets Layer)

A security protocol ensuring encrypted data transfer on eBay, protecting sensitive buyer and seller information.

Store Categories

Custom categories sellers create within their eBay Store to organize products and make browsing easier for buyers.

Store Inventory Format

A listing format available to eBay Store subscribers for long-term, lower-cost fixed-price listings, often used for bulk or niche products.

Sub-Title (Listing Upgrade)

A paid upgrade that allows sellers to add a secondary line of text below the listing title to provide additional information and attract buyers.

T

Template (Listing Template)

A pre-set format sellers use to create consistent listings, including layout, images, policies, and product details.

Title (Listing Title)

The headline of an eBay listing, which is critical for search visibility and buyer attention. Optimized titles use relevant keywords without keyword stuffing.

Token (API Authentication)

A digital key used in eBay’s API system to authenticate and authorize third-party applications to access seller accounts securely.

Top Rated Seller (TRS)

A seller recognition program awarded to sellers who maintain excellent customer service, fast shipping, and strong performance metrics.

Tracking Number

A unique code provided by shipping carriers that allows buyers and sellers to track the delivery progress of an order.

Transaction Defect Rate (TDR)

A performance metric that measures problems in transactions, such as cancellations, item-not-as-described cases, or unresolved issues.

TRS+ (Top Rated Seller Plus)

An enhanced version of Top Rated Seller that requires 1-day handling and 30-day free returns, offering sellers extra discounts and higher visibility.

Turbo Lister (Retired Listing Tool)

A discontinued eBay software once used by sellers to bulk-upload and manage listings offline before submitting them to eBay.

U

Unpaid Item (UPI)

A situation where a buyer wins or commits to purchase an item but fails to complete the payment within eBay’s specified time.

UPC (Universal Product Code)

A standardized product identifier (usually a 12-digit barcode) required in many eBay categories for catalog consistency and improved search visibility.

User Agreement

The legal contract between eBay and its users, outlining terms, policies, and responsibilities for both buyers and sellers.

User ID

A unique username chosen by each eBay member, visible to others and used for identification in transactions and communications.

V

VAT (Value Added Tax)

A consumption tax applied to goods and services, which sellers may need to collect and remit depending on the buyer’s location and eBay’s tax rules.

Verified Rights Owner (VeRO) Program

eBay’s intellectual property protection program that allows rights owners to report listings that infringe on their copyrights, trademarks, or patents.

Variation Listing (multi-variation products)

A type of listing that enables sellers to offer multiple variations of the same product (e.g., different sizes, colors, or styles) within one listing.

View Item Page

The individual product page on eBay where buyers can see details, images, pricing, seller info, and options to purchase or bid.

W

Watch List

A personalized eBay feature where buyers can save items of interest to monitor them without committing to purchase.

Watching

The act of tracking an item by adding it to your Watch List to stay updated on bidding activity or price changes.

Wholesale Lots

Bulk listings where sellers offer large quantities of products (often at discounted rates) targeted toward resellers.

Wishlist

A buyer’s list of desired items saved for potential future purchase or as a shopping reminder.

Working Condition

A condition description stating that the item is fully functional and operational, as intended by the manufacturer.

X

XML Feed

A structured data feed format (Extensible Markup Language) used by sellers and third-party tools to upload, update, or synchronize large amounts of eBay listing data.

X-Large Image Upgrade (legacy)

A retired eBay listing enhancement feature that allowed sellers to display larger product images for improved visibility and buyer engagement.

Y

YMMV (Your Mileage May Vary)

A common buyer/seller slang phrase meaning results, experiences, or outcomes may differ depending on the individual situation. Often used in discussions about product performance, shipping, or promotions.

YTD (Year-to-Date Sales)

A financial metric showing the total sales revenue generated from January 1st to the current date within the same calendar year, useful for tracking eBay business performance.

Z

Zero Feedback Buyer

An eBay buyer with no prior transactions or feedback history. Some sellers may set restrictions or additional requirements for these accounts to minimize risk.

ZIP Code (Postal Code)

A numerical postal code used for determining shipping costs, delivery times, and eligibility for certain eBay services.

ZIF (Zero Insertion Fee)

A seller promotion where listings can be created without paying the usual insertion fee, often limited to a certain number of listings per month.

ZMB (Zero Manual Bidding)

Refers to the use of automated bidding tools that place bids on behalf of the buyer, reducing or eliminating the need for manual bidding during an auction.