When you start selling on eBay, one of the reasons you chose this platform was its global reach. Indeed, eBay is one of the giants in the e-commerce industry, showcasing your products to buyers worldwide due to its popularity and reputation.
All of that seems good and exciting until you have to deal with the shipping hurdles with international buyers. That’s why I created this guide for the eBay International Shipping Program.
It can be confusing when you’re new to shipping orders internationally on eBay. Aside from the higher shipping costs and times, many variables can also impact the logistics.
For a new seller, it can be overwhelming. However, once you know how this shipping program works, you can take advantage of it to gain more confidence from eBay international buyers.
This guide aims to help sellers understand how they can streamline international sales, whether you are a small-scale or high-volume eBay seller!
In this guide, you will learn about using eBay international shipping, the evolution of eBay’s international shipping programs, and the types of sellers that can benefit from this program. You can also get a step-by-step guide on opting in to the international shipping program!
Now, let’s get to it!
Key Takeaways
- The eBay international shipping service is available for top-rated and well-performing sellers on eBay who want to ship to over 200 countries worldwide.
- The program benefits sellers who want to expand their market reach and sell to more customers internationally without the hassle of international shipping.
- With this program, eBay will handle all aspects of global shipping, including customer returns, taxes, and customs. You must ship the items to the domestic hub of eBay, and they will ship it to international buyers.
- Compared to other international shipping services, such as Amazon, eBay offers more competitive shipping costs.
How the eBay International Shipping Program Works
The eBay international shipping is offered by the ecommerce platform to simplify how sellers located in the US engage in global trade. It’s good news for eBay sellers because you can expand your market reach, ensuring you get more customers for your online business.
Imagine that your eBay store can sell to the US audience and is now visible to up to 200 countries globally. If you can get more sales from the UK, Australia, Germany, China, and other countries, imagine what that will do to your bottom line!
But if you’re worried about the steep shipping costs and complexities of international shipping, worry no more. The eBay international shipping program is designed to resolve this issue.
Now, this is how eBay international shipping works. When you sign up to eBay as a buyer, you can select your location, whether you’re in the USA or not.
This part is crucial because eBay will filter the results when shopping on the platform, depending on what products and sellers can ship to your country. Keep in mind that not all sellers or products can be shipped internationally, and some are only available for shipping to select destinations.
Therefore, eBay sellers must opt in to the eBay international shipping program to get added exposure to your products. When you are part of eBay international shipping, customers from over 200 countries worldwide can see your products for a relevant search.
For example, when you look at this product and scroll to the “Shipping, Returns, and Payments” section, you will see that it will be shipped from the US.
The seller has listed the eligible countries for the international shipping option. While some exceptions exist, they can ship this product to almost any country worldwide.
Aside from the shipping locations, you will also find additional information on various shipping options. Free shipping options are available in certain locations and expedited shipping (with an extra charge).
Since the seller is enrolled in the eBay international shipping program, the shipping costs will be paid by eBay for their part in providing the handling and shipping services. The seller will only receive the amount according to the item’s value.
From Global Shipping Program to eBay International Shipping
If eBay’s international shipping program sounds familiar, it’s because eBay has introduced a similar program before – the eBay Global Shipping Program. However, this was replaced by the current program in March 2023 to introduce better and more efficient features and services.
You can enjoy all the benefits of the Global Shipping Program, but they have improved the experience to make it accessible and easier to understand. The shipping costs are also considerably lower.
However, the biggest change to the new program is that eBay handles every aspect of international shipping! Now, all eBay sellers must ship the item to the eBay domestic shipping hub, and they will take care of the rest.
It’s one less thing for sellers to worry about.
Benefits of Signing Up to eBay’s International Shipping Program
Since the international shipping program delivers to most countries worldwide, it is no surprise that shipping costs can be quite expensive, although they differ in specific locations.
Some countries entail higher shipping costs than others. However, don’t let this discourage you from enrolling in international shipping services from eBay.
You’d be surprised at how many customers are willing to pay for unavailable products in their country. Sometimes, the item’s value is so steep when they buy it locally that they would rather pay more for an international shipping option.
Another advantage for sellers who sign up for international shipping services from eBay is that they can compete with other online marketplaces’ shipping services, such as Amazon. Despite Amazon’s global shipping services, eBay offers better shipping costs, making it more appealing to international buyers.
Now, let’s compare a product I found on Amazon to determine the differences in shipping costs for the same item and item value.
I found the same product example I showed above on Amazon. When shipping that item on eBay to Norway, the shipping fee is $44.05, but with Amazon, this seller cannot ship to Norway, as it is not eligible under Amazon’s fulfillment services.
Another seller has listed the same item as found on eBay, and this one ships to Norway. However, there is a considerable difference in the shipping costs with Amazon, which is $67.17. So, that is over $20 in difference in shipping costs between Amazon and eBay.
So, you can see that eBay’s international shipping services are superior to other global shipping services, specifically against that of Amazon. Of course, you can expect slight cost changes depending on the shipping destination.
However, this should give you an overview of the shipping cost differences for a similar item using different shipping programs.
When a customer orders under the eBay international shipping program, eBay will provide the seller with a local US address and a unique reference number. The seller must ship the item to that local US address via a domestic shipping hub.
Add the unique reference number under the Address 2 section so that eBay will know which address to ship the item to.
eBay’s international shipping hub is located in Illinois. Once you’ve shipped the item to this US address, eBay will handle everything else.
They will create a new shipping label and provide an international tracking number on the order page so international buyers can see this information. This allows buyers to track the item and know when they can expect the item to be shipped by eBay.
Which Sellers Can Benefit from eBay’s International Shipping Services?
Before knowing how to opt into this program, let’s talk about which sellers can benefit from enlisting in this shipping program.
This program benefits a wide range of sellers, especially those wanting to ship products outside the US.
Whether you’re an individual business owner or a wholesaler, joining this international shipping method will help you expand the reach of your store globally. You can attract more potential international buyers to your store without worrying about the hassle of international shipping.
With this international shipping option, eBay will handle customs clearance, tax duties, international returns, and other customer service issues. Hence, you focus on sourcing, listing, and promoting your products in-store.
If this sounds good, continue reading the next part to learn how to sign up.
How to Opt-In to the eBay International Shipping Program
Joining eBay’s international shipping methods is easy using the following steps.
Step 1: Sign up via the eBay international shipping link.
Go to https://www.ebay.com/ship/prf or hover your mouse on the top left corner and choose Account Settings.
Step 2: Check your shipping preferences.
Once logged into your account, scroll down to find Shipping Preferences to know your status.
Step 3: Enroll in the shipping program.
Check under Shipping Service and find eBay’s International Shipping Program. On the right, you will see the status. If it says “Not Enrolled”, click on Actions and choose Enroll.
This action will activate your products in the eBay global market. It may take up to 24 hours for your product listings to become visible to international buyers. So, check again after 24 hours to see if the status has been updated.
Pros and Cons of eBay International Shipping
The opportunity to expose your products to a global audience is a dream for many sellers online. Now, who wouldn’t want the opportunity to streamline international sales?
But before you decide if this shipping service is right for you, you should learn about its potential benefits and drawbacks.
Pros of eBay International Shipping Service
- eBay will handle international returns, complaints, and other customer concerns regarding this shipping method. For example, if an item is lost or damaged, eBay will handle customer claims and support. It relieves eBay sellers of this significant burden of addressing international shipping problems.
- It eliminates the need for sellers to handle the paperwork involved with customs clearance and taxes duties. eBay will handle that for you.
- You won’t have to pay eBay an extra fee to handle the shipping services for your international orders. Thus, you can enjoy these benefits while keeping your earnings for the item price.
Cons of eBay International Shipping Service
- Not all products are eligible for international shipping services on eBay due to international regulations and restrictions on certain objects. Some examples include hazardous materials or perishable items. There are also limitations on the size and weight of items for international shipping. In most countries, items over $2,500 are not eligible for the international shipping method.
- Sellers must meet certain performance standards on eBay before qualifying for this program. To qualify for this international shipping service, you must be a Top Rated or Above Standard seller. Hence, you must keep your transaction defects and late shipments to a minimum if you wish to qualify.
- You must adhere to eBay’s selling policies and provide excellent customer service. If your performance drops below the program’s standards, you can lose access to the program until your rating improves.
Conclusion: Is This Program Right For You?
Are you ready to achieve global reach for your eBay store?
If you answered yes, eBay’s International Shipping Program could be the answer. As long as you qualify for the program, you can enjoy its many benefits, such as catering to customers worldwide and expanding your product reach.
It simplifies your international transactions and allows you to focus on the core aspects of your business – finding products and promoting your listings!
If you think this program is a good idea, follow the steps to start! Good luck as you venture into international selling and shipping!
Go Global with ZIK’s Product Research Tool
Selling through the eBay International Shipping Program? Use ZIK’s eBay Product Research Tool to discover which items have global demand and strong sell-through rates. Filter products by country to spot high-performing listings and avoid international shipping guesswork. Reach more buyers and scale your eBay business confidently with data.
FAQs
Does eBay still do the global shipping program?
No, the Global Shipping Program (GSP) has been phased out in the U.S. and replaced by the eBay International Shipping Program. Since March 31, 2023, eBay has been rolling out this new system to eligible international sellers
What is the difference between the eBay International Shipping Program and the Global Shipping Program?
The eBay International Shipping Program replaced the Global Shipping Program. Both handle customs, tracking, and delivery for overseas orders, but the new program offers lower costs, simpler returns, and expanded buyer protection. Sellers using GSP were automatically transitioned to the updated service when eligible.
Does eBay repack international shipments?
Yes, under both the older Global Shipping Program (GSP) and the newer eBay International Shipping, items may be inspected and repackaged at the hub only if the packaging is damaged or deemed inadequate upon arrival.
How long does it take for eBay international shipping?
eBay International Shipping delivery times vary by destination, but typically range from 9 to 15 business days. Factors like customs clearance, destination country, and chosen shipping service can affect speed. Buyers can track their orders through eBay for more accurate delivery estimates.
How does the eBay international shipping program work?
The eBay International Shipping Program lets sellers ship items to a domestic hub, where eBay handles customs, international delivery, and returns. Sellers pay only for shipping to the hub, while buyers cover international costs. This simplifies global sales and provides tracking and protection for both parties.
Does eBay charge for international shipping?
No, sellers typically only pay to ship items to the domestic eBay shipping hub. Any additional international shipping fees, customs duties, taxes, and delivery charges are charged to the buyer at checkout or upon delivery, depending on the program used (e.g., Global Shipping or eBay International Shipping).
Is eBay reliable for international shipping?
Yes, eBay’s international shipping is generally reliable for sellers, as it streamlines customs, returns, and tracking, making the process straightforward and secure. However, some buyers report occasional delays or packaging issues once the item leaves the domestic hub.