wooden_flower Volunteer Community Mentor.
mam98031 • Volunteer Community Member • Buyer/Seller since 1999
albertabrightalberta
I looked at a few of your items and only say estimated dates. Can you tell me one that has a guaranteed date?
I think the eGD program was eliminated some time ago probably during the pandemic, or maybe before that. You certainly can no longer filter search results by guaranteed dates.
Looking at the shipping details of the floral mug, I see
USPS Ground Advantage®
Estimated between Mon, Jan 13 and Thu, Jan 16 to 60047
Shipping: US $7.95
It looks like the items where you have used a generic ‘economy shipping’ say delivery in 2-4 days. It does not say guaranteed in 2-4 days.
Why use the generic label? Why not specify the service so that eBay can better estimate the delivery times? Even if you want to use a flat rate for shipping those items, list the service you are most likely to use.
You would get a better delivery estimate specifying the fedex or ups service you would use, just as well as usps. I mentioned usps ground only because that’s what your other items use.
Why estimate the shipping at all? Calculated shipping eliminates the need for that.
I don't see the word "guaranteed" on your listings. I did look at a few and they all say Estimated.
Every seller has to make the system work the best they can for them. If what you are doing doesn't work, then find another way. When you are ready to think creatively, you will find a solution that works for you. Perhaps it is a combination of several ways.
You obviously have a way to estimate the cost. How about using that same estimated cost but picking the most likely service?
Have I sold on eBay? Only 657,000 items 🙂
Well this is true even with the word estimate in the time shown. When a buyer purchases an item, they are given an estimated delivery window. Buyers want to know when to expect an item to arrive. No one would buy anything without a delivery time.
EBay works with the data you provide to create the estimate. Either give them all the data you can, or live with the results. We all do.
But keep in mind - an item arriving later that the delivery window can be returned as not as described. So it is in your best interest to provide the best data you can.
I think you have to look at it from the other side - the problem is not eBay generating estimated delivery times, since that is a given here and on every shopping site. So is the problem is that you don’t like the estimates? Or the fact that some don’t have the word estimate?
@sell2u0 wrote:I don't see the word estimate anywhere on any of my listings. They give a 1-2 or 3-4 delivery time.
Example:
https://www.ebay.com/itm/156626055856
Delivery:
Estimated between Tue, Jan 14 and Fri, Jan 17 to (zip code)
It looks like there’s a mix-up here. eBay doesn’t guarantee delivery dates—those are estimates based on the shipping method and handling time you’ve set in your listing. Only carriers like USPS, FedEx, or UPS can offer actual delivery guarantees, so eBay won’t hold you to those timeframes if you’ve done your part.
One thing to check is how you’re setting up shipping. If you’re using generic terms like "Economy Shipping," eBay has to guess delivery windows, which might not align with your process. If you specify a service (like USPS Ground or FedEx), the estimates are usually closer to reality. That’s what customers see—it shows on the screenshots. I’ve personally adjusted my handling times after similar issues a while back. If you’re concerned, you can even specify delivery times and expectations in each listing as part of your terms.
If you’re canceling orders because of this, that’s a red flag—it might be worth revisiting your handling times or messaging buyers after a sale to clarify delivery expectations. It’s not ideal, but it helps keep things smooth while you sort out the system. From my experience, if I want—and I do want—my customers to be happy and feedback to glow, I offer a discount on shipping or even a refund when something doesn’t meet their expectations.
Additionally, I’d recommend these steps:
Use Calculated Shipping: Instead of estimating costs, calculated shipping can take the guesswork out of the equation. Buyers see exact rates based on their location, and you’re less likely to lose money on shipping.
Set Realistic Handling Times: If you’re juggling a lot of orders, don’t hesitate to extend your handling time by a day or two. It’s better to set a realistic timeframe upfront than to risk missing the delivery window.
Consider Multi-Carrier Services: Listing multiple shipping options (e.g., USPS and FedEx) can give buyers flexibility. This also lets you choose the most reliable and cost-effective service after purchase.
Here’s some reading that might help:
I know this whole setup can be frustrating, but refining your shipping options, offering flexibility, and communicating with buyers can make a big difference. Hope this helps!
@sell2u0 wrote:Problem of Ebay putting delivery dates on my listings not solved, leaving sellers open to disputes and complaints.
I think it was a temporary thing as I see Estimated delivery dates on your listings.
