eBay

wanutwickram_0 · ‎12-21-2024

Hi eBay Community,

I recently applied for Forward-Deployed Inventory Approval for my eBay store. I am based in Sri Lanka, and my inventory is stored in a warehouse in China, with direct shipping to buyers.

Could anyone share how long it typically takes for eBay to approve such requests? I’ve submitted the necessary documents and am waiting for confirmation.

Thank you in advance for any insights!

lacemaker3 · ‎12-22-2024

@wanutwickram_0

What you are doing is called "drop shipping". It's not "forward deployed inventory".

Forward deployed inventory is when you hire ware house facilities in the country where your buyers are located, and ship your own product to the ware house before it is sold or purchased by the buyers. The warehouse has to be in the same country as your buyers, so unless you are selling to buyers in China, that is not what you described.

For drop shipping from China, I believe you are required to use eBay SpeedPAK shipping.

https://export.ebay.com/sea-en/policies/direct-shipping-policy/

For your information, drop shipping is the most difficult business model to be successful with, and drop shipping from China is virtually impossible. You are competing with hundreds of thousands of other sellers who are trying to do the same thing, but buyers don't want to buy anything that is drop shipped from China.

fbusoni · ‎12-22-2024

@wanutwickram_0 wrote:
I am based in Sri Lanka, and my inventory is stored in a warehouse in China, with direct shipping to buyers.

@wanutwickram_0

This means that you will never see the items that you are selling on eBay.

You have no idea about product quality or reliability.

Nor will you ever know if the factory in China has the inventory in stock when someone buys it.

Hopefully you will not last on eBay more than a few weeks.

eBay seller since 1999. This is a posting ID.

wanutwickram_0 · ‎12-22-2024

@lacemaker3

Thank you for the clarification and the detailed explanation about forward deployed inventory versus drop shipping. I appreciate your insights.

You’re correct that what I’m doing aligns more with the drop shipping model rather than forward deployed inventory. While I understand the challenges associated with drop shipping—especially from China due to competition, shipping delays, and buyer skepticism—I believe that with the right strategies, it's possible to overcome some of these difficulties.

Here are a few points I'd like to address:

eBay Policies and SpeedPAK Shipping: I’m aware of eBay’s direct shipping policy and the requirement to use SpeedPAK shipping for certain regions. I ensure that I comply with all of eBay’s policies to maintain a good seller standing and provide the best experience for buyers.
Buyer Concerns About Drop Shipping: While some buyers may have reservations about products being shipped from China, I focus on ensuring transparent communication, competitive pricing, and quality customer service to build trust and loyalty.
Standing Out in a Competitive Market: I recognize that drop shipping is a challenging business model, especially when sourcing from China. To stand out, I continuously research trends, select unique and in-demand products, and aim to optimize my listings with clear descriptions, professional images, and competitive pricing. Additionally, I strive to identify niche markets where the competition might be less intense.

I value feedback like yours, as it helps me refine my approach and understand the nuances of e-commerce better. Thank you for taking the time to share your perspective! If you have any additional suggestions or insights, I’d be happy to hear them.

wanutwickram_0 · ‎12-22-2024

@fbusoni

Thank you for your concerns, but I’d like to clarify a few points about how I operate my business:

I take full responsibility for the products I sell on eBay. While it’s true that I don’t physically handle the items, I go to great lengths to ensure the reliability and quality of the products I list. Here’s how:

Thorough Supplier Vetting: I only work with reliable and verified suppliers who have a proven track record of delivering high-quality products. I also communicate with them regularly to ensure stock availability and consistency.
Product Research and Testing: Before listing an item, I carefully research and, in many cases, test the product myself to verify its quality. If I’m not confident in a product, I won’t sell it.
Inventory Monitoring: I use tools and maintain constant communication with suppliers to monitor inventory levels and ensure that stock is available when a buyer places an order.
Customer Service and Accountability: If any issues arise—be it quality concerns, delivery delays, or inventory mishaps—I take full responsibility. I offer refunds, replacements, or other resolutions to ensure customer satisfaction.

I’m committed to running a legitimate and customer-focused business on eBay. I believe that by being proactive, transparent, and responsive, I can build a positive reputation and provide buyers with a reliable shopping experience.

Your concerns are valid, and I understand where you’re coming from. But I’m confident in my ability to manage my business responsibly and successfully. Thank you for your feedback!

lacemaker3 · ‎12-22-2024

Sorry, but that's what every single one of the sellers who fails at drop shipping believes. That's just AI-generated nonsense. It doesn't mean anything. And so far, you're not doing any of it, anyway.

You haven't outlined anything that would make you different. You didn't even realize what your business model actually was, until I pointed out that you had described it incorrectly. I hope you haven't borrowed money to do this.

ryry-jj · ‎12-22-2024

The biggest problem with this business model , no matter how hard you try, you are not 100% in control. It only takes a small % of dissatisfied transactions to smoke you. Those BBE will happen. It's bad enough we all give up control once we drop packaged with couriers, don't leave your inventory controls to someone else too.

My bigger question, "who" keeps promoting this business model to sellers as a way to do business on eBay? One after the other keeps coming on board while one after the other keeps getting doused by ebay. As long as the pipe line of sellers keep coming on board, the "factory/warehouse" doesn't care how long you last.

wanutwickram_0 · ‎12-22-2024

@lacemaker3

I appreciate your concerns and your straightforward feedback. It’s true that drop shipping can be challenging, and I don’t take that lightly. However, I respectfully disagree with your assumption that I’m not taking steps to differentiate myself or understand my business model. Let me clarify further:

Understanding My Business Model: While I initially didn’t use the correct terminology, that doesn’t mean I lack understanding of how my business works. I have researched extensively and am continuously learning to refine my strategies. Your input helped me articulate my model better, and I thank you for that.
What Makes Me Different: I stand out because I take full responsibility for every product I sell, ensuring reliability and customer satisfaction. I’m not just copying and pasting listings blindly, as many drop shippers do. I:
- Focus on niches with less saturation and higher demand.
- Build relationships with trusted suppliers, ensuring consistent quality and communication.
- Monitor customer feedback closely and use it to improve my processes.
Practical Action Plan:
- I aim to maintain 100% compliance with eBay policies and avoid shortcuts that could jeopardize my account.
- I prioritize excellent customer service, handling issues like delays or defects promptly.
- I actively optimize my listings with proper research into titles, descriptions, and pricing.
Financial Responsibility: No, I haven’t borrowed money to run this business. I am operating within my means and scaling gradually to minimize risk.

You’re right that many people fail at drop shipping because they don’t take it seriously or underestimate its challenges. However, I’m determined to approach this with diligence and professionalism. Constructive criticism is always welcome, and I’ll use it as an opportunity to improve. Thanks again for sharing your perspective!

wanutwickram_0 · ‎12-22-2024

@ryry-jj

You're absolutely right—this business model comes with significant risks, especially the lack of full control over inventory and shipping. A small percentage of dissatisfied customers can indeed harm an eBay account quickly. That’s why I’m cautious, working to mitigate these risks as much as possible by partnering with reliable suppliers and focusing on customer service.

As for who promotes this model, it’s often marketed by online courses and “gurus” as a quick and easy way to make money. Unfortunately, many people dive in without understanding the challenges, which is why so many fail. I’m aware of these pitfalls and am working to approach this business responsibly and strategically.

janet9988 · ‎12-22-2024

@wanutwickram_0 wrote:
@lacemaker3
Thank you for the clarification and the detailed explanation about forward deployed inventory versus drop shipping. I appreciate your insights.
You’re correct that what I’m doing aligns more with the drop shipping model rather than forward deployed inventory. While I understand the challenges associated with drop shipping—especially from China due to competition, shipping delays, and buyer skepticism—I believe that with the right strategies, it's possible to overcome some of these difficulties.
Here are a few points I'd like to address:
eBay Policies and SpeedPAK Shipping: I’m aware of eBay’s direct shipping policy and the requirement to use SpeedPAK shipping for certain regions. I ensure that I comply with all of eBay’s policies to maintain a good seller standing and provide the best experience for buyers.
Buyer Concerns About Drop Shipping: While some buyers may have reservations about products being shipped from China, I focus on ensuring transparent communication, competitive pricing, and quality customer service to build trust and loyalty.
Standing Out in a Competitive Market: I recognize that drop shipping is a challenging business model, especially when sourcing from China. To stand out, I continuously research trends, select unique and in-demand products, and aim to optimize my listings with clear descriptions, professional images, and competitive pricing. Additionally, I strive to identify niche markets where the competition might be less intense.
I value feedback like yours, as it helps me refine my approach and understand the nuances of e-commerce better. Thank you for taking the time to share your perspective! If you have any additional suggestions or insights, I’d be happy to hear them.

Seriously. You have already violated ebay policy in your listing.

You have the item located in Sri Lanka yet you have shipping set up as shipping from China.

You are not allowed to misrepresent the items true location.

Also you claim fast delivery... yet it will take up to 2 months for me to receive the item.

Hard to build trust when you seem to think it is okay to lie.

Lift your left leg at midnight to start off on the right foot. Happy new Year!

wanutwickram_0 · ‎12-22-2024

@janet9988

Thank you for bringing this to my attention. I sincerely apologize for any confusion caused. I am in the process of obtaining the necessary approvals, and I’ll ensure the listing is updated to reflect accurate details. Your feedback is appreciated, and I’ll work to resolve this promptly.

kensgiftshop · ‎12-22-2024

@wanutwickram_0 wrote:
I aim to maintain 100% compliance with eBay policies and avoid shortcuts that could jeopardize my account.

You've done failed that with the 1 listing you have up now.

Have a great day.

kensgiftshop · ‎12-22-2024

@wanutwickram_0 wrote:
@janet9988
Thank you for bringing this to my attention. I sincerely apologize for any confusion caused. I am in the process of obtaining the necessary approvals, and I’ll ensure the listing is updated to reflect accurate details. Your feedback is appreciated, and I’ll work to resolve this promptly.

You should remove the listing until you get the necessary approvals.

Have a great day.