Zip Codes

[hyasnthgrl]

If a buyer wants to make an offer on your item, is it okay with eBay to ask them for their zip code?

[soh.maryl]

Probably no reason it would not be allowed, but what would be the point in asking for the buyer's zip? 

[m60driver · Accepted solution]

I have asked for zip codes several times without consequence.

[mtgraves7984]

If your listing is set up for Best Offer, the user's location and zip code will be shown on the offer when it's made. You could always revise the listing to include that option.

[hyasnthgrl]

I offer free shipping and need the zip code to figure out shipping cost.  The buyer asked for a discount on the item.

[buyselljack2016]

---

@hyasnthgrl wrote:

I offer free shipping and need the zip code to figure out shipping cost.  The buyer asked for a discount on the item.

---

All for naught, as the buyer can change the delivery zip at checkout.

Been there. Had that. Offer from same state. Checkout address in zone  6.

[ten_o_nine]

They have to make the offer first, then when you respond to the offer, the zip code will be displayed before you accept or deny. 

[monroe67]

"If a buyer wants to make an offer on your item, is it okay with eBay to ask them for their zip code?"

Your sewing patterns probably don't weigh much more than four (4) ounces each.  
Retail postage for a four-ounce item from your state would (currently) be about $1.92 to any zip code within the United States.   I just tested a few locations on the Retail Postage Price Calculator on usps.com, starting from my home Southern California zip code.  It was $1.92 to Augusta, Maine, or to Sarasota, Florida.  I can't imagine the postage would be much less if I sent a similar thing to San Francisco or Chicago.  

I don't know if that will help you, but I find that website very helpful:  usps.com. 

[buyselljack2016]

Free Shipping Includes USPS Tracking

Tracked shipping $3.62 to $4.26   up to 4oz

$4.01 - $4.45  over 4oz  -8oz.

[reallynicestamps]

https://postcalc.usps.com/Business/Index

Tell the customer to make an Offer.

You will see the zipcode.

We are not allowed to change the shipping on the listing, but we can change the price.

So if the listing is for $10 with $5 shipping (total $15)

and the offer is  $10 with Free Shipping (total $10)

 your counter offer would be $5 with $5 shipping (total $10)

If the customer can't understand that the transaction will not go well.

[hyasnthgrl]

Used eBay online chat and the answer was yes, you could ask for zip codes.  Thanks for your answer.