eBay updates its category structure, triggering complaints from sellers

Recently, eBay stated that in order to create a more intuitive buying, selling and searching experience, eBay will update some product category structures on its platform .

The announcement stated that starting from October 12, eBay will update the categories of collectibles and art , jewelry , musical instruments , parts and accessories , and sporting goods . In addition, eBay will also update the product detail pages.

eBay reminds that when the category structure changes, the seller's products may be automatically moved from the original category to another category. It should be noted that changing the category will cause the seller's expenses to change. Generally speaking, when the seller's products are moved to a new category with different fees, the fees will be calculated according to the price of the new category.

eBay said that as the update takes effect, sellers' product listing visibility and experience will be temporarily affected, and it is expected to return to normal within 48 hours, but there will be some abnormalities in the listing for up to a week. Therefore, eBay recommends that sellers check the product categories and details immediately after eBay's update is completed.

eBay's major category restructuring has caused dissatisfaction among many sellers.

Seller A: Some items wo n't be seen for 48 hours or a week? Why do this in the fourth quarter when sales are the busiest, and not in the summer or early in the year when sales are slow?

Seller B: In the morning, I was unexpectedly charged $1,400 in fees. By the evening, the fees had risen to over $2,700. I have contacted eBay twice and they have been unable to resolve the issue for me. I cannot express how upset I am with eBay.

Seller C: The fee changes are most concerning, but I’m also concerned that the new category structure will have a negative impact on sales and visibility.

In general, one of the complaints from many sellers is that eBay's adjustment of categories has increased their expenses. In addition, the adjustment during the peak sales season in the fourth quarter is also puzzling, and some sellers are worried that sales and exposure may be worse after the adjustment.

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