Step 1: Prepare Your Item for Shipping
Gather Necessary Packing Supplies
Before you even list an item, or immediately after a sale, gather all the necessary packing supplies. This includes a sturdy box (new or gently used, free of old labels and damage), appropriate void fill (bubble wrap, packing peanuts, crumpled newspaper, air pillows), packing tape (2-inch wide, strong adhesive, not masking tape or scotch tape), and scissors or a box cutter. For fragile items, consider double boxing and using foam inserts. Always ensure your box is large enough to allow for at least 2 inches of cushioning on all sides of the item.
Securely Package Your Item
Begin by wrapping your item thoroughly in bubble wrap or foam, securing it with tape. Place the wrapped item in the center of your chosen box. Fill all empty spaces around the item with void fill material, ensuring the item cannot shift or move when the box is gently shaken. For very fragile items, consider wrapping the item, placing it in a smaller box, and then placing that smaller box inside a larger box with additional cushioning between the two boxes. Seal all seams of the outer box with packing tape, using the “H” method (taping all three seams on both the top and bottom of the box).
Step 2: Create Your eBay Shipping Label
Select Your Shipping Service and Carrier
After your item sells, navigate to “Sold” items in your My eBay section. Click “Print shipping label” next to the sold item. On the label creation page, you’ll see options for various carriers like USPS, FedEx, and UPS, along with different service levels (e.g., USPS Priority Mail, FedEx Ground, UPS SurePost). Consider the item’s weight, dimensions, destination, and the buyer’s expected delivery time. For items under 1 lb, USPS First Class Package Service is often the most economical. For heavier items, compare Priority Mail (USPS), FedEx Ground/Home Delivery, and UPS Ground for cost and delivery speed. eBay often provides discounted rates compared to retail prices.
Enter Package Dimensions and Weight
Accurately measure the length, width, and height of your *packaged* item using a tape measure. Round up to the nearest inch. Weigh your packaged item using a digital postal scale. This is crucial for accurate postage calculation. Even a slight discrepancy can lead to surcharges from the carrier, which eBay will pass on to you. Enter these precise dimensions and weight into the eBay shipping label interface. Double-check these numbers before proceeding to payment.
Step 3: Print and Attach Your Label
Print Your Shipping Label
After entering the package details and selecting your service, review the total cost. If everything looks correct, click “Purchase and print label.” Use a standard inkjet or laser printer with plain white paper. Ensure the barcode is clear, dark, and free of smudges or streaks. If your printer has low ink, replace the cartridge before printing, as an unreadable barcode can cause delays or returns. You can also print labels on adhesive label paper (e.g., 4×6 thermal labels) for easier application.
Securely Attach the Label to Your Package
Cut out the shipping label, ensuring you don’t cut off any part of the barcode or address information. Affix the label squarely and smoothly onto the largest side of your package, avoiding any seams, corners, or tape lines. Use clear packing tape to cover the entire label, ensuring no part of the barcode is obscured or wrinkled. Do not use frosted tape or tape that might make the barcode unreadable. If using a self-adhesive label, ensure it is firmly pressed down across its entire surface. Avoid placing tape over the “Do Not Cover” or “Barcode” areas if specified on the label.
Step 4: Ship Your Package and Track Delivery
Drop Off Your Package at the Carrier Location
For USPS, you can drop off packages at any post office, schedule a free package pickup from your home or business via USPS.com, or deposit them in a blue collection box (if they fit and weigh under 13 oz for First Class or meet other specific criteria). For FedEx and UPS, drop off at their respective retail locations (FedEx Office, UPS Store) or authorized drop-off points. Always obtain a receipt or scan confirmation when dropping off, if possible, as proof of shipment. This is your first line of defense if a tracking issue arises.
Monitor Tracking and Communicate with Buyer
Once you drop off the package, the tracking information will automatically update on eBay. Periodically check the tracking status to ensure the package is moving towards its destination. If you notice any unusual delays or issues, proactively contact the carrier with the tracking number to inquire. If the package shows “delivered” but the buyer claims they haven’t received it, advise them to check with household members, neighbors, or their local post office, and consider filing a missing mail search with the carrier. Keep the buyer informed of any significant tracking updates or actions taken on your part.
FAQ: How do I handle international shipping on eBay?
For international shipping, consider using eBay’s Global Shipping Program (GSP). With GSP, you ship the item to a domestic eBay shipping center, and eBay handles the rest of the international leg, including customs forms, duties, and taxes. This simplifies the process for you. If not using GSP, you’ll need to select an international shipping service (e.g., USPS Priority Mail International, FedEx International Economy) and accurately complete customs declarations (CN22 or CN23 forms) online or at the post office, declaring the item’s contents and value.
FAQ: What should I do if a package is lost or damaged in transit?
If a package is lost or damaged, first verify the tracking status. If it’s lost, file a missing mail search or claim with the carrier after a reasonable waiting period (e.g., 7-15 days for domestic, longer for international). If damaged, take photos of the damaged packaging and item. You’ll typically need to file a claim with the carrier (USPS, FedEx, UPS) as the shipper. Most services include basic insurance, but you might have purchased additional coverage. Be prepared to provide proof of value and damage. Communicate transparently with the buyer throughout this process.
FAQ: Can I reuse shipping boxes and materials?
Yes, you can absolutely reuse shipping boxes and materials, provided they are in excellent condition. Ensure the box is sturdy, free of punctures or tears, and all old labels, barcodes, and hazardous material markings are removed or completely covered. Reusing bubble wrap, packing peanuts, and other void fill is also environmentally friendly and cost-effective. However, never reuse damaged boxes for fragile or valuable items, as this increases the risk of damage during transit.
FAQ: How do I offer combined shipping for multiple items?
To offer combined shipping, the buyer must request an invoice before paying for multiple items. Go to “Send Invoice” from the “Actions” dropdown next to one of the sold items in My eBay. You can then adjust the shipping cost to reflect the combined weight and dimensions of all items in one package. Alternatively, you can set up combined shipping rules in your eBay account preferences under “Shipping preferences” to automatically calculate discounts for buyers purchasing multiple items from you.
