eBay Making Big Changes (Again)

For the second time this calendar year, eBay is making some fairly significant changes. The changes are to be implemented in the next few months in preparation for the 2008 holiday season. Generally eBay rocks the boat early in the year (which they did this year) but I can't remember a year when they rocked the boat twice.

So what's changing? There are a couple of eBay links below to help explain the details of the changes. But here are some highlights.

Reduction of Insertion Fees - This time around they are reducing the insertion fees (the up front cost to list an item) for Buy in Now (BIN) and Fixed Price items.

Final Value Fees Changing - The Final Value fee is the amount taken out when/if the item sells. It is going to a more category specific model. It's going down in some categories but going up in others.

Minimum DSR Enforced - The Detailed Seller Ratings (DSR) will need to be at least 4.3 for sellers. Those sellers who fall below that threshold will not be able to list. This takes effect November 1.

No more Money Orders or Checks - Starting in October, buyers will no longer be able to pay for items via Checks or Money Orders. Instead they will need to use an approved electronic method such as PayPal.

Closing eBay Express - Who didn't see that one coming? eBay Express apparently just never worked out.

If you have a home based business selling on eBay be sure to read the links below to understand how the changes will affect you.

New Pricing, More Incentives, and Other Changes to Bring More Buyers

Seller Update: Overview