Brand FocusWhat is eBay? Bidding and Buying From eBay

In this blog, we will tell you:

• How you can shop on eBay and what you can buy
• Things to consider when shopping on eBay
• Similar platforms that you can shop from

Buying and Bidding on eBay

eBay is one of the world’s biggest and leading online marketplaces. It was founded in 1995 and was originally known as Auction Web, an online platform where sellers could list items and buyers could bid on them. In the beginning, it was where individuals would go to sell their old items and is now a marketplace where individuals and businesses sell a variety of second-hand and new products. Sellers list their items with detailed descriptions, images, available payment options and delivery methods. Buyers have two options when it comes to shopping on eBay, Buy It Now and Bidding.

• Bidding

  Sellers can auction their products on eBay to get the best deal. The products have starting prices and buyers can bid against one another. Once the auction ends, the buyer with the highest bid receives the product. eBay offers an automatic bidding option where a buyer enters the amount they are willing to bid and eBay bids on their behalf.

• Buy It Now

  Products listed under ‘Buy It Now’ are products that can be bought at fixed prices. This option is essentially how you would regularly shop. You select the product you want, pay the price that is listed and wait to receive it.

What You Can Shop on eBay

An online marketplace as big as eBay with millions of users across the UK and worldwide has a wide range of products on offer. If you can think of it, you may be able to buy it from eBay, even cars. The shopping categories include:

• Home, Garden & DIY
• Electronics
• Refurbished
• Fashion
• Jewellery & Watches
• Motors
• Health & Beauty
• Sports & Leisure

If you are looking for deals and savings, there are ‘Daily Deal’ and ‘Brand Outlet’ pages where all the best discounts and daily sales can be found. You won’t only find small businesses and individual sellers on the platform. There are many official brand stores that you can shop from including Sports Direct, Jack Wills and River Island. Shopping is also easier on the eBay app, which is available for mobile devices.

Tips for Buying From eBay

Buying from eBay can be confusing if it is your first time. Here are some things to remember when shopping on the platform:

Check the Seller

Before buying from eBay, make sure to check previous customer reviews and the overall rating of the seller. It is important to note that sellers may have different shipping, refund and return policies. Read through each seller’s policies and make sure they ship to your country or region.

Check Product Details

Sellers on eBay list new, second-hand and refurbished products. Look at pictures and any descriptions for the products to ensure they meet your standards or requirements.

Bidding or Buying?

When you see a product, check if it is listed under ‘Buy It Now’ or ‘Bidding’. If you decide to place a bid, take note that bidding on eBay is binding and if you win a bid, you will be required to pay for the product.

Compare Prices

If you have your sights on a product, try not to buy it straight away. Multiple stores could offer similar products at different prices. If you compare, you may find it at a cheaper price or at a better deal that includes low or no shipping costs.

Shop on eBay and Similar Platforms

Today, there are so many online marketplaces and retailers to choose from. Although online shopping has made life easier, all the options can be overwhelming. Here are a few online retailers similar to the eBay marketplace where you can buy electronics, books and more at great prices.

Amazon

Amazon is one of the world’s best online retailers with millions of customers worldwide. With Amazon vouchers you can save on a variety of products including home furniture, groceries, books, streaming services, home security and more.

Etsy

Etsy is a popular online marketplace for unique crafts and handmade products. Small businesses and entrepreneurs share their unique crafts on the platform, attracting customers interested in vintage, custom or handmade products. Use an Etsy coupon code to save on a range of gifts, jewellery, fashion and more.

Alibaba

Alibaba is one of the world’s largest online retailers. With Alibaba, customers around the world can purchase various products ranging from furniture to children’s toys from reputable sellers in China. When shopping on Alibaba, be sure to use an Alibaba promo code for great savings.

Bonanza

Bonanza is an online marketplace that has thousands of sellers offering products in various categories. Like any other marketplace, Bonanza makes it easy for sellers to connect with customers and for customers to find any products they need. Using a Bonanza coupon is a great way to save while shopping on the platform.

Shop on eBay With Savings and Deals From Love Discount Vouchers

Start bidding on eBay and find the best deals on furniture, car accessories, fashion and more. When you start buying from eBay, be sure to visit Love Discount Vouchers first for great deals. We have the best offers to help you save money when you shop on eBay. Remember to also subscribe to the newsletter to have the latest money-saving deals sent to your inbox.