How can I verify a seller on eBay or Amazon Marketplace?
eBay seller verification
On eBay, click the seller's username to see their feedback profile. A score above 98% positive with at least 100 transactions is a good sign. Also check how long they've been a member—scammers often have new accounts.
Read recent feedback, especially for similar items. Look for complaints about counterfeit goods, slow shipping, or poor communication. eBay's Money Back Guarantee covers most purchases, but it's not automatic; you must file a claim within 30 days of delivery.
- Feedback score 98% or higher
- Member for at least 1 year
- Recent feedback mentions the same product category
Amazon Marketplace seller verification
On Amazon, the seller's name appears under the 'Add to Cart' button. Click it to see their detailed seller ratings. A rating below 95% positive over the last 12 months is a warning sign.
Check if the item is 'Fulfilled by Amazon' (FBA). With FBA, Amazon handles shipping and customer service, and you're covered by Amazon's A-to-z Guarantee. Third-party sellers who ship themselves may offer less protection.
Look at the seller's return policy. Amazon's standard return window is 30 days, but some sellers set shorter windows. Also, be wary of sellers with very few ratings or a sudden spike in negative reviews.
- Detailed seller rating above 95% positive
- Item is Fulfilled by Amazon (FBA)
- Seller has been active for at least 6 months
Common mistakes
- Assuming a high feedback score means the seller is trustworthy; some sellers build up feedback with cheap items then scam on expensive ones.
- Ignoring the 'Fulfilled by' label; third-party sellers who ship themselves may have different return policies.
- Not reading recent feedback; a seller's behavior can change quickly.
Related questions
- What are red flags when buying from a stranger on Facebook Marketplace?
- Should I use friends and family on PayPal to pay a seller I don't know?
- How can I check if an online seller is legitimate before buying?
- What should I do if a seller asks me to pay outside the platform?
- Is it safe to buy from a seller with no reviews?