eBay

wallcakesdecor · ‎06-04-2014

I had a listing removed yesterday for being a duplicate. It was my own fault, no problem with them doing that, as it was a duplicate.

I sell magnets, and use the same title and description for many of my listings. They are not duplicates and have a different image.

Am I ok if the image is the only thing that differentiates it? Thanks.

dutchman48 · ‎06-04-2014

No, The bots pick up the tittle. Change the wording a little or add a number(s) at the end for each item, and you should be OK.

wallcakesdecor · ‎06-04-2014

Thanks for the reply.

I wondered, because some of my other listings were identical other than the image, and they didn't get removed.

So if I add a catalog number or something to the otherwise identical title, I should be ok. I'll start doing that. There's only so many ways I can title them and keeping track of whether it's a duplicate would be ridiculous.

rose-dee · ‎06-04-2014

I think there is some confusion or misunderstanding amongst many sellers over what constitutes a duplicate listing. Many items -- such as the ones you sell -- can be identical except for some small detail. However, if that detail (including the photo) is sufficient to set the item apart from a similar, but not identical one, you should be OK.

Here is the essential part of the duplicate listing policy for allowable fixed price listings:

"[Allowed] ... Separate listings for items that are similar but not identical, as long as the differences are clearly reflected in the title, subtitle, price, photos, condition, item specifics, or parts compatibility areas of a listing."

This is why eBay didn't remove your items that have identical descriptions but different photos. If eBay ever does remove them, you should contact them to point out this part of the policy.

Still, adding a catalogue number or specific identifier in the title as well isn't a bad idea, if only for your own sake in ensuring you send the correct item.

Here's the link to the Duplicate Listing Policy if you want to check the details (note that auction items are treated somewhat differently from fixed price with respect to duplicates):

http://pages.ebay.ca/help/policies/listing-multi.html