eBay’s new ‘Simple Delivery’ policy cuts off Channel Islands buyers

Have you noticed that a growing number of products on eBay are no longer able to be shipped to Jersey? If so, then you’re not alone – a number of consumers have been in touch with us letting us know that they can no longer bid on or buy many of the items which they were previously able to.

In recent months, the Jersey Consumer Council has received reports from Islanders frustrated that they can no longer purchase items from private sellers on eBay. The problem stems from eBay’s introduction of a new postage system called ‘Simple Delivery’, which has now become compulsory for private UK sellers.

Under this system, private sellers must use eBay’s chosen delivery providers, and, unfortunately, the Channel Islands – including jersey and Guernsey – are excluded from the delivery area. This means that when Jersey residents are trying to buy from private UK sellers, they’re met with an error message stating:

“Unfortunately, this seller won’t send this item to Jersey, United Kingdom. You can: Update your delivery address and try again”

Even when sellers attempt to manually adjust their delivery settings, eBay reportedly prevents them from adding the Channel Islands as a valid destination.

One private seller shared their experience on an eBay community forum:

“I have a potential buyer who lives in Jersey – they messaged me saying eBay won’t let them purchase the item. I’m a private seller under the Simple Delivery system, and I’ve discovered the Channel Isles are excluded. I contacted eBay support, and they have no solution. It seems no one from the Channel Isles can purchase items under this system”

This change has effectively cut off Jersey consumers from buying second-hand or unique items that are often only available from private sellers – a major part of what makes eBay such a valuable marketplace for islanders.

“The Jersey Consumer Council has been in touch with Jersey Post to see if they can resolve the issue for Islanders”

We understand that many residents rely on eBay for affordable goods, rare items, and specialist parts that aren’t always available locally. We’ll continue to monitor the situation and provide updates as more information becomes available.