Overview
eBay uses three levels to classify sellers based on the quality of service provided to buyers: Below Standard, Above Standard, and Top Rated. These levels depend on precise metrics that assess performance such as issue resolution, transaction accuracy, and shipping punctuality. Every month, on the 20th, eBay evaluates the seller’s recent sales to assign one of these levels, with the goal of ensuring a reliable and transparent experience for buyers. Thresholds may vary depending on sales volume and the local market.
Seller Levels and Criteria
Below Standard
Definition
The “Below Standard” level is assigned when a seller’s performance falls below the minimum required by eBay. This means that some key metrics are not consistently met.
Metrics that cause this level
| Metric | Criteria that may lead to Below Standard status |
|---|---|
| Cases closed without seller resolution | If you exceed 2 cases or 0.3% of transactions in the evaluation period. |
| Transaction defect rate | More than 2% of transactions, provided the defects involve more than 4 distinct buyers. |
| Late shipments | A high percentage can affect the level, but alone it usually does not automatically trigger “Below Standard” status. However, for higher levels (such as Top Rated), it must be low. |
Evaluation period
- If you have fewer than 400 transactions in the last 3 months → transactions from the last 12 months are considered.
- If you have 400 or more transactions in the last 3 months → transactions from the last 3 months are considered.
Consequences
- Reduced visibility in search results (“Best Match”).
- Restrictions on selling activity, sponsored listings, and promotional campaigns.
- Potentially higher costs or increased final value fees.
- Possible payment holds or limits if the account remains “Below Standard” for an extended period.
Above Standard
Definition
“Above Standard” means the seller meets eBay’s required standards. It is not the highest status, but it indicates that the service provided is compliant with policies, without major shortcomings.
General requirements
- Keep cases closed without seller resolution within the above thresholds (≤ 2 cases or ≤ 0.3% of transactions).
- Transaction defect rate not exceeding 2%.
- Late shipments at a reasonable percentage; there is no strict limit for this level, but it must not be high.
Benefits
- Maintain seller reputation.
- No heavy penalties, access to standard services.
- Opportunity to progress to “Top Rated” by consistently improving performance.
Top Rated
Definition
“Top Rated” is the highest level, reserved for sellers who exceed eBay’s high expectations, not only meeting minimum standards but demonstrating consistent, high-quality service.
Specific requirements
| Requirement | Detail |
|---|---|
| Transaction defect rate | Less than or equal to 0.5% of transactions, involving no more than 3 distinct buyers. |
| Cases closed without seller resolution | No more than 2 cases or 0.3% of transactions, as with minimum standards. |
| Late shipment rate | Must be low: to achieve Top Rated status, a contained late shipment rate is required (example: no more than 5%). |
| Account age and sales history | The account must be active for at least 90 days and have a consolidated sales history. |
Benefits
- The “Top Rated” status appears on the seller’s feedback profile, visible to other users.
- Access to benefits such as enhanced Seller Protection, greater visibility in search results, and opportunities with “eBay Premium Service” for selected listings.
Calculation Method and Timing
- The evaluation is carried out on the 20th of each month, reviewing recent transactions.
- The evaluation period can be 3 months (if you have ≥ 400 transactions in the previous 3 months) or 12 months (if fewer than 400).
- The main metrics used in the calculation are: cases closed without seller resolution, transaction defect rate, and late shipments.
Conclusion
Seller levels on eBay — Below Standard, Above Standard, Top Rated — allow the platform to ensure transparency, quality, and trust in online commerce. Knowing the requirements that distinguish each level is essential to avoid penalties and gain concrete benefits such as greater visibility, better protections, and opportunities for premium services. By continuously improving key metrics such as defect rate, resolved disputes, on-time shipments, and maintaining consistency in sales and account history, it is possible to move up levels and maintain a high status.