Knowing what eBay takes is the difference between a profit and a loss on low-value items. The rules depend on whether you sell as a private seller or a business, and they change from time to time, so always check eBay's own fees page before you rely on a figure.
Private sellers
Since late 2024, eBay UK has not charged final value fees to private sellers on most categories (vehicles and some other categories have their own rules). Instead, buyers pay a Buyer Protection fee on top of the item price when they buy from a private seller. That fee is paid by the buyer, so it doesn't come out of your payout, but it does make the total the buyer pays a little higher, which is worth bearing in mind when you price.
Optional extras still cost money: for example, promoted listings (paying for more visibility) and some listing upgrades.
Business sellers
If you're registered on eBay as a business seller, you pay a final value fee (a percentage of the total sale, which varies by category), a per-order fee, and other charges such as a regulatory operating fee. VAT is added to eBay's fees. Business sellers get tools like business policies and bulk listing.
Private seller or business?
If you regularly buy items to resell at a profit, eBay's rules and UK law may treat you as a business, whatever account type you chose. It's about what you're doing, not what the account says. See our guide on selling online and HMRC.
Other costs to count
- Postage: charge the buyer or include it in your price, but never forget it.
- Packaging: envelopes, boxes, bubble wrap and tape add up.
- Returns: some items come back. Price with a little margin for it.
- Your time: photographing, listing and packing a £3 item takes as long as a £30 one.
A simple check before you list
Sale price, minus any fees you pay, minus postage you cover, minus packaging, minus what you paid for the item. If what's left isn't worth your time, bundle it, trade it in, or leave it on the shelf.
Official source: eBay's UK seller fees help page (search "eBay UK selling fees").