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What’s the best way to go about removing negative eBay feedback?
💡 Quick Answer: Step One to tackling negative eBay feedback is to get to grips with how the system works and why it's crucial for your reputation. When you receive that bad feedback, don't panic! Step Two? Respond promptly and professionally to share your side of the story. Thirdly, take a closer look at options for removing feedback, particularly if there's been a mix-up or a violation. Generally, the buyer must be at fault. So if eBay is unwilling to adhere to your feedback removal request, stay positive. View feedback as a chance to learn and improve your eBay game. Don’t forget, every setback is a step towards gearing your business for success!
It's no secret that not every eBay transaction goes off without a hitch. Sometimes, despite your best efforts as a seller, things can hit a snag and lead to negative feedback from buyers.
But don't worry, you're not alone in this! Buyers come with all sorts of expectations, from item quality to shipping times, and sometimes even the smallest hiccup can result in negative feedback that feels like a permanent stain on your record.
But guess what? It's not the end of the world! Your feedback score is super important on eBay, but there's still plenty of hope, even with a few negative marks.
Here's the deal: Once a buyer leaves negative feedback, it typically sticks around. But fear not, you've got some options. Sometimes, buyers might have mixed up your listing with someone else's, or there could be a genuine mistake that eBay can help resolve.
So, let's get to the meat of the eBay feedback world and explore some handy methods to turn those negatives into positives. Trust me, even if you can’t remove that bad review after all, you can turn anything into a positive experience if you set your mind to it.
Each seller on eBay has a feedback percentage shown in the seller information section of their listings. This percentage is calculated using the feedback the seller has received over the last 12 months.
The reason why only the past year counts in these feedback percentages is to give sellers an incentive to improve their performance as the months and years go by. After all, would you want to be rated based on a blunder you made five years ago when you’ve since greatly improved your selling practices?
Another reason for sellers to keep their feedback high is that when their ratings aren’t good enough, they will be penalized in the platform’s search ranking system. That means the lower your seller rating is, the lower your chances of making it to the top of eBay’s search results.
eBay’s feedback system lets sellers post replies and follow-ups to feedback left by buyers. This two-way feedback system allows both parties to provide an explanation to the public when a transaction they’re involved in doesn’t go smoothly.
Take note that while sellers can make their eBay feedback profile private, if you do so, you won’t be allowed to sell anymore.
The overall feedback score is as follows:
- +1 for positive feedback
- No change for neutral feedback
- -1 for negative feedback
eBay star ratings show how much positive feedback a seller has received, showing consumer's how trustworthy a certain seller is. The rating shows their level of customer service as well as their experience. In other words, consumers can tell how much you've sold and how many positive reviews you got as a result. It's important to note that your feedback score is not affected by neutral comments - only positive and negative ones. You'll earn 1 point for a positive rating and lose 1 point for every negative rating. You'll need at least 10 instances of positive feedback to earn your first star, which will start off as yellow.
To find your current feedback store, you can see where you stand by looking at the top of your seller feedback profile where you'll also see what type of star you currently have.
How many feedback points are needed for each star color?
- Yellow star: 10
- Blue star: 50
- Turquoise star: 100
- Purple star: 500
- Red star: 1,000
- Green star: 5,000
- Yellow shooting star: 10,000
- Turquoise shooting star: 25,000
- Purple shooting star: 50,000
- Red shooting star: 100,000
- Green shooting star: 500,000
- Silver shooting star: 1,000,000
The short answer is “It depends.” There are two different situations in which negative feedback is left.
The first is when the buyer posts negative feedback by mistake. The feedback given is either negative or neutral, but the feedback comment is positive and the buyer even shares how happy he or she is with the transaction, with something like “Will definitely buy from this seller again!” Or the buyer may have mistaken you for another seller with whom a transaction went bad.
The second situation is when the buyer leaves negative feedback on purpose. This will be a bit harder to remove, but it’s often worth trying. Here are the two ways in which you can have negative feedback changed or removed.
There are several instances that qualify for eBay Feedback removal. These include:
- The situation shows that the buyer was at fault
- The problem was caused by an eBay site issue
- The issue was outside or your control (i.e. shipping delays)
- Items were delayed because of extreme weather
Note that it could take up to two days for your rated to be adjusted.
1. Change eBay feedback through buyer revision
Before doing anything drastic, attempt to resolve feedback problems by communicating with the buyer. This is the most common way to change negative or neutral feedback.
Keep in mind that buyers can only revise feedback they’ve left within 30 days of the transaction. Additionally, sellers can only request a feedback revision once they have fixed the problem, or if they are certain a buyer left the negative feedback by mistake.
When a buyer posts negative feedback accidentally, you can ask them to change it using the "Request Feedback Revision" page. If there is no response from the buyer, you can go to the "Report Feedback" page and explain the situation directly to eBay so they can handle the negative feedback removal.
If the buyer left negative feedback intentionally, then when you contact the buyer, be polite and apologize for any inconveniences experienced as a result of the transaction. Ask them what you can do to amend the situation. Most of the time, a refund or replacement will do the trick. If the buyer agrees and you are able to address the issue, ask if they would be willing to revise the feedback.
Because you can only make the request once, you must do it wisely. Plus, sellers may only make five feedback revision requests for every 1,000 feedback posts received in a span of 12 months.
This method places you at the mercy of the buyer, but if your request is sound, who knows? The buyer may acquiesce and you will have made what could have been a bad customer relationship into a good one.
2. Change eBay feedback through eBay intervention
Not all feedback buyers leave on your profile is considered valid. When it isn’t, it may be removed. There are situations that call for intervention from eBay, such as when there is no response from the buyer, you can’t agree on a solution to address the problem or the feedback reveals personal information.
In these instances, you should report the feedback to eBay and leave them to judge and remove it. Sellers must make a request for a manual review within 90 days of the transaction.
It’s important not to let negative feedback go without comment on your part, because this means you agree with what’s been posted. It’s best to leave an apologetic note if you made a genuine mistake and an explanatory one if you think there was a buyer error.
Feedback reported to eBay will be removed in the following instances:
- You couldn’t contact the buyer because the email address provided was wrong.
- The buyer left negative feedback but the item is still unpaid.
There are three situations in which eBay automatically removes feedback:
- When the feedback was the direct result of a program error, website issue or systemic delay in communication or shipping.
- When the buyer has been suspended by eBay, in which case feedback left within 90 days of the suspension will be automatically removed. (Manual removal via the feedback Revision Process page is necessary past 90 days.)
- When a comment is in clear violation of eBay policy, such as when it contains links to another website or seller or uses obscene, racist or profane/vulgar language. However, in these instances, the feedback rating will not necessarily be removed.
It’s important because the seller rating will affect your visibility in eBays search results. Also, customers are more likely to buy from a seller with lots of positive feedback!
Effect of negative feedback on eBay’s search rankings:
eBay has an algorithm called Best Match. A user searches for a product and eBay returns the best listings relevant to their query.
The best way to show in eBay’s Best Match results is to:
- Create accurate listings
- Use high quality images
- Pick the right category for your product
- Increase your seller volume
- Offer competitive shipping
- Provide great customer service
- And most importantly, maintain a positive selling history
However, if you have a lot of negative feedback then this can affect your chances of showing in the search results. Meaning, fewer sales.
If you and the buyer have agreed to change the feedback you received, here’s a step-by-step guide to changing neutral and negative feedback.
- Click on My eBay at the top right corner and click on the Account tab. In the “My Account” column on the left, click on “Feedback.”
- Click on the "Request Feedback Revision" link under “Recent Feedback.” Alternately, you can click on the “Go to Feedback Forum” link and click “Request Feedback revision” on the right side of the page, under “Feedback tools.”
- Click the feedback you want to request a revision of.
- Under the line “Give the buyer a reason for the request," state the reason why you’d like to have the feedback revised.
- Once done, click the “Send” button.
- The buyer will receive an email with your request.
- Let the buyer know he or she only has 10 days in which to respond and provide revised feedback. If they do not change their feedback within that time, it will become permanent.
- Don’t forget to thank the buyer for agreeing to your request!
In all cases—whether negative feedback was left by accident or on purpose—respond to it in a calm, professional manner. Even if the buyer didn’t give you the chance to resolve the issue and rectify the situation, keep a level head and respond with class. Do not retaliate with a negative comment of your own.
If you have tried contacting the buyer but can’t reach an agreement to resolve the issue, you can still provide an explanation for others to see. Follow these steps to respond to negative feedback:
- Click on "My eBay" at the top right corner and click on the Account tab. In the “My Account” column on the left, click on “Feedback.”
- Click on the “Go to Feedback Forum” link and click “Reply to Feedback Received” on the right side of the page, under “Feedback Tools.”
- Find the comment to which you would like to leave a response, then click "Reply."
- Write your response. Make sure to provide a clear and factual explanation of the situation and why you are disputing or disagreeing with the negative feedback.
- Click "Leave Reply."
Monitor the feedback thread until the buyer responds. Depending on how things go, the buyer may agree to change the feedback. If they do not and the Feedback remains in your profile, take comfort in the fact that the feedback comment thread can show future buyers that you did your part as a responsible seller and that the buyer left the negative feedback unfairly.
Remember to avoid responding to a negative feedback comment when you’re upset. Wait a day or two, and strive to keep the tone of your comment professional—that way, others who see it won’t think of you as a total monster (and the buyer will probably come across as whiny or simply unfair).
If the buyer refuses to change the unfair feedback, you can contact eBay customer service and ask them to intervene. Take note that eBay will only remove feedback “in certain exceptional cases,” such as violations of the profanity policy.
It’s best to contact eBay directly to request a manual review and/or open a case in the eBay Resolution Center. Customer Service will review the information you provide and get back to you within 48 hours.
You can also call eBay’s toll-free customer support number: 866-540-3229.
Be warned: eBay may judge in the buyer’s favor even in cases of unfair or unjustified feedback, stating that it’s the buyer’s opinion.
The lowest feedback score on eBay is 1 star.
Earlier, we mentioned that you can make your feedback Profile private, but doing so will prevent you from selling on the platform. If you still want to hide feedback items (and be prevented from selling), follow these steps:
- Click on My eBay at the top right corner and click on the Account tab. In the “My Account” column on the left, click on “Feedback.”
- Click on the “Go to Feedback Forum” link.
- Click “Make Feedback Public or Private” on the right side of the page, under “Feedback Tools.”
- Select the option “Make Your Feedback Profile Private.”
If you have tried to remove feedback through buyer revision and eBay intervention and there is still no chance of getting the negative feedback removed then there’s not a whole lot else you can do. But we’re focused on solutions here so below are a few tips that might help improve your situation.
Respond to the negative feedback
This will give new buyers an idea of your customer service and may even help them see that the feedback isn’t a reason to avoid buying from you. Keep in mind our tips above and reply when you’re in the right headspace!
Try to get as much positive feedback as possible
This means following up with customers. A great time to do this is when their package has arrived. There is no requirement to leave feedback on eBay. You do not want to pester the buyer but you can follow up with a friendly message asking if everything is going well. Just make sure you have left positive feedback first!
Communicate and be proactive
This means communicating with customers promptly and effectively.
Make sure to check your eBay messages regularly. Even if you can’t answer them straight away, let them know a timeframe on when to expect a detailed reply from you. A nice little bonus that is sure to get you positive feedback is to include a letter in your shipping. This is a great chance for you to show your personal brand and also let them know where they can contact you in case of any issues.
Fix the problem and improve your business
The negative feedback you receive can actually help you improve your business. If all the negative feedback you’re getting is actually your fault, then step up and do what you must to put things right. It could be a blessing in disguise!
If the feedback qualifies to be removed by eBay, it'll take around two days to be removed.
Other ways to improve your eBay feedback
Aside from changing the feedback you’ve already received, there are things you can do to reduce the negative feedback you will receive in the first place:
Aim for trouble-free transactions
Focus on items that will make easy sales and help you score positive feedback. Avoid selling merchandise that could have shipping issues, at least until your feedback is out of the red.
Provide accurate pictures
A great way to stand out in any eCommerce business whether on eBay or not is to make sure your product listings have clear images. You know that saying images speak a thousand words? Well, it’s extremely true here. Your customer can not see the product in person before they purchase so you want to make them feel as confident as they can in purchasing.
Create great listing details
Again, this will help your customer feel more confident in purchasing the item from you. Provide as much information and detail as possible and include instructions in the pictures. For example, how to install/set up the product.
Have a clear return policy
This helps buyers overcome their biggest worry- The item they purchase might not fit or isn’t what they were expecting. It doesn’t matter what you are selling. A returns policy is a must. This means if you are dropshipping your policy must also match that of your supplier. Don’t go beyond your supplier's return window (e.g if your supplier has a 30-day return window you will want to give your customers 20-25).
Check your inventory regularly
It’s important that the product your customer purchases is in fact available. Otherwise, this is a recipe for headaches and negative reviews! If you are dropshipping this involves being proactive and either using software or regularly checking.
Provide product tracking
Buyers want to know where their parcel is. It’s important that you provide a shipping tracking number as soon as it is available to you. It will also avoid unnecessary messages to you about shipment.
Bonus: 5 Mindset tips when you receive negative feedback
No one likes getting negative feedback or being criticized. But the harsh reality is that it is a part of business and life! However, there are a few things you can do to quickly move on and not let it dampen your day.
- Ask yourself: What can I learn from this feedback?- I know I know, it may be hard to see the positives when you’re confronted with negativity and criticism. But it's likely you can learn something if you are open to it. Sometimes you simply can’t learn anything other than the fact that it doesn’t matter what you do people are going to be unhappy and that’s that.
- Look at your competitors' reviews- While it’s never good to compare yourself to others in this situation it can help you feel better and less alone. It's highly likely they will have a negative review or two and perhaps you can even learn from their reviews on how to make your business run better. Competitor analysis is a key strategy to implement in the world of eCommerce.
- It’s not about you- I know how hard it seems but try not to take it personally. The feedback is not a reflection of you or even of you as a seller. Sometimes there is very little you can do. The more sales you are making the more negativity you will receive!
- Take a look at all the positive reviews you have- Naturally, we all focus on negatives a lot more than the positives. The brain has a built-in negativity bias and we tend to remember negative events over positive ones. And we mostly accept negative news as truthful. Just know that you can reframe the situation. Think about what you can learn from it (if anything) and accept it as a part of business. Your business is a moving object and it's all part of it!
- Put yourself in your customer's shoes- Can you understand their perspective? Think about a time you have (or wanted to) leave negative feedback. This may help you understand the feedback is not a personal attack on you.
Summary
Getting negative feedback removed from your eBay profile can be a frustrating process, but be patient. It may all work out in the end. And even if it doesn’t, think of it as a learning experience. It will help you come up with a strategy to improve your performance, earn positive feedback and make negatives a thing of the past.
What do you think of eBay and the feedback process? Could it be improved? Is it working well for you? Be sure to let us know your thoughts and if you have any questions in the comment section below!
Sellers beware.
I sold an item which had BOTH subtitle and description of what it does. Buyer expected the item to be giftwrapped and do something else that was NOT in the item's description. Left negative feedback. After 48h of almost continuous argument and chat with ebay "customer support" they said can't remove the feedback's rating because it is buyer's opinion......but is 100% FALSE and DEFAMATORY opinion!! Furthermore, the buyer blackmailed me if I don't give her refund she will leave negative feedback. Ebay at THAT time said "don't worry, we will remove any feedback she may leave if she blackmailed you".....DID THEY?? no chance!!
I have now forwarded the Court paperwork to TAKE them to court. Will be so happy to see a Judge asking them to :
1) remove the rating
2) pay for my expensive lawyer!!
with eBay Customer "support" you MUST hit them hard otherwise THEY WILL !!
Best of luck guys with your sales:-)
No way Ebay and I could not stop these attacks. Maybe you know, Ebay has million fake accounts with a fake address and fake phone numbers, it is very easy to create. Ebay has not any security filter to stop fake accounts. Fake Account holder ( spammer, scammers ) can purchase the item and before the payment, they can leave negative scam&spamm feedback to your page. You can not move it 48 hours ( Ebay Policy ).
Buyer requirements list is not enough powerful for stopping the Fake accounts.
These happen to make my time waste and I am very busy with my real job.
It is the reason now all my sales on the " buy it now " style.
I really wonder now, the spammer&scammer person how will success the attack and mess " buy it now" style sale lists! I am sure there are some ways on EBAY for spammers, scammers.
He went crying to eBay beat me to it in the resolution centre told a load of untruths and eBay granted the claim in his favour, so I am now £60.00p light with a mower that is caput.
Left negative feedback as a last resort but low and behold, this slime ball had again gone crying to eBay and it has been removed. What is the point when sellers like these can bend the rules around genuine buyers?
These arrogant and pompous sellers need kicking off of eBay. After all, who do they think they are 'GOD' Mothers like these need teaching a lesson. Angry- yes I am. eBays money back guarantee is not worth a sheet of toilet paper!!
I took them to a jeweller and found them to be fake. The seller agreed to return and refunded the money. I left negative feedback to protect future buyers. The seller was so offended and I have been dealing with it since. They seem to think that they took the return back so I should be happy.... and they can continue to deceive people.
I tried to have eBay remove the negative feedback, they would not.
Though I've only had 1 negative feedback, it has effected my sales . After making one to two sales a day on eBay , I have not sold a thing since that.
Both eBay and I lost money because of eBay buyer suck ass policy they
have. I hope to eventually start using Amazon instead , from what I've seen so far, Amazon has better buyers than eBay . eBay is the Walmart of on line shopping.
Knew she was a problem buyer when she messaged me a day after purchasing her product why it wasn't delivered yet 'because I live so close', even though it was an interstate delivery.
I am now finding it very difficult to get this negative feedback removed with ebay. The buyer simply refuses to revise her feedback as her intention was initially malicious to begin with.
As you can not leave it twice and eBay tells you , it has already been done but does not show on feedback in my account either.
eBay has removed the mail address for contacting them too
Hope this helps.
I sold an item iPhone, it was sent first class and recieved in good working order.
The phone was advertised with a few faults, the buyer stated the phone was broken and listed the faults within the photographs on my auction.
Further more the buyer wedged open the side of the phone and sent a photo, my photo on the listing shows the side was fine? This was to ensure eBay refunded!
eBay automatically stated I am to refund the buyer and I will recieve back a damaged phone.
If I can get it repaired I will give it to charity and take the lose!
If the buyer is allowed by eBay to leave negative feedback I will bite the bullet and close my account (1560 small account) due to miss-justive by eBay looking after the buyer.
I still have Prime and freeads etc.
What about eBid and Newegg? Any good?
Thank you
Should I leave a negative feedback? I thought that i should. And I did.
The problem is, EBAY removed it in a few hours.
How come this is fair???