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You can sell almost anything on eBay but there are a few things you need to avoid. Whether it be for the safety of the community or legal restrictions, there are some product categories that are restricted or completely banned from being listed.
Firearms
First of all, firearms are not allowed. Some firearm parts and accessories are allowed but strict guidelines must be followed.
Adult items
Some adult items are allowed but again, eBay has guidelines for this category. Any form of adult content that does not follow eBay’s policy will be removed.
Alcohol
As for alcohol, wine can be listed on the eBay U.S. site but only by approved sellers. No other alcohol products are allowed. Collectible alcohol containers can be listed, but they must be empty. To find out more, click here.
Animal and wildlife products
Sellers can list certain animal and wildlife products (such as faux animal products) but it is up to the seller to ensure that there is not a license, permit or other paperwork needed when selling or shipping such items. Items made from endangered or threatened species are not allowed. Ivory or bones from ivory-producing animals such as walruses, warthog, hippos, or elephants is not allowed, and any item made from bears is prohibited. Items made from marine mammals, protected turtles/tortoises, protected birds, and their feathers are prohibited. You can’t sell anything made from domesticated cats, dogs or anything made from snake venom. This is not an all-inclusive list so please visit this site to get complete information.
Food products
Certain food products are not allowed on eBay. Items such as unpasteurized dairy, unpasteurized fruit/vegetable juices, ackee fruit or seeds, expired food or government assistance benefits that can be used for food are not allowed. For more details about selling food on eBay, click here.
Medical devices
As for medical devices, any medical device that requires a prescription can’t be sold on eBay. Items falling into this category include CPAP machines, flow generators, oxygen concentrators, nebulizers, implantable devices (such as a pacemaker), contact lenses, needles, COVID tests (prescription or not) and other items. Click here for a full list and more information on medical device listings.
Used cosmetics
As far as used cosmetics, sponges, and applicators, these items are not allowed to be listed on eBay. This includes skin moisturizers, shampoo, hair color, sunscreen, perfume, lipstick, deodorant, fingernail polish, eye shadow, facial powder and foundation, permanent curl solution and straighteners, and toothpaste. Used cosmetic brushes are allowed but must be thoroughly cleaned. For more details, please check out this page.
Electronic equipment
Most electronic equipment used to transmit, receive signals, or used for surveillance is prohibited on eBay. Signal jamming devices, traffic light control devices and odometer modification devices are not allowed. You can find a complete list here.
Police and emergency response uniforms
In regard to police and emergency response uniforms, equipment, or accessories, these items can’t be sold on eBay. To help prevent impersonation, eBay prohibits the sale of items such as law enforcement and other government-issued uniforms and badges. Also, accessories such as hats, jackets, shirts, or replicas of these items are not to be listed on eBay. Official emergency lighting systems or sirens, including lenses or LEDs for these systems are also not allowed.
Other categories
Other categories with restrictions include slot machines, stamps, lottery tickets, hazardous materials, and event tickets, just to name a few. For information regarding all prohibited and restricted items that are not to be listed on eBay, please click here.
Stay informed
All in all, you want to be as informed as possible when creating your listings, so make sure to research items you are not sure about. Also, keep in mind the international laws and regulations if you sell internationally. Staying informed and being careful with your listings can help prevent any issues and also keep your eBay account healthy.
