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Beginning Monday, June 20, 2011, we will be setting a deadline for a Seller's shipping time frame. Items must be shipped within 3 business days from when the Seller receives the Winner’s shipping address and applicable payment information. Failure to do so may result in a refund to the winner if a dispute is filed after 3 business days, and the item has not been shipped.

Once you receive the Winner’s shipping and any applicable payment information, you have 3 business days to send your item. Here’s a detailed breakdown:

MONDAY: Item must be shipped by THURSDAY
TUESDAY: Item must be shipped by FRIDAY
WEDNESDAY: Item must be shipped by MONDAY
THURSDAY: Item must be shipped by TUESDAY
FRIDAY: Item must be shipped by WEDNESDAY
SATURDAY: Item must be shipped by WEDNESDAY
SUNDAY: Item must be shipped by WEDNESDAY

This rule has been put in place to provide a better time frame for delivery. As always, we encourage sellers to provide delivery confirmation on all items listed in an event that the auction is disputed or if the item is still en route to its destination.

As a reminder, the Seller is fully responsible for securely packaging and shipping the item to ensure against damage or loss from normal shipping practices. 

To help Sellers and Buyers understand this new rule, please read the Q&A information below:

Q: I offer free shipping, but only send out once a month. What are my options?
A: First off, thank you for offering free shipping on your listings! In cooperation with this new rule, we ask that Sellers list their auctions closer to when they are able to send out the item. For example, if you get paid once a month at the beginning of each month (ex: July 1st), and want to list a 7-day auction, then the earliest we’d suggest you begin your listing is June 24th. Planning when to list your auction will help eliminate situations like these.

Q: What about those who charge for shipping? How can I protect myself when we don't hear back from the winner?
A: Sellers still have the option to charge shipping, however, once you receive the Winner’s shipping address and payment information (if applicable), then you must send the item within 3 business days.

Q: What if I don't hear back from the winner?
A: You are not responsible for shipping an item until you receive shipping information from the Seller.  After 10 days from the close of an auction, if the winner has not responded or taken any action, then the seller can keep all the credits and you may re-list the item if you wish.

Q: Does the 3 business days deadline mean that I have to guarantee that the item will arrive within 3 business days?
A: No. The 3 business days applies from when the Seller receives the Winner’s shipping address and shipping payment (if applicable). Once that information is gathered, the Seller has to send the item within 3 business days. Depending where the item will be sent (whether domestically or internationally), it may take more than 3 days to arrive.

Q: Are Holidays considered in the 3 business day time frame?
A: No, if a Holiday lands on a weekday, then you get an extra day to ship your item (assuming you’ve received the Winner’s shipping address and applicable shipping information). For example, if you receive shipping info on a Friday and Monday is a Holiday, you have until Thursday to ship out the item.

We hope this information was helpful. We have a lot more in store as we continue improving Listia for everyone. Thanks!

photo credit via DafneCholet