How to Browse Items on eBay

Ready to explore the millions of auctions on eBay? Choose from dozens of broad categories, and then narrow your search with sub-categories and sub-sub-categories until you zero in on the item or items that capture your interest.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Internet access
• Computer

1. Visit eBay.com. The site offers several ways to search. The following steps describe specialized browsing techniques to increase the productivity of your auction browsing.

2. Begin browsing. Items are grouped into broad categories, so start with a general category and then explore the sub-categories.

3. Explore eBay’s auctions by browsing through different themes. If you are looking for collectibles from your favorite film, you can browse through every auction dealing in products that relate to that film.

4. Browse popular items featured on eBay’s homepage. Celebrity charity auctions are often featured, as are categories dedicated to the most widely searched items.

5. Find what you are looking for on one of eBay's “Specialty Sites,” which can be found at the top left of the eBay homepage. These sites are all divisions of eBay that have been separated into individual sites for easier browsing. For example, all vehicles, vehicle parts and accessories are sold on the eBay "Motors” site.

6. Shop "eBay Stores." Sellers who have many products at auction will often have an "eBay Store" that lists all of their items. When you find a favorite seller who specializes in products that are of particular interest to you, you can easily locate their "eBay Store" and browse through their auctions all at once.

Tips & Warnings

• Take the time to explore all of the main categories on eBay’s homepage. From apartments for rent to concert tickets, you’ll be surprised at the broad range of products available on eBay.
• If you are an impatient bidder, narrow your results to auctions that are ending soon. You can also access a special category called “Ending Now” from the eBay homepage. This link will take you to a list of auctions that are ending shortly. Act quickly to place the winning bid.
• Always make sure to check the feedback and rating of the seller before bidding on an item. If someone has a history of unsatisfied or angry customers, you may be disappointed in their items as well.