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Ending a listing early on eBay is a relatively simple procedure however it can have negative ramifications for your reputation if it is done too often or in an unsuitable manner. There are a variety of considerations to take into account before you make a final decision.

(a) Have people made bids on the item?
(b) Are there less than 12 hours until the auction's end?

(c) Did you make a major calculation error or are you just unhappy that the highest bid is not high enough?

In regards to factor (a), there will be a large amount of damage limitation to be made in the form of confronting the ire that will no doubt erupt from a disappointed bidder, or ten. They have their hearts set on the item you are selling and have made it their personal mission to beat all others to the prize but when you take the rug from under their feet, you will need a very good explanation. That is if you care for your business reputation.

Valid reasons for ending a listing early that both eBay and the majority of bidders will accept are as follows:

~ The item has been damaged or lost.
~ The item has been sold elsewhere or is no longer available.
~ The listing was incorrect and can no longer be revised due to bids being placed.
~ There was a genuine error in pricing and it is too late to change the reserve amount.

It is important to be clear and honest when you contact the bidders, which should be done immediately upon realising the problem, for then you stand a better chance of forgiveness. Remember the golden rule, the customer is always right and should be treated as though they are your first and only buyer. This type of customer service brings people back, regardless of any small but rectified mistakes.

You must then cancel their bids by using the bid cancellation form otherwise you cannot close the auction.

As far as factor (b) is concerned. You cannot edit a listing within 12 hours of the auction's end. This means that if there is a problem with the item page, such as incorrect information, then it is too late to do anything with it, except cancel the whole thing. Misinformation and deception will also destroy your reputation.

On the subject of factor (c), if you are not happy with the highest bid but there was no error in your initial pricing, then you have no leg to stand on when it comes to eBay and the bidder. You can cancel the listing but your reputation will plummet and if done too often you will also face problems with the eBay establishment, which is something you certainly do not need especially if your career depends on it.

So you have decided that the only option is to go through with the cancellation. Once you have cancelled the individual bids, the process is this:

1. View the auction number you want to cancel.

2. Copy the item number.

3. Click 'My eBay' from the top menu.

4. Select 'End listing early' from the 'Favourite Links' category.

5. Enter your password if requested.

6. Enter the item number.

7. Click continue.

8. Choose a reason for cancelling.

9. Click 'end your listing'.

That is all you need to do.

Learn more about this author, Edward Beaman-Hodgkiss.
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