Shopping on eBay US from Singapore unlocks incredible opportunities — from rare collectibles to the latest tech deals. But with millions of independent sellers on the platform, buyers often ask: “What happens if something goes wrong?”
That’s where eBay’s Buyer Protection program, also known as the Money Back Guarantee (MBG), comes in. For Singapore shoppers, it acts as a safeguard against scams, counterfeit goods, and delivery problems. In this guide, we’ll break down how it works, what’s covered, and how you can combine it with Buy&Ship for even greater peace of mind.
What Is eBay’s Buyer Protection?
The Money Back Guarantee is eBay’s official policy ensuring that if you don’t receive your item, or if it’s significantly different from the listing description, you can get your money back.
It applies automatically to most transactions on eBay US — you don’t need to pay extra for it.
Key Scenarios Covered
Here’s when Singapore buyers can claim protection:
- Item not received – Tracking shows no delivery or the parcel never arrives.
- Not as described – Example: You bought an “authentic” bag but received a replica.
- Wrong item sent – Different color, size, or model than ordered.
- Damaged goods – Product arrives broken or defective.
📝 Note: “Change of mind” purchases aren’t covered unless the seller explicitly allows returns.
Claim Deadlines and Eligibility
- You must open a case within 30 calendar days of delivery.
- Sellers then have a set timeframe (often 3–5 business days) to resolve the issue.
- If they don’t respond, eBay steps in and decides the outcome.
- Refunds are processed to your original payment method (PayPal or credit card).
How to File a Buyer Protection Claim
- Log in to eBay.com.
- Go to Purchase History.
- Select the problem order and click “Return this item” or “I didn’t receive it.”
- Provide supporting evidence (photos, screenshots, messages).
- Wait for seller response → if unresolved, escalate to eBay.
💡 Pro Tip: Keep all communication within eBay’s messaging system — it acts as proof during disputes.
Limitations Singapore Buyers Should Know
- Some categories (e.g., vehicles, real estate, services) aren’t covered.
- Buyers are usually responsible for return shipping, unless the seller offers free returns.
- Most sellers provide only US domestic return labels, making international returns costly.
This is where Buy&Ship Plus adds value.
How Buy&Ship Enhances eBay Buyer Protection
While eBay’s Money Back Guarantee covers your payment risk, it doesn’t handle the logistics challenges of returning items from Singapore.
By adding Buy&Ship Plus when shipping your eBay US purchases, you get:
- ✅ 90 days of return handling service — only if the seller approves the return request.
- ✅ Buy&Ship will then help coordinate the return back to the US seller.
- ✅ Extra insurance for loss or damage during shipping.
This distinction is important: Buy&Ship cannot force a seller to accept a return. Instead, once the seller agrees, Buy&Ship Plus ensures the return is carried out smoothly and cost-effectively from Singapore.
Real-Life Example: Buyer Protection in Action
Imagine you purchase a camera lens for US$300 from eBay US.
- The seller ships it, but you receive a scratched, heavily used lens instead of “brand new.”
- You file a claim through eBay, providing photos of the defect.
- eBay sides with you and requests a return.
- Without Buy&Ship Plus: You must pay international return fees yourself.
- With Buy&Ship Plus: Since the seller accepted the return request, Buy&Ship arranges free return shipping (within 90 days).
Result: You recover your money without extra cost — but only because the seller agreed to the return.
Practical Tips to Stay Protected
- Check seller feedback – Aim for 98%+ positive ratings.
- Read item descriptions carefully – Watch for terms like “replica” or “for parts.”
- Save your receipts & tracking info – Useful if you need to file a claim.
- Act fast – Don’t delay reporting issues.
- Add Buy&Ship Plus – Especially for high-value or fragile purchases.
Comparing eBay MBG vs Buy&Ship Plus
| Feature | eBay Money Back Guarantee | Buy&Ship Plus |
|---|---|---|
| Protects against non-delivery | ✅ | ✅ |
| Protects against items not as described | ✅ | ✅ |
| Refund process | Refund to original payment | Refund via eBay + return support |
| Handles international returns | ❌ | ✅ (if seller approves) |
| Shipping damage/loss | Partial coverage | ✅ Enhanced insurance |
Together, they create a double layer of protection for Singapore buyers.
For Singaporeans shopping on eBay US, Buyer Protection is your first line of defense against scams and misrepresented items. But cross-border logistics — especially returns — can still be challenging without help.
By combining eBay’s Money Back Guarantee with Buy&Ship Plus, you can shop confidently, knowing both your money and your parcel are safeguarded.
So the next time you’re eyeing a US-exclusive deal on eBay, remember: with the right protection in place, your shopping experience can be both safe and stress-free.