Answer
Jul 15, 2019 - 08:20 AM
Service Structure
Aside from the length of time (eBay being older than Tophatter), eBay and Tophatter are almost the same with the exception on pacing and the way each company uses big data to target customers. Sellers and customers can use the site and bid for free.
Shipping Time
For Tophatter, the shipping time depends on the location of the auctioneer. Their website says it usually takes 1-5 business days with the exception of shipment coming from outside the country. eBay on the other hand, requires sellers to specify how long they will take to package and ship the item after receiving cleared payment. Sellers may select a handling time between 1 to 30 days.
Customer Service
Ebay offers customer service via phone and you can connect with their representative via email and phone. While TopHatter currently offers support via email only.
Payment
Payment is expected from Tophatter bidders right after winning an auction while eBay allows a 2-day policy for the winning bidder to submit payment for winning bids.
Liability and Dispute Resolution
TopHatter can not be held liable for any issues between the seller and the buyer and only acts as a go-between. On the other hand, it looks like eBay plays a more active role in resolving disputes between buyers and sellers, as well as between sellers themselves. EBay also devised a less complicated way of resolution by its Money Back Guarantee which TopHatter does not have.
If the item you received doesn't match the description in the original listing, or if it arrived faulty or damaged, you're covered under the eBay Money Back Guarantee. You can return it even if the seller's returns policy says they don't accept returns. - eBay
Selling Fees
There are several seller fees for eBay. You may be charged an insertion fee to list your item. If you're a non-business seller, automatic relists are free and you'll be charged a final value fee after the sale. There are also fees for optional advanced listing upgrades and services. Tophatter charges sellers commission, scheduling fee, a processing fee, default fees which are not specified until product is uploaded for auction.
Seller Profit Margin
Seller profit margin for both sites greatly depends on the strategy and pricing of the items auctioned. It is advisable to place a reserve price and consider the fees plus related costs. The difficulty with Tophatter is that sellers do not have an idea of the fees prior to upload.
Buyers and Sellers Beware
Selling and buying on this sites have their own risks. Minimize risks by reviewing the historical data of the buyer or seller or checking on the internet for any reviews or scam alerts related to your transaction.
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