Expert: Rob James - 2/13/2008

Question
Hello

One of my ebay listing is been removed and reason for that was it says (eBay Listing Removed: Trademark Violation - Unauthorised Item ( 180054396)

Now I sold about 5 items of that without any problem I dont know why ebay removed this item. Please check item number 220200106175.

I emailed them twice regarding this. I told them to tell me what word, phrase, or sentence breached ebay policies so I dont use it but they said due to security reasons we cannot tell you. OK but how will I know what was wrong with my listing?

I really need help as I have big stock to sell and now I can list more without knowing what is wrong with my listing

waiting for your reply
Nas

Answer
Hi Nas,

I looked at your listing and my guess is they cancelled the listing because you directly reference the Apple iPod in the description. Ebay can be real sticklers when it comes to comparing items to brand name or trademarked goods. Usually the problem is the item title where people use the terms "like", "not", etc. So something that says "like an iPod" will get pulled pretty quick.

They can also do the same if the comparison is in the item description. It usually won't happen as often since it isn't as obvious. It could be that someone pointed it out to them or they just caught it in a routine check. In any case, I think if you can work around the direct reference to Apple products you will be fine.

By the way, never expect eBay to give you an answer as to why they do something. They never will. They say it's security reasons but it really means they don't want to be bothered explaining their actions. Hence they have a standard reply.

Hope this gets you back to selling your stock!

Rob