How to get collection code

[sava-keit]

After an issue with no collection code when a buyer collected in person and paid cash, I have tried to revise another listing for collection only by requiring immediate payment when the buyer uses 'Buy it now'. The system will not allow me to do this, I get an error message stating 'Because you've specified Local Collection Only for this item, you can't require immediate payment.'

Does this mean the buyer can only buy the item once they have arrived at my address to generate the collection code? What about buyers who don't have a smartphone; not everyone does.

[tobiasd4]

You can no longer accept cash for collection items.

Buyer pays through ebay checkout, when they come to collect, they give a collection code.

https://www.ebay.co.uk/help/selling/posting-items/setting-postage-options/local-collection?id=4181&s...

[jckl1957 · Accepted solution]

It just means that the buyer will have the usual 4 days to pay rather than having to pay instantly.

They will have to pay through Ebay checkout; they do not pay when they come to get the item.

Once they have paid, you will be able to send them your address and contact details and Ebay will send the buyer a collection code.

[sava-keit]

I have no intention of accepting cash, having been advised that this is no longer permitted in the UK, unless for vehicles, and such. I am trying to navigate the hoops put in place by eBay to receive electronic payment for an item to be collected, so the buyer can generate their collection code.

I have attempted to revise a listing for a bundle of 23 Board Games, that would be too expensive to ship, but you cannot use the 'Require immediate payment' option when setting up a listing for an item to be collected. 

Because you've specified Local Collection Only for this item, you can't require immediate payment.

So, when the buyer buys an item they do not (cannot) pay for it immediately and no collection code is generated.

When does the buyer pay for an item to be collected, to generate the collection code?

When someone has bought an item, do I then advise them to pay for the item at checkout? Or, can one only sell to customers able to access their eBay account and pay via their smartphone, once they have arrived to collect the item?

[sava-keit]

Thanks, that makes sense. 

Do Ebay send automated reminders to pay to the buyer during the 4 day cooling period? Or, does one have to remind them to pay?

I assume you are able to send the buyer your address via the messaging system once they have paid? This is something Ebay stops you from doing if payment has yet to be received.

[jckl1957]

Really, when a buyer wins an item, you don't need to do anything.

Ebay will send them an invoice and bombard them with payment reminders so there is no need for you to do either of those things.

I don't often sell collection only items but personally, I would send two messages.

Message 1 when the buyer wins the item:

Thanks for buying my item. I am sure you have noticed it is collection only.

I will send you my address etc. as soon as you have paid.

Message 2 when the buyer has paid:

Thanks for your payment.  Here are my details.  When would you like to collect?  Don't forget to bring the collection code when you come to pick up the item.

[sava-keit]

Thanks, that's really helpful. While I'm not selling by auction, I'm sure your advice is just as useful.