How Dropshipping on eBay Works in 2025 for Smart Sellers

Want to start dropshipping on eBay in 2025 without wasting time or risking suspension?

This guide gives you everything—new updates, proven strategies, automation tools, and real advice from my experience.

Whether you’re launching your first store or scaling an existing one, you’ll find what actually works today.

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What Is eBay Dropshipping?

eBay dropshipping is a business model where you list products for sale on eBay without actually holding inventory.

Instead, when a customer purchases a product from you, you forward the order information to a third-party supplier who will then ship the product directly to the customer. Unlike traditional eCommerce, eBay dropshipping requires no upfront investment in inventory.

To get started with eBay dropshipping, you’ll need to find profitable products to sell, choose reliable suppliers, price your products competitively, create eBay listings, and forward order information to your suppliers.

In fact, it’s a step-by-step process, but with some due diligence and effort, you can establish a profitable eBay dropshipping business.

👉 Learn about Home Depot Dropshipping: How To Dropship To Ebay or Amazon?

Is Dropshipping on eBay Allowed in 2025? Here’s What I Learned Firsthand

Yes, dropshipping is still allowed on eBay in 2025 — but it’s not as straightforward as many think. When I started out, I thought I could just list products from any retailer and have them ship straight to my customers. That worked for a while… until my account got flagged.

So here’s the truth from someone who’s been through it:

If you want to dropship on eBay the right way in 2025, you need to source your products from legitimate wholesale suppliers or manufacturers — not from Amazon, Walmart, or any other retailer. eBay made it very clear that retail arbitrage (buying from another retailer after making a sale) is a violation of their policy.

What they do allow is dropshipping from wholesalers where you already have an agreement, or if you hold inventory and use a third-party logistics service to fulfill orders. But even then, you’re on the hook for everything — delivery times, item quality, customer satisfaction. Your supplier messes up, and your eBay account takes the hit.

In my case, I switched to a reliable supplier after some trial and error, and started using tools like AutoDS and DSM Tool to manage orders. That helped me stay compliant and automated most of the work.

I also learned something else the hard way: even if you play by the rules, eBay can suspend your account without warning.

I’ve seen sellers (myself included at one point) get suspended, appeal, and still not get back on. It’s harsh — so you really need to protect your account health, track delivery metrics, and respond to every buyer message fast.

If you’re serious about building a sustainable dropshipping business on eBay in 2025, my advice is this:

• Work only with verified wholesale suppliers — not retailers.
• Use automation tools to keep track of stock and pricing changes.
• Stay on top of delivery times and customer messages — eBay’s algorithm watches everything.
• And don’t forget: you’re always responsible, even if the supplier screws up.

So yes — you can dropship on eBay in 2025. But do it right, or you’ll risk losing everything overnight like I almost did.

👉 Read about Poshmark Review: Is Poshmark Legit For Buying & Selling?

What Do You Need to Know Before Dropshipping on eBay in 2025?

Before diving into dropshipping on eBay in 2025, it’s crucial to understand the platform’s updated policies, fee structure, and compliance requirements.

eBay still allows dropshipping, but only if you fulfill orders directly from a wholesale supplier.

Sourcing from another retailer or marketplace (like Amazon or Walmart) is against eBay’s policy and can lead to account suspension.

Here’s a breakdown of the main fees you’ll face as a dropshipper on eBay:

💸 Final Value Fees

eBay charges a percentage of the total sale amount (item price + shipping + tax), ranging from 10% to 15%, depending on the category. Top-rated sellers may qualify for discounts.

📝 Insertion Fees

You get 250 free listings per month. After that, it’s $0.35 per additional listing.

💳 Payment Processing Fees

PayPal is no longer the default. eBay now uses eBay Payments, which typically charges 2.35% + $0.30 per transaction for most U.S. sellers.

Rates may vary by country and category.

📦 Shipping Costs

You’re responsible for covering shipping. eBay partners with USPS, FedEx, and UPS to offer discounted commercial rates, which help reduce overhead.

📋 Compliance Requirements (NEW for 2025)

Under EU DAC7 regulations, eBay now reports seller income to European tax authorities. If you sell to the EU, you’ll need to register for tax compliance or risk account restrictions.

💡  Tip: Discover the 17 Best Multi Vendor Marketplace Platforms For Ecommerce.

eBay US Tariff Updates 2025: What Sellers Need to Know

In 2025, the US raised import tariffs and updated customs rules, which affect all international eBay sellers. Here’s a quick breakdown of how it impacts your listings, shipping, and pricing strategy.

🔺 Key Changes for 2025

• US buyers now pay duties on most imports over $800.
• Customs may ask for buyer info to clear shipments.
• Shipping delays are likely—eBay will adjust delivery estimates to reflect this.
• Tariffs aren’t included in eBay prices unless using DDP (Delivered Duty Paid).

Shipping: DDU vs DDP

DDU (Delivered Duty Unpaid):

• Buyer pays duties to the carrier.
• No tariff impact if item is under $800.
• Seller isn’t responsible for customs clearance.

DDP (Delivered Duty Paid):

• Seller pays all duties/taxes upfront.
• Prices may need updating to reflect new tariffs.

Tariff Tip: For Indian goods, a new 10% tariff applies. Also, De Minimis ($800 exemption) ends for China and Hong Kong from May 2, 2025.

How eBay Protects Sellers

• Defect removals for delays caused by customs.
• Negative feedback due to tariffs may be removed.
• eBay International Shipping offers full customs handling—buyers pay duties at checkout, and eBay handles the rest.

Formal vs Informal Entry

• Over $2,500: Formal entry required, with customs bond and paperwork.
• Under $800: Usually duty-free, unless from China/Hong Kong (starting May 2).

How Much Does It Cost To Start Dropshipping On Ebay?

As someone who has started a dropshipping business on eBay, I can tell you that there are several costs to consider before getting started.

Firstly, you’ll need to factor in eBay listing fees, seller fees, shipping costs, product sourcing fees, eBay subscription fees, and marketing expenses.  👇

However, here are some fees to consider. So, I will explain the one that can drag on your earnings.

➡ Sourcing fees

These fees depend heavily on a range of factors such as supplier type (manufacturer vs wholesaler vs distributor), seasonality of product demand, etc.

Thus, these costs typically range from 5%-15% of the actual retail price of each item sourced from suppliers to be sold on eBay.

➡ Listing Fees on eBay

Initially, every eBay user receives 250 free listings each month, these are known as “zero listing fees”.

However, once you’ve used these up, there’s a twist: you must pay 35 cents for each additional listing you want to add or relist.

This fee is steadfast; you’re required to pay it regardless of whether your item sells.

Additionally, it’s important to note that if you decide to list the same item in multiple categories or post duplicate listings, you’ll incur a listing fee for each additional category or duplicate post.

Special Features and Upgrades

Moreover, eBay offers the option to enhance your listings with special features.

These include options like extending the visibility of your listing, applying bold text, adding subtitles, and setting a reserve price, among others. While these features come at an extra cost—ranging from a few cents to several dollars—they play a crucial role in making your listings more attractive and can significantly increase your chances of selling.

➡ Final Sale Fees

This is where changes are most notable. As of February 14, 2025, eBay increased final value fees by up to 0.35% in most categories.

• For most categories, fees went from 13.25% to 13.6%.
• Categories like Books, Movies, Music now incur 15.3% fees (up from 14.95%).
• Items like vinyl records, jewelry, coins, and athletic shoes under $150 also saw increases.

The $0.30 flat fee per order remains. So depending on what you sell, you may now lose $0.30–$0.50 more per sale due to the rate hikes.

➡ Shipping costs

Thus, these costs vary depending on the size, weight, and location of the item being shipped.

Generally, standard shipping for an item weighing less than 1 lb costs around $2-$5 per order. But, heavier items likely range from $7-$10 or more.

➡ eBay Store Subscriptions

For those looking to dive deeper into the eBay selling experience, subscribing to an eBay Store might be a worthwhile consideration.

Not only does it unlock additional tools for managing and promoting your business on eBay, but it also offers an increase in the number of zero-listing fee listings per month.

Furthermore, it reduces the cost of listing fees for additional items and decreases the final sale fees you owe per transaction. The cost of subscribing to an eBay Store varies by tier:

• Starter: Priced at $7.95 monthly or a reduced rate of $4.95 per month with an annual commitment.
• Basic: Available at $27.95 monthly or $21.95 per month with an annual commitment.
• Premium: Costs $74.95 monthly or $56.95 per month with an annual commitment.
• Anchor: Priced at $349.95 monthly or $299.95 per month with an annual commitment.
• Enterprise: The top tier, at $2,999.95 monthly, is only available with a year-long commitment.

These structured plans cater to a range of seller needs, from those just starting out to large-scale enterprises, providing a pathway to optimize sales and maximize profits.

➡ Upfront Costs

In addition, there are upfront costs like purchasing a domain name, website hosting, and dropshipping software. 👇

• The sale price range for a domain name can vary depending on the domain extension and the registrar used but typically ranges from $10 to $50 per year.
• Website hosting prices can vary depending on the hosting provider and the hosting plan selected but can range from $5 to $50 per month for shared hosting, and up to $500 per month for dedicated hosting.
• Dropshipping software prices can also vary depending on the provider and the features offered but typically range from $30 to $300 per month. 

Also, it’s crucial to research and compare the pricing plans of different suppliers to ensure that you get the best deal on products.

What Are eBay Dropshipping Policies?

eBay continues to support dropshipping in 2025, but only under strict conditions designed to protect buyer experience and platform integrity.

• Use Only Wholesale or Authorized Suppliers: You must fulfill orders directly from a wholesale supplier, manufacturer, or a dropshipping supplier authorized by the brand. Examples include CJdropshipping, Alibaba (B2B suppliers), or SaleHoo-listed vendors.
• Retail Arbitrage is Prohibited: Purchasing items from another retailer or marketplace (like Amazon, Walmart, Temu, or AliExpress retail listings) and shipping them directly to customers violates eBay’s policy. This can lead to hidden listings, account limitations, or permanent suspension.
• Listing Fees Still Apply: eBay charges listing fees beyond your monthly free limit, regardless of whether a product sells. Sellers are encouraged to track listings and delist low-converting items to control costs.
• Delivery Performance is Crucial: eBay enforces strict delivery windows. Sellers must meet expected delivery dates (usually under 30 days). Repeated delays or tracking issues can hurt your seller performance rating.
• Policy Enforcement is Now Automated: In 2025, eBay uses AI and marketplace cross-verification to detect and penalize policy violations. Sellers must ensure supplier compliance to avoid surprise takedowns.

How To Dropship On eBay In 2025? Step-By-Step

As someone who has gone through the process, I can tell you that it’s a relatively simple process, and you can start selling your products within a matter of hours.

👉 Also, read about Dropshipping from AliExpress to eBay: Step-by-Step Guide for Beginners.

1. Create an eBay Seller Account

To sell products through an eBay store, you need to have a seller account.

To create an eBay account and start selling, begin by hovering over the “My eBay” drop-down menu found on any eBay page and selecting “Selling.” You’ll be prompted to choose between a Personal or Business account.

Fill out the required details on the registration form and click “Create account.” If you prefer, you can also sign up using your Google, Facebook, or Apple account. Once registered, you’ll need to provide your contact information and select “Continue.”

After completing this initial step, you’ll be automatically directed to your My eBay dashboard. To proceed with becoming a seller, return to the My eBay menu and once again select “Selling.” On the next screen, known as the Selling Overview page, click the “List an item” button. You’ll then be taken to the Sell Your Item form.

Start by typing the name of the item you wish to sell and clicking the magnifying glass icon to search for the appropriate product category. Once you’ve entered the item information, fill out the rest of the form and click the “List it” button. Your listing will be saved as a draft, and you’ll be redirected to complete the final step of seller account registration. Click “Get started” to move forward.

At this point, enter your telephone number and verify it by inputting the one-time security code sent to your phone. After successful verification, you’ll also have the option to switch your account type if you need to change from personal to business or vice versa.

Next, you will land on the eBay Dashboard. Choose the eBay store option that best fits your needs and link your checking account to receive payments.

After completing these steps, connect your new store to Shopify with the eBay app. This will allow you to manage inventory levels, communicate with buyers, and handle returns all in one convenient dashboard.

2. Select Products To Sell

How can you find products on eBay? Easy! You can search through eBay product categories, or you can use the search bar and enter the product’s name. 

First and foremost, I always start by checking eBay’s bestsellers page for valuable insights.

This helps me identify what products are currently trending and popular. I then look for similar products at a lower price from dropshipping sites like Alibaba or AliExpress.

When selecting products, I always focus on ones that are lightweight and have a low return rate. Hence, some of the popular product categories I consider are clothing, electronics, home and garden, pet supplies, and toys.

Finally, I price my products and constantly test and refine the price range to maximize profits.

💡 Tip: Read about Dropshipping Product Research Tools: How To Find Winning Products In 2025?

3. Find A Dropshipping Supplier

When it comes to dropshipping on eBay, finding a reliable supplier is crucial for your success.

So, if I find a specific product I want to sell, I always start by checking a supplier’s seller rating and customer reviews to ensure they have a positive track record. Therefore, I navigate to the product page and click on it to see detailed Seller information. 👇

Now, I can check on positive feedback, Items sold, followers, and more.

Plus, shipping times and fees are also important to consider, especially since eBay has specific delivery time requirements. Hence, if I like the supplier, I save it by clicking on the ” Save Seller”  button.

Furthermore, there are plenty of options to find dropshipping suppliers, including online directories, trade shows, search engines, social media, and referrals. Some popular eBay dropshipping suppliers include:

• Salehoo
• Chinabrands
• Wholesale2b
• Brands Gateway
• Harbor Freight

For example, I usually use CjDropshipping, which is a wholesale supplier and is allowed according to eBay policies.  So, I scroll down to the Global Warehouses section and search for items and suppliers based on location. 👇

However, I’ve found a method that significantly cuts down the time it takes me to source products from leading US and Chinese global suppliers, allowing me to add them to my store almost instantly. What’s my strategy?

The AutoDS Product Research tool empowers me to discover products using various filters, including price, customer reviews, and delivery durations. However, you will read all about it in the next section.

4. Research Competitor Pricing

When dropshipping on eBay, it’s essential to research competitor pricing to price products appropriately.

I suggest checking out similar products on eBay, Amazon, and other online retailers to see what they’re charging. From this information, determine your costs, including listing and shipping fees.

For example, AliExpress has various extensions, like Search by Image, where you can search for products using photos. Hence, you can use eBay’s product photo and find it on AliExpress. This way, you can check on its pricing. 👇

I also recommend setting realistic profit margins while still keeping prices competitive. Don’t be afraid to adjust prices based on data collected until you find the sweet spot.

5. Create An eBay Listing

Creating an eBay listing is crucial to a successful dropshipping business. Taking the time to optimize your listings is important to stand out from competitors and attract potential customers.

Thus, to create a listing, click on the “Sell” tab on the eBay homepage. Then select “List an item”. Hence, you can start creating a list from the Seller Hub. So, once you are there, click on the “Listing” category.👇

Now, I will click on “Create Listing”, and I will choose “Single Listing”. 

 Hence, key factors to include are a clear product title and description, high-quality images, customer reviews, and a return policy.

Moreover, use keywords that your target customers may use when searching for those items, and take advantage of eBay SEO tips to increase visibility. Trust me, it’s worth the effort to create a compelling listing.

Also, as already mentioned above, by utilizing AutoDS’ AI Rewrite tool, you can select the desired tone and emotion to receive improved, AI-crafted product titles and descriptions, all aimed at enhancing conversion rates.

6. Forward Order Information To The Supplier

Forwarding order information to the suppliers is a crucial step in eBay dropshipping. It ensures that the supplier knows exactly what needs to be shipped and when.

Thus, communication with the wholesaler is essential for timely delivery. The use of dropshipping software can automate this process and reduce the chances of errors.

One example of using dropshipping software that can automate the process of forwarding order information to the supplier on eBay is AutoDS. 👇

This app allows eBay sellers to easily import products from various suppliers and automatically forward order information to those suppliers for fulfillment.

👉 Check out the 12 Best Dropshipping Software To Automate Your Store.

Once the order is placed, it’s important to ensure that the items are safely delivered to the customer, even though the supplier handles packaging and shipping. It’s imperative to keep the supplier informed about the delivery status.

How To Automate Your eBay Dropshipping Process in 2025? (My Approach)

Creating a successful eBay dropshipping business involves a series of well-defined steps, especially when using automation tools like AutoDS to streamline the process.

Here’s a detailed guide on how to automate your eBay dropshipping business effectively.

Picking a Dropshipping Supplier

So, let’s say that you choose AliExpress as your sourcing platform.

So, finding the right supplier on platforms like AliExpress is critical. Begin by adjusting your “Ship To” location to the USA on AliExpress, which helps in filtering products available for shipping to the United States.

Filter your search to include only products with over 4-star rating and free shipping. This approach helps in identifying high-quality products and suppliers.

 Choose a supplier based on the product’s sales volume, customer ratings, and shipping policies.

For example, if searching for a “resistance band,” opt for a product that has a high number of units sold, excellent reviews, and free shipping.

Also, evaluating suppliers is a crucial next step. Ensure the seller has been active for at least one year and maintains a store rating of 96% or higher. This is a good indicator of reliability and quality.

 Thus, establishing communication with your supplier outside of AliExpress, through channels like WhatsApp, Wechat, or Skype, is essential for building a strong business relationship.

💡 Tip: Learn about Dropshipping from AliExpress to eBay: Pro Guide for Beginners.

Integrating Your eBay Store with AutoDS

After signing into your AutoDS account, navigate to the sidebar menu and select the “Add Store” option.

Proceed by selecting “Add your first eBay store”, determine your geographical location from the options provided, and then click “Finish”.

You will then be prompted to log into your eBay account. Enter the necessary credentials to proceed with the login process.

Following this, AutoDS will require permission to access your eBay store. Ensure you click on “Accept” to grant this access.

With this step completed, your eBay store is now successfully connected to AutoDS, and you’re all set to start automating your dropshipping business.

Finding Your First Winning Product

The AutoDS Finder tool is a robust solution for identifying hot-selling products across multiple suppliers.

Access the AutoDS Finder through the “Add Products” section, followed by “AutoDS Finder”.

Select a product category that fits your market demand and interests. Pick a supplier from over 15 options available within the AutoDS platform.

Configure your upload settings, including break-even, profit, quantity, and policies, with the help of AutoDS’s eBay Calculator Tool for precise profitability calculations.

Listing Your Product

When uploading your product to eBay, AutoDS’s uploader tool simplifies the process by allowing you to enter the product URL or ID.

It automatically extracts all necessary information from the source site and converts it into an eBay listing.

 You have the flexibility to edit product details like the title, variations, and pricing.

Setting up your eBay listing involves choosing the right category and item specifics, which AutoDS largely automates. However, you can make manual adjustments to better match your product description.

Product images are also managed through AutoDS, enabling you to select the main image, upload new ones, create image collages, and apply watermarks.

Finalize your listing by selecting the item’s location and setting your business policies related to shipping, returns, and payments.

These settings should be configured according to your eBay account preferences. You also have the option to tag your products for easier organization and to schedule uploads at specific times.

Fulfilling Orders

With your listings live, order management becomes the next focus. AutoDS facilitates monitoring orders and notifies you upon sales.

For order fulfillment, you can either let AutoDS automate the process or manually handle purchases from your supplier and shipping details to your customer.

eBay Dropshipping Key Features 2025

1. Product Categories and Selling Formats

eBay allows you to sell a wide variety of items—whether they’re brand-new, pre-owned, or collectible.

The marketplace supports different listing formats, including the classic auction style and “Buy It Now” fixed-price listings.

Categories range from electronics, fashion, home décor, and sports gear to toys, vintage items, and auto parts.

This flexibility makes eBay one of the most versatile platforms for dropshippers to test and scale different niches.

2. Shipping Speeds and Delivery Options

Shipping times on eBay can differ depending on seller location, buyer location, and the chosen courier.

Typically, domestic orders arrive in 1 to 7 days, while international deliveries range from 7 to 30 days. Sellers can also specify their handling time, which refers to how long it takes to ship the product after the buyer places an order.

Moreover, eBay offers a Global Shipping Program (GSP), which handles international logistics and customs. Sellers simply ship items to an eBay facility, and eBay takes care of the rest.

3. Seller Promotions and Visibility Tools

eBay offers promotional options to help sellers get more exposure. Tools include:

• Promoted Listings Standard for increased visibility in search results
• Promoted Listings Advanced for keyword targeting
• Sales Events & Volume Pricing to encourage bulk purchases
• Coupon Codes to attract and retain buyers

Using these tools can significantly boost your listing traffic and improve conversion rates, especially for competitive niches.

4. Order Management and Automation

Fulfilling orders on eBay is much easier thanks to automation tools like AutoDS, KalDrop, and Dropified.

These platforms allow sellers to automate product imports, order processing, inventory tracking, and price syncing. With automated fulfillment, you reduce the risk of errors and save valuable time managing your store.

5. eBay Shipping Policy Compliance

Sellers must follow eBay’s core shipping policies, including:

• Delivery Promise: All products must be able to arrive within 30 days.
• Handling Time: You must specify a handling time, usually 1–3 business days.
• Tracking Numbers: Required for every order to ensure customer trust.
• Return Policy: Align your return terms with those of your supplier to avoid miscommunication.
• Free Shipping Advantage: Listings with free shipping often get better ranking on eBay’s search results.

6. Facebook Marketplace Integration

In 2025, eBay rolled out a major update—direct integration with Facebook Marketplace for select regions and product categories.

This means your eBay listings can now automatically sync and appear on Facebook Marketplace, exposing them to millions of potential buyers across social media.

Key benefits of this integration include:

• Wider reach across two massive platforms
• Real-time inventory sync
• Unified messaging and order management
• Higher engagement on mobile

If you’re using eBay with automation tools like AutoDS or directly through your eBay store dashboard, enabling this feature can significantly boost your traffic with no additional manual work.

Tips For eBay Dropshipping – How To Make Sales And Get Higher Profits?

As someone who has successfully built a dropshipping business on eBay, I have learned a lot about what works and what doesn’t.

Therefore, I want to share with you my top tips for making sales and getting higher profits with eBay dropshipping. Let’s dive in!

Tip 1: Use High-Quality Photos

As an eBay dropshipper, using high-quality photos is crucial for building trust and confidence with potential buyers.

I suggest utilizing the images provided by your supplier as a starting point, but editing the main image to make it stand out from other sellers.

Adding borders or text can be a great way to do this. However, it’s important to confirm with your suppliers before using their images to avoid any potential copyright issues.

Tip 2: Write Detailed Product Descriptions

When it comes to selling on eBay, I find that writing detailed product descriptions is crucial. I start by outlining all the features and qualities of the product and highlighting what sets it apart from competitors.

This means including details such as the item’s condition, size, and color, as well as any notable features that make it unique. I always try to use descriptive language that paints a picture for potential customers and includes safety warnings or care instructions if necessary. 👇

Overall, detailed product descriptions help me attract more potential buyers and set myself apart from other sellers.

Moreover, you can request ChatGPT to craft a succinct overview of features and advantages. For example, if you’re marketing a portable blender, you could initiate the prompt with:

📝 “Craft an SEO-optimized product description for my portable blender, highlighting its features and benefits: One Touch Switch Portable Blender, USB Rechargeable, Enhanced 6 Blades for Mixing, Easy One Touch Switch for Cleaning, and Intelligent Safety Protection.”

Let’s put it to the test. 👇

This way, you can leverage ChatGPT to generate SEO-friendly product descriptions for your dropshipping items.

👉 Read about GPT-4 for Ecommerce: What You Should Know in 2025.

Tip 3: Be Clear About All Shipping Details

To ensure customer satisfaction and prevent any confusion, it’s essential to list out all necessary information such as shipping costs and delivery times.

I recommend including any potential delays and special handling instructions as well. It’s also crucial to match your shipping policies with those of your supplier to avoid any discrepancies.

Effectively communicating these details can help build trust with potential buyers and lead to a successful dropshipping business.

Tip 4: Offer Competitive Prices

Offering competitive prices is one of the most crucial tips for a successful dropshipping business. To achieve this, I suggest researching competitors, analyzing market demand and pricing strategy, and maintaining a reasonable profit margin.

By following these steps, dropshippers can stay ahead of the competition and attract more potential buyers.

Tip 5: Respond Quickly To Questions

As someone who has experienced the importance of excellent customer service firsthand, Tip 5 is something I cannot stress enough.

👉 Check out Testimonial Advertising: 11 Proven Examples To Sell More.

Responding quickly to customer inquiries is crucial when dropshipping on eBay. I make it a point to regularly check my eBay messages and respond within 24 hours.

This helps me keep my seller rating intact and avoid negative feedback. When addressing questions, I make sure to be clear, concise and provide all necessary information related to the product and shipping.

Additionally, I always strive to remain professional and polite in my responses – it goes a long way in improving the customer experience.

Where To Find Dropshipping Suppliers For eBay?

I remember when I started my dropshipping business on eBay, the first and biggest challenge I faced was sourcing products from reliable suppliers. It can be overwhelming to find a trustworthy supplier that offers competitive pricing, safe delivery, and a variety of products.

However, I learned through trial and error and I’m going to share with you where to find dropshipping suppliers on eBay.

1. Online Directories and Marketplaces

In my experience, one of the most effective ways to find suppliers for eBay dropshipping is by using online directories and marketplaces.

These platforms offer a wealth of information on various suppliers and can help simplify the process of finding reliable partners.

For example, Dropshipping.com has a huge supplier directory, where you can search for wholesale dropshipping suppliers for free. 👇

Furthermore, some of my personal favorites include AliExpress, SaleHoo. Each platform offers a unique set of features and benefits, so it’s important to evaluate your options and choose the one that best fits your needs.

👉 Check out the 13 Best Directories To Find Wholesale Dropshipping Suppliers.

2. Trade Shows and Exhibitions

As an experienced dropshipper, I highly recommend attending trade shows and exhibitions to source reliable suppliers.

These events provide a unique opportunity to evaluate products, discuss pricing and details directly with suppliers, and network with other sellers in the industry.

Attending events in your dropshipping niche can provide valuable insights into the latest trends and innovations and help you stay ahead of the competition.

For instance, the ASD Market Week in Las Vegas is a major retail merchandise trade show that features a wide array of products suitable for eBay sellers.

Here, you can inspect the quality of items such as electronics, fashion accessories, and home goods, ensuring they meet your standards before listing them on your store.

3. Search Engines

As someone who has been in the eBay dropshipping business for a while, I know how crucial it is to find reliable suppliers. That’s why I always turn to search engines like Google for my supplier search.

Using relevant keywords like “eBay wholesale suppliers” or “eBay dropshipping suppliers” along with my product category helps me find potential suppliers easily. 👇

Also, I find that using search engines gives me more options and allows me to select the best supplier based on their reviews, pricing, and product offerings.

4. Social Media

When it comes to finding suppliers for my eBay dropshipping business, social media is my go-to solution.

Platforms like Facebook and LinkedIn offer a plethora of opportunities to connect with other sellers and suppliers in my niche.

I join relevant groups and communities and take advantage of the search bar to find accounts and pages that deal with products I’m interested in. For example, you can take advantage of this Facebook group, and get relevant information. 👇

Plus, I find Dropshipping with Amazon, Shopify, eBay forum helpful as well.

By engaging with these contacts, I establish a network of reliable and trustworthy suppliers who consistently provide high-quality products.

5. Referrals

Finding reliable suppliers is crucial for any successful eBay dropshipping business, and one way to do so is through referrals.

I’ve found that referrals from other sellers or industry experts can be particularly valuable because they come from trusted sources. Therefore, attending industry events and connecting with other sellers to build a network of contacts who can refer you to quality suppliers has worked well for me.

Alternatively, online forums and groups can also be useful for seeking referrals. When evaluating potential suppliers, I consider critical factors such as product quality, pricing, shipping times, customer service, and reputation.

Finally, establishing clear communication and expectations with your supplier is crucial to ensuring a smooth and successful business relationship.

Top 7 eBay Dropshipping Suppliers To Get Started With in 2025

Salehoo

As an experienced eBay seller, I highly recommend using Salehoo for dropshipping. With Salehoo, I have access to a network of over 8,000 pre-vetted suppliers who offer high-quality products and reliable shipping.

Shipping Times: Shipping times vary by supplier, typically ranging from 5 to 30 days. Some suppliers offer fast 2–5 day delivery within the US.

Product Offerings: Gives access to over 8,000 pre-vetted suppliers offering a wide variety of products including electronics, fashion, and home goods.

Product Price Range: Products generally range from $20 to $200, depending on the supplier and product category.

Plus, Salehoo’s market research tools help me make informed decisions on what products to sell on my eBay store. Joining Salehoo has definitely improved my eBay dropshipping business.

Made-in-China (Chinabrands)

As a dropshipper who has used Chinabrands as a dropshipping supplier on eBay, I highly recommend their services.

Shipping Times: Orders are usually processed within 24 hours, with shipping times depending on the destination. Some products offer 2-day delivery options.

Product Offerings: A global supplier with a huge selection of products, including electronics, clothing, and home & garden.

Product Price Range: Offers competitive wholesale pricing across categories, although price varies by product type.

Note: Chinabrands has shut down its platform for new users but may still be relevant for some sellers with legacy accounts.

They are a global online wholesale platform with a wide variety of products, ranging from electronics to home and garden items.

Plus, their Scale plan also offers branded packing slips for retailers, which can increase brand recognition. Attending trade shows is another great way to connect with them as potential suppliers, allowing for in-person product evaluation and pricing discussions.

Overall, Chinabrands is a reliable option for any eBay seller looking to expand their product offerings.

Wholesale2b

As a content writer experienced in eBay dropshipping, I highly recommend Wholesale2b as a potential supplier.

Their access to over 1.5 million products from over 100 different suppliers makes them a top contender in the marketplace.

Shipping Times: Shipping depends on the supplier, but Wholesale2b provides transparent shipping costs and details per product.

Product Offerings: Features over 1.5 million products from more than 100 different suppliers, including electronics, apparel, and home items.

Product Price Range: Varies widely; many products are marked up 2–3 times the wholesale cost to maintain profit margins.

However, it’s important to do extensive research to find profitable products that have a low return rate and are frequently purchased on eBay, which can be achieved with Wholesale2b’s product sourcing capabilities.

BrandsGateway

As an eBay dropshipper, I know how important it is to have access to quality, branded products. That’s why I always turn to Brands Gateway.

Shipping Times: Ships orders within 24–48 hours, with delivery in 2–4 business days within the EU and 5–7 business days worldwide.

Product Offerings: Specializes in luxury fashion, offering 100+ premium brands in clothing, shoes, and accessories.

Product Price Range: High-ticket items with premium pricing to match the branded, high-quality products.

With a wide range of high-quality products at a competitive price, I’ve been able to gain my customers’ trust and loyalty.

From clothing and beauty products to shoes and accessories, Brands Gateway has it all. Plus, their fast shipping and reliable customer support seal the deal for me.

👉 Check out our FULL Dropshipping with BrandsGateway Review, Comparison, Pros & Cons, and How-to Guide.

Harbor Freight

As a dropshipper on eBay, I’ve found that using lesser-known suppliers like Harbor Freight can provide a real edge.

There’s less competition and more opportunity to offer truly profitable products. With a range of high-quality products from a US-based supplier, Harbor Freight offers reliability and potential for success.

Shipping Times: Most orders are delivered within 7–10 business days after they leave the warehouse.

Product Offerings: Offers tools and equipment, including power tools, generators, automotive gear, and workshop accessories.

Product Price Range: Known for affordable prices, especially for DIY and professional tools.

Overall, I highly recommend considering them as a dropshipping supplier for your eBay business.

My Depot

My Depot is a platform that is both efficient and user-friendly. It can assist you in finding the resources you need to maintain the quality of your products while keeping expenses low. In addition, the website is easy to use and understand.

My Depot has partnerships with major factories in China, Brazil, Malaysia, Taiwan, Vietnam, and Indonesia.

Shipping Times: Orders are processed within 1–2 business days, followed by 2–3 business days for shipping.

Product Offerings: Focuses on home organization and furniture, including office chairs, decor, and storage solutions.

Product Price Range: Offers competitive prices, with items ranging from budget-friendly to mid-range depending on the category.

Thanks to their well-established connections, they can offer the most competitive prices in the home organization industry.

This dropshipping supplier is integrated with Amazon and eBay. However, to increase margins, I suggest researching wholesale suppliers, but caution that finding the right one may take more time and effort.

👉 Check out our FULL My Depot Review: Top Dropshipping Furniture Suppliers.

AutoDS

Shipping Times: Depends on the integrated supplier. Offers fast US shipping (2–7 days) for domestic suppliers and 7–15 days for international ones.

Product Offerings: Connects with multiple suppliers including AliExpress, Amazon, Walmart, CJdropshipping, and more. Categories include tech, home, fashion, toys, beauty, and more.

Product Price Range: Extremely flexible—from $1 items to $500+ products, depending on the source. AutoDS supports automated pricing and profit control to maintain margins.

Pros & Cons Of eBay Dropshipping

Next, I will list and explain the most common benefits and pitfalls of eBay dropshipping in 2025.

➡ Benefits of eBay dropshipping

As someone with experience in eBay dropshipping, I understand the immense benefits this business model offers. 

✅ Low startup costs

eBay dropshipping requires minimal investment, making it an accessible option for beginners or those with limited capital.

✅ Wide range of products

As a dropshipper, you have access to a vast selection of products from multiple suppliers.

Thus, this allows you to offer a diverse range of products to your customers.

✅ No inventory management

With dropshipping, you don’t have to worry about managing inventory or storage space.

This saves time and money on logistics and warehousing.

✅ Flexibility and scalability

Dropshipping allows you to operate your business from anywhere and scale up or down as needed without worrying about inventory or storage constraints.

✅ Reduced risk

Since you only order products from suppliers after a customer has placed an order, you don’t have to worry about buying and holding inventory that may not sell.

This reduces the risk of unsold inventory and associated costs.

✅ Focus on marketing and sales

With no inventory or storage concerns, you can focus on marketing and sales, which are critical components of any successful business.

✅ Easy to get started

Setting up an eBay dropshipping business is relatively easy, and you can start selling products almost immediately.

✅ Access to suppliers

As a dropshipper, you have access to many suppliers, which can help you negotiate better prices and find unique products to offer your customers.

✅ Minimal order processing time

Since you don’t have to handle inventory or shipping, the order processing time is minimal, which can lead to faster delivery times and increased customer satisfaction.

✅ Low overhead costs

As a dropshipper, you don’t have to worry about the costs associated with maintaining a physical store or office, reducing overhead costs.

➡ Downsides of eBay dropshipping

In addition, there are also some downsides to using eBay dropshipping. So, let’s see what it is!

❌ Limited control over inventory

Since the products are sourced from a third-party supplier, the dropshipper has limited control over the inventory.

This can lead to issues such as stockouts, delayed shipments, and canceled orders.

❌ Shipping and handling issues

Dropshippers rely on their suppliers to handle the shipping and handling of products.

This can lead to issues such as damaged products, late deliveries, and lost packages.

❌ Low-profit margins

Due to the high competition in the eBay marketplace, dropshippers may have to sell products at a lower price than their competitors, leading to lower profit margins.

❌ Reputation risks

Dropshippers are often at the mercy of their suppliers when it comes to product quality and customer service.

If a supplier delivers faulty or low-quality products, it can damage the dropshipper’s reputation on eBay.

❌ Limited customization

Since the products are sourced from a third-party supplier, the dropshipper has limited control over the customization of the products. This can make it difficult to differentiate themselves from their competitors.

❌ Returns and refunds

Dropshippers may face challenges in handling returns and refunds since they are not handling the inventory themselves.

This can lead to delays in processing returns and refunds, which can negatively impact the customer experience and lead to negative feedback on eBay.

Real-Life Examples of Success With eBay Dropshipping

Harry Coleman – Making Millions with Three Stores

Harry Coleman kicked off his journey in the dropshipping world by initially focusing on a store dedicated to nail products on eBay. However, he soon diversified, opening two more stores that offered a wide range of items. Today, Harry stands as one of the top earners in dropshipping, with a fortune to show for it.

In 2018 alone, he saw a massive inflow, earning around $5 million.

Harry picked up several key strategies:

• the knack for identifying winning products,
• mastering the art of engaging advertising,
• importance of perseverance in the face of challenges.

Before diving into the dropshipping arena, Harry had a modest start, importing hats and selling them on eBay in the UK.

He began with a budget of just $500-$800 for advertising, discovering the potent impact of Facebook ads on his sales.

His relentless experimentation with different products and marketing approaches led to a steady climb in his sales figures. So, he managed to earn from $1,000 to $10,000 a day.

From his wealth of experience, Harry advises new entrants in the field to stay adaptable, test a variety of products, and prioritize building a trustworthy brand.

Jen Thomas – The Rise of Smudgy Monkey

Similarly, Jen Thomas’s venture, Smudgy Monkey Gifts & Accessories, began about a decade ago amidst personal challenges when her husband was laid off. Turning to eBay as a means to bridge their financial gap, Jen embarked on selling a variety of items.

Fortuitously, she stumbled upon a trending product, which propelled her eBay store to steady growth year after year.

Yet, Jen aimed higher, aspiring to transition her eBay customers to her standalone ecommerce store, all while continuing to sell on eBay.

Her success, she believes, stems from her commitment to exceptional customer service and value, alongside leveraging her eBay sales to foster strong customer relationships.

Nick Borrelli – Charting a New Course with Nu Wave Marine

Lastly, Nick Borrelli’s journey took a significant turn following a motorcycle accident and subsequent job loss. Returning to work at his father’s marine mechanic shop, he found himself surrounded by spare parts, sparking an innovative business idea.

Without prior experience in ecommerce or boating, Nick ventured into selling these parts on eBay.

Surprisingly, his business flourished, encouraging him to expand his eBay listings with new products and eventually turning it into his primary occupation.

Recognizing the opportunity to increase profitability, Nick decided to expand beyond eBay, establishing a dedicated online presence for his business.

With the assistance of BigCommerce, he developed a website, delved into SEO and PPC strategies, and carved a niche for himself in the marine industry.

Though eBay remains a valuable sales channel, Nick’s focus has shifted towards maximizing profits and strengthening his brand identity through his independent ecommerce platform.

Dropshipping on eBay FAQs

Conclusion: Is Dropshipping On eBay Worth It In 2025?

In conclusion, dropshipping on eBay can be a profitable venture, but it depends on various factors such as the niche, competition, and marketing strategies employed.

With the right approach and a thorough understanding of eBay policies, sellers can make a significant income from dropshipping in 2025 and beyond.

However, it’s essential to conduct thorough research and stay up-to-date with the latest trends and regulations to succeed in this highly competitive marketplace.