What is the eBay Money Back Guarantee?
The eBay Money Back Guarantee is a primary buyer protection program designed to ensure you receive the item you ordered or get your money back if there's a problem. It applies when an item doesn't arrive, or it's faulty or significantly not as described in the listing, offering a vital layer of security for online shoppers on the platform.
- Ensures you get your item or a refund.
- Covers items not received or not as described.
- Provides a structured resolution process.
- Empowers buyers with recourse against issues.
This guarantee is fundamental to building trust within the eBay marketplace. It shifts the risk from the buyer to the platform and the seller, making online transactions feel more secure, especially for those new to digital commerce. Understanding its scope means you can shop with greater confidence, knowing that a system is in place to address potential discrepancies or issues with your purchases.
The Core Promise of Buyer Protection
At its heart, eBay's Money Back Guarantee is a commitment to the buyer's satisfaction. It's not merely a suggestion; it's a binding policy that eBay enforces. When you purchase an eligible item and pay through eBay's checkout, you are automatically covered. This means if a seller fails to resolve an issue—such as sending the wrong item, a damaged product, or not sending the item at all—eBay steps in to mediate and often issue a refund. This policy is a significant differentiator for eBay compared to some peer-to-peer marketplaces where buyer protection might be minimal or non-existent.
The guarantee simplifies the resolution process by providing clear steps for buyers to follow. Instead of navigating complex return policies of individual sellers or dealing with payment processors directly, buyers have a centralized system. This approach streamlines dispute resolution, making it more efficient and less intimidating. It's a crucial component that fosters repeat business and buyer loyalty by minimizing perceived risk.
For many users, especially those making higher-value purchases or buying from new sellers, the presence of this guarantee is a deciding factor. It transforms a potentially uncertain transaction into a much safer one, allowing individuals to focus on finding the best deals without excessive worry about the integrity of the transaction itself. This forms the bedrock of why the eBay Money Back Guarantee is so important.
The digital marketplace thrives on trust, and this guarantee is eBay's primary mechanism for fostering it. It ensures that the vast majority of transactions are positive experiences, even when minor issues arise, because there's a clear path to resolution.
Why the eBay Money Back Guarantee Matters
The eBay Money Back Guarantee is crucial because it significantly reduces buyer risk in online transactions, fostering confidence and encouraging participation in the marketplace. Without it, potential buyers might hesitate to purchase items, especially from less familiar sellers or for higher-value goods, due to fears of receiving faulty products, incorrect items, or nothing at all. This policy ensures that if something goes wrong, there is a clear, actionable process to resolve the issue, typically resulting in either getting the correct item or a full refund.
This guarantee is particularly vital for buyers operating within a digital-first strategy, where trust is paramount. It provides a safety net that supports informed purchasing decisions and encourages buyers to explore a wider range of sellers and product categories. By mitigating the inherent uncertainties of remote transactions, eBay's policy helps maintain a healthy, dynamic marketplace where both buyers and sellers can operate with a greater degree of assurance.
Building Trust in the Digital Marketplace
In the online retail environment, trust is not a given; it must be built and maintained. The eBay Money Back Guarantee serves as a powerful trust signal for buyers. It assures them that their financial investment is protected, which is particularly important when purchasing from individual sellers who might not have established reputations or formal return policies. This security encourages more people to engage with eBay, expanding the pool of potential customers for sellers and increasing overall market liquidity.
The impact assessment of this guarantee is clear: it directly correlates with buyer confidence. When buyers feel secure, they are more likely to complete transactions, leave positive feedback, and return for future purchases. This creates a virtuous cycle that benefits the entire ecosystem. For sellers, while it imposes certain responsibilities, it also means access to a larger, more engaged customer base that is willing to spend because of the protection offered.
Consider the digital efficiencies gained by having a standardized dispute resolution process. Instead of buyers needing to research and understand individual seller policies or deal with external payment providers, eBay offers a unified system. This saves time and reduces complexity, making the overall shopping experience smoother. This efficiency is a key reason why the guarantee is so highly valued.
The guarantee acts as a proactive risk mitigation tactic for buyers. It means that even if an unforeseen issue arises, the buyer has a defined path forward, rather than facing a potential financial loss. This psychological security is a significant driver of transaction volume on the platform.
Ultimately, the eBay Money Back Guarantee underpins the platform's value proposition for consumers. It transforms the potential anxiety of online shopping into a more predictable and secure experience, encouraging repeat business and fostering a loyal customer base.
How the eBay Money Back Guarantee Works: The Basics
Understanding how eBay's Money Back Guarantee works is essential for any buyer. The process is designed to be straightforward, typically initiating when an item arrives damaged, is faulty, or doesn't match the seller's listing description. It also covers situations where the item simply doesn't arrive by the estimated delivery date. The core principle is that you should get the item you paid for, or get your money back.
To start a claim, you must first contact the seller directly through eBay's platform within a specific timeframe, usually 30 days from the estimated or actual delivery date. This initial contact allows the seller an opportunity to resolve the issue themselves, which often involves providing a refund or sending a replacement. If the seller doesn't respond or resolve the issue within a set period (typically 3 business days), you can then ask eBay to step in and make a decision.
Eligibility Criteria and Time Limits
For the eBay Money Back Guarantee to apply, several criteria must be met. Firstly, you must have paid for the item using an eligible payment method through eBay. This typically includes PayPal, credit cards, debit cards, or other methods processed via eBay checkout. Secondly, the issue must fall within the scope of the guarantee: the item is not as described, is damaged or faulty, or has not been received. You must also initiate contact with the seller within the specified time frame.
The ebay money back guarantee ind time limit is critical. Generally, buyers have 30 days from the estimated delivery date (or actual delivery date if sooner) to contact the seller. If the seller doesn't resolve the issue, buyers can ask eBay to step in usually within 21 days after the seller's response window closes. Missing these deadlines can forfeit your eligibility, so it's crucial to act promptly. Strategic implementation of tracking your purchase dates and delivery estimates is key to adhering to these timelines.
Items purchased through specific programs like eBay Motors, or those with specific listing exclusions, might have different rules. It's always wise to check the specific terms for the category you are buying from, but the general policy provides robust coverage for most common transactions.
Initiating a Resolution Request
When you encounter an issue, the first step is always to navigate to your 'Purchase history' on eBay. Find the order in question and select the option to 'Contact seller' or 'I have an issue with my order'. Be clear and concise in your message, detailing the problem with the item. Providing photographic evidence for 'not as described' or 'damaged' items can significantly speed up the process and strengthen your case. This direct communication is often the fastest route to a resolution.
If the seller doesn't provide a satisfactory solution or fails to respond within the allotted time, you will see an option to 'Ask eBay to step in'. This action escalates the case to eBay's resolution center. eBay will review the case, examining the communication history between you and the seller, listing details, tracking information, and any evidence provided. Their decision is based on the evidence presented and their policy guidelines.
The data indicates a clear path forward: prompt communication and accurate documentation are your strongest assets in any dispute. By following these steps diligently, you leverage the system designed to protect you, ensuring a fair outcome.
Resource allocation efficiency in your claim process means gathering all necessary information upfront. This includes order details, payment confirmations, and any communication logs, preparing you for each stage of the resolution.
Types of Issues Covered by the Guarantee
The eBay Money Back Guarantee is designed to cover a wide array of common issues buyers might face, ensuring a secure shopping environment. The most frequent categories include items that do not arrive at all, items that are significantly different from the seller's description, or items that arrive damaged or faulty. This comprehensive coverage aims to protect buyers from misrepresentation or delivery failures, making online purchases on eBay a more predictable experience.
Understanding exactly what constitutes 'significantly not as described' is key. This can range from receiving a different color, size, or model than what was listed, to the item having undisclosed defects or missing components. For 'damaged or faulty' items, the damage or defect must be something that prevents the item from functioning as intended or diminishes its value significantly, and wasn't disclosed in the listing. If an item simply doesn't arrive by the estimated delivery date, and tracking doesn't confirm delivery, it's also covered.
Items Not Received
This is one of the most common scenarios the guarantee addresses. If your tracking information does not show the item as delivered, or if the estimated delivery date has passed without you receiving it, you can open a case. The first step is always to contact the seller through eBay's 'Purchase history'. Some sellers might have made a mistake with the shipping, or the carrier might have misrouted the package. Direct communication often resolves this quickly.
If the seller cannot provide proof of delivery or resolve the non-receipt issue within three business days, you can then ask eBay to step in. eBay will review the tracking information and other available evidence. If non-delivery is confirmed, eBay will typically issue a full refund. This policy ensures that buyers are not left out of pocket for items that never reached them, demonstrating a commitment to transaction completion or financial restitution.
To optimize your digital workflow when dealing with non-receipt, save all order confirmations and tracking links. This readily available data allows for swift verification if eBay needs to investigate.
Items Not as Described (Significantly Different)
This category covers a broad spectrum of discrepancies between what was advertised and what was received. Examples include receiving a blue shirt when the listing showed a red one, getting a size large when you ordered a medium, or the item having significant scratches or wear that were not mentioned in the description or shown in photos. It also applies if the item is a counterfeit or replica when it was listed as genuine.
When opening a case for an item not as described, clear documentation is crucial. Take high-quality photos showing the discrepancy, and clearly describe how the item differs from the listing. This evidence helps eBay understand the extent of the difference. The goal is to ensure the item you receive aligns with the seller's representation in the listing. This provides a standard for product authenticity and accuracy.
Damaged or Faulty Items
If your item arrives broken, malfunctioning, or with defects that impact its usability, it falls under this category. This is distinct from 'not as described' because the issue is with the physical condition or functionality of the item itself. For example, a new smartphone that won't turn on, or a ceramic vase that arrives shattered.
Similar to 'not as described' cases, you'll need to provide photographic or video evidence of the damage or fault. Ensure the photos clearly show the issue. The seller is expected to have packaged the item appropriately for shipping, so damage incurred during transit is often their responsibility to address via the carrier or their own insurance, but the guarantee covers the buyer receiving a usable item. This protects buyers from receiving unusable goods and ensures accountability for shipping quality.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Claim Your Guarantee
Navigating the eBay Money Back Guarantee process involves a clear sequence of actions designed to resolve issues efficiently. If you encounter a problem with a purchase, the first and most critical step is to engage directly with the seller. This initial communication is key, as many issues can be resolved amicably between buyer and seller without requiring eBay's intervention. Patience and clear communication from your end are vital to initiating this process effectively.
The guarantee process is structured to escalate logically, moving from direct seller contact to eBay mediation if necessary. By following these steps, you maximize your chances of a favorable outcome, whether that's receiving the correct item, a repair, or a full refund. Understanding this flow helps manage expectations and ensures you take the right actions at the right time.
Step 1: Contact the Seller Directly
Immediately after identifying an issue (item not received by the estimated delivery date, or item is damaged, faulty, or not as described), log into your eBay account. Go to your 'Purchase history'. Locate the order in question and click on 'Contact seller' or 'I have an issue with this item'. Be polite but firm in describing the problem. If the item is damaged or not as described, attach clear photos or a short video demonstrating the issue. This initial contact should occur within 30 days of the estimated delivery date.
The seller typically has 3 business days to respond. During this time, they might offer a refund, ask for the item to be returned (usually with a prepaid shipping label), or offer a partial refund. If you agree to a resolution, follow the seller's instructions carefully. Document all communication, as it may be needed later.
Step 2: Ask eBay to Step In
If the seller does not respond within 3 business days, or if their proposed resolution is unsatisfactory, you can then escalate the issue. On the item's resolution case details page, you will find an option to 'Ask eBay to step in'. Clicking this moves the case from seller-to-buyer communication to eBay mediation. This should typically be done within 21 days after the seller's response window closes.
Once eBay steps in, their team will review the case. They will look at the listing description, your communication with the seller, tracking information, and any evidence you and the seller have provided. eBay's decision is final, and they will outline the next steps, which usually involve instructing the seller to refund you or arranging for the return of the item before issuing a refund.
The data indicates a clear path forward: prompt action and clear evidence are crucial for a successful outcome. By following these steps methodically, you ensure that the eBay money back guarantee policy works in your favor.
Step 3: Await eBay's Decision and Resolution
After eBay steps in, they will investigate and make a decision based on the evidence presented. This process can take a few days to a couple of weeks, depending on the complexity of the case and the responsiveness of both parties. eBay will inform you and the seller of their decision via email and through the case details page.
If eBay rules in your favor, they will typically instruct the seller to issue a refund. In cases where the item needs to be returned, eBay will provide instructions on how to do so, often with a prepaid shipping label. Once the item is returned and received by the seller (or eBay confirms the return shipment), the refund will be processed back to your original payment method. Consider the digital efficiencies gained by having eBay oversee the resolution, centralizing communication and evidence.
This structured approach ensures that the process is fair and transparent. It reinforces the reliability of the ebay money back guarantee, providing buyers with confidence that their concerns will be addressed.
Impact on Sellers and Strategic Considerations
The eBay Money Back Guarantee is not just a buyer-centric policy; it significantly influences seller behavior and strategy on the platform. Sellers are inherently incentivized to provide accurate listings, ship items promptly, and offer excellent customer service to avoid negative feedback and potential disputes. Understanding how does ebay money back guarantee affect seller operations is crucial for anyone selling online. The policy encourages sellers to maintain high standards to foster repeat business and a positive reputation.
From a seller's perspective, the guarantee acts as both a safeguard and a compliance requirement. It necessitates careful inventory management, accurate product descriptions, and robust packaging to minimize the chances of returns or complaints. Sellers who embrace this framework proactively often see better sales performance and customer loyalty. Ignoring it can lead to increased costs, damaged reputation, and potential account restrictions.
Seller Responsibilities and Compliance
Sellers are primarily responsible for ensuring their listings are accurate, their items are as described, and they fulfill orders promptly. This includes accurately stating the condition of an item, providing clear photos, and setting realistic shipping times. When a buyer opens a case, sellers must respond within the specified timeframe (usually 3 business days) and attempt to resolve the issue. This might involve accepting a return, offering a refund, or providing a replacement.
Failure to comply can result in eBay issuing refunds directly from the seller's account, negative feedback being left on their profile, and potentially limits on their selling privileges. For sellers, adhering to the eBay money back guarantee policy is not optional; it's a core requirement of operating on the platform. This necessitates a strategic implementation of customer service protocols and dispute management.
To mitigate risks, sellers should ensure their items are well-described and photographed to prevent 'not as described' claims. For higher-value items, using tracked shipping with signature confirmation adds an extra layer of protection against non-receipt claims.
Risk Mitigation for Sellers
Effective sellers view the Money Back Guarantee not as a burden, but as a tool for building trust and enhancing their business. By transparently listing items and providing excellent post-sale support, sellers can minimize disputes. If a return is necessary, sellers have options: they can provide a prepaid return label, or in some cases, eBay might allow the buyer to keep the item and issue a refund if the return shipping costs outweigh the item's value.
Sellers can also use the guarantee's framework to improve their product offerings and customer service. Analyzing the types of cases filed against them can highlight areas for improvement in product descriptions, quality control, or shipping procedures. This feedback loop is invaluable for process optimization strategies.
Scalability considerations for sellers involve building systems that can handle returns and disputes efficiently. This might mean dedicating staff time to customer service or using third-party tools to manage cases. By proactively addressing these aspects, sellers can scale their operations without being overwhelmed by potential issues related to the guarantee.
The data indicates a clear path forward for sellers: prioritize accuracy, communication, and prompt resolution to build a sustainable business on eBay.
Common Pitfalls and How to Avoid Them
Even with a robust policy like the eBay Money Back Guarantee, buyers and sellers can encounter pitfalls that complicate the resolution process. For buyers, common mistakes include missing the strict time limits for opening cases, not providing sufficient evidence, or failing to communicate clearly with the seller first. For sellers, pitfalls often involve not responding to cases promptly, attempting to dispute legitimate claims without evidence, or providing vague listing descriptions that lead to buyer confusion and subsequent disputes.
Avoiding these common issues is key to a smooth transaction experience. It requires diligence, adherence to deadlines, and a commitment to clear communication from both sides of the transaction. Understanding these potential roadblocks allows for proactive measures to ensure your eBay transactions are protected and resolved effectively.
For Buyers: Missing Deadlines and Insufficient Evidence
One of the most critical mistakes a buyer can make is missing the 30-day window to contact the seller or the subsequent deadlines for escalating the case to eBay. The eBay money back guarantee ind time limit is strict; if you delay too long, your claim may be automatically closed. Always note the estimated delivery date and keep an eye on your purchase history for any issues that arise.
Another common pitfall is failing to provide adequate evidence when an item is damaged or not as described. Vague descriptions or blurry photos are often insufficient for eBay to rule in your favor. Take clear, well-lit pictures or videos that unequivocally show the problem. This documentation is your strongest asset when presenting your case, especially if eBay needs to step in.
Always document the condition of the item thoroughly with clear visuals. This single action can be the deciding factor in a dispute.
For Sellers: Delayed Responses and Unclear Listings
Sellers often trip up by not responding to buyer cases within the required 3 business days. This can lead to eBay automatically siding with the buyer, even if the seller might have had a valid defense. Set up notifications for eBay messages and cases, and make it a priority to address them promptly. Proactive communication can often de-escalate a situation before it needs eBay's involvement.
Vague or misleading listing descriptions are a primary cause of 'not as described' cases. Sellers must be meticulous in detailing an item's condition, including any flaws, wear, or missing parts. Use high-quality photos from multiple angles. The more accurate your listing, the fewer disputes you are likely to face. Consider the digital efficiencies gained by investing time upfront in creating detailed, accurate listings.
When a return is initiated, sellers should also be clear about their return shipping policy. If the item is faulty or not as described, providing a prepaid return label is standard practice and often required. Failing to do so can complicate the case and may lead to eBay ruling in the buyer's favor.
For both parties, remember that the goal of the guarantee is fair resolution. Approaching disputes with honesty and a willingness to cooperate, within the policy guidelines, will lead to more positive outcomes and protect your standing on the platform.
When is eBay's Money Back Guarantee NOT Applicable?
While the eBay Money Back Guarantee offers extensive protection, it's not a universal safety net for every single transaction or scenario. Certain types of items, specific transaction circumstances, or buyer actions can render the guarantee inapplicable. Understanding these limitations is crucial for managing expectations and knowing when other recourse might be necessary. It ensures you're aware of the boundaries of eBay's policy.
The guarantee is primarily for items paid for through eBay's checkout system. Purchases made outside of this system, such as direct cash payments or transactions arranged entirely off-platform, are not covered. Furthermore, specific categories of goods have inherent risks or are handled differently, and eBay's policy acknowledges these nuances. This clarity helps buyers and sellers understand the scope of protection available.
Excluded Item Categories and Situations
Certain categories of items are excluded from the standard eBay Money Back Guarantee, or have modified policies. These often include:
- Vehicles (cars, motorcycles, etc.): These typically fall under eBay's Vehicle Protection Program, which has different rules and coverage.
- Real Estate: Transactions involving property are not covered by the Money Back Guarantee.
- Some Business Equipment and Industrial Machinery: These may have specific listing policies or commercial sale terms.
- Digital Content and Services: Items like software licenses or digital downloads may have specific terms.
- Certain Collectibles or High-Value Items: While often covered, very high-value items might have specific insurance or shipping requirements.
It is always advisable to check the specific category's policies on eBay if you are purchasing items in these areas. The impact assessment for these categories often involves specialized agreements or third-party insurance.
Buyer Conduct and Policy Violations
The guarantee is also voided if the buyer violates eBay's policies or engages in fraudulent behavior. This includes:
- Purchasing items and then claiming non-receipt when tracking shows delivery, without valid proof.
- Attempting to claim for issues that are minor or fabricated to obtain a refund.
- Failing to follow the correct dispute resolution process (e.g., contacting the seller first, then asking eBay to step in).
- Making claims outside the specified time limits.
- Purchasing items using methods not processed through eBay checkout.
eBay reserves the right to deny claims if there is evidence of abuse of the system. This ensures the guarantee remains a tool for genuine resolution rather than exploitation. For sellers, this protects them from fraudulent claims, contributing to a fairer marketplace.
Never attempt to resolve payment disputes directly with your bank or credit card company before exhausting eBay's resolution process. Doing so can automatically cancel your eligibility for the Money Back Guarantee.
Resource allocation efficiency for buyers means understanding these exclusions upfront. It prevents wasted time and effort on claims that are unlikely to be approved, allowing you to focus your efforts on legitimate resolutions or alternative avenues for recourse.
Maximizing Your Protection and Future Purchases
To truly maximize your protection and ensure consistently positive experiences on eBay, you need to go beyond simply understanding the Money Back Guarantee. It involves adopting a proactive approach to online shopping, leveraging best practices, and continuously refining your strategy. This includes everything from how you vet sellers to how you manage your purchases post-delivery. By implementing these strategies, you enhance your security and efficiency.
The digital marketplace is dynamic, and staying informed about policy updates and seller performance is key. By integrating these practices into your routine, you can confidently navigate eBay, secure in the knowledge that you're making the most of the protection available to you and making informed decisions for future transactions.
Vetting Sellers and Listings
Before even clicking 'Buy Now,' invest time in vetting the seller and the listing. Check the seller's feedback score and read recent reviews. Look for sellers with a high percentage of positive feedback and a history of successful transactions, especially in the category you're interested in. A seller who has been active for a while and maintains good standing is generally more reliable.
Scrutinize the listing details carefully. Does the description match the photos? Are there any undisclosed conditions? Pay close attention to details regarding size, color, material, and functionality. If anything seems unclear or too good to be true, don't hesitate to contact the seller with specific questions before making a purchase. This upfront diligence is a powerful risk mitigation tactic.
Always prioritize sellers with clear, detailed descriptions and numerous high-quality photos. This practice significantly reduces the likelihood of receiving an item that is not as described.
Leveraging Feedback and Seller Ratings
Feedback is a two-way street. While you are being evaluated by sellers, you are also evaluating them. Leave honest, constructive feedback after each transaction. This not only helps other buyers but also encourages sellers to maintain high standards. Positive feedback can be a sign of a trustworthy seller, while consistently negative feedback is a clear warning sign.
Beyond just the score, look at the *type* of feedback. Are buyers complaining about slow shipping, inaccurate descriptions, or poor communication? These specific issues can be more telling than the overall percentage. Use this information to inform your purchasing decisions and allocate your resources effectively toward reliable sellers.
Post-Purchase Best Practices
Once you receive your item, inspect it thoroughly as soon as possible. If there's an issue, initiate the resolution process immediately within the allowed timeframe. Don't wait until the last minute, as this can lead to missed deadlines.
Keep all original packaging and any included documentation until you are absolutely certain the item is satisfactory. This is helpful if you need to return the item or if further issues arise. For sellers, this also ensures they receive the item back in a condition they can resell or use for warranty claims.
By integrating these practices, you are not just buying an item; you are engaging with the eBay marketplace strategically. This approach ensures you maximize the benefits of the ebay money back guarantee policy and other buyer protections, leading to more secure and satisfying online shopping experiences.
Frequently Asked Questions about eBay's Guarantee
Navigating buyer protection policies can bring up many questions, especially for those new to eBay or online marketplaces. Here, we address some of the most common inquiries about the eBay Money Back Guarantee to provide clear, actionable answers and reinforce your understanding of how it works to protect your purchases.
These FAQs are designed to cover common scenarios and offer quick guidance, reinforcing the core principles of the guarantee. By addressing these points, we aim to demystify the process and empower you to shop with greater confidence on eBay.
FAQ: What is eBay's Money Back Guarantee?
It's eBay's primary buyer protection program, ensuring you receive the item you ordered or get your money back. It covers items that don't arrive, or arrive damaged or faulty, or are significantly not as described in the listing.
FAQ: How long do I have to make a claim?
Generally, you have 30 days from the estimated delivery date to contact the seller. If the seller doesn't resolve it, you can ask eBay to step in, typically within 21 days after the seller's response window closes.
FAQ: What payment methods are covered?
The guarantee covers items paid for using eligible methods through eBay checkout, such as PayPal, credit cards, and debit cards processed via the platform. Payments made outside eBay are not covered.
FAQ: Do I need to return the item if it's not as described?
Often, yes. If eBay rules in your favor for an 'item not as described' or 'damaged' case, you'll typically need to return the item. The seller usually provides a prepaid shipping label for this purpose.
FAQ: What if the seller doesn't respond to my issue?
If the seller doesn't respond within three business days, or doesn't offer a satisfactory resolution, you can ask eBay to step in and review the case. eBay will then make a decision based on the evidence.
FAQ: Can sellers be protected by this guarantee?
The guarantee primarily protects buyers. Sellers are protected through eBay's seller protection policies, which cover certain situations like proof of delivery against claims of non-receipt or unauthorized transactions.
FAQ: Does the guarantee apply to all eBay purchases?
No, certain categories like vehicles, real estate, and some business equipment have different protection programs. Always check specific category policies. Purchases made outside eBay checkout are also excluded.