Updated: NB, This article has been updated to reflect that links are being directed to new style fresher page designs and not to product-based shopping pages.
eBay say that they see greater conversions from the new style product pages than they do from single item pages. The old view item pages you’d traditionally see from clicking in search results are gradually being redirected to new style pages.
Why eBay say the new pages convert better
- Emphasizing the “Buy It Now” and “Place Bid” buttons
- Cutting out the clutter with collapsible details
- Reinforcing Money Back Guarantee and Free Shipping
- Increasing cart size by cross-promoting and upselling with helpful information like “Best selling”, “Save on” and “You may also like”.
Naturally if eBay believe new pages convert better than view item pages they’ll want to send traffic there and eBay Partner Network – eBay’s affiliate program for advertisers that send traffic to eBay – are going to redirect all advertiser’s links to the new pages. The whole point of affiliate programs is to drive traffic that converts as that works for eBay and affiliates.
How do eBay links work?
If you want to drive traffic to new eBay pages then the format for the URL contains an i:
https://www.ebay.co.uk/i/item-number
e.g. https://www.ebay.co.uk/i/362276691844
If you want to drive trafic to old style eBay view item page then the format for the URL contains itm:
https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/item-number
e.g. https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/362276691844
3 Responses
Sorry but there are many comments on other forums where users are saying it is is potentially a disaster and based on their comments it affects Ebay USA and UK.
As a buyer i do not want to click a link, then another link in Ebay to see the full description, then another click to see full product details then click the buy now basket.
This does not help Ebay Affiliates at all. Ebay seriously need to invest in better technology as they keep apologising for programs they roll out without zero testing.
All the time eBay keep messing with silly little gimmicky things instead of updating the outdated shipping system where shipping costs per item instead of blanket shipping methods can be listed.
That would get rid of the clutter where sellers say “Buyers from the following areas need to contact us for shipping as these items are shipped by courier and surcharges apply”
But hang on!!!!
that is useful and needed.