eBay Vacation Mode: How to Handle Shipping When You're Away

Managing eBay While Away

Whether it's a vacation, illness, or business trip, you need a plan for your eBay shipping.

Vacation Mode Options

Option 1: Turn on Vacation Mode

• Listings hidden from search
• No new sales
• Zero shipping pressure

Option 2: Extend Handling Time

• Listings stay active
• Buyers see longer handling
• Sales continue

Option 3: Have Someone Cover

• Business as usual
• Train backup shipper
• Maintain metrics

Setting Up Vacation Mode

In Seller Hub:

Account → Site Preferences

Selling Preferences → Time Away

Set start/end dates

Choose to hide or extend

Extended Handling Setup:

• Add 5-7 days to handling time
• Buyers see "Ships in X days"
• Automatic adjustment

Handling Time Extensions

Impact on Metrics

Vacation Mode (Hidden):

• No new orders = no late shipments
• Existing orders must still ship
• Metrics protected

Extended Handling:

• Buyers may not purchase
• If they do, must ship within extended time
• Still counts toward metrics

Pre-Vacation Checklist

1 Week Before: ☐ Ship all pending orders ☐ Respond to all messages ☐ Set vacation dates

Day Before: ☐ Activate vacation mode ☐ Ship any last orders ☐ Auto-reply for messages

While Away: ☐ Check messages (if possible) ☐ Handle emergencies remotely

Using Atoship While Traveling

Remote Shipping Options:

• Process orders on mobile
• Print labels to email/PDF
• Have helper print and ship

If Completely Offline:

• Pre-authorize return to sender
• Set clear expectations
• Use vacation mode

Returning from Vacation

Day of Return:

Turn off vacation mode

Process any pending orders

Check for urgent messages

Resume normal operations

First Week Back:

• Monitor metrics closely
• Catch up on returns
• Review feedback

Plan ahead and your eBay account stays healthy even when you're away.