eBay is rolling out changes to its distance-based sorting feature, a method for buyers to search for items within a certain distance from their location that was first introduced to the eBay site in June (http://auctionbytes.com/cab/abn/y04/m06/i11/s02).

Currently, buyers can use Advanced Search to look for items within a certain distance from their ZIP Code. With the new changes, buyers will also be able to search for items within a specified distance from certain cities listed in a drop-down menu. For example, a buyer will be able to choose to search for items within 75 miles of ZIP code 95125, or within 75 miles of Los Angeles.

eBay will also add a new filter that allows buyers to search by ZIP code only in the Search Options section in the left-hand navigation bar of search and listings pages.

Changes will affect the way sellers are included in distance searches. Currently, when sellers list their items, they must use a checkbox to indicate that they want their items included in distance searches. After the changes are rolled out, any item listed with a valid ZIP code will be automatically included. Sellers who do not want their items included in distance searches can remove their ZIP code from the "Item Location" section on the Pictures and Details page of the Sell Your Item form.

In addition, a standard item location based on ZIP code will be shown on the item page in "City, State" format (for example: San Jose, CA). Sellers who wish to specify a different location can enter custom location text by choosing the Custom Location option during the Sell Your Item process.

http://www2.ebay.com:80/aw/marketing.shtml#2004-12-09120854