eBay is preparing to display standardized delivery times in the Item page and during the Checkout process. eBay Germany announced the new shipping-related policy that will take effect next month, and it will likely roll out in the U.S. as early as next year. eBay Germany explained to sellers the reason for the new policy - buyers like to see at a glance when they can expect their goods.

In addition, eBay said, the prominent placement of standardized delivery times will help reduce questions about shipping and delivery and improve sellers' "shipping" Detailed Seller Ratings (DSRs).

Beginning in September, eBay Germany will automatically calculate which of three shipping services to display in the listing based on information provided by the sellers regarding processing time and shipping method. The three standards are: "Saving Shipping" (4-6 business days); "Standard delivery" (1-3 business days); or "Express Shipping" (1 business day).

eBay will factor processing time into its calculations. For example, if the seller specifies 1-day processing time and the selected shipping service requires 1-2 business days, buyers would see "standard shipping" with expected delivery 2-3 business days.

eBay Germany will allow sellers to choose a standardized shipping option themselves if the shipping service they choose is not available as an option when listing the item.

eBay Germany also told sellers that in the weeks before Christmas, the estimated delivery time would be even more clearly displayed - for example, "This item is expected to xx.xx. 2010" - but only for listings that accept PayPal and provide for express shipping.