I just lost my Top Rated Seller status ... then eBay "generously" sent me this email the day after:
We want you back
Dear imagine.ink,
More sales and big savings could be waiting for you. To reclaim your Top Rated seller status, be sure to upload tracking to eBay on at least 90% of your transactions to US buyers within your stated handling time.
Then reap the rewards of discounts on your final value fees and the highest average boost in Best Match on your qualified listings.
Check your seller dashboard for your up-to-date performance. Then, visit our new Top Rated seller resource center where you'll find tips and guidance to keep your business in "Top Rated" form. And remember, the eBay Seller Outreach team is ready to help you with a free, telephone consultation on how you can grow your sales even more — you can schedule yours today.
We hope to see you back as a Top Rated seller.
*******
The only reason I lost the Top Rated Seller status is because my delivery tracking was at 73% versus the required 90%.
I had made a business decision that I would not add the costs of delivery tracking to postcards selling under $10. I'm currently able to mail postcards and small photos securely protected (in a cardboard liner) via first class mail in a business size envelope and charge the customer only $1.00 for shipping, which covers the cost of stamp and envelope. Delivery tracking is not allowed on that form of first class shipping.
I DID increase shipping costs for postcards and small photos selling for more than $10, but I had to alter my usual means of shipping from business size envelopes to photo mailers to accomodate the delivery confirmation requirements.
Frankly, I'm somewhat relieved I don't even have to do that anymore. I can now ship all postcards and small photos in my normal business size envelope, without delivery confirmation, and charge my customers only $1.00 versus $3.00-$4.00 to cover the costs of the photo envelope necessary to allow for delivery confirmation.
I'm not happy to lose the 20% final value fees discount, but at some point, you just have to say, "Enough!"