Fair Waiting Times for Replies

When you send a message to a seller, it is natural to want an answer straight away. But most sellers on an independent marketplace are individuals running their shop around work, family and everything else. Knowing what a fair wait looks like makes buying calmer for everyone.

A day or two is normal

Many sellers check messages once or twice a day. A reply within twenty four to forty eight hours is perfectly reasonable, and weekends can stretch that a little further. Some reply much faster, but that is a bonus rather than a promise.

Check their profile first

Some sellers mention their usual hours or note when they are away. A quick look at their shop page can tell you whether they are likely to be quiet for a few days, which saves wondering.

Make your message easy to answer

Ask one clear question and include the listing you mean. A message that can be answered in a single line usually gets a reply sooner than a long one that needs careful thought.

Nudge gently if you need to

If a few days have passed with no answer, a short, polite follow up is fine. Something like checking you saw my message works well. Several messages in a row tends to have the opposite effect.

Keep it in perspective

A slow reply is rarely a sign of a bad seller. It usually means a busy one. Patience goes a long way, and sellers remember the buyers who were kind while they caught up. A calm first order often leads to a seller you can rely on for years.