Procurement Services discourages purchases from eBay. When considering an eBay purchase, it is important to remember that you have no recourse if the item is received damaged or not in working condition, except eBay’s moderation between you and the seller. There is no guarantee in such a case that your money will ever be refunded. Also, many times these items come as is with no warranty. If the item breaks or stops working, your department is either out the money you paid or now looking for someone to fix it for an additional cost.
Departments should heavily consider the risks prior to making such purchases. One additional thought to consider is whether an item is applicable for M&E tax exemption and equipment tagging. If so, you would not be able to claim the M&E tax exemption if purchased through eBay.
eBay does not accept purchase orders. This is because when you buy on eBay, you buy from individual sellers, not from eBay. The individual sellers will invoice you and payment will be made via credit card, in most cases prior to the item being delivered.