eBay condition standards mapped to the 1.0–10.0 scale
eBay uses a fixed set of clothing conditions: New with tags, New without tags, New with imperfections, and the Pre-owned tiers (Excellent, Good, Fair). Each maps onto a band of the GradeThread 1.0–10.0 scale, so an objective grade tells you which eBay condition to select and backs it up.
eBay's condition field is a required, structured value — and picking the wrong one is a direct path to a 'not as described' case. This page maps every eBay clothing condition to the GradeThread scale, shows what triggers a return, and gives listing copy for each grade.
Verified September 2026 · source: eBay item conditions by category
How does eBay condition map to the 1.0–10.0 scale?
| GradeThread grade | Tier | eBay condition |
|---|---|---|
| 10.0 | New With Tags | New with tags |
| 9.0 to 9.9 | New Without Tags | New without tags |
| 8.0 to 8.9 | Excellent | Pre-owned - Excellent |
| 7.0 to 7.9 | Very Good | Pre-owned - Good |
| 6.0 to 6.9 | Good | Pre-owned - Good |
| 5.0 to 5.9 | Fair | Pre-owned - Fair |
| 1.0 to 4.9 | Poor | Pre-owned - Fair |
What triggers a return on eBay?
On eBay, a buyer can open an 'item not as described' request when the garment's real condition is worse than the selected condition or the photos implied. Never select a condition better than the item's actual grade, and disclose every flaw in the condition description.
Listing copy for each grade
Select the eBay condition that matches the item's grade band, then use the condition-description field to state the grade and disclose every flaw. A stated grade plus a certificate link is the strongest defense against a condition case.
10.0 · New With Tags
Condition: New With Tags — graded 10.0 on the GradeThread 1–10 scale (brand new, unworn, with original tags attached). See the certificate for the full condition report.
9.0 to 9.9 · New Without Tags
Condition: New Without Tags — graded 9.0 to 9.9 on the GradeThread 1–10 scale (unworn or as-new, no tags). See the certificate for the full condition report.
8.0 to 8.9 · Excellent
Condition: Excellent — graded 8.0 to 8.9 on the GradeThread 1–10 scale (very light wear, no notable flaws). See the certificate for the full condition report.
7.0 to 7.9 · Very Good
Condition: Very Good — graded 7.0 to 7.9 on the GradeThread 1–10 scale (light, honest wear with minor cosmetic signs). See the certificate for the full condition report.
6.0 to 6.9 · Good
Condition: Good — graded 6.0 to 6.9 on the GradeThread 1–10 scale (clear wear or a minor flaw, fully wearable). See the certificate for the full condition report.
One grade, every marketplace
Grade an item once on the 1.0–10.0 scale and you have the right condition wording for eBay and every other platform — plus a certificate that heads off the condition disputes that drive returns.
Frequently asked
- What does 'Pre-owned - Good' mean on eBay?
- eBay defines 'Pre-owned - Good' as an item that "has been gently used but is in good condition", which covers roughly 6.0 to 7.9 on the GradeThread 1.0–10.0 scale. Select it only when the item's actual condition matches; overstating it invites a 'not as described' case.
- How do I avoid 'not as described' returns on eBay?
- Pick the eBay condition that matches the item's real grade, disclose every flaw with photos, and state the grade in the condition description. Accurate, verifiable condition up front is your best protection.
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