Is Full Compensation Buyer & Seller Protection Program Coming to Mercari US?
If you're like most resellers in the U.S., you probably think of Mercari as that easy, mobile-friendly marketplace where you can quickly flip everyday fashion, beauty, or home items. But here’s the tea: Mercari actually started in Japan back in 2013, and while the U.S. app has grown steadily since launching here in 2014, the Japanese version is still thriving — and often serves as the testing ground for new features and policies.
What’s Happening in Japan?
Mercari Japan just announced a Full Compensation Support Program — and it’s honestly kind of a big deal.
Here’s the quick rundown:
It’s part of a broader push to make Mercari Japan a more safe and secure marketplace.
They’ve launched enhanced identity verification (including facial recognition), stricter user rules, and even introduced passkeys for added account protection.
But the standout change? When a dispute arises — like a buyer receiving a damaged or misrepresented item — Mercari will now step in and cover the costs… for both sides.
That means: The buyer gets a full refund.
And the seller? They still get their profit.
Yep, you read that right — Mercari pays out of pocket to keep the peace.
There’s no fee to use the program, but you do have to meet five criteria:
Complete identity verification through the app (eKYC).
Use Mercari Delivery as your shipping method.
Contact support within 14 days after delivery.
Follow the Buyer/Seller Guidelines correctly.
Maintain a clean track record — no shady behavior or TOS violations.
It’s available only for transactions in Japan (for now), and doesn’t apply to Mercari Shops or certain insured items. But this move shows a clear direction: Mercari wants to be seen as one of the safest, most user-friendly resale platforms — and they’re willing to put their money where their mouth is.
What This Could Mean for U.S. Sellers
Now, before you say, “Okay, but I’m in California / Texas / wherever — how does this affect me?” — hear me out:
U.S. Mercari has already started rolling out similar measures, like biometric identity verification (in partnership with Jumio) and tighter account security.
There’s been a rise in phishing scams through Mercari messages lately, pushing fake verification links — so beefed-up security protocols may be coming next.
If Japan’s program goes well, a similar compensation structure could roll out here — which would be huge for seller protection in messy transactions.
But — and here’s the disclaimer — any perks will almost definitely come with strings attached. Think mandatory identity scans, stricter shipping requirements, and rules you’ll have to follow exactly to qualify for protection.
What Should You Do Now?
If you're already selling on Mercari, here’s how to stay ahead of the curve:
Stay informed — I’ll keep you posted on any U.S. changes so you’re not caught off guard.
Use Mercari Delivery whenever possible — it’s often safer, and the platform clearly favors it.
Start thinking of Mercari like you would Poshmark or eBay — not just a casual flips app, but a business platform that wants professionalism from sellers.
Watch out for scams — always double check links in messages and don’t give info unless it’s directly in-app or from Mercari’s verified email.
Final Thoughts
Mercari Japan is leading the way in protecting its users — and while the Full Compensation Support Program isn’t available in the U.S. (yet), the groundwork is clearly being laid.
And remember: being in the know like this gives you the edge. That’s why I’m here — to make sure you’re ready for what’s next and thriving, not just surviving, as a seller.