Blog Details
Steam Trading Restrictions Guide 2026: Trade Holds, Bans & Limits
Steam trading regulations are in place to safeguard users from scams and unauthorized access. Familiarizing yourself with these rules allows for effective trading while ensuring your account remains safe.
Trade Delays
General Trade Delays
- No Mobile Authenticator: 15-day delay on all trades
- New Authenticator: 7-day delay for the initial week
- New Device: 7-day delay following device change
- With Authenticator: No delay (instant trades)
Preventing Trade Delays
Activate Steam Guard Mobile Authenticator and maintain it on the same device. Any alterations will initiate new delay periods.
Activate Steam Guard Mobile Authenticator and maintain it on the same device. Any alterations will initiate new delay periods.
Item-Specific Delays
- Recent purchases: 7-day delay from Steam Market
- New case openings: 7-day trading limitation
- Event items: May face extended limitations
Marketplace Limitations
New Account Restrictions
- Must spend €5 or more on Steam
- 30-day waiting period post-first purchase
- Restricted market access until criteria fulfilled
Listing Restrictions
- Maximum price: €1,800 per item
- Listing limit: 200 active listings (can be increased)
- Annual limit: €2,000 for standard accounts
Ways to Increase Limits
- Confirm identity with Valve
- Submit tax information
- Establish account history
Account Suspensions
VAC Suspensions
- Caused by cheating software usage
- Restricts trading in the affected game
- Permanent, without appeal options
- Does not impact other games
Trade Suspensions
- Related to scamming or fraud
- Can be either temporary or permanent
- Affects all trading activities
- Appeal through Steam Support
Community Suspensions
- Due to behavioral violations
- May limit market and trading abilities
- Duration varies
Preventing Restrictions
Recommended Practices
- Maintain authenticator stability – Avoid frequent device changes
- Do not share accounts – Initiates security holds
- Steer clear of suspicious trades – Refrain from accepting random offers
- Confirm identity – Unlock higher trading limits
- Review trade details – Avoid rushing confirmations
Recovering from Restrictions
Trade Hold Recovery
- Endure the hold duration
- Properly re-enable authenticator
- Keep device consistent
Ban Appeals
- Reach out to Steam Support
- Provide proof in cases of wrongful bans
- Be patient – the appeal process takes time
- VAC bans are not appealable