Not defending anyone; but in my experience the post has been pretty poor lately. I had something from one of eBay's best bike shops take 10 days to get to me – Recorded, 1st Class. They definitely sent it when they said they had – it was stamped on the envelope. I've had a few things take way too long when I've sent and received them here too – no-one's fault (in terms of buyer or seller) – but 2nd class is definitely taking a good week at the moment, and heaven knows what's up with the other services.
I do the same as 2hottie and email saying when it's been posted and requesting buyers to let me know it's landed. Peace of mind all round, and I hope it adds to the trust on here too.