Handling a Return for Wrong Item Sent to Buyer

[private5230]

Hello - I accidently shipped out the wrong box to a buyer.  I realized the mistake the next day and contacted the buyer to let him know and asked him to do a Return Request as soon as it arrives and I would approve it and he will get a label and send it back to me and also a full refund and I have to pay for return shipping.

In the meantime I have the right box here ready to ship.  This buyer has 100% positive f/b and I am tempted just to print another label and send out the right item and trust the buyer to follow through with the return - but still, for my own safety I am hesitant to do that, lest he ends up keeping it.

Is the best practice here to wait for the return request and issue a refund and then I would re-list the correct item for the customer to do a Buy it Now at the same price he originally paid?  I know this is a real inconvenience for my buyer - this is a $200 item so I would don't want to  take a hit by letting him just keep it and also send the correct one.

Is there any better way to accomodate my buyer on this?  I'm already going to be out $54 for all the shipping costs - but still want to make it work out okay for the buyer.

[shipscript]

All buyers have 100% positive feedback, so that is not a good indicator. Feedback they left for others may be more telling.

The cleanest procedure is a new sale. As soon as the buyer receives the item and opens the return, issue a return label. When tracking shows it is on its way, you can refund early if you wish - otherwise, refund as soon as it arrives in good condition. Then have the buyer repurchase the relisted item.

[private5230]

Thank you for your reply.  That is exactly how I am going to handle it - the buyer has been cooperative and I'm going to make it up to him when I relist the correct item by offering him free shipping and a reduced price.