Box received. No item inside. Seller tells me to file claim with USPS. Correct or ask for refund?

Question

Box received from seller. No item was inside - just packing material. Label on box was not in good shape and the box appears to have been opened and resealed with different tape. I contacted the seller who expressed concern and told me to file a claim with USPS. In this situation, is the responsibility of the buyer or seller to file a claim with USPS? Is the missing item covered by the eBay guarantee? Should I ask for a refund?

wooden_flower · Answer

@chad9662

The seller files the claim. You request a return.

Go to your purchase history - select return this item. Under reasons select does not match the description, and follow the prompts. In the comments add a note about the missing item and the condition of the package. You will need to attach a photo of the package.

The seller has 3 business days to send you a return label or a refund. If he doesn't, or says he cannot send a label, go to your case and click 'ask us to step in'.

If the seller is smart, he will refund your payment but ask you to hold the box for possible inspection at your PO. If he wants it returned, then go ahead and send it, but maybe send him a note telling his that reshipping the package will probably void his insurance claim.