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Buyer returns without opening a return request
Summary: tcygis mentioned that a buyer returned an item without using the eBay return process and requested a refund through Zelle, which seemed suspicious. mr_lincoln advised against using any method outside eBay for refunds, explaining potential risks and suggested following eBay's procedures. tcygis acknowledged this advice and expressed gratitude, planning to follow the recommended steps to ensure proper handling of the situation.
Hi,
A buyer contacted me after the item had already been shipped and asked to cancel the order because she changed her mind.
The buyer received the item and sent it back to me (although I have not received it yet) without opening a return request through the eBay system.
According to my listing, returns are accepted, but the buyer is responsible for return shipping costs. The buyer claimed that UPS was not available as a return shipping option when she attempted to open a return request.
She said that only USPS and one other option were available.
At this point, I am unsure how to handle the refund. In our messages, she suggested that I issue the refund through Zelle, which raises a red flag for me. However, the buyer has an excellent feedback rating on eBay.
Has anyone dealt with a similar situation? Any suggestions on how I should proceed would be greatly appreciated.
Thank you,
tcygis
mr_lincoln
Mentor1 week ago · EditedHi @tcygis
-DO NOT REFUND THROUGH ANY OTHER SITE EXCEPT EBAY.
-Is this a high value type item?
-While all returns "should" be processed through eBay if the Buyer returns EXACTLY what you shipped in the EXACT condition you shipped it in then you can refund them but make sure you message them that you received their return in an eBay message and will refund their purchase. On the sold item use the drop-down menu ln the left and scroll down to Send refund, click that. Refunding this way is a multi-page process and you can select a reason for the refund on a drop down menu as well as make note of what happened in a typing field.
-Just so you know, all eBay sees is that what the Buyer purchased was delivered through confirmation via the tracking number. If you were to refund via Zelle or any other method outside eBay then eBay does not see that. So after they got their money from you via Zelle they could turn around and file a bogus return through eBay and force you to refund them again essentially doubling their money.
tcygis
OP1 week agoThank you! It is not a high value item (less than $50). I would not refund through any other sites for sure. I will check the item and follow your suggestion to proceed. Much appreciated.
mr_lincoln
Mentor1 week ago@tcygis
You are more than welcome!
tcygis
OP1 week agoI told the buyer that I will cancel the order (as I still have the option at my end) after I receive the item. She said again that I can refund via Zelle. I tend to think it is the best I can do (assuming that the item is exactly as what I sent). If there is any other way to handle it, please let me know. Thanks again.
mr_lincoln
Mentor1 week ago@tcygis
Do not do anything until you get the item back ...
Once you get through this transaction you can add that Buyer to your blocked list on this page if you want: Buyer management | eBay
tcygis
OP1 week agoGot it. Much appreciated!