Buyer returned a lesser condition copy of the same comic book **RESOLVED**
Summary: collectorzone shared an issue with a comic book return where the buyer sent back a different item than originally shipped. Despite providing evidence that was acknowledged by the platform, the buyer was refunded, leaving the seller seeking recourse. Other participants advised legal action and appealing through the platform's policy, suggesting that returns like these often result in losses. collectorzone later updated that their appeal was successful, resulting in a refund, although they expressed concern about the integrity of the buyer and appreciated the lessons learned from the situation.
So, I have a question. Been on here for years. This is actually the first time this has happened. I shipped a set of comics books(Secret Wars 1-12). Three weeks later, the buyer wants to return them. I'm not happy with that, but I do have a 30 day return policy. When I get the books, one of them is not the same one I shipped. It is visually different. This is the one I sent.
This is the one I got back.
It is a completely different book. The spine is cut completely differently. There are back cover and internal page discrepancies as well. I included pictures showing that the item returned was not the item I shipped. EBay agreed that the images bore that out. They refunded the buyer anyway, stating in the email they sent me that he would probably file a charge-back.
So, I'm curious what my recourse on this is. I know can file an appeal, but it just says include any new material within 30 days. There is no NEW material. Its just the images I already provided, which eBay agreed showed a clear discrepancy, but they refunded the buyer anyway. I'd like to get my money back and I'd also like this buyer dealt with. I do not believe that he accidentally sent the wrong issue back when the other 11 issues from the Secret Wars set were the ones I shipped. I know. Big Ask. But a kid can dream.
collectorzone
OP1 month agoWell, I thought I'd update on this. I submitted an appeal and it was granted:
Here's the case outcome
Good news! We reviewed your case again, and will refund $285.00 to you.
We changed the outcome because there was an issue with the returned item. This case will not affect your seller performance, and any feedback left for this transaction will be removed.
I have filed a complaint against the buyer. If he's done this in the past or does it in the future, it may affect his account. I'm not thrilled he got his money and my book, but hopefully karma catches up with him. This is the best outcome possible.
simba6
·1 month agoClassic return fraud. You can report the buyer. While one report won't do much. It will be noted and if they get more reports eBay will remove them from the buyer protection plan.
You just have to add a bit to all your prices to cover such loss.
shire123
·1 month agoHonestly. Not much you can do. Pictures are never proof on ebay. As @stainlessenginecovers said you could maybe refund only 50% if you qualify for that. Other than that, report the buyer to ebay for sending back the wrong item. Take the loss off of your taxes at the end of the year.
Internet selling is always risky. Unfortunately you ran into a dishonest buyer.
collectorzone
OP1 month agoAnd the crux of it is, he's been on the site over 15 years and has sold comics himself. Not some new account with 5 feedback. I kinda know I'll be eating this, but it can't hurt to ask. As I said, first time in nearly 15 years I've had this happen. I guess that's a good thing.
stainlessenginecovers
·1 month agoIf qualified, you can deduct 'up to 50%' of the refund is the item is 'different'.
That is the compromise made a few years back.
Doesn't get any better than this.
kalyoth
·1 month ago · EditedIt can be done - but not easily or with often success. You have two separate claims - return of incorrect item & then through the police a report for criminal/civil fraud. You will more often than not have to pursue it on your own through a lawsuit. ebay will take the stance more often that it is between the two parties directly & their role is to just wash the transaction based upon their in place policy. They in some instances apply language for buyer return misconduct. But they are hesitant to take a stance for their own liability as a result.
On a side note - one of the best series in all Marvel was this one.