Completed return case involving item substitution (graded collectible) – request for moderator guidance
Summary: skywalkerslabs shared an experience about a return case where a buyer returned a different item than the original graded Pokémon card they had purchased, resulting in a refund to the buyer despite submitted evidence to eBay. skywalkerslabs is seeking guidance on escalation pathways and documentation requirements for cases involving item substitution, beyond the standard appeal process. thecollectionbuyer shared a similar past experience where a complaint to the BBB led to a resolution when eBay offered a courtesy refund. thecollectionbuyer suggested this approach might be worth trying if other solutions are exhausted.
I am posting for guidance from experienced sellers and eBay moderators regarding a completed return case involving suspected item substitution.
I sold a graded Pokémon card (SGC 7 holographic Dark Charizard) via auction. The buyer completed payment and the item was shipped securely.
The buyer later opened a return request claiming the item arrived damaged. I accepted the return in good faith and followed eBay’s return process.
However, the item returned was not the original item shipped. Instead, I received a sealed stack of low-value Energy cards. The original graded card was not included in the return.
Despite this discrepancy, the buyer received a refund. I submitted evidence during the case and again during appeal. The appeal was denied and the case is now closed.
At this stage, I am not asking for the decision to be reversed through this forum. I am seeking clarification on escalation pathways and policy handling for completed return cases involving item substitution.
Specifically:
What escalation path exists for completed cases involving returned-item mismatch or substitution?
What documentation is typically required for review of serialized/graded collectibles?
Is there a specific fraud escalation process for return substitution cases?
I am trying to understand whether there are additional steps available beyond the standard appeal process in cases like this.
whitepcb
·2 months agoLook at the address is it a home or reshipping warehouse? If its a warehouse you're done, check the name and phone number listed? Usually its fake because this person took preauction, Look at all the information. Ebay will likely close the case in buyers favor, its a joke really for sellers. If you can find out this persons identity, call police and get authorizes involved. If value is high enough
But before selling I always do background checks
thecollectionbuyer
·2 months agoGeez, I'm sorry for your situation. It's probably a nightmare we all worry about. Years ago, I had a similar situation. Ebay left me no other recourse. I filed a scathing complaint with the BBB in (I think) San Jose, CA. Within a couple of days I was contacted by a rep from eBay through the BBB complaint. He offered a courtesy refund if I would close the complaint. He credited my account and I closed it. I'm not sure if it is still as effective, but it's worth your time if you are out of other solutions.