Buyer requested return but claims it was a mistake and wants the item refused / shipped back to them

[tmmpstudios]

Hello,

I sold and item and the buyer after receiving the item requested a return stating they changed their mind. eBay automatically began the process for the return and the buyer seems to have shipped the item back (I have a tracking #), as of now I have not yet received the item. The buyer then messaged me saying that a family member was the one who initiated the return and shipped the item back without their permission and has asked me to refuse the item when it gets to me or to just ship it back to them, all while there is a return/refund pending which has obviously caused alarm.

I should also mention that the buyer had previously purchased the item and then canceled before I could send the item out. They then wished to repurchase and giving them the benefit of the doubt I resold the item to them through eBay. So at this point no more benefit of the doubt.

Which has lead to the current situation. The buyer has good reviews but it just seems too fishy. Is there any way to help protect myself if what comes back is a box of rocks or doesn't return to me at all? I have never had to deal with something like this. I have my fingers crossed the items are returned and I will just refund the money. 

[buyselljack2016]

firstly, do not refuse the package when it arrives.

Secondly,  put the buyer on your BBL. No second chances with me. Certainly no third chances.

Top rated sellers ( not you) that accept returns can deduct up to 50% for item returned in condition other than sent (that does not include something that was damaged on the way to the buyer) which would partially cover a seller that gets a "box of rocks", or the buyers  subbed/defective item.

If nothing is sent back the "return" will(should) time out in the sellers favor

[lightlily_arts]

This is a problem buyer!  With the first purchase they cost you the nonrefundable transaction fee.   Then they repurchased a couple days later at a lower cost.  Now they will cost you another nonrefundable transaction fee with the return assuming this was a remorse return and they paid to ship it back.  You can't refuse delivery as there is an open return where you are required to refund them, or it can cost you again.  Instead if they really want it they would need to pay the return shipping back to them  and they would need to cancel the return claim before you refund them so that you don't lose any money.  They can send you the shipping money for reshipping to PayPal.    Just make sure all items are returned to you before you do anything.  Explain to this buyer that eBay's return policy does not permit you to refuse delivery on a return.  However, from my perspective this buyer just isn't worth the trouble regardless of your desire to make a sale.  Moreover, the buyer's feedback is meaningless because sellers are only permitted to leave positive feedback for buyers.

[simba6]

Don't refuse it. You will lose the item and your money.

[albertabrightalberta]

I would just reply to the buyer "for both our protection, I must accept the return when delivered and will issue a refund of the purchase price." You are allowed to keep the original shipping fee since you charged separately for it.

ETA: I wouldn't discuss having them repay for shipping again. Let them find another seller to inconvenience.

[lamber9347]

Amazing what some buyers will pull. Do not refuse delivery. As there is a pending case open you must accept the delivery and refund the buyer. Place them on your blocked bidder list and move along. I would wait until delivery and refund are completed, then reply something simple like- Your item has been refunded. I hope you can find a similar item with another seller. 

That's it, nothing more. If they reply just ignore it. Concentrate on selling to others and move on. Best of luck to you....

[jahood1984]

You have accepted the return?  Correct?  As far as the case ..