Automatic returns

[az93]

I am putting this in the forum out of complete frustration. I have been on ebay 26 years. When someone wanted to return something I would get an ebay message and  a choice of refund or issue a return label. Not this time. I got an ebay message that ebay issued a return label and I had no choice. The reason for the return was that buyer claimed used not new. I can't prove new. I would probably have just given all the money back. I don't argue. When I called ebay and talked to them a ridulously long time I got nowhere. I was told it was all my fault because I take returns.  I no longer have any choice in the matter. So if a pile of plates arrives smashed I hsve to pay to get them all back. Automatically! I don't know when this changed. I had always been given a choice before. So I guess I have to now say no returns?  Does this make sense to anyone? How have other sellers handled this automatic return policy?

[az93]

i will check back later. I am changing my breakables to no returns. I am very unhappy about that I have to do this.

[fab_finds4u]

I could be wrong here, someone will correct me if I am,  but I think you can still refund and  tell them they don't need to return it.  I think if the label is never used you won't be charged.

At any rate  you should be able to cancel a label that isn't used. Maybe have to get eBay's help to do that.

[az93]

The first person told me it was because I hadn't issued a return label within 3 days. I wasn't given 3 minutes.

[krazzykats]

Turn it off under Return preferences

Return preferences

[lakefor94]

@az93 

Sounds like a typical Item Not As Described return case. Auto approved and eBay gives the option to the buyer of a eBay provided return label(paid for by the seller)

I have my returns set to the RMA option. This gives me a choice to use an eBay provided label or issue my own return label. Stalls the return process for a couple days until I choose. 

Or, I can just go ahead and refund if I care to do that. 

[stuff4divas]

@az93   maybe read this info> https://www.ebay.com/sellercenter/shipping/managing-returns

[chapeau-noir]

I have returns automated and how @az93  describes is how they work for me - return of whatever kind automatically accepted and label issued. My stuff is pretty cut and dried, but if you're selling breakables or whatever, rather than going to no-returns (that customer service agent was a bit off saying it was 'all your fault' - they evidently don't know how the system works), if you want to pause the process, agree with poster up thread who suggests an RMA number. This puts it back more into your hands. 

[az93]

That's exactly what I did, refunded and told her not to return it or use the label.  Thanks.

[az93]

I think if it was a typical return I would have had the choice to refund or send a return label. This was completely  different.  I had no say in anything. I am removing returns on everything now. Luckily I have under 200 items up.

[uniquebargains3]

Your frustration is completely understandable, and you’re not alone—many eBay sellers have been surprised by recent shifts in how returns are handled. Here’s an explanation of what’s happening and how you can adapt:

eBay has gradually moved toward automating the return process, particularly for sellers who offer a return policy. If you accept returns in your listings, eBay often issues a return label automatically when a buyer requests a return, especially for cases like “item not as described.” Unfortunately, this can sometimes remove your ability to control the process.

Why This Happens
Buyer Protection Focus: eBay prioritizes buyer satisfaction, which means sellers who accept returns may have less control over the process.
Automation: eBay's system is designed to streamline returns by automatically issuing labels to reduce delays.
Options for Sellers
Modify Your Return Policy

Consider switching to a No Returns policy. However, this won’t completely eliminate returns; buyers can still open “Item Not As Described” cases, which override the policy. This step does reduce casual or convenience returns.
If you keep returns enabled, opt for a policy where the buyer pays for return shipping.
Add Specific Listing Details

Include highly detailed descriptions and plenty of photos to minimize disputes.
Mention explicitly in the description that the item is sold as described, with any issues clearly outlined.
Use the Partial Refund Option

When you receive damaged or incomplete returns, eBay allows you to offer a partial refund instead of the full amount. This can help recoup some of the loss.
Raise a Case for Damaged Returns

If the buyer returns an item in unacceptable condition (e.g., smashed plates), you can open a case with eBay. Document the issue with photos and provide evidence that the item was returned improperly.
Adjust Return Label Costs

In certain cases, you can negotiate directly with the buyer to offer a refund without requiring the return of the item. This avoids unnecessary shipping costs.
Adapting to the Change
Many sellers find that offering returns is necessary to remain competitive, but it’s essential to balance this with safeguards. If you feel the automated system isn’t working for you, tweaking your approach to returns and being proactive in disputes will help. You’re not alone in your frustration, but with small adjustments, you can reduce the impact of these policies.

[lakefor94]

---

@az93 wrote:

I think if it was a typical return I would have had the choice to refund or send a return label. This was completely  different.  I had no say in anything. I am removing returns on everything now. Luckily I have under 200 items up.

---

@az93 

It is typical of how returns work here in the states when a seller accepts returns aside from when a seller uses the RMA option.

I see you are in the UK. They have a difference in the policy?

You have no option to just refund at this point and that would close the return?  Then contact the buyer and tell them not to ship the items back?

When the return is closed, I don't think the buyer has access to the return label unless they already printed the label.

[chapeau-noir]

Please stop posting this AI nonsense.