Damage during shipping

[rydel_93]

Hi everyone, just received a message, not an official claim or anything, from a recent buyer who is claiming that I didn't pack the items correctly and that they are damaged.  However, I shipped the items in their original shipping box (items were never removed from that box, have photos) within another box filled with packing material.

I asked the buyer for pictures of the outer box, and there's a large gash in it.  They've requested a refund, though as I said just in ebay messages, and when I asked for the outer box photos they said "here you go, I await my refund".   What are my options here?

[fab_finds4u]

eBay doesn't care. Contacting them doesn't do anything for the seller.

The buyer has three ways to get a refund. eBay, PayPal and a chargeback. They can easily tell their card provider they received a damaged item and the seller won't refund. Guess what happens then? The buyer keeps the damaged item which might not be damaged inside of the box and they pay a $20 chargeback fee.

Smarten up.

[wrong66]

The buyer is not required to prove anything. Ever.

[meterman55]

I just had the same thing happen. I was told the item was “shattered.” Hard to believe as it was very well packaged. It makes me wonder if the item was dropped by the buyer or maybe he just wanted it for free. BUT - the customer is always right so I sent a refund . Bottom line - I will not be selling on eBay anymore. Facebook Marketplace works for me. Only local sales.  Just wondering if eBay will return the selling fee.

[bonjourami]

Was it the teapot? Did you double box that fragile item, if not, Im sure it was 'shattered'.

[natoman777]

Agreed, but it doesn't mean you should not contact eBay when the buyer is uncooperative.  I have done this several times and received help from eBay.  If they are unwilling to send a photo of the broken item something is up.

And also if you sent using Priority Mail you need proof of damaged item in order to get insurance.  You also have to have the item taken to the post office.