Issues with two buyers' addresses

[bigdeals.etc]

I'm too lazy to write two posts for this so we can make this post a 2 parter. Two different issues with 2 different buyer's addresses.

1) Buyer is sending it to someone else as a gift but insists the address doesn't have a unit or apt number. My stamps.com alerted me of this, and I asked the buyer. He says there's no unit number. I checked google maps and see it is a building with at least 2-3 mailboxes. Real estate sites like zillow also show there's unit numbers to this address. I showed the buyer this info and he says to just send it as he says... without a unit number. Suggestions?

2) Buyer messages me after buying that "eBay keeps changing my zip code. The address is _______, Missoula MT 59823. NOT 59802". I checked his address in multiple areas (Google maps and various real estate sites). ALL OF THEM show his address as Missoula 59802. I know it will get to the correct place with that zip code. But will it upset the buyer that I didn't use 59823? (I recall a post here that a buyer filed a SNAD because the mail carrier didn't ring his doorbell as he requested). Suggestions?

[lamber9347]

You've been a huge seller on here for years and I think you know the answers already. I understand you are just checking for possible ideas. I can only say that I personally would never change an address because I don't want to lose what little seller protections I get. So I would explain that it's against eBay TOS for a seller to make any changes to an address and offer to cancel the transaction if they prefer. Yep, I know I would most likely upset the buyer, but at least I followed the procedures from this platform. That's what I would do myself because you are asking. Perhaps someone else will guide you better than I. Best of luck to you. 

[inhawaii]

#1)  I know first hand the the USPS can/will deliver to a multiple unit address without a unit number. They may be familiar with the names (business or residential) of the tenants there? Not a good idea but i know it can be done. 

#2) That's a tough one. I probably would go with the zip code that the buyer is insisting you use. 

I still stick to my strict rule of ONLY shipping to the address on the label. If the buyer wants it sent to a different address i INSIST on canceling the transaction, having them change the address and then buying the item again. 

[toysaver]

#1.  If your able to print a label without adding a unit number I'd feel comfortable, the carrier will know by name which box gets it.  That is if that person; the giftee lives there, did you google the name and address together?  You might even get a unit number that way.

#2.  I'd go with the correct version but on the outside margins of the label add the other zip code, 5 big numbers can't be missed.

...........just suggestions

[silverstatetreasureboxes]

bigdeals.etc..your buyer probably lives in the more western part of Missoula co...if he does than the zip he gave you of 59823 would be correct. Both zips are for Missoula. If any concerns Google the post office and talk to a clerk there they should be able to clarify your buyers correct zip.

[luckythewinner]

Suggestions?

I can't offer suggestions because they would vary wildly depending upon what the buyer order and how much money was involved. 

[pounur_0]

The gift situation has me concerned, as much so because buyers can enter any address they wish the package to be sent to BEFORE paying (or at time of payment, not sure) but also because it is a COMPLETE change of address.  Last but not least a buyer volunteering that it's a "gift" for a relative / close friend is always a big red flag in itself.
I believe this buyer thinks without a unit number they can somehow just pick up the package at the Post Office after a failed delivery attempt, file an INR and you being without recourse have to refund the money.

In a best case scenario the buyer can not simply "pick up" the package (if you ask me that's a very real possibility), will still file an INR, you still have to issue a refund and now there are no guarantees you'll ever see your item again either (although it might eventually come back to you but again good luck there).

So no to change of address post payment.

In the second instance I would probably ship "AS IS" and take my chances at the buyer getting upset, however changing the last number in the zip code itself isn't that big of a deal either and I may do it on a lower priced item just for the heck of it... Still without recourse if buyer files INR so high dollar items for me would be out of the question here, again on a lower priced item I could go either way because it's not a complete change of address.

[shipscript]

1) Does this appear to be a house that has been subdivided or granny-flatted? If so, the owner unit may be the original street address and the rental units (garage or whatever) may include apartment numbers.

2) This is what a zip code search produced...

"Zip code 59823 is primarily located in Missoula County. The official US Postal Service name for 59823 is BONNER, Montana. Portions of zip code 59823 are contained within or border the city limits of Seeley Lake, MT."