Returns

[bellagotti24]

I don’t want to be a Debbie downer and I’m definitely not looking for sympathy. I am new. 22 sales and 6 returns. 4 lied so I have to pay return shipping. 1-not as red as she wanted 2-spots on sleeve that are not there. 3-shoes didn’t fit even though correct size. 4-lingerie said hole. She made the hole from pulling ribbon bc probably too tight. Said was a gift and noticed right away. Reeks of perfume and has spots all over. Worn for one night and didn’t even wash it. I’m at my wits end. I’ve paid for all the return shipping and total refunds. I’m broke. I feel like closing it down. Anyone else get tons of returns as a new person? I describe everything and too many pictures. I give discounts when asked. My luck or do I suck at this??? Thanks. Please no hate comments bc I can’t handle much more. 

[gloryglorygifts]

Unfortunately, I think it has to do with what you are selling. It's hard to purchase clothing on line or at least I think so as a buyer. Returns should be expected from anyone that sells clothing and shoes. 

The good news is there are quite a few knowledgeable people on here that can help you.

You have beautiful feedback so that's an excellent start! Focus on the positives, maybe diversify your products, and don't be down Debbie. I have a feeling you can be very successful on here. 

Good luck to you. 

[kensgiftshop]

Looks like you're using AI descriptions, which would be OK for new items.

I wouldn't use it for used items.

You need to describe the condition the item is in now and give some measurements.

You have the size listed, but is it a US size or China size?

There is a lot of difference from US sizes and China sizes.

[bigoljim47]

Measurements are very imported, expressional on vintage clothing. Sizes have changed over the years. I get my share of returns for fit issues. 99% of my listings have measurements,  but buyers don't look at description. Just recently I got a return, buyer states coat is to long. I lost money on this return. I seen lots of interest on this item and as soon as I got back I raised the price and sold it a week later. 

You have some nice items so don't give up. I know getting measurements is work but it loans it to avoid returns.

On shoes you need the heights of the heels, you need to show the condition of the soles.

On clothing you need the bust size like underarm-underarm and length. 

[redlinear]

Better descriptions (NOT Ai).
Some disclaimers also.  I hate disclaimers, my business model has never needed any..UNTIL, eBay got carried away with their rules, returns, etc.   Now I must have some disclaimers (directed at eBay rules that I must follow).
AND, If you're the cheapest, you will attract cheap buyers.  And those are the worst for returns and the worst for just about anything as it concerns a transaction

[chapeau-noir]

I would dump the AI descriptions - they're just fluff and don't really say anything. Provide measurements (it takes less than a minute to take measurements) and a simple description - I usually just list a few details that photos may not show very well.

My return rate is about 2.5% but I do get some clunkers from time to time.

[cityslickercreations2004]

>>You have Excellent feedback which means you are on the right track! 

Measurements were suggested and I wholeheartedly agree even though that won't be foolproof against returns. Keep in mind, most people don't own a tape measure. (I have 3.)

Now for the hard part. I'm sorry, but I did not find your item presentation very appealing.

I think your main photo should be an overview of the "complete" item within reason.  Check other listings for ideas. Then use your closeup pictures.

You may want to consider additional/ different lighting with a lighter background. The photo darkness made your items look drab and lifeless. I suspect they are not.

You may also want to invest in a fabric steamer. Clothing with a wadded up look (except the orange top) never looks good IMO.

I wish you well.

[tobadger]

"22 sales and 6 returns. 4 lied so I have to pay return shipping"  I'd say that's not a very good average that warrants the effort involved.  I've been on ebay since 1998 and the scene has changed a lot since those days.  As a result, I've quit selling and rarely buy from individuals.  I'd suggest that you do the same.  It's a lot of work to do a good job.  Along with the frustrations, it's not worth the effort.

[fbusoni]

@bellagotti24 

I give discounts when asked. 

This might be why you are getting so many returns. 

In my experience, buyers who ask for unadvertised discounts are to be avoided like the plague.

I add such buyers to my blocked buyer list immediately upon receiving a message from them requesting a discount of some sort. 

These sorts of people fit a distinct personality type -- they are NEVER satisfied. 

Dealing with them is like opening the proverbial can of worms. 

And believe me, you do NOT want them purchasing anything from you at full price.  Because they will leave you negative feedback or file a "not as described" to punish you for having had the nerve to stand your ground and demand to be paid for what you thought the item was worth.

You can add 5,000 buyer IDs to your blocked buyer list.   Do not delay!

Regards

[bellagotti24]

Thank you. I do try my best for excellent service- right down to a gift with order. I feel like the neimen Marcus return dept. probably Going back to nursing bc yes this is something else. 

[bellagotti24]

Glory thank you very much. Sweet of you! Yes the feedbacks great today but the returns haven’t left their mark yet lmbo! Going to see your store. Thanks again

[bellagotti24]

Wow very true! Different sizes. Yes ai is way too much fluff. Thanks much!

[bellagotti24]

Wow great advice thank you! Yes I’ll iron! Can’t believe I posted wrinkled things but… 

I was thinking the close up for the patterns would appeal but I’ll go study and revise. Yes constructive criticism is hard but it’s either a life jacket or drowning. Maybe you just saved me… thank you much! 

[tobaccocardyahoo]

Been selling online a long time.

Never would have offered anything you are selling.

I am unable to tolerate the people who buy them, the pre-transaction and post-transaction levels of interaction, and the competitive state of the market.

It is always what you are selling.

When I was younger, I offered items in many more categories than I do today. It was easier then because Ebay was a cesspool, buyers and sellers who behaved in a manner that soured many people on Ebay forever.

Negative FB on buyers was permitted, and sellers retaliated for any offense to them, real or imagined.

Payments were by check or money order and Ebay did nothing to make a seller refund.

Gradually, as the swamp was cleaned, I decided that cleaning did not include buyers and the swamp creatures were more likely to buy certain categories.

I am fortunate, I know all sorts of people, and finding different things to sell has never been hard. I can always find something to sell to make a buck that replaces items I no longer am willing to sell.

I have also learned how much I need to make on a transaction to make it worth having a customer, how to set buyer expectations at a realistic level, and just how many defects are needed to trash a product.

[cityslickercreations2004]

I have sewn for decades and I strongly suggest a steamer.  (I have 2 irons and 1 steamer.) It is way too easy to scorch/ melt a fabric unless you know exactly what it is.  You can ruin an item in a NY minute. I know because I have done it.  Luckily, it was my husband's shirt and not mine. Ironing can also be very time consuming. 

That steamer is also great for personal clothing. I dislike wearing T shirts that have fold marks yet I am too lazy to iron them out.

Closeups are great to show the fine detail or to disclose a flaw. I only meant for the main picture to be an overview.