Shoppers making false claims about return items

[bmw.449]

I sell clothing. Some new some used. But I am aggravated by claims that a shirt is defective because it's too short or too small. People say it must have been shrunk! I try to be honest and list every defect I find. A shopper buying the wrong size is not DEFECTIVE!  I gladly provide measurements when asked. Anyone else have issues with dishonest returns? 

[kikisclothing]

I provide measurements in all my listings and this seems to pretty much eliminate these claims.  Although I did recently get someone trying to get a refund stating my measurements were off by two inches, it was a first for me. So really there is no escape from difficult buyers, but adding measurements really helps cut down sizing complaints.

[2013fitzp]

We all have issues with dishonest returns- in fact, that subject is what most of us complain about on this board. Buyers know if they claim defective, missing parts or pieces, NAD, we have to pay the return shipping. Alas, there is nothing you can do but bite the bullet and accept it as a part of doing business on eBay. I honestly think clothing and tech are the most vulnerable to scam buyers. 

[mam98031]

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@bmw.449 wrote:

I sell clothing. Some new some used. But I am aggravated by claims that a shirt is defective because it's too short or too small. People say it must have been shrunk! I try to be honest and list every defect I find. A shopper buying the wrong size is not DEFECTIVE!  I gladly provide measurements when asked. Anyone else have issues with dishonest returns? 

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I feel your pain.  But unfortunately this is accepted behavior in the Ebay return system right now.  So process as normal, refund upon return, and then Report the Buyer for abusing the return system.  That last step is an important one.  It may enable you to get at least most of your money back from Ebay if they rule in your favor, but it also creates a record against this buyer for filing false SNADs.  

In the meantime, I strongly suggest you put the measurements IN your listing description as a normal course of creating listings.  Don't wait and only provide it if the buyer asks.  Be proactive and make your descriptions as complete as possible.

[tunicaslot]

I also put measurements in every listing and make sure to make a note for buyers - especially of vintage clothing to check the measurements. I'd like to add that sometimes measurements aren't exact - I've had slacks tagged 42x32 actually measure 34x32 - so in that case - if a seller doesn't put measurements - the item isn't as described. It is frustrating but unfortunately part of selling clothing on line.

[s.kms_25]

Well when you don't provide measurements, what do you expect? Sizes vary between brands and styles.

[femmefan1946]

Are they saying "defective" or are they saying "not as described"?

If the buyer doesn't want it, she will return it at the least cost to herself.

It's business not personal.

[iheartgreyhounds]

Yes, I have an issue with this as well. I listed a New without tags Under Armour shirt, a store return. Buyer initiated a return saying that I did not disclose it was without tags although listing was clear. Ebay stepped in and authorized the return and gave him a return label. I should not have to pay return shipping for him to return it. What is up with that?

[getitright1234]

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@bmw.449 wrote:

I sell clothing. Some new some used. But I am aggravated by claims that a shirt is defective because it's too short or too small. People say it must have been shrunk! I try to be honest and list every defect I find. A shopper buying the wrong size is not DEFECTIVE! I gladly provide measurements when asked . Anyone else have issues with dishonest returns? 

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Sorry, but:  I gladly provide a measurement when asked is the kiss of death when selling clothes online. You must include the measurements; in fact, it would be wise to include a picture of the tape measurement in the listing.  

Today's buyers are more unlikely to message you about the size.  They will do (1) of (2) things:

 1.  Not buy, since you did not include the measurements.

2.  They will buy, but if the item does not fit, they will declare it defective to void having to lose the original and return shipping. 

 It is time consuming to take measurement, but you must include the measurements.   Use a yardstick; it is faster, because when using a tape measure you will be forever coiling and re-coiling it.  

 Good luck