USPS destroyed a package, buyer is accusing me of lying and sending empty bag

[e-cyclers-of-idaho2021]

The title is the TLDR of the situation.

I shipped a bag of 33 computer CPUs and the buyer sent me pics of an empty bag in one of USPS' clear apology bags which states their sorting machines destroyed it. The pictures are clear enough that I can read the text on it. The buyer is saying we scammed him. I did not ship the package with insurance. Am I correct in thinking I will have to do a full refund and accept the loss?

[dirk12955 · Accepted solution]

I would refund the buyer,  In this situation.   

[dryophelia]

@e-cyclers-of-idaho2021 

Yes, will will have to refund. 

[e-cyclers-of-idaho2021]

Thanks for the quick replies! I'll take care of it.

[kensgiftshop]

Ya, sorry, you'll have to refund and take the loss.

[12345jamesstamps]

Refund immediately and apologize. Sound like the package didn't go as a parcel...or was not sealed very good. And I would accept the loss. I wonder if the sorting machine got broken. I don't think I would say anything about this to the USPS...just in case the machine got broken.

[theteamsetguy]

@e-cyclers-of-idaho2021 

When did you ship it? Did ship it after July 9th? If you did and sent USPS Ground advantage it comes with $100.00 insurance.

[e-cyclers-of-idaho2021]

It was shipped in June. Records show it was delivered on the 28th. Not sure why it took him so long to bring the issue to my attention but buyer did it within 30 days of delivery. Buyer may be one of those using a freight forwarding service. Though, I think the USPS apology bag was real. 

[e-cyclers-of-idaho2021]

It was shipped by Parcel Select according to the USPS tracking info. It was sealed. Actually, I get a little paranoid about my packages not being sealed and often use more tape than is needed. Based on his pics it looks like the sorting machine tore open the bag, all contents were dumped out somehow, and USPS just delivered the original empty bag folded inside their apology bag. 

[maxine*j]

Really sorry this happened.  But, yes, you must refund in full.  One of those painful situations where you are not at fault but you are still responsible.    (United States Uniform Commercial Code, Perfect Tender Rule;  UCC § 2-601.)

[pcobra93]

Never ever use a bag...always use a box....always.