First Ever Return Request....

[texdrum]

Good evening all,

Wanting some input about handling a return request.

First, the item was clearly stated as missing parts, no gaurantees, and for parts/repair (all phrases I used in my listing, and some in bold!).

Seller sends a return request today stating that the item is not working properly. This item relates to a hobby I've been in for 30+ years, and worked in for about 10, and the issue he stated really makes no sense.

I suspect that the reality is that the buyer didn't actually read my listing, and is requestion a return due to the missing parts (which he oddly stated in his request that the request isn't because of the missing parts!).

I'm furstrated that the buyer didn't contact me first about the "issue" with the item (which leads me more to beleive it's buyers remorse). 

I'm thinking my first step is to ask for more details about the issue.

From what reading I've done in the last few minutes, the eBay return system is slanted GREATLY in the buyers favor.

Thanks for any input! 

[flyerfandan999]

Consider these two listings.

A.  A listing for a stock keeping unit sold at retail in a retail box, where there are let's say 20 items in the box, and the box is sealed with no evidence of tampering so it's reasonable to assume all 20 items are in the box.

 Like this:  https://www.ebay.com/itm/Fluval-205-External-Canister-Filter-110V-180-gallons-per-hour-New-Unopened/...

B:  A listing for a handful of items; it just so happens that these items can be purchased along with others in a kit from a manufacturer, a kit like the listing in A above.

Like this:  https://whttps://www.ebay.com/itm/Fluval-205-Canister-Filter-Unused/332418545898?hash=item4d65b078ea...

How did taking items out of a box change them from new to used? 

For something to be used, does it not have to have been applied, installed, or functioned as intended?

[green-night]

There are two choices in the listing category, New and Used.  If there were "New, Other" as a choice, that would be the most accurate category for this item.

Managing buyer expectations I would err on the side of caution and choose 'Used' and then use the description field to clarify that the item was new outside of box, not the other way around.

I understand the filter is new and that the OP was crystal clear in their description, however, listing an item like this as 'New' seems like a recipe for disaster especially if it a standard part that typically includes other pieces.