Need an assist about a return, folks!

[ajax2112]

Hello Good Folks!

I've been buying/selling on Ebay for around 20 years. I have an excellent record. I find myself in a "return" situation that I need some guidance on.

I had a vintage pre-owned skirt listed:

https://www.ebay.com/itm/153596117604?ssPageName=STRK:MESOX:IT&_trksid=p3984.m1561.l2649

Before purchasing, the lady asked if we would reduce shipping since she did not need the item as quickly as priority shipping would provide. We said yes and ended up taking a $2 hit on the price (not her fault).

She has since received the item and wants to return it because there is pilling in the INSIDE liner of the skirt. not visible while wearing, and does not effect the beauty of the item. No pilling on the visible part of the skirt at all or we'd have mentioned it.

She says the item is "damaged and not wearable". Again, the pilling is not visible, being on the inside liner of the skirt. She stated herself that it is only on the inside liner.

It is stated plainly in the listing check boxes and written description that we do not accept returns. (I realize of course that this means nothing if the item is not as described or arrives damaged.)

I also state that i will provide any additional photos and descriptions if the buyer wishes.

She claims that because of the pilling, this item is damaged and not as described. I do not agree, as the item is wearable.

I decided to suck it up and offered to refund the item if she would pay return shipping. she declined.

I was at first tempted to rescind my offer to accept the return, then kick it up to EBAY for decision.

I'm just not sure the best course of action, we are only selling items because we desperately need the money, and can barely afford the return as it is, much less the return shipping.

I also do not wish to harm my stellar rating with Ebay.

advice please? I'm interested in trying to find out what EBAYs take would be on this, hving heard that they almost always side with the buyer.

much thanks in advance

ajax2112

[klhmdg]

If you send it to eBay you will not only loose the item you will loose the $.

Send a shipping label to the buyer to return.

Once you have the item process the refund.

[designforyou]

Not accepting returns means nothing.  Buyer can still file for a return, and get their money back.  If you refuse the return and refuse to pay for shipping, and ebay gets involved in the decision, they will find for the buyer, and you will be out your item and your money, plus have a defect added to your account.

As a seller, it is best to list ALL flaws whether they are seen or covered under a top layer of fabric.  Even if you do this, a buyer can still want to process a return, and you will be on the hook for return shipping and a refund.  

This is the way EBAY functions today.  99% of returns are ALWAYS found in the buyers favor.

[josell-10]

Pay return shipping since she has a point. Put yourself in her shoes and you wouldn't want to wear it.

[josell-10]

Also you can place her on your block list, and you can update buyer requirements if you'd like.

[josell-10]

Btw it's very normal for her to request cheaper shipping. You write $14.00 expedited shipping 2 days handling. Why they need expedited shipping if they anyway waiting 2 days for handling. You might as well have same day handling and ship priority lol. Or economy $10.00 lol

[ajax2112]

thanks folks!

[josell-10]

Btw unrelated some buyers think they buy from china who cares they wait long for item to arrive. Trust me those buyers will learn the hard way. Amazon prime offer 2 days shipping on most items including handling time, that's why as buyer I prefer amazon. (The handling time is included in the 2 days and includes holidays and Saturdays and sundays.)

[josell-10]

Recent amazon order example.

[sharingtheland]

This is not new news.

[sharingtheland]

Ebay will side with the buyer; you will not win this argument.  Do not contact ebay to "kick it up" for a decision; that will end very badly for you.

I'm not trying to sound mean; please don't take it that way.  It's just that ... the buyer will win.

In the future, do not get into a back and forth with the buyer.  Just respond, "I'm so sorry, please return for refund" when the buyer starts complaining about any condition issue, even if you disagree with that condition issue.

[ajax2112]

Pretty much what I figured folks, I just needed to be sure.. thanks much. you know... as a guy.. I never thought to look INSIDE a skirt to check for anything! I rarely do clothing. Lesson learned!

[this*old*attic]

Personally, I sell vintage clothing almost exclusively- since 2001, although with a gap 2013 -2018.

Pilling indicates heavy wear/rubbing. I personally think it’s gross. Given that, I definitely believe it needs to be disclosed or the item is not as described. 

You dont have the right to decide what s buyer should tolerate.

Take the return and be pickier with your description next time. Don’t beat yourself up, it’s a learning experience.

[sharingtheland]

you know... as a guy.. I never thought to look INSIDE a skirt to check for anything!

Oh, there are so many  ways to respond to this ...  

[ajax2112]

shhhhh hahaha