Shut the shop down or extend handling times?

[nostalgiadonut]

Hey all,

The postal delays are becoming a real problem for everyone.  Since December 4th, I probably have about 20 packages in limbo right now.  I'm worried about buyers opening INR cases, eBay forcing refunds, and then having USPS deliver their package after the fact. I've never been in that situation, so I'm not sure how that scenario plays out for the seller.    

What are you guys doing?  Is it better to close up the shop this weekend and reopen after the holidays?  The other idea I had was to add an extended handling time to my listings - I'd still be shipping regularly, but the extended handling time might mitigate those postal delays and prevent buyers from opening INR cases.

How's everyone dealing with less than ideal situation?

[toma6375]

This is a total disaster. Some of my packages that were mailed out at the end of November are still in limbo. I am terrified. I had never experienced anything like that and my buyers are starting to email me. 

[dbfolks166mt]

If they refuse talk to the postmaster at the post office. If he/she refuses to scan simply inform them you will be filing a complaint with the USPS IG. It's their job to scan the packages into the system if you have waited in line for that purpose. At least you came to the PO prepared unlike a lot of people who not only don't have prepaid items but have no labels, no packing, no box............... 

[dbfolks166mt]

That has been my experience also. I am fortunate enough to live about a mile from a regional distribution center and I wait in line to have items scanned and obtain a receipt. The items are in the system by the time I get back to my house and all have departed the distribution center the same day. It's the problems after they leave the point of origin that are the problem. 

[powell-memorabilia]

thirty nine out for delivery for me, twenty four of which show little to no movement.  This might cost me thousands 😞

[dbfolks166mt]

     Not to add to your worries but also consider that the current situation has created a golden opportunity for scammers that I am surprised is not being leveraged more that it is. They are in pretty much a no loose situation and it does not take a genius to figure out how to leverage this to the maximum extent possible. 

[anneecakes]

I have been messaging buyers in areas of the country that put the fear of God in me (when it comes to shipping) right after they buy.  I tell them that I want to disclose/point out that I ship USPS 1st Class which is usually 2-4 nights, but that it has been beyond erratic the last 3 weeks and I have no problem if they want to do a no-fault cancel/reverse/refund and source their item(s) from someone who uses UPS or similar.  One or two have thanked me and taken me up on my offer to refund--most everyone else has just said to go ahead and take our mutual chances. It's been stress-relieving to have that conversation up front, for sure.  As far as late parcels in general, it's exhausting--I'd rather be getting my Christmas cards written than messaging so very many buyers about their stalled parcels.

[patd3283]

"Here is an alternative approach:   COMMUNICATE with your buyers!  So when someone orders from you, you "could" send them a note thanking them for their order and pointing out that the USPS has been experiencing long delays with delivery and promising to watch the progress for them and keep them informed.  ...   I have seen a few sellers report on these threads that a campaign like this has been successful and well received by buyers.  Those reporting use of this strategy say they have avoided any INR Cases when late deliveries have occurred.  I think buyers appreciate  when a seller pays attention rather than tossing a package at the USPS and saying, 'not my problem now!'

The above is what I do and figure it is part of the job and my responsibility.  When I see a tracking update I let sellers know.  Most have been very receptive and sent notes thanking me for taking the time to keep up with their packages.

[no-plain-white-envelopes]

I know your feeling I have had to refund 2 buyers so far as no tracking has been updated since my items left here. USPS is totally screwing us this season. They raised their prices during the holiday a month ago and now they are failing to do their JOB CORRECTLY!

[toysaver]

If you've refunded and the package is in transit you can do a package intercept.  Best for valuable items, it's about $15 and not guaranteed.  My stuff usually isn't worth that expense.   I'm out one sale so far this season.  They likely will make deliveries today even though it's Sunday so hoping my count goes under 40.   

I'm making cookies today, a double batch of spritz and peppermint meringues with the leftover egg whites.   Baking makes everything better.

[1tuna]

............general reply

 do not want to sound like a jerk bit if tracking has you in a tizzy stop looking at it.

I have no idea how my packages are doing.I have not had an INR filed on me for a long time.

I ship 40 packages a week by 1st class.

way too much angst over tracking.i can do without it.

sometimes I wonder if peope are using the same USPS that I am...........usps is the best there is

[toysaver]

..... and sorting silverware

[centralave_records]

As hard as it is, I would just expect to issue refunds. A minor setback will be rewarded with a bigger comeback. Even though it’s hard, stay positive. I wish everyone continued success. Central Ave Records 

[kanenak]

I have taken down all of my listings due to the USPS delays. I may try to start selling again in January using FedEx or UPS. If I hear that USPS have things under control again I will give them another chance. Some of the packages I have mailed out are taking 3 to 4 weeks to be delivered and that is with using Priority Mail. I did reach out to my buyers to let them know about the delays with USPS and some thanked me for the info. but others thanked me with INR cases. 😞 I have had to give out more than a $1,000 in refunds this past week alone due to all these shipping delays. I feel if I kept my listings opened I would get more INR cases and lose more money.