Troublesome buyer & return request

[yankeesrule1234567890]

I'm dealing with a troublesome, inexperienced buyer that has requested a return, and I need advice. I do not feel obligated to comply in this instance. But, I'm keeping my account in mind too.

I recently posted a jacket for cheap-$40 (orginally $200) because of the wear, which is detailed in the description and in the photos. Because of its condition I specifically put "Sold as is, no returns." As with all my posts I wrote "USA only," not offering international shipping. A Canadian buyer made an offer so I declined stating I don't ship outside the US. Then they made another offer. I declined again with another similar message pointing to my description. Then they made a NEW account with a similar name, and bought it (somehow?) and sent me a message asking for an invoice. I said that while I don't ship internationally (for the third time), I would be willing in this case if they paid around $23 for Priority shipping. They did, and I thought they'd be happy.

A few days ago I got a return request, saying I did not mention all the wear, specifically the two stains and the tiny hole in front. However, the stains were photographed and mentioned in the description (saying that the last two photos showed them!). I didn't specify the tiny hole- either it was too small for me to notice when I did my thorough check, or she made it herself. Either way, I was very honest about the jacket not being in great condition, the price clearly reflected that, and I went out of my way to ship to someone who refused to honor my rules about it being sold as is and no international shipping. Everything is stated clearly in my post.

We've been messaging back and forth, and they aren't rude, but they are not understanding what I'm saying. I told them that in this case it isn't right for me to pay for shipping, but I will accept the return if they ship themselves. I also offered a $20 partial refund.

While I await a response, I have until Dec 1 to respond (tomorrow). Does that just mean to just contact the buyer or that it be settled by then? And what happens if it is not settled? Will eBay step in? I wouldn't mind that because I don't see how I am at fault, as explained above. I am an experienced seller and this is someone's brand new account.

Apolgize for the length, any advice appreciated. Thank you.

[sam9876]

I wouldn't do anything.

[yankeesrule1234567890]

Why not? I don't want the buyer to end up with the item AND a refund, nor do I want a strike against my account. I've already reached out to the buyer again asking for their PayPal email address so that I can credit them return shipping, and that if I haven't heard back in 48 hours I would be contacting eBay for assistance.

[sam9876]

"Why not?"

You have asked the buyer for their email address so that you can send them money.  The buyer has not responded.

You also don't know how much money it will cost for return shipping.

And most importantly, you sold this item for $41.  All of the shipping costs will eat that up.  If push comes to shove, it would be smarter to simply issue a full refund and be done.

" if I haven't heard back in 48 hours I would be contacting eBay for assistance."

You should never ask eBay to step in.  You will lose.

[johnvan1]

Agreed. Never ask eBay to step in. All buyer has to do is claim item is not as listed and eBay rules in their favor. eBay has no seller protection.
Maybe a class action lawsuit would get eBay's attention.

[Anonymous]

I agree. Also charging selling fees on postage is terrible.

[epreneuress]

I just never ship outside the US any longer. It may become too much of a loss. There is really no protection for seller's losses resulting from many types of scams. I am too small to incur these losses as  "part of doing business" and will potentially end up in the red.  If in the US,  I can at least file reports for mail fraud, postal and internet criminal reports, police, atty general, etc  - and even prosecute if absolutely necessary since there are plenty of lawyers in my family.