If the buyer bypasses the eBay return process - and sends the item back to you *without* invoking a formal return - I don't believe you're under any formal obligation to make a refund: It's not an "official" return and, hence, not subject to eBay intervention. Basically, if they don't follow the exact return process (via eBay), they're on their own. eBay is likely to tell them as much.
Unscrupulous ebay buyers
Beware if you sell on ebay. I’m probably stating something most already know, but anyhow, I listed a brand new cartridge there which was bought and shipped on time. Buyer receives It, opens it and installs it. He proceeds to play his records. He then messages me that the cartridge has muddy bass and poor channel separation. I advise him to check all alignment parameters, but he insists cartridge is defective, I highly doubt it. I do not accept returns as stated in the listing. He proceeds to pack it up, taking a photo, and states "on the way!"...I again told him that I do not accept returns for a cartridge that is now used...also said that just because you bought something you have never listened to and you are displeased with its sound or performance, does not give him the right to demand I accept a return. I reported him to ebay, as in my opinion he is pulling a fast one. He could very likely have damaged it while installing it. It was brand new pristine condition upon shipping it. I am standing my ground and will not accept a return. If it shows up at my door, too bad. At this point, I can care less if I receive negative feedback, it would be my first. Worse buyer I’ve encountered in 20 years of selling. Man I hate ebay. Honestly, to me it sounds like buyer remorse, not a defective cartridge, plus I am not the manufacturer....he can pound sand.
Showing 4 responses by tds3371
You may wish to read up on eBay's rules, regulations, etc. governing purchases and returns. As I understand it, eBay is no longer connected with PayPal - they deal directly with the buyer's credit card and the seller's bank account (which, as a seller, you were required to give them access to). This allows eBay to essentially enact a refund without your consent (they call this "buyer protection."). Second, if you sell on eBay, there is no such thing as "no returns." Buyers can initiative the return process at any point and for any reason - even if you've clearly stated a "no return" policy. All this was designed to eliminate unscrupulous sellers; now it empowers unscrupulous buyers. In a nutshell: eBay contends they merely provide a platform for buyers and sellers to connect - after which they assume no responsibility. Since they get a piece of every transaction (regardless of outcome), they're content to simply let buyers and sellers eat one another alive. Financially, it's a foolproof business model; ethically, not so much. My .02. If I'm wrong on this, I stand to be corrected. |
@riaa_award_collectors_on_facebook I suspect you're correct. I've never had to personally exercise this option - except in the case where my credit card account was obviously breached. Of course, this type of fraud (sadly) seems to occur on a more regular basis. |
That worked out wonderfully - I had no idea this sort of outcome was even possible with eBay. I wonder if this sort of "intervention" is reserved for cases where buyers exceed a set number of returns - assuming eBay, like many retail stores, has limits in place to dissuade habitual returners. It would be interesting to see if this individual's account has been sanctioned. I just can't imagine this type of resolution is sustainable for eBay. The other possibility, I suppose, it that a different course of action is implemented when the seller refuses to accept the return (as you've done). Still, I'd sure like to know where the refunded money is coming from. Some type of seller reimbursement insurance, perhaps? ;o) Thanks for sharing your experience. I'm glad it all worked out for you in the end. |