Item Not Arrived, Ebay.

[windywillow]

I've had a message from an eBay buyer, item not arrived and it has been a week and a half since it was purchased.

I've spoken to the Post Office and they say that they will not class the item as lost, but 'delayed', as at this time of year this is not uncommon due to volume of Christmas mail/staff shortages etc.

I didn't get proof of posting as it's a low-value item.

Is it reasonable of me to ask the buyer to wait a few more days, to see if it turns up? Or shall I take it on the chin and send a refund?

TIA. x

[barry1010]

Ask him to wait a few more days - he might agree.

[vulcan42]

I would give the Post office reason to your customer and ask them to wait a few more days. At this time of the year there are a lot more delays, I've experienced them myself.

[tamborine]

Dont refund till youve explored PO delay for at least 1month. Buyer might be pulling a fast one. If you have postage receipt you could claim loss from PO.

My brooch buyer claimed I sent an empty envelope, which I didnt, and I refused to refund. Her case went dead eventually. Buyers try any ruse for refunds!

[vulcan42]

Incidentally there was a new scam reported on the radio recently. That of people following delivery vehicles and stealing parcels as soon as they're left at the door.

[Barsel]

I'm waiting for 3 parcels that have gone past their delivery date.
One from e-bay should have arrived a week ago, this one is coming by Royal Mail. I received this from the seller.

///Seller’s message: "Thank you for your email. Your order was sent via Royal Mail. Most orders usually arrive within 2-5 working days, unfortunately, due to the current circumstances many local sorting offices are short-staffed due to illness, self-isolation etc. so some orders are taking longer than normal to arrive. Your order should arrive soon. "///

[calmck]

I have just received a refund from Amazon as driver not able to deliver package and item was returned. However recipient is using item now! Amazon said as no return label was generated not to worry and refund stands!

[windywillow]

Thanks for replies, much appreciated.

It's not a parcel, I sent it by letter post and didn't get proof of posting as there was a massive queue in the post office and it's not worth much in monetary value.

I think the buyer wants me to send out another as she wants it for a Christmas present, but I'd rather (if it comes to it) just give a refund. Can I do that, or am I duty-bound by eBay to send a replacement? The buyer will know that I have duplicates listed on eBay.

[Barsel]

I would email the buyer and say you wouldn't be able to guarantee the replacement would arrive before Christmas and would they accept a refund.