posted on November 14, 2000 07:28:01 PM new
A customer is returning an item that they claim has damage and repairs not enumerated in the auction description and I suspect they may try to switch the merchadise. How do you handle scammers? I dread the possibility of being dragged through the eBay fraud process or being negged, but I HATE being hustled.
posted on November 14, 2000 07:32:58 PM new
Hopefully, it was insured...let them deal with the claim...There is a special "invisible" ink pen with which you can mark your merchandise. I believe it shows under black light? I might be off, there...but I am sure someone will read this and straighten us out... Good luck.
******************** Gosh Shosh!
posted on November 14, 2000 08:03:54 PM new
Oh, boy! Someone used to post the URL to that web site with those special marker pens that only show up under UV light. Now who was that . . . ?
posted on November 14, 2000 08:24:00 PM new
To be clearer: How might I handle this situation if the item is switched? The item is porcelain and has several back marks that I photographed as a group and I am confident that I can tell if it is my merchandise or not.
posted on November 14, 2000 08:33:11 PM new
iowaantiques~~ Give the buyer a chance to "save face".
When the item is received, email them and let them know the piece arrived, but they must have sent the item to the wrong seller or sent the wrong item by mistake. Email links to the photos from your auction and point out the discrepancies.
Give them a chance to say "OOPS! sorry, I was thinking of another seller's item."
Also, you may want to tell them that you have a "special" mark on your items and the mark is clearly missing from the piece your received.
posted on November 14, 2000 09:11:51 PM new
Black lights & pens can be purchased at [email protected] for just 11.20 for both pen & light postage included. I bought one and it's great, saw the exact same set elsewhere for 30.00. If you need more information about where they are you can email me at:
[email protected]
posted on November 15, 2000 03:30:36 AM new
iowaantiques -
It is extremely unlikely that two pieces of china will have the hand stamped back labels in the same place with the same blotches and blurs ... it's almost like a fingerprint for the piece.
In the future, place a swatch of white tempera paint on the back and initial it or put your thumbprint in it. Or a small blob of wax with yout thumbprint. both can be removed without damage to the china.
For things with handles, just run a thread through the handle and seal the knot with wax and your thumbprint. Can't be moved.
posted on November 15, 2000 05:10:17 AM new
abacaxi - Of course you have to be able to tell your thumbprint from the customers....
Really it can be hard to see.
posted on November 15, 2000 05:26:05 AM new
Or, before you have them return it, you could tell them that you have been putting an invisible mark on your items ever since someone else tried to switch items.
Good luck.