posted on January 19, 2001 09:32:05 PM
I rarely post on AW but have been a card-carrying lurker for a couple of years. Today I saw something in an auction which may be just a one off or could be an indication of things to come. I'd like to know what others think...
The seller's terms stated that because of the substantial increases in USPS rates his/her shipping and handling charges had been raised, and in the auction I was looking at the figure was double-digit. But buyers who paid with either bank or postal orders would be given a 50% discount on s/h. That didn't bother me so much, though I did think it was a little strange, but the seller also stated that returns would be accepted within three days for a 25% restocking charge. This seller does not sell high tech stuff or the like but rather ethnic items, so I'm wondering if "restocking fee" is something we'll be seeing more and more of. Perhaps it is in general use now and I just haven't come across it before....has anyone else seen it or used it?
posted on January 19, 2001 09:36:55 PM
I have only seen it a few times. I did not like it. I did not bid. I also don't bid with people who state that all sales are final. I have never returned anything. I do believe that if an item is not as stated that I should have the right to return it. When someone says all sales are final, I wonder if they have something to hide.
posted on January 19, 2001 09:40:54 PM
I sell with ALL SALES FINAL. I describe my items exactly the way they are, with no hitches. If there is a flaw, I say so. I also sell apparel, so I give all measurements...stretched, unstretched, length, bust, etc. The only way I would ever refund is if I made a mistake as in size. Like, the bust being 44 and it was really a 40. Or, the shoe size was 7 and I said 7 & 1/2. Any error on my part, I refund. But thats it. And I would NEVER charge a restocking fee. But thats my TOS. Each seller has their own thing they do.
posted on January 19, 2001 10:13:41 PM
With my sales I make them ALL SALES FINAL, also. What this person is doing is basically skirting around the ALL SALES FINAL thing. I've given people full refunds and let them keep the item, too, even with the ASF stated. Most bidders are human and know mistakes happen. I like to call it CYA. It's only happened twice. I keep in touch w/my customers and always try to resolve any problems I can via email. I always go overboard describing my items, the details, flaws, etc. And a restocking fee?? Where does she have to restock it too? Right between the Monet and the Egyptian mummy, you know, on the 10th floor? LOL, oh it's late and it's been a long week.
