What to do before leaving Negative Feedback

Two weeks have passed and you have yet to receive your item from the winning auction. Finally, it arrives and you immediately rip open the bubble envelope only to have your hopes and excitement crushed. For one, the item looks used and has light stains, it is the wrong size, and the color is different from the picture on the listing...and in your opinion, the item took much too long to arrive.  

You are livid. How dare this seller try to scam you!!!! So you sit down right a scathing feeback and click the negative button. Voila! You will show that shady seller not to mess with you!!

Right?

WRONG!

The above senario is a classic in how NOT to handle a unsatisfactory purchase. So before you hit the negative button, take a deep breath and read this review.

#1 Take a deep breath and re-read the auction

Sometimes, actually alot of times, in the rush to win an auction item a bidder sometimes doesn't read the auction completely or does't read the auction at all. This can lead to MAJOR problems. Always read the auction, and if you have any doubts or if you are confused about anything....always ask the seller a question before bidding. If the seller doesn't take the time to answer your question, then don't bid on the item.  Use your better judgement. However, if you are willing to take the risk, you are also leaving yourself open to disappointment.

Example: Listing title: Cookie Monster Jacket Toddler 2t

This title is very misleading. It doesn't state if the jacket is new or used. If you read the description and it doesn't mention rips or stains. Beware! I  paid $17  for a jacket that wasn't worth a $1 because I didn't read the auction completely. Always ask questions. If in doubt, ask to see more pictures. It will save you money in the long  run.

# 2 Contact the Seller

Always contact the seller before leaving negative feedback. Sometimes the problem can be worked out. However, do not blame the seller for things that are out of their control. Here are list of things to consider:

Sizes run different depending on brand

Always ask for measurements. If a seller misrepresents his/her item then that is one thing, however, if the tags says XL and the seller lists XL, but when you receive it, the fit is slim so it fits like M...then that is quite another. Always asks for measurements if they are not provided. Measurements helps with accurately sizing the garment, thus leaving little room for wrong sizing.

Colors look different on different computer screens

Please be aware that colors look different on different screens. If the color is not in the description please ask. It is better to be safe than sorry.

Please be patient when it comes to shipping

The time in which it takes for your item to arrive depends on many factors:

1.) payment type--The fastest is pay pal. The slowest is money order/check. These payments take time to arrive via mail, then time to clear at the bank, then your item must be packaged and shipped.

2.)shipment type-- First Class (2 to 5 days), Priority Mail (2 to 3 days), Parcel Post (5- 10) longer to Alaska and Hawaii. International Shipments varies, depending on postage and custom requirements.

3.) The Seller's shipping rates--Some sellers are faster than other when it comes to shipping. Email the seller and ask when your item was shipped, or for a delivery confirmation number if it hasn't been provided. 

Please be patient when it comes to shipping. If the shipping is takes too long (like over a month) contact your seller or pay pal to file a report.

# 3 What if it can't be worked out

If the problem can't be worked out and you have extended all resources, then by all means  leave negative feedback if it is truly deserved. However, negative feedback should never be the first course of action. There are tons are honest sellers on ebay and time to time they make mistakes like everyone else.

Thanks for your time!

Happy bidding!