Disputes in online trading

In online trading, there are a few horror stories, and it is always smart to be prepared for the worst. The more business you do, the more likely you are to run into someone dishonest.

There could be some disputes where you think that the other party is wrong and he would think the same about you. The following are the few possibilities that could happen :-

1) The buyer doesn’t respond - First of all, don’t panic! There might be valid reasons why they have ignored you. Don’t rush out and give negative feedback about this buyer right away. Send the buyer a gentle reminder.

Mention him your last message and remind him that the auction site considers a bid a valid contract. Remind him that you have held up your part of the bargain and you expect him to do the same. Specify a date by which you expect payment.
If after a couple of weeks, you still haven’t heard from the buyer, the only recourse you have is to leave bad feedback on the buyer. Refuse to ever allow him to bid on your merchandise again.

Unfortunately, you will have to relist your item and start again or you can check the bids on your item and contact the second-highest bidder and ask if he is still interested in your merchandise.
When you post your feedback, be professional about it. Calling someone
horrible names and being really ugly does not serve your seller image at all. In
short, Mr. Bogus Buyer isn’t worth it!


2) A bad check - Earlier, we discussed the importance of deciding on the
method of payment in advance of your first auction. As you recall, you either
hold the check, or only accept money orders, or use a third party like PayPal.
Veteran sellers say that most often a bouncing check is just a mistake that the
embarrassed buyer will correct when it is pointed out. If you are uncomfortable with the risk, don’t assume it. And, of course, never ship a really expensive item until I was certain you had the money.

3) Damage If you send an item and when the buyer receives it, and it’s damaged, I urge you to take responsibility for this problem, rather than ignore it.
Unless you are selling a billion rupees item, your reputation as a professional and honest seller is much more important than a single item. It is best to either replace the item, if you have one, or refund the buyer’s money. You can then take your claim to your carrier.