posted on July 3, 2002 04:06:28 PM new
I have three buyers who are late with payment...the least time being 15 days late...the most is 22 days. The shipping price I quoted these buyers is now much higher due to the postal increase.
I just received a check from the 22-day-late buyer..sent on the 26th (after I filed the NPBA). I can't afford to lose any more money on shipping these items..two are over 5 pounds. Even if I ship UPS, it will cost more. No Fed-ex around here.
I am tempted to just send the check back and cancel the other two transactions.
In all my auctions last month, I noted that the postal increase was due, and that payment must be received at least by the 27th.
SO...am I wrong to cancel??
posted on July 3, 2002 04:50:38 PM new
This sort of potential headeache is exactly why I switched over to only selling stuff that could be sent Media/First Class Mail for the past month.
If the buyers can't abide by the rules you clearly spell out in your auction, then the auction agreement is null and void. If this were me in this position, I'd try to at least work it out before just taking the initiative and sending the payment back.
First contact them explaining exactly why you had the deadline in the first place, and that you consider the transaction void unless they're willing to promptly send a balance of $X to cover the additional shipping expenses. If they agree, they must adhere to a strict (and very brief) time period to get the supplemental payment to you, otherwise you will return their payment on a specific date.
Believe it or not, some people may be agreeable. I once had a lady buy something from me, but she completely forgot to add the $4 shipping fee. I emailed her about it, and once I got her promise that she would send the rest, I shipped the package. Her payment arrived - $10 and she told me the difference was a "thank you" for shipping the package anyway.
