topic Item not working listing - returned because it doesn't work. in Selling Tools

Item not working listing - returned because it doesn't work.

krisbroc-0 — Thu, 23 Oct 2025 14:28:47 GMT

So I have a question, mainly because Ebay support say if multiple people complain about this feature they might look at their policy on this.

I sold two different items, both listed as "Parts/Not Working" as their condition. One would think that if it is sold in this way (I had also put a note in the condition as to why it was being listed as so) that there was no expectation for the item in any to be working at the very least. Yes, the item could be working but have parts missing, but because I had listed the condition as "Parts/Not Working" I thought I was at least covered should there be any problems - I thought wrong.

Both buyers on the items have been able to create "Item not working" return requests, which has charged me for the postage back. Again, the item was listed as "Parts/Not Working" and Ebay have allowed them to create "Item not working" returns - Is it me or is this just wrong?

I have had to go through the hassle of reporting the buyer, fighting for the postage costs back and time relisting the item. Ebay say if the same buyer does this multiple times then they can have their account removed, but what about if this was just a one off because they hadn't read the listing properly?

Anyone else agree with me that this needs looking into?

I completely understand that buyers might only want one part of the listing for instance to do a job - I.E. remote control from a broken televsion in replacement for their own, but if it is listed as "Parts/Not Working", as sellers, are we now expected to test every part of a product? - I.E. if they did just want the remote control, how would we be expected to test this if the television we have to test it on does not work. There is no way a seller could be expected to test every part of a television surely incase it was the reason a buyer wanted to purchase the item.

I appreciate your thoughts on this 🙂

Kristian

Re: Item not working listing - returned because it doesn't work.

style_wise — Sun, 16 Nov 2025 15:45:12 GMT

The solution that I've heard is to upgrade to a Business Seller and set a No Returns policy for 'Parts / Not Working' items. Then when INR Cases are opened expedite to eBay CS to explain, they usually find in the Business Seller's favour.

Re: Item not working listing - returned because it doesn't work.

roger_roger_over_and_nowt — Sun, 16 Nov 2025 15:55:09 GMT

Although the OP should register correctly i don't think there is any option to decline a returns request,no matter how they describe something if they were to do so.

All business sellers have to accept returns for any reason as far as i know ?.Who pays the return cost is another matter.

Re: Item not working listing - returned because it doesn't work.

vintage_clearout — Sun, 23 Nov 2025 10:08:27 GMT

Been the case ever since managed returns AFAIK.

It sucks.

Re: Item not working listing - returned because it doesn't work.

plpmr — Sun, 23 Nov 2025 12:05:40 GMT

just looking at one item you sold as "Condition: For parts or not working".

In the listing you state “Front left leg seems to be a bit quieter than the others but that could just be because of how I have it set up. Selling as parts/not working incase it does actually have a fault” And “ a manufacturer warranty of 1 month”

If the buyer feels one or both are incorrect they have the right of return.