Buyer protection when item is a pre-order

[pe11and]

I have the opportunity to buy a collectable item on pre-order.  I can buy now but item is not expected to be available until this time next month, (12th December).  How do I stand with buyer protection given that it is likely I am not due to receive the item beyond 30 days.  The seller is a private seller in the UK and has 100% positive feedback.

I have messaged the seller but he is "Away until 25th November" so no response to be had.  Also this item is not due to be released to the public until March next year.

I am quite keen to acquire this item but cant help feeling there are a few red flags here.  I think I have answered my own question but what do you guys n gals think?

Thanks in advance for your help.

[**peaseblossom**]

eBay's 30 day deadline is from the estimated delivery date.   Use your credit card (ideally with Paypal) for extra protection.   But if you're already worried it might be best not to proceed.

[1956glyn]

Yes you have answered your own questions......do not do it 😞

Not wishing to be unkind but to me it sounds as if this seller just wants others to pay their Christmas expenses without thinking of the consequences!

Out of interest what is the item?     How can a genuine pre order item which is not due to be released to the public before March be available in December.........it cannot unless bootleg /fake

[jonatjonatjonat]

A private seller should not really have a Pre-Order for sale. This is compounded by the fact private sellers now can no longer (as far as I know) set extended delivery days.

Even with a pre-order - its supposed to be available to despatch within 40 days.

IF you buy this - you'd be able to make a claim for an item not received within 30 days of the last estimated delivery date under the ebay MBG.

Personally - I would not buy from this seller.

[1956glyn]

IF you buy this - you'd be able to make a claim for an item not received within 30 days of the last estimated delivery date under the ebay MBG

Provided its covered and a tangible item.....hence why i asked what the item is.    So many red flags

[jonatjonatjonat]

It' because they are a private seller who can no longer extend their delivery times. I assume its not available until December by virtue of the fact their account is on holiday.

I've read the work around to this is the private sellers send out an envelope using hte Simple Delivery label to not trigger a late despatch warning - then still send the item out when it is finally available.

Just take a look at the many, many Private Sellers selling Pre-order Vinyl records....that category is rife.

[plpmr]

private sellers are violating eBay rules doing pre-order as they are buying to sell = business seller.

[pe11and]

Thank you all for your comments.  

I think I have answered my own question, and Glyn1956 above agrees.  The item is expensive at £60 plus postage....doesnt sound alot but for what it is, it is an extravagance.  In the grand scheme of things losing 60 quid will not break me but I'd rather not put myself in the situation.  So in this instance I am going to walk away.

Thanks once again.

Chris

[pe11and]

The answer to your last question...."Blagged" direct from the manufacturing plant in Malaysia....so there is a thief in the chain somewhere.

I have walked away as you suggested.

With thanks