Collection query

[vicklowto]

Hi, I had an offer accepted for a large collection-only item last night. Unfortunately I’m not able to go to collect it until early next week - the seller is a 3 hour drive away. I was slightly taken aback this morning when the seller requested that I provide them with the collection code in advance as they claim they need the funds before then. Clearly I’m not going to do that because I Iose any guarantee that the item will be available for collection. So I have a couple of questions.

1. Am I being unreasonable in saying I can’t collect until next week; is there some kind of minimum period in which collection should take place? 
2. Is there any way in which this can be satisfactorily resolved, should the purchase simply be cancelled if the seller won’t accept a few days delay?

Thanks

[**peaseblossom**]

Next week sounds fine to me, espcecially given the distance, and you're right not to give the collection code until you get there.   You can ask to cancel if you prefer. 

[jckl1957]

The seller may feel you are being unreasonable.  Sometimes sellers need items to be collected quickly or may have sold an item because they need funds urgently.  You are asking them to wait at least a week from the date of sale and they may feel that is excessive.

Make sure the seller is clear that you can't collect until next week and that you won't hand over the collection code in advance. You could certainly add that, if that is unacceptable, they should feel free to cancel the order.  Once they cancel, that will start the refund process.

[papso22]

Did you put the fact that you couldn't collect until next week in the notes part of the offer?

[vicklowto]

No I didn’t, and I deeply regret not doing that with hindsight. But now we’re in this situation I’m trying to work out the best way through it. I’m trying to work out a way of collecting sooner but if that doesn’t work out then I’ll just have to ask the seller to cancel.

[papso22]

That seems fair.

[vicklowto]

After a bit of faffing about I’ve managed to arrange collection on Friday and the seller’s content with seeing the collection code. Thanks for the advice everyone.