I sold an iPhone that on 12/12/20, the buyer said they wanted to return. I accepted the request 13/12/20 and did not hear anything back until today when I had an email from eBay saying: 'Has iphone 7 been returned? We've asked the buyer to send the item. **** indicated that they posted their return. The item should now be delivered and once you've received it please issue the buyer with a refund by 12 Jan, 2021. If the item hasn't arrived yet, the buyer may not be returning it." The only option/links on the email are to 'message the buyer' or 'refund the buyer.' I have not receieved the phone back and the buyer has not provided me with a tracking number (though I am awaiting a response from them regarding this). I did not have to provide a returns label to the buyer because of the reason for return, so I am not sure what eBay asks the buyer to do in this situation. On the return detail page it says 'The item should have been delivered' and 'Be sure to check the item carefully when it arrives and refund the buyer by 12 Jan, 2021.' I am a bit confused by this, as on the progress bar, 'return started' is ticked off but 'item dispatched' has not been ticked off yet. I am not sure what stage eBay thinks this return is at and I am unsure myself as the buyer hasn't messaged me to say that it's been posted either. My only options are to refund the buyer or click 'report problem' - which then only gives me the option of saying that the returned item is damaged/wrong item, there is no option to say that it hasn't arrived. There is only 3 working days left until my refund deadline is up which is why I am concerned about my lack of options. I am fearful of becoming one of the dreaded stories where a seller ends up without the item back and still issuing a refund. Would appreciate any advice on this situation. Thanks, Danielle
... View more