poor vinyl grading, nervous about return process

[salmontail]

I've recenlty purchased a vinyl (LP) described as NM, M- in the sellers description

Received it and found it's scratched and scuffed, generally in a pretty poor condition. I would grade it as G at best

I've back and forthed over eBay messages with the seller who denies that the record is scuffed and scratched. Even after me sending clear photos of the terrible state of this record. Yet after receiving the pictures he is now suggesting I've sent photos of a different record (with the same inner label!) or I've scratched up the record myself.

I started a return/refund process, yet now the seller is now giving me the impression that when recieved he'll either deny it's the same record or in the same state as he sent it (that I've damaged it)

I've spent nearly $120 for this LP incl postage, to return it (international postage with tracking) isn't going to be cheap.

Is this going to blow up in my face and I'll be further out of pocket? Or will eBay back me and ensure I get a refund?

[lyndal1838 · Accepted solution]

Have you been instructed by ebay to send the item back or has the seller told you to send it back?

The best way to protect yourself is to ask ebay to step in and get your money back....and if the seller wants the item back he will be instructed to pay for the return.  It will not cost you anything.

There is no guarantee that ebay will back you but on previous evidence presented on the boards I would say it is a very good chance that you will win the dispute.