Buyer opens ridiculous PayPal claim- am I screwed?

Hey everyone. Long time lurker and first time poster. Smiley Happy I'll try and keep this short !

I'm located in Australia and I sold a couple of items (trading cards) to a buyer in France. Total was $165, shipped fully tracked in accordance to eBay / PayPal policy.

Buyer was charged fees by French customs. He said he refuses to pick up the package at the post office unless I pay the tax for him!

In the "item not received" dispute, he claims because the item was shipped fully tracked, declared at full value, and because I didn't warn him about potential tax charges, therefore I'm responsible to pay the fees imposed by the French government.

My response- (1) There is no way a seller can be familiar with the laws of different countries; (2) It is actually against the law to falsify documents; (3) I would have had to fill out a customs forms anyway even if I shipped standard mail.

Just wondering if anyone has been or know someone who has been in a similar situation?

I've responded with screenshots of his threats and demands he made on eBay. I've also provided a very detailed statement expressing my views and concerns related to the issue.

I have read some horror stories where buyers have manipulated the system and I fear that I may become a victim of the process.

Do I even remotely stand a chance to win the case?

Any insight would be much appreciated. Thanks!

Message 1 of 32
Latest reply
31 REPLIES 31

Re: Buyer opens ridiculous PayPal claim- am I screwed?

I knew that they'd opened a paypal dispute, not an ebay one, and I waited to post what I did until I knew the buyer couldn't benefit from what I said if they happened to be reading this thread.
Message 31 of 32
Latest reply

Re: Buyer opens ridiculous PayPal claim- am I screwed?

Unless things have changed, if a buyer opens an eBay dispute they can then open a Paypal dispute, but if they open a Paypal dispute they cannot then open an eBay dispute. 

______________________________________________________

"Start me up I'll never stop......"
Message 32 of 32
Latest reply