I've recently had two overseas buyers open cases against me claiming non-delivery of items purchased. They were sent by standard airmail at minimal cost which I find is usually necessary to prevent the total cost of the item being prohibitive to an international buyer. They have the option of upgrading to any postal service they wish at their additional expense. My complaints are as follows (and I've had this out with ebay too):

*  I have no way of knowing if and when they do in fact receive the goods;

*  Once they buy it, I no longer own it. I am obliged to post it by the postal service that they have selected and       paid for. I have no control over the efficiency of any postal service;

*  Though I can supply proof of postage, I was obliged to refund both these people their total payments. If for no other reason, this is because I simply have nowhere to go. It's either that or I get a black mark against me though I am totally blameless.

*  Does ebay keep tabs on serial "Item Not Received" claimants? I am sure some buyers have made it an industry. It's not a bad deal when you can get the goods and your money back too!

I now insist that anybody wanting postal accountability pays for the top postal service. End of story.

I'd love to hear other sellers and buyers views on this.