I appreciate all the good feedback from users about the very slow delivery from China, in particular those who suggested asking for a refund then re-ordering. I did ask for a re-shipment on one item and it eventually came but after the 45 days. Paypal has 180 days to open a case does it not? Recently I had 2 merchants shipping only one item of a larger order in a small package - unusual as one wonders if that is all you will get. Contact the seller if this happens. Recently I had 2 items arrive 2-1/2 weeks after the first package.
Speculations about the cause are varied, but we know the financial situation in China has changed. We have enjoyed very low shipping and I wonder if China Post has reduced resources in personnel or airfreight $ which is likely an effective subsidy. I doubt that e-bay or Canada Post would interfere with these shipments.
I do hope ebay reads these posts. ebay has been a world resource for re-using, for helping recreation and innovation since it's inception as an on-line auction site. It is a shame to see the auction idea in demise and the lack of support for the small seller.
I have made many ebay purchases and wanted to start selling when I had the time, but now doubt I will, since the buyer has all the rights if they wish to be dishonest. Only large corporate type sellers can absorb the occaisional total loss over a large number of sales.
I addition, the inception of the so-called Global Priority shipping has all but killed off ebay sales form the US to Canada. There has never been a problem using Canada Post as the import broker for small items - why do we need a service that costs twice as much as standard post? Ask for parcel post.
Here are my 10 tips for ebay ordering... I would love to hear yours"
1. When ordering many items from a vendor, include a note to request a double check to "send my xx items".
(Many Chines vendors seem to leave out 1 or 2 small items. Hoping you won't notice?)
2. Give the order lots of time but do contact the seller near the last expected arrival date.
3. After a month or so request refunds for undelivered items.
4. Do not be tempted to keep an item that eventually arrives - without paying. Most ebayers are honest, keep it this way.
5. Communicate with the seller, let them know promptly when a missed item has arrived.
6. Always be sure of the shipping method - do not use Couriers from out of country unless you know what you are doing.
7. If a US seller asks $21 Global Priority for a $5 item, ask, BEFORE bidding, if they will ship Parcel Post.
8. Be sure to pay for insurance if needed, it is only fair to the seller. And tell them about the require Customs form.
9. Get permission to return an order, else the seller can deny receiving it. (Don;t ask).
10. Oh and don't order around Chinese New Year or when you won't be home to receive your order.
Happy ebaying !
PS I had a "fight" with a lady from Israel trying to pay her for an extra item she had shipped. I had ordered 2 of one item, assuming the would match in appearance - they didn't. So she sent me another and would not accept even nominal payment. Nice.
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