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Buyers return items that stink!
 

We sell jewellery, and I can sometimes smell the packets before I open them. Some of the ways people return their items too is incredible- eg recently an expensive set was returned wrapped in toilet roll stuffed inside a cardboard inhaler box.

But the worst part is I dont smoke (so maybe its more offensive to me) but several items get returned and they absolutely reek. I am supposed to be able to resell these items, but its impossible.

Does anyone else have this issue? do you just eat it....we do and I cant see a way round it, but its incredibly frustrating.

Re: Buyers return items that stink!
 

Generally the items need to be aired out and that fixes it. If it's really bad though it may be worth getting it professionally cleaned

Re: Buyers return items that stink!
 

That's the price to pay when dealing with returns. Personally I discard damaged/overly smelly products that are returned to avoid potential negative reviews. If it's an expensive item I'll inspect it / clean it etc

Re: Buyers return items that stink!
 

Yes we do too, sometimes the returned package smells so bad I dont even want to open it. Im glad we dont deal in clothing because I can imagine this would be a nightmare. Its always the customers that return stuff like that that complain the most too.....maintaining professionalism under these circumstances can really be pushed to the limit.

We have terms/conditions which state item must be in original saleable condition, but really its not worth the hassle to try and defend this point.

Re: Buyers return items that stink!
 

Terms and conditions - absolutely useless when it comes to ebay, as ebays terms are basically buyer is right, always, period.

In future I would consider offering partial refunds, or selling it at cost price just to cover your losses.