How reliable is Ebay's refund policy for photography gear?

4 years 1 month ago #678035 by Toby J
Let's say you buy a lens from someone on ebay and when you get the lens, you find the lens optically has some issues.  The lens still works, however it's just not optically what you had hoped for.  

Will ebay allow you to return the lens based on that or do they have an actual expert inspect the lens  and then decide if they will allow the return?  


Photo Comments
,
4 years 1 month ago #678047 by effron
The buyer and seller would need to work it out, ebay will only "moderate". I found they almost always take the buyer's side though.

Why so serious?
Photo Comments
,
4 years 1 month ago #678094 by garyrhook
eBay doesn't care if it's photography equipment.

"Not what you hoped for optically"? Does that mean you don't know what to expect from the lens? That's on you. However...

If the lens is not as described, that's on the seller. IF you purchase from someone reputable (feedback is important here) then it's almost guaranteed that they will work with you to resolve the situation.

Here's what many don't seem to understand: lots of people run businesses on eBay. They have a reputation to maintain, and they are not going to risk negative feedback over one trivial sale. They have too much to lose. So if one stops to think about it, one might realize that making the buyer happy is worth far more than a single sale.

That said, I've bought a lens that I discovered was fogged (from a reputable dealer with exceptional feedback). Contacted them, gave them the details, and sent the lens back for a complete refund. No problem.

I just sold a lens that I had listed incorrectly The buyer contacted me, I realized my mistake, apologized, and it got sent back. Money refunded. No fuss.

I   bought a lens that was supposed to come in the original box. They sent me the wrong lens. I got $50 back because of their mistake.

eBay is not the problem. People are the problem, and it's possible to be judicious and careful, and have good experiences. But it takes work on the part of the buyer.


Photo Comments
,
4 years 1 month ago #678231 by effron
"... they are not going to risk negative feedback over one trivial sale."

Bingo. I read a piece a while back about Amazon reviews, I doubt ebay would find much difference. It was near eighty percent of people checking reviews went straight to the negatives first and most often never looked at a five star review. 
So yes, the real businesses can't risk bad feedback. 

Why so serious?
Photo Comments
,
4 years 1 month ago #678325 by Fess Walker
Agree, if the product was broken or faulted from description, then they would get your back.


Photo Comments
,

817.3K

241K

  • Facebook

    817,251 / Likes

  • Twitter

    241,000 / Followers

  • Google+

    1,620,816 / Followers

Latest Reviews

The Canon EOS R100 is an entry-level mirrorless camera introduced in 2023. But just because it’s an entry-level camera doesn’t mean it’s a bare-bones camera. Find out why in this review!

Apr 22, 2024

Nikon’s retro-looking Nikon Zfc is anything but retro. Under its classic body is a host of features and amenities that make it a worthwhile compact mirrorless camera for 2024.

Apr 15, 2024

The Canon EOS R50 is one of the newest R-system cameras from Canon. Is it worth your money? Find out all the details you need to know in this comprehensive review.

Apr 10, 2024

The Sony FE 70-200mm f/2.8 GM OSS II is Sony’s flagship mirrorless zoom lens. As such, it’s loaded with features and has a top-shelf build quality that makes it a top pick!

Mar 27, 2024

Forum Top Posters

Latest Articles

The Insta360 has one of the best lineups of action cams and 360-degree cameras. With these Insta360 accessories, you can elevate your photography and videography game!

Apr 24, 2024

Creating impactful photos of landscapes depends on many factors, not the least of which is your talent behind the lens. This guide explores other elements required for the best product.

Apr 23, 2024

The Canon EOS R100 is an entry-level mirrorless camera introduced in 2023. But just because it’s an entry-level camera doesn’t mean it’s a bare-bones camera. Find out why in this review!

Apr 22, 2024

Are you ready to upgrade your camera? Before buying new, you might consider the value of purchasing used gear to save money.

Apr 18, 2024

The Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV is a micro four thirds camera released in 2020. It’s an entry-level system along with the OM-D E-M5 Mark III. Use this guide to determine which one is best for you!

Apr 17, 2024

Blue hour photography might not be as well known as golden hour photography, but it is every bit as good a time to create epic images of landscapes. Learn how in this quick tutorial!

Apr 17, 2024

Nikon’s retro-looking Nikon Zfc is anything but retro. Under its classic body is a host of features and amenities that make it a worthwhile compact mirrorless camera for 2024.

Apr 15, 2024

Moving from taking snapshots of your dog to creating beautiful images doesn’t have to be that difficult! Use the tips outlined in this dog photography guide, and you’ll get better results in no time.

Apr 15, 2024