How do I charge my buyer for postage?

rebeccauk

I sold an item last week which was personal collection only. The buyer paid for the item by paypal and has now told me he can't come and collect so can I send it. It's costing £18 to post so I need the money for it as it's almost as much as the item is worth!!! I don't know how to charge him for postage now as the original invoice (that he paid) clearly stated collection in person! Can I do it via paypal and just request the money?

nonnatus

Well it's not actually your problem. Its down to him to arrange a courier or collect it in person as agreed in the terms of your sale. You certainly shouldn't pay £18 postage hoping he will pay you back!! It has scam written all over it to me but someone with oodles more experience (like Soolin!) will be along shortly to give definitive advice. Just be careful x

soolin

The one thing not to do is to allow him to send his own courier, that would be a disaster protection wise.

It is a tricky one though as buyer has a lot of power in this case, but you could try issuing a 2nd invoice for the postage amount.

macfly

Let the buyer know how much it will be. If they agree, do a "request money" through paypal as suggested.

lets_get_it_right

Agreed
the best thing to do is to send him an invoice through paypal
please ask if you are unsure how to do this.
send the goods only when he has paid you
you will loose a little on paypal fees unless he sends you the money marked as a "gift".
You can request that he does that.
cheers

hermum

Have you looked at the cost of couriers, I always use p4d & it costs £8 something for 30kg ish. Depending on the size.