Can a seller do this?

insured

I bought an item from Ebay and after I paid the seller said they would "have to charge me postage" because he "didn't get the price he wanted for it".
Is this allowed?

RainbowDrops

Nope - it's their fault for listing at too low a start price.
Reply saying that you have paid what you are contractually obliged to do, so they should hold up their end of the bargain & send you the item.

sham63

I know the seller shouldn't - but what's the background to this?


Is it a newbie private seller who's just sold a big hardback book for 99p & free postage, or a business seller who is being greedy?


Will the seller genuinely be out of pocket because of this?


I know there are some who just say "tough s**t", but it would be nice to think that if you've got a real bargain you might want to contribute to the point where the seller is at least not out of pocket.

campdave

The seller sets the starting price. It's up to them to set it at a point where they won't make a loss if there is only one bid.

RFW

As above, the answer is no. Although you can't force the seller to send the item at the price paid. So, if you really want the item and it did go for a super low price, if it's worth you paying extra for then you may have to do just that.
Personally, I'd walk away.

mrcol1000

As others have said, it is up to the seller to set the start price that they are happy to sell at and to cover their costs.

Stand your ground. Refuse to pay any more. If you don't get your item in a week or so, open a not received case. The seller will either have to send the item or you will get a refund.

RMS2

insured wrote: »

Can a seller do this?

Yes, is the simple answer. It may be against ebay rules, but not English law (invitation to treat).


So, the seller can say no thanks. You can stamp your feet, have a tantrum and do a Violet Elisabeth Bott.


You can leave neg feedback, put in a claim for your money, but none will get you the item.


As others have said, did you get a bargain, is it worth a bit of postage or not important, then just walk away if it isn't.


Perhaps you would be polite enough to come back and tell us the outcome.