If the estimated delivery date has passed and your package is still missing, do not panic. eBay provides a robust protection policy known as the "Money Back Guarantee." Here is the step-by-step process to resolve the issue.
1. Verify Delivery Information
Before contacting the seller, double-check that the item isn't just delayed. Go to your "Purchase History" and check the shipping address and the expected delivery date. Most importantly, look at the latest package tracking updates to see if the courier attempted delivery or if the package is stuck at customs.
2. Report a Missing Item
If there is no update, you must report the issue. You have a 30-day window after the estimated delivery date to open an "Item Not Received" request. Once reported, the seller has 3 business days to respond with a valid tracking number, a replacement, or a refund.
3. Request eBay's Assistance
If the seller ignores your request or fails to solve the issue within those three business days, you can ask eBay to step in. You have up to 21 business days from the moment you opened the request to escalate it. eBay usually resolves these cases in favor of the buyer quickly.
What if the Item Arrives Later?
Sometimes, a package arrives after you have already opened a dispute or received a refund. In this case, you should:
- Close your request immediately to let the seller (and eBay) know the transaction is complete;
- If you were already refunded, contact the seller to arrange repayment or return the item.
Important Warning: Be absolutely sure before you close a case. Once a request is closed, it cannot be reopened.
Switching from "Missing" to "Return"
If the item arrives but is damaged or not as described, you cannot keep the "Item Not Received" case open. You must close the missing item request first and then open a new "Return Request" to process the refund correctly.