Billbobboy42 Loc: Center of Delmarva

I won an auction on Ebay back on or about 23 Oct. The item was an aluminum utility trailer and was to be built and shipped on or about 19 Nov. I sent the seller a message after 19 Nov and before Thanksgiving to inquire status. Seller replied on or about 3 Dec apologizing for responding late to the message; saying the business was closed for the week of Thanksgiving. Also stated was that he had a delivery in my direction and would expect it to be shipped "in a week or two". Here it is Jan 13 and no trailer. Seller has not responded to any of my emails since Dec 3. Additionally, one of the two phone #s provided is out of service; the other has a recording saying they are not receiving phone calls. That seemed to me to be the characteristic of going out of business. If true, I would have to wave goodbye to my funds, as the seller would only accept a check payment (and it was cashed on 31 Oct).

Due to the length of this situation, it passed beyond Ebay's 60 day money back guarantee so I have no help there. Last week I filed a complaint with the BBB. Then I checked this vendor on the BBB and discovered there are some 24 complaints, of which 20 are exactly like mine - failure to deliver. The seller has responded to those complaints (not mine yet) with the same tired lame excuses. One poor chap purchased a trailer in March of 2013 and had not received it as of Nov 2014. Only one buyer as of last week had received a refund.

Lesson #1: Don't let the 60 day Ebay window pass, regardless of promised delivery date.

Lesson #2: Do research on the seller. Had I checked with BBB first, I would not have purchased from this seller.

Lesson #3: Regard with suspicion Ebay sellers that will only accept a check.

I have been an Ebay purchaser for several years - over 800 positive purchases - with no problems. Guess there's a first time. Unfortunately, it is a very expensive one.

I won't mention the business name, but it is a metal fabrication outfit located in NW Pa, north of Pittsburg.

Hope my experience will help readers to refresh their memories re careful research prior to buying.

imagemeister Loc: mid east Florida

Thanks for sharing !

Architect1776 Loc: In my mind

You might want to take legal action as well.
I would bet they comingled business and personal funds so if the "Business" goes under you can still collect. I am not a lawyer but here in PA I had to sue a pool contractor and that is how I got my money as the business went under but the funds were comingled. Check with a lawyer for details but it worked for me.

Billbobboy42 Loc: Center of Delmarva

You're welcome. I could have purchased a very nice lens for the amount I am out.

Billbobboy42 Loc: Center of Delmarva

I gave that consideration, but am thinking legal fees could mount up to equal or close to the purchase price ($2375.00). Plus, we would be dealing with an "across state lines" issue. I live in Md.

Thanks.

Architect1776 Loc: In my mind

True, my legal fees were around $7,000.00 but for a $95,000.00 suit was not too bad to pay.

Billbobboy42 Loc: Center of Delmarva

Yes. The percentages are more favorable in that case.

bigalw Loc: Essex - UK

I appreciate your problem and there's nothing I can do to help.

BUT, for others and concerning ebay, beware, If the seller is not holding up his end of the bargain (in any way shape or form !!!) give them the benefit of the doubt for his delivery time, then (very shortly after) ONE mail THROUGH ebay, and subject to the answer you receive (or not) take action through ebay, ALWAYS mail through ebay, as they also can see that YOU have tried,

good luck with what ever you decide to do

sb Loc: Florida's East Coast

I learned my lesson years ago - I sent a money order for a $1400 item. He claimed to have ten in stock. He cashed his money orders and moved out of Texas, where he was located.

The problem:

1. If you send a check or money order to a stranger there is little that can be done to recover your money. E-Bay's money-back guarantee protects you, but only if you use PayPal, a credit card, etc. I NOW know that if anyone asks for a check or money order you better run away!

2. No one cares. Your local authorities do not have any jurisdiction. The local authorities where the culprit lives are ill-prepared to do anything about internet crime, and these transactions generally are not enough to generate a lot of interest.

3. The FBI has authority to pursue internet criminals, but unless a LOT of money is involved, they are not going to get involved either.

So - if you send anyone a check or money order, you are screwed. It is a hard lesson to learn.

singleviking Loc: Lake Sebu Eco Park, Philippines

Under $3000 so it can go through SMALL CLAIMS COURT (represent yourself and only $35 court fee), or you can always go on Judge Judy's show. Just giving alternatives to being out the funds completely.

Cykdelic Loc: Now outside of Chiraq & Santa Fe, NM

Share the name so others don't bite on it......you have no liability, especially if you state it is your opinion based on your experience.

nicelifter Loc: erie,pa

yes please share the name ..i live in that area and would like to make sure i dont get the same deal as you

Billbobboy42 Loc: Center of Delmarva

The business is: SIC Metals & Fabrication, LLC
200 Grand Ave.
Clarion, Pa 16214

JPi3.14 Loc: Seattle, WA

Thanks for posting their name, their website is impressive...Are you talking about the CargoMaxxx Aluminum Trailer? The one they feature?

Billbobboy42 Loc: Center of Delmarva

What's the location issue re Small Claims? If I have to go to the seller's town, I might as well forget it - 400 miles one way from my location. If it can be filed in my town, requiring the seller to come here, then that's another ballgame.