Question from a reader:
I sold an item on a flea market app two weeks ago, but I forgot to ask my family to drop it in the mailbox. I thought I had shipped it and sent a shipping completion notification, but a few days later, I received a message from the buyer saying they received it, and the transaction was
completed. However, I later realized that the item was still at home. When I hurriedly opened the app, I noticed that the buyer had contacted me to say they would conduct an investigation and take appropriate action. I don’t know what to do in this situation and feel anxious. I’m scared of being sued or arrested. What should I do?

Troubles with Flea Market Apps: Legal Aspects of Unshipped Items and Psychological Impact

With the rise of flea market apps, many people can easily buy and sell items, but troubles are not uncommon. This time, I want to consider one such trouble: the case of “unshipped items.” In particular, I will delve into the legal aspects and psychological impacts.

Clarifying the Situation

To clarify the questioner’s situation, they sold an item on a flea market app and asked a family member to ship it, but it was forgotten. After sending a shipping completion notification, they received a message from the buyer saying the item had arrived, but they later realized the item was still at home. This would understandably cause significant anxiety. First, I completely understand the feeling of worry. I have also experienced anxiety in transactions on flea market apps. However, it is necessary to think calmly about this issue.

Legal Aspects: Contracts and Responsibilities

Transactions on flea market apps are fundamentally based on sales contracts. Once a sales contract is established, the seller has the responsibility to deliver the item to the buyer. In the questioner’s case, it can be considered that this responsibility arose when they sent the shipping completion notification. First, it is important to consider how the situation of “unshipped” is treated legally. If the item has not been shipped, there is a high possibility of receiving complaints from the buyer. In this case, the buyer has the right to request a return or refund on the grounds of “the item did not arrive.” In other words, legally, the seller must fulfill their responsibilities while respecting the rights of the buyer.

Legal Risks

Even if the buyer does not request a refund, if the trouble drags on, there may be an investigation by the app’s management. Here, the concern about “could I be sued?” arises, but in reality, it is rare for such situations to immediately escalate into legal issues simply because of a normal transaction. However, if one is seen as acting with malicious intent, the situation changes. For example, if one sold the item with the intention of never shipping it, it could be considered fraudulent behavior. In such cases, legal responsibility may be pursued.

Psychological Aspects: Anxiety and Coping Strategies

When faced with this situation, many people feel the anxiety of “what should I do?” I can strongly relate to such anxiety. Especially when considering how the other party might react, it can be worrying enough to lose sleep at night. In fact, when confronted with such troubles, it is important to remain calm. First, respond honestly to the buyer. Communicate the facts and apologize for the failure to ship. This will be the first step in enhancing your credibility.

Specific Coping Methods

1. Contacting the Buyer First, reach out to the buyer and explain the situation. It is important to convey your honest feelings. An explanation like “I asked my family to help, but they forgot to ship it” would be appropriate. 2. Offering Alternatives If possible, inform them that you will ship the item promptly or propose a refund as an alternative. This attitude will help gain the trust of the other party. 3. Consulting the Flea Market App Support If your anxiety persists, consulting the customer support of the flea market app is also an option. By explaining the situation in detail, you may receive appropriate advice.

Conclusion

Troubles on flea market apps can happen to anyone. What is important is to respond sincerely and value communication with the other party. Legally, it is necessary to protect your position while respecting the rights of the other party. While it is understandable to feel anxious, acting calmly can significantly improve the situation. In fact, I have also grown through similar experiences. Taking a moment to reflect on your actions without rushing will ultimately lead to better outcomes. I hope your actions will positively influence your future transactions.