how to know if this item is a possible scam
Summary: The discussion is about how to determine whether an item might be a scam. The participants explore various signs and tips for identifying online scams, involving exchanges among several people to share experiences and practical advice.
Good evening,
I'm about to buy this item offered for $360, about 150 less than the price you find everywhere. The seller told me that shipping is included and there are no customs fees... now I asked him which site he uses and he sent me to an American site, namely this one https://www.ocpcgaming.com/ but he says he ships from Hong Kong... it seems to me there are too many strange things... should I pay? with PayPal, in case the item doesn't arrive am I protected? or should I not pay and just forget it, not take it anymore? for years now I've been buying much more on Amazon, where I have endless certainty, but I'd like to try once for this offer... what do you think? is it too risky?
thanks in advance
heavenwelkin
·4 years agoHonestly, I don't think that from Hong Kong, for a NEW item priced lower than market value, the seller would pay the 25 - 27% VAT and customs duties on your behalf.
The problem is that when the package arrives, you'll then have to pay this amount to the courier to collect it.
If you refuse and the package is sent back, you'll lose the item and your money too.
So think carefully because for packages coming from non-European countries, customs duties, import charges, and 22% VAT are paid.
Best regards.
direttorino
·1 year agoHi, I looked for a discussion like this because I won an eBay auction from a user with two years and no feedback, for winning a TV in an eBay auction that costs new no less than 4500/5500 for 2500 dollars. I also was reassured about shipping costs being included and no kind of duties or VAT. It should be said that even with duties and VAT I would definitely save money. For reassurance, I called eBay twice, and thanks to my PayPal payment I’m covered for:
Damage
Fraud
Payment of duties and taxes.
Meanwhile the seller doesn’t collect the money and can’t even close the account before the transaction is completed.
At this point I wonder what sense a scam would have? I almost fear a damaged item more.
I want to trust it anyway, also because I’ve been an eBay customer for over 20 years
In any case there is also PayPal coverage, which works differently and on different timelines.
I hope I’ve been helpful and that God makes it turn out well for me.
marioelegio
·1 year agoOn a $2,500 purchase, there are definitely both customs duties and VAT.
Only if they’ve already been paid to the courier won’t they be asked for when the goods arrive.
Some UK and US couriers collect all customs fees in advance, but these are clearly shown on the payment page (it’s at least $700) and it says that no additional customs charges will be applied.
hi
mario
direttorino
·1 year agoIt doesn't say anything on the page, so I'm pretty sure I'll have to pay them, but in case of a dispute because the neck arrived damaged or doesn't match the listing, I'll also be refunded for those costs.
I'll keep you posted.
marioelegio
·1 year agoUnfortunately not from eBay.
You’ll pay those fees to the courier, who will collect them on behalf of the State, so you need to contact the customs agency to find out whether you can be reimbursed in the event of a return of the imported goods.
hi
mario
direttorino
·1 year agoSo according to you, both of the two eBay support reps told me something inaccurate?
I was openly told that in the event of a dispute, we will ask you to send me a copy of the import expenses you incurred and we will reimburse you.
heavenwelkin
·1 year agoProbably YES, anyway keep the money aside too for any customs clearance costs when you receive the package.
Ah, and please make sure that if the courier asks for cash, don't give it to him because then you won't have a receipt.
Prefer payment by credit card.
Best regards.
direttorino
·1 year agoYou’re probably right, I searched online and got the same answer, identical, let’s hope for the best.