I am writing to address a deeply frustrating situation involving a recent transaction. A customer purchased an item from me and chose to ship via the South African Post Office. Unfortunately, that parcel has been in transit for over 8 months, with the South African Post Office holding it for more than four months. Despite this, Paypal has taken the unprecedented step of blocking my account and issuing a receipt for a refund of $230 — the amount paid by the customer.

Let me be clear: Both Paypal and the customer are delusional if they believe I should refund money for a parcel that is still in transit. I do not work for the South African Post Office, nor am I responsible for their delays and inefficiencies. The choice of shipping carrier was made solely by the customer; there were other parcel transportation companies available. The delays are entirely beyond my control.

Therefore, I categorically refuse to refund any amount. The customer can either wait for their parcel to arrive or come to South Africa to resolve the matter in court — I am prepared to defend myself in court if necessary. I stand firm: I am not liable for failures of institutions beyond my control.

If the customer had claimed that the items inside the parcel were defective or not working, I could understand their frustration. But blaming me for transit delays caused by the South African Post Office — a service chosen by the customer — is unreasonable and unjustified.

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I am not going to be pressured into refunds for circumstances I am not responsible for. The responsibility lies with the customer’s choice of courier and the postal service’s handling, not with me. I will not be penalized for institutional delays or inefficiencies.

This situation highlights a broader issue: the misconception that sellers are liable for delays caused by shipping services beyond their influence. I stand by my position — I will not refund money for a parcel that is still in transit, especially after 8 months. The customer’s patience is required, or they can seek legal recourse. I am ready to defend my position and my reputation.

By Collen Makumbirofa
Makumbirofa Farms  
www.makumbirofafarms.co.za 
admin@makumbirofafarms.co.za