Damaged EBay Items?

[A.David.MacKinnon]

What’s the common solution for eBay stuff damaged in shipping? I just picked up a Yamaha MLA7 8 channel pre amp rack for my mobile rig. It was shipped in a really flimsy cardboard box (not even corrugated) with one layer of bubble wrap. The box was coming open on arrival and the rack now has a bent ear and a slightly bent pot shaft on one of the channels. Everything works as it should so the damage is just cosmetic but it’s still a bit of a pisser.
It’s not enough of an issue for me to bother with a return but I feel a bit burnt paying full price something so badly packed and now damage as a result.
Any eBay experts here? Paging V?

[kslight]

Open up a claim. I generally lean towards sending it back rather than try to get a partial refund but YMMV

[markjazzbassist]

contact the seller first, then file a claim. do it fast , the ebay money back has limits on how long you hold onto it. if those both fail file a claim with paypal.

back to the first step, let the seller know, and ask for a partial refund. 9/10 times they will agree because they don't want the thing back to try and sell again damaged and it's just a hassle.

[digitaldrummer]

and depending on if they packaged themselves or took it to a shipping place, they may in turn file a claim with the shipper.

[A.David.MacKinnon]

Thanks guys. I contacted the seller this morning, explained the damage (and inadequate packaging) and requested a partial refund. We’ll see how it goes. I’m not above returning it if I have to.

[vvv]

Note that the Ebay contact page allows you to upload photos - I've found same to be very persuasive.

[A.David.MacKinnon]

Success. Got a partial refund from the seller and a rebate on shipping costs.

Thanks for the advice.

[A.David.MacKinnon]

Now all I have to do is bend that rack ear back into shape.