BrickLink Discussion Forum

In Help, povuk77 writes:

I have just tried to make a purchase from a new seller (1) and it will not be
accepted by PayPal as seller is high risk? Are there any buyer protections from
BrickLink if another method is used?

If the seller offers stripe, you can pay that way . Personally if you are getting
a message that there is a high risk, I'd source the parts elsewhere/ user
a different seller.

Author:

brac.brick

Posted:

Dec 7, 2023 16:55

Subject:

Re: Local pickup option for shipping

Viewed:

31 times

Topic:

In Shipping, Emporiosa writes:

In Shipping, brac.brick writes:

I tried to set up a local shipping option for my store. The problem is I have
other manual invoice options and suddenly those disappeared and all that was
left was In person pickup. I had to get rid of this option and re-enable the
others and then it all worked.

Is it possible to have other manual options or does the system default to the
$0 shipping one for request for invoice ? I am able to have 2 manual options
- Economy & Priority , so I'm baffled why I cannot have a 3rd option for
local pickup. Anyone have any ideas about this? Just wondering how many options
you can have on a store.
thanks

Check your shipping profiles and see if they're being grouped. This causes
it to show the lowest option to a buyer that matches the shipping profile.

Grouping is not available for manual options. It's all grayed out. I have
it set up for Instant checkout. I added it back and now the store shows all 3
request an invoice options. Maybe it was just some kind of glitch.

Author:

brac.brick

Posted:

Dec 7, 2023 16:46

Subject:

Local pickup option for shipping

Viewed:

103 times

Topic:

Author:

brac.brick

Posted:

Dec 7, 2023 16:42

Subject:

Re: reserved part for a buyer / quote Problem

Viewed:

25 times

Topic:

In Help, yorbrick writes:

In Help, brac.brick writes:

I have a buyer who has made 2 quote requests for a part which is reserved for
them. Both quotes cancel before I even see them.

I've sent them instructions on how to purchase which I found on the Help
section but I do not know how to help them purchase the part. Anyone with experience
on reserved parts for buyers or has done one themselves ( been the buyer whose
part was reserved)- I need help to tell them what to do. I marked the part as
manual , it is set up for only them by user ID.

How do they get a quote or use manual / request an invoice for this part/order?
Or can reserved parts only be IC ?

Did you enter their username correctly? I know it's obvious but an easy mistake.

If they are having trouble, tell them what the postage price, then get them to
place an instant checkout order with ask for invoice.

Or alternatively, inform them what time the part will be listed and get them
to order as normal. If someone else buys it because they are too slow, you still
get an order.

Yes, everything was correct. I reset the shipping options for manual and suddenly
it worked.

Thanks for the alternate suggestions.

Author:

brac.brick

Posted:

Dec 7, 2023 16:01

Subject:

reserved part for a buyer / quote Problem

Viewed:

63 times

Topic:

Author:

brac.brick

Posted:

Dec 3, 2023 08:51

Subject:

Re: Package says delivered, buyers says no

Viewed:

43 times

Topic:

In Shipping, galaxyfe writes:

Hi, two shipping issues in one week, let's see how this one goes. Buyer
says he did not receive package, tracking says picked up by individual at the
post office. Was single $25 minifigure sent via Ground Advantage. Have opened
a claim with USPS but wanted to see what the experienced among you say. Am I
out another $25 like last time? I know for big stores maybe a $25 hit every
now and then is a drop in the bucket but that is not the case for my store.
Thanks!

The only way you would be " on the hook" for this is if the package arrived
and it was opened in transit, minifigure fell out. Did you insure the package?
I would ask the buyer who picked it up at the post office if it wasn't them.
Usually it has to be signed for or show ID, they don't just hand it over
to anyone or they had to have the package delivery slip to hand in. If they
open a case with Paypal, you only have to show proof of delivery , picked up
at the post office - I would send screenshots of the delivery confirmation +
tracking number. I would also stop list this buyer immediately .

Author:

brac.brick

Posted:

Nov 30, 2023 12:11

Subject:

Re: EasyPost

Viewed:

30 times

Topic:

In Shipping, cosmicray writes:

As of this morning, PirateShip labels are by EasyPost. Looks very similar to
the Pitney Bowes labels, but with minor differences. New QR codes are still present.

Nita Rae

What's the difference ? It still shows G for ground advantage . is this
a new USPS thing? Just curious.

Author:

brac.brick

Posted:

Nov 28, 2023 12:19

Subject:

Re: How to get a refund with Amex (France)

Viewed:

31 times

Topic:

In Problem Order, Wriax writes:

Hello,

I paid ~500 euros one week ago for an order and the seller is not replying to
messages or emails. He sent by himself a message on the day of the order saying
something about finding a large box, and since then, nothing. So I raised today
a NSS Alert.

I paid with a French American Express card through Stripe on BrickLink. It is
a "payment card" (= deferred debit), not a real credit one. I see BRICKLINK_SHOP
in the Amex app.

I'd like to clarify a couple things:
- Assuming the seller does not ship the item or reply anymore, do I get a refund
once the order is canceled (so in two weeks)?
- If not, to get a refund, do I have to contact Amex? Do you know of anyone who
had to do that in France and how they did it?

Thanks

You can submit a charge back / dispute to Amex directly. Stripe is only the payment
processor, not the card itself. However the seller will receive notification
of the dispute on Stripe - it's in the support FAQ. Stripe is for sellers,
not buyers so I would start with Amex , explain you purchased online and the
seller is either not responding to you or has not shipped the product. You want
to initiate a chargeback, but you have to open the case with Amex directly. I'd
try to work with the seller a bit more , maybe a few days, see if they respond
to you but if it all fails, contact Amex.

PS: FWIW, looking at the feedbacks, a few people had the same problem and some
of them mention getting a refund from the seller. The store has ~20 sales this
year.

Author:

brac.brick

Posted:

Nov 27, 2023 15:39

Subject:

Re: Copy of invoice does not appear in my email

Viewed:

18 times

Topic:

Problem

In Problem, nando10081969 writes:

Hello!
When I send the invoice to the buyer, a copy of the same invoice is usually sent
to my email. In recent days, the copy of the invoice has not been sent to my
email. I didn't change anything in my store settings.
However, I receive orders and other messages from Bricklink.
I ask the community if they have ever encountered a problem like this, with the
aim of understanding whether it is an error with my email server or a problem
with Bricklink.
Thank you all!

is it possible you have some sort of filter set up and the invoice is sent straight
to a folder ? Or it may be going to spam if you didn't set up BL as a safe
sender in your email provider. I'd check all your folders and junk/ spam
folders to make sure. I also believe you have to make sure you have invoices
set to send to you in your store settings. Go to My BL, click on settings. Then
click on My Orders Settings. 2nd section , has an option "Default E-Mail
Me a Copy on Invoice to Yes". I'd unclick this & reclick it, save settings
if not already checked. Also, if you are using a different store email address,
that is where the invoice is going to.

Author:

brac.brick

Posted:

Nov 23, 2023 13:15

Subject:

Re: Paypal Claims

Viewed:

35 times

Topic:

In Problem Order, glafebe6 writes:

In Problem Order, cosmicray writes:

In Problem Order, glafebe6 writes:

So a buyer has filed a case with Paypal claiming "unauthorized purchase"
on their order with Bricklink. The order was filled and shipped to the buyer
in October.
just wondering the best way to resolve this. I sent the Order info and tracking
number from the Bricklink order to the Paypal resolution center.
the buyer never contacted me via Bircklink. The name and address match the claim
and the Bricklink order.
Also, the user has good feedback on Bricklink.

How have you handled Paypal claims?
thanks in advance!

Was the shipping address the same as the address on the PayPal transaction detail
page ?

Was the transaction detail marked Eligible for Seller Protection ?

Nita Rae

Yes to both questions

The buyer also had marked the order status as “complete”

it sounds like buyer remorse. I would tell the buyer to send it back to you ,
can then then inspect it, see if it is intact and refund based on condition returned,
all parts returned, etc. The buyer will have to pay for return shipping. Hopefully
this was a US transaction .

Author:

brac.brick

Posted:

Sep 12, 2023 05:58

Subject:

Re: AWOL customer not picking up UPS package

Viewed:

40 times

Topic:

In Shipping, HoleintheWall writes:

Exactly. UPS usually drops it off at the customer's location so there must
have been a reason why it's at the pickup point instead.

As long as the delivery shows it arrived where the buyer wanted it shipped to
, you are off the hook so to speak for non delivery of the package. If UPS returns
it to you and you charge a restocking fee , I would deduct that from any refund
for the parts ( not shipping) and block the buyer.

Author:

brac.brick

Posted:

Sep 11, 2023 05:55

Subject:

Re: Problem with incomplete order /NSS?

Viewed:

41 times

Topic:

In Problem Order, Kriemis writes:

I have been waiting for over 5 weeks before order was shipped, after 7 weeks
it arrived, but it was missing a whole set and 2 parts (1/3th worth of total
order cost). Refuses to refund, asks a picture of the missing set (lol, how can
i) before willing to refund.

Will an NSS prevent him from giving me a bad review out of revenge? I have not
gave feedback yet on the order page either out of fear that he will do that.
Seller has more bad reviews, my fault for not checking feedback, i know!
I would like to keep my clean slate clean for as long as i can, this is why i
am kind of afraid to give a bad review.

In his messaging he has been aggressive and saying things like 'do what you
have to do'.

I guess he means an nss then? Idk. Help

Not sure how you paid but if you used Paypal, you can open a case for an item
not received.

Author:

brac.brick

Posted:

Sep 10, 2023 07:16

Subject:

Re: Testing store

Viewed:

32 times

Topic:

In Help, BrickSelect writes:

My buyers are having trouble with my store saying there are processing errors
when they try to check you. Is anyone able to place an order to see if it goes
through and if it does I’ll cancel it. I’m really struggling to figure out what
is going wrong

I noticed you have a $2 minimum order - is it possible this is causing your buyers
the errors? That they cannot check out if they don't meet the minimum ?
Also, no where on your store terms do you mention this so it might be prudent
to put it somewhere in the terms.

Author:

brac.brick

Posted:

Sep 8, 2023 06:52

Subject:

Re: Too many emails

Viewed:

32 times

Topic:

In General, WildBricks writes:

This may seem like a strange question, but here goes: Is there a way to no longer
get the emails from BL for every time a sale is made? The constant Order Confirmed
emails are so plentiful that I am having a hard time seeing the emails that I
need to pay attention to. So, is there a way to turn off the Order Confirmed
messages?

I filter everything from Bricklink into my Bricklink folder on my email service
provider - you can set yours up too. Takes it all out of the inbox

Author:

brac.brick

Posted:

Sep 6, 2023 18:15

Subject:

Re: USPS Ground Advantage and Instant Checkout

Viewed:

22 times

Topic:

In Shipping, nologolego writes:

Thanks for your answer. Your explanation was vey helpful. From the description
of the Groups under Shipping Settings, I couldn't really understand how what
the groups were suppose to do. I gave it a try per your instructions and it
worked!

Glad I could be of help

Good luck with your store.

Author:

brac.brick

Posted:

Sep 6, 2023 05:36

Subject:

Re: USPS Ground Advantage and Instant Checkout

Viewed:

28 times

Topic:

In Shipping, nologolego writes:

I am a long time seller but a relativity latecomer to Instant Checkout. I have
been using IC with good success for about a year but still a bit shaky on how
it works. Recently, with the introduction of USPS Ground Advantage, I have been
trying to revamp my shipping settings to improve shipping options for my customers.
However, I am stymied in how to get it to work properly.

Since Ground Advantage does not have the 16 oz weight restriction that First
Class Mail had, I want to offer this option for packages of any weight. However,
I also want to offer an option for USPS Priority Mail for customers to who may
want to receive their Lego shipments faster regardless of weight.

I have set up an IC shipping method for both Ground Advantage and Priority Mail,
but as best as I can tell, at checkout it defaults to the Ground Advantage option
and does not give customers a choice to select Priority Mail.

Does anyone know if what I am trying to do is possible?. And If so, how to I
set it up so that it works properly?

Thanks,
Mike

On BL it defaults to the cheapest method available- so ground advantage. You
can set up groups for shipping - just use Group 1 for GA and group 2 for priority
, etc. Then your buyers can choose what they want for shipping. I find most buyers
just want it the cheapest and for small lightweight orders, GA is significantly
cheaper than Priority , even flat rate. Next to each shipping method you have
in your store, is a box "Group" which you change to 1 , 2, etc up to
20. Just make sure GA & Priority have different group numbers , otherwise it
will always default to the cheapest method.

Author:

brac.brick

Posted:

Aug 30, 2023 16:25

Subject:

Re: chrome silver parts markings

Viewed:

27 times

Topic:

In Help, Nicolasamico37 writes:

In Help, paulvdb writes:

In Help, Nicolasamico37 writes:

In Help, brac.brick writes:

Can someone who has a chrome silver modified tile with groove & lip tell me if
there are Lego markings on the bottom part? And if so , what is the marking?

I need to know if all chrome silver lego parts have markings or if some are made
without them. It's hard to tell on parts which have no studs to determine
if they are fakes.

thanks
Alison

Hi,
What part number are you talking about ?

Nicolas

2412b Tile, Modified 1 x 2 Grille with Bottom Groove
Parts: Tile, Modified {Chrome Silver}

Thanks. Just wanted to make sure there are not supposed to be markings and mine
are not fakes

I checked my set 5571 and there are no markings on the ones in that set.

I have 4 parts and no logo

Nicolas

Author:

brac.brick

Posted:

Aug 30, 2023 06:09

Subject:

chrome silver parts markings

Viewed:

75 times

Topic:

Author:

brac.brick

Posted:

Aug 25, 2023 09:30

Subject:

Re: Ground Advantage - any really slow deliveries

Viewed:

33 times

Topic:

In Shipping, cosmicray writes:

I’m watching one package, flowed thru a sort center somewhere in the Midwest
today, that will be at 7 days if it gets delivered on Friday. Anyone else seeing
long deliveries ?

Nita Rae

Yes, for some reason going to the middle of the country for me from Massachusetts
is taking anywhere over 5 days. I am also seeing deliveries to California & the
West coast take lots longer than First Class ever did.

Author:

brac.brick

Posted:

Aug 25, 2023 09:28

Subject:

Re: Change a negative feedback

Viewed:

35 times

Topic:

Feedback

In Feedback, Andr3a42 writes:

Hi, after I got a refund for a bad part, how can I change my feedback flag from
red to green? TY

Unless the feedback meets the requirements for removal, unfortunately you are
stuck with it. you can respond to the feedback (once) and I recommend you say
something nice , like you offered a refund or to replace the part . Buyer look
at comments in addition to the feedback so you want to make sure they know you
tried to make it right if you were the seller.

Author:

brac.brick

Posted:

Aug 17, 2023 20:26

Subject:

Re: Seller not hearing about new orders by email

Viewed:

34 times

Topic:

Technical Issues

In Help, RubyGirl writes:

Hi,
I have stopped getting new orders information to my email, so I get a surprise
when I look at my orders received page. My email address has not changed and
I am getting other emails, such as copies of messages I send in BrickLink.

I hope you can help
RubyGirl

I'd make a habit of checking into your store daily , maybe a few times per
day to catch orders if you are not getting notifications. I also use Outlook
and have had no problems.

Author:

brac.brick

Posted:

Aug 9, 2023 21:01

Subject:

Re: What comes after Ground Advantage?

Viewed:

43 times

Topic:

I definitely need to look into other services. Thank you!

Check our pirateship.com . They now integrate from Paypal so you don't need
to copy & paste the information in. I love it and they do deep discounts.

Author:

brac.brick

Posted:

Aug 4, 2023 11:59

Subject:

Re: Odd situation on shipping

Viewed:

35 times

Topic:

In Shipping, WildBricks writes:

Back in early summer I had a buyer in Brazil order empty education containers
from me. I did the best that I could to get a cost of the shipping charge, but
when it came time to buy the label I ended up eating a bit of the charge. Then
2 weeks later I get a notice from the buyer that the package is being returned
by customs claiming that the item was "unauthorized". Last week the
package finally made it back to me. I fully refunded the buyer's order stating
that I could not complete the purchase due to a customs issue.

2 days later the buyer placed the order again, this time with double the number
of empty containers. I'm torn. I want to help my buyer out here, but considering
I've already eaten $85 in shipping costs I'm not in a big hurry to ship
these boxes again.

What would you do in this situation? As far as I know I completed the customs
information correctly. Anyone in Brazil have any suggestions on how I can get
this package through customs? Any sellers in Jundiaí São Paulo? What shipping
provider would you use? Any reliable ship-forwarding companies in the area (not
really sure how it works, have simply heard of it)?

Any insight would be great.

From what I read online, buyers in Brazil have to pay import duties on packages
received, maybe this buyer refused to pay and customs sent it back ? There are
articles saying Brazil customs charge crazy taxes on anything imported from America.
I would suggest the buyer set up a Freight forwarding account with some company
in Brazil who has offices in the US . You can ship to the US address and then
it is no longer your responsibility. I work in e-commerce, we have buyers who
use Freight forwarders and they set it up - we ship to the company in the US,
they forward it. Otherwise, cancel & block as others have mentioned.

Author:

brac.brick

Posted:

Aug 3, 2023 13:08

Subject:

Re: Store terms

Viewed:

48 times

Topic:

In General, Prepster writes:

A store had a policy of “minimal” handling on terms page. I did not agree that
6.00 was minimal and I asked to cancel order. (Yes. I should have asked for
a quote). They also charge 2.00 insurance on a 60.00 UPS order.
They refused to cancel and I paid for the order and left negative feedback.
He changed terms today to the following:

.50 plus 7% to cover payment processing and BL fees.

He also changed the 2.00 insurance to orders over $100 today

This is a US store.

Thoughts? Stating they are essentially charging PayPal and BL fees to customer.

The terms on their store are a bit confusing. They still have the Orders over
$50 will require insurance &/or signature and then there is another entry, that
orders over $100 will require insurance & signature.

There are some other issues in their terms , especially where they claim that
if you need alternate parts or variations, you are stuck with whatever they send
you unless you contact them ahead of time or as a note on the order. The shipping
rates are ridiculously high and I suspect they are using retail rates , not any
commercial ones such as you would get on Pirate ship. 0-4 ounces is $6, that
is before any $0.50 fee + 7% of the order total . However they do ship UPS &
USPS so maybe the prices are for both shipping methods .
Interesting store and not one I would ever shop at.

Author:

brac.brick

Posted:

Aug 2, 2023 15:05

Subject:

Re: Question about Stripe refund

Viewed:

46 times

Topic:

Payment Methods

In Payment Methods, KMMA1978 writes:

So, this is the first time this has happened. I had a seller flake on me and
not respond to messages. How do I go about requesting a refund through Stripe.
Their website was no help.
Thanks

I have issued refunds through Stripe - Log into your Stripe Dashboard, Click
on the payment and at the top of the page, there is a "Refund" with an
arrow pointing to the left. Click on this and you should be able to issue the
refund through stripe. https://support.stripe.com/questions/refund-a-customer
Message me privately if you need more help.

Author:

brac.brick

Posted:

Aug 1, 2023 10:37

Subject:

Re: Paypal Shipping Label 4x6 Scale issue

Viewed:

33 times

Topic:

In Shipping, Jamesf077 writes:

Hi folks,

I've just reopened my store after a few months off. When printing my first
shipping label from Paypal I cannot get the scale right to fit the 4x6 labels.
It works fine on another platform (Royal Mail) and it was working fine before
I closed in May this year.

Has something changed? Anyone else found this to be a problem?

Printing directly from Paypal is the quickest method so I'd prefer to keep
doing it this way. With Royal mail I have to input the buyers details manually.

James

not sure how it works in the UK, but in the US, you have to set label preferences
in Paypal for it to print a 4x6 label. https://help.paypal.shipstation.com/hc/en-us/articles/360061609271-Change-the-Label-Layout

Author:

brac.brick

Posted:

Jul 30, 2023 06:17

Subject:

Re: You’ll love the way I package and ship orders

Viewed:

66 times

Topic:

In Shipping, legoranger00 writes:

In Shipping, tEoS writes:

Instant checkout is pretty much a must at this point.

I don’t know if I can do instant checkout. I want to make sure my buyers pay
for the shipping and all the other fees that come with selling on Bricklink.

Many sellers use Instant checkout, myself included. If you are new to selling,
I'd stick with manual until you get the hang of it. The trick to IC is to
set the margins of the shipping package ( box, bubble mailer) to dimensions that
work for your parts. It requires research , trial and error and making sure you
set it up right in the shipping section. I do not recommend using shared methods.
These are usually very outdated. I use the weight options to set up IC. Also
- USPS got rid of the term First Class, - it is now called Ground Advantage and
you might want to fix this in your terms.

Author:

brac.brick

Posted:

Jul 27, 2023 10:27

Subject:

Re: Buyer very rude....

Viewed:

106 times

Topic:

In Problem Order, rainbowmist writes:

Hello. I have a buyer who ordered a part and I noticed it was an off brand, oops
on my part, anyways I gave them a refund of the part and they said they are not
happy about that missing part. I don't have a replacement. So I looked up
the buyers feedback and they leave all sorts of "unhappy with order"
comments for other sellers. And takes to long for shipping, stickers are bad,
etc.

Seems to me I should just cancel his whole order as they did buy other stickered
parts as well. Or would they leave me a negative after canceling?

The problem is , as others have stated, is you assumed they wanted a refund for
the part without asking them to weigh in on the options for the resolution. I
always reach out to buyers if there is a problem after they paid and to find
a mutual resolution if the part has already shipped. I never assume the buyer
just wants a refund for the part . Some might have never ordered if the 1 part
( which is wrong, or broken or mis-colored , etc) is not the correct one becuase
that is the 1 part they need. I offer a bunch of options and let the buyer choose
. I highly recommend you come up with other alternatives besides a refund and
carefully vet your inventory - mistakes happen - we all make them, but it is
your customer service which is long remembered , might encourage the buyer to
come back to purchase more.

Author:

brac.brick

Posted:

Jul 27, 2023 05:26

Subject:

Re: Fabuland colors

Viewed:

30 times

Topic:

In Help, axaday writes:

In Help, brac.brick writes:

I have a Lego Fabuland chair which is probably the Fabuland brown but the color
looks more like a medium nougat ( standard Lego colors). Is the Fabuland brown
more of orangey brown color or does the color somewhat vary?

I have little to no experience with this product line and this color is a mystery
to me . I want to make sure I list the color correctly.

thanks
Alison

Fabuland Brown and Medium Nougat are pretty close. To the best of our information,
the chair went out of production a couple years before the introduction of Medium
Nougat and it was barely in production for several years before that. As long
as it is a genuine piece, I'd be pretty confident that it is Fabuland Brown.

Yes it is, has lego on the studs, matches the catalogue it was just the color
which I couldn't tell. - thank you so much for confirming

Author:

brac.brick

Posted:

Jul 26, 2023 18:24

Subject:

Fabuland colors

Viewed:

72 times

Topic:

Author:

brac.brick

Posted:

Jul 25, 2023 12:04

Subject:

Re: Anyone ever heard of this shipping problem.

Viewed:

31 times

Topic:

In Help, George_Lucy writes:

It was for 4 Kama cloths. The buyer sent me this message,

I had to pay an extra $6.84 at the PO to get my package because the package was
flat and required priority shipping. Could you refund me 6.84 please.

It had the correct weight and size. It weighed less than an ounce and was sent
ground advantage. The label was printed through PP.

Any ideas?

I can only recommend that you add some packing peanuts to create dimension in
the bubble mailer so it goes through at package rate next time. I suspect the
sorting system kicked this order out as "flat" and then the buyer was
asked to pay $ to receive it. If you don't have packing peanuts then even
a crumpled up wad of bubble wrap or scrap paper would work.

Author:

brac.brick

Posted:

Jul 22, 2023 09:02

Subject:

Re: Ground Advantage = Pony Express

Viewed:

29 times

Topic:

In Shipping, Hypertrophy writes:

That is my analysis after a week plus. Orders across country are taking 7+ days
at times when they previously would take 2-3.

Yes absolutely agree, especially if the packages are going to the West Coast.
I live in Massachusetts and for First Class, the packages would get there in
3-4 days. The last one with Ground advantage I sent to CA , took 6-7 days. It's
seems really slow. However orders to the middle of the country are taking less
time than before so go figure....

I am hoping that as they get this new program sorted out , things will move faster
for locations west of Ohio.

Author:

brac.brick

Posted:

Jul 18, 2023 06:11

Subject:

Re: Getting Rid of Fabric Softener Smell

Viewed:

46 times

Topic:

In Help, MatteBlack writes:

Anyone have tips on getting rid of the smell of fabric softener from Legos? I
have some Lego plants that were just purchased from someone and the smell is
insane. Tried really hot water and strong hand soap, hot water and vinegar, hot
water and lemon juice, hot water and some enzyme pet odor remover. Nothing is
getting rid of the smell. It's particularly bad on the plant pieces (different
plastic) https://www.bricklink.com/v2/catalog/catalogitem.page?P=6255#T=C.

I would try a paste of baking soda and water on 1 or 2 pieces, leave it on for
an hour, rinse off and see how that works. Also in an open container in a well
ventilated area for a few days might work as well.

Author:

brac.brick

Posted:

Jul 13, 2023 19:28

Subject:

Re: Non Paying International Buyer

Viewed:

50 times

Topic:

In Problem Order, lecrad writes:

Hi All,

I had a buyer in France purchase one thing. I had to send an invoice, which
I did. Shipping was high because shipping from the US to France is high.

For 7 days I did not hear anything from the buyer. Today, I filed an NPB. Suddenly
after an entire week the buyer responds and asks to cancel and says he found
the part elsewhere.

I'm looking for opinions on whether I should cancel or follow through on
the NPB.

Thanks

I would continue the NPB. He had a week to pay or request to cancel early
on. If all sellers let buyers like this get away with cancellations, then they
just continue to do the same thing. If you decide to cancel, I would at least
ask them why they did not give you the courtesy of letting you know sooner, that
purchases on BL are binding.

Author:

brac.brick

Posted:

Jul 12, 2023 20:12

Subject:

Re: Bad stretch of luck, or overall problem?

Viewed:

55 times

Topic:

The orders I have been buying have been less than 20 items and they still make
mistakes. Even on single instruction booklets. I even mention to "take your
time" in the messages and they still don't make sure the order is correct.
Its a competition with selling now to get out an order super fast to get more
orders then sellers like me who does have a decent amount of parts don't
get very many orders with my shipping speed. How is that fair?

it's not fair at all and if you are not getting all the parts and the sellers
are not responsive to your messages or offering refunds/ replacement parts if
possible , then open a case Not as described in Paypal . My belief is that there
are some sellers who are just not caring about their customers, it's all
about the money they are making selling and customer service is not something
they offer. I recommend that you check the feedback scores for sellers before
you purchase. I certainly make my own share of mistakes but I try my best to
offer a resolution when a buyer says they didn't receive something, is the
wrong color or is damaged. I'm sorry you are having these problems - it's
not fair and opening a case with Paypal is the best solution since the order
was shipped & delivered.

Author:

brac.brick

Posted:

Jul 12, 2023 13:26

Subject:

Re: How 2 set up notification when I get an order

Viewed:

24 times

Topic:

In Help, ski1993 writes:

Hi all - Is it possible to get an email or SMS notification when someone has
placed an order on one's site? I run a small store and have to keep remembering
to check every now and again to see if any orders have been placed.

Can someone talk me through the process please?

Thanks!
Wendy

Hi Wendy,

First you need to make sure your email service provider is not marking the emails
from BL as spam - maybe filter them so they go into a folder you check regularly.
If you use a different email address for your account, then make sure this is
set up as well. In your profile , under settings , you need to make sure you
set up Contact settings. There are buttons to check for both web notifications
and email. Go to My BL and hover on it, click on Settings when it pops up ( last
column to right) under Account. On the next page, click My Contact Settings.
This is in a bunch of boxes on the page - all your different account settings.
This will take you to the correct page where you set the notifications you want
for the email address associated with your store.

Author:

brac.brick

Posted:

Jul 11, 2023 15:37

Subject:

Re: Bad stretch of luck, or overall problem?

Viewed:

45 times

Topic:

I am a very reasonable person and like I said, on other orders I didn't even
bother the sellers, and still left them positive feedback. However, if I really
need the part and can't just add it on to another order I am going to make,
is it too much to expect people to make it right? All of these orders could have
been thrown in an envelope with a regular stamp on them. We are talking VERY
small quantities and pieces here.

Am in the wrong here? I would think with me even offering to cover the envelope
and stamp, even when it is not my mistake, that there would be some people out
there that would do the right thing.

Not sure what parts you are looking for but you are welcome to check my inventory
- if it is not in stock , we will let you know immediately. We do get technical
glitches from time to time and we try to fix things as soon as we are notified.

Author:

brac.brick

Posted:

Jul 8, 2023 09:38

Subject:

Re: Status doesn’t offer shipped

Viewed:

26 times

Topic:

In Shipping, KACL writes:

In Shipping, peregrinator writes:

In Shipping, KACL writes:

Is there someone that I can reach out to that can look things over and see exactly
what went on? BrinkLink added the tax, order summary says that it was paid by
PayPal (OnSite)

The order summary only shows how the buyer chose to pay, not how the buyer actually
did pay. If the buyer had paid onsite, the order would show as Paid (unless something
went wrong - it's rare, but it does happen).

and on PayPal’s website, it shows that they’ve taken their fee.

Since you shipped it out, there isn't much else you can do . It's possible it is a state where there is no sales tax - not all states have sales tax. Try not to beat yourself up. One thing to think about is that you may wish to have a store email address which does not track to your Paypal account. This eliminates the possibility that a buyer could pay offsite and send money to your Paypal email address. I keep mine separate. my store email address is NOT my Paypal email. One thing you don't mention is whether you have Order status and payment status as 2 separate entries on your order page. If. this isn't the way your order page is set up- follow the directions below .

" You can change the status of each order to paid by default when an order
has been paid for. You can also separate the payment status from the order status
which will give you more status options for the payment. To do this, select the
"Separate order payment status from order status" option in your Orders
Settings page. Each order will then have its own payment status drop-down selection
box separate from the order status. After this option is selected, you will be
able to change the status of your existing orders from paid but the option to
change the order status to paid will not be available."

Author:

brac.brick

Posted:

Jul 7, 2023 19:39

Subject:

Re: Status doesn’t offer shipped

Viewed:

44 times

Topic:

In Shipping, KACL writes:

In Shipping, jennnifer writes:

In Shipping, KACL writes:

Hi!

I got my first order and shipped it out today. I tried to mark it as shipped
but I don’t have that option.

What am I doing wrong?

Karen

Was the payment made Onsite? Does the order show as Paid?

Click on Edit Order on the bottom of the Order Detail page and have a look at
the info at the top of that screen.

~Jen

It says on-site but it is not showing up as paid. There’s quite a learning curve,
isn’t there?

How was the payment made ? Was it Paypal or Stripe? I'd check those places
first to make sure you got the payment . First thing I do when I receive an order
is to check the payment status where the payment came from. If it was Paypal,
it should have an entry in your Paypal account showing the payment, what was
paid for the order, the shipping, any state taxes, etc. Then I ship the order
. The order should say "Paid ". If it wasn't paid, then you don't
ship it.

Author:

brac.brick

Posted:

Jul 5, 2023 06:00

Subject:

Re: The new shipping notification

Viewed:

25 times

Topic:

Technical Issues

In Technical Issues, KitKat53 writes:

I may be a little slow on the updates because I'm not a big store, but I'd
like to insert my 2 cents. I HATE THE NEW FORM!! It doesn't allow me to personalize
my greeting, do a refund, or anything else. I can add the tracking number
& a short note if needed. I like the old form!! It was more like writing a friendly
note than an invoice. I could actually have a conversation with my customers!
How can I go back to using the old form?

I had the same issue and I contacted Help desk. They told me that unless you
are selling to a buyer where VAT is involved, you have to use the "classic"
form which basically is a slimmed down version. I just add my personal note to
the invoice and click send. It's kind of a pain as I cannot use a "custom"
invoice .

Author:

brac.brick

Posted:

Jul 2, 2023 07:42

Subject:

Re: Threats

Viewed:

80 times

Topic:

In Problem Order, Munotbrick writes:

Hello

I ordered a couple minifigs from a german seller.
Once arrived, i told him that he send the wrong minifig. The minifig was already
in my collection, so i had no use for it.

Nevertheless - how to deal with such a seller on bricklink? He has many many
positive feedbacks - even though i start to suspect he makes sure this way that
he does not have any negative ones...

If you didn't receive what you ordered, if you paid by Paypal, you can open
a dispute because you didn't receive what was ordered nor did you get a refund.
Go to your Paypal account and click on Help, there is information on how to open
a case.

Author:

brac.brick

Posted:

Jun 27, 2023 18:03

Subject:

Re: USPS Ground Advantage

Viewed:

45 times

Topic:

In Shipping, cosmicray writes:

Pay attention, this is important.

On Sunday 9 July (two weeks away), USPS is making changes that will affect us.

For USPS Ground Advantage / Commercial Parcels - Cubic … some cells that are
in the smaller cubic size (0.1 - 0.3) may see slight reductions. For cells that
are larger cubics, you will see slight increases.

I have seen some references that suggest that all parcels will now have $100
of insurance. Unable to confirm that in a USPS document at the moment.

New (draft) Notice 123 is available here https://pe.usps.com/PriceChange/Index

Cheers, Nita Rae

Ok, I took a look at the information Pirate Ship put out and as far as I can
tell Priority Mail over 1 pound to destinations west of Indiana are huge in pricing.
is this because they cannot publish what the price will be ? Zone 9 is like $18+
for a 1 pound box shipping priority. I am hoping someone else has looked at this
besides me and can shed light on if this is real . Or if I am looking at this
wrong.
thx

Author:

brac.brick

Posted:

Jun 22, 2023 17:15

Subject:

Re: Problem with a customer

Viewed:

61 times

Topic:

In Problem Order, MRBricks writes:

Hello dear community,

I received an order with the shop name "FlixBrix" on 06/21/2023 and placed
an order with me, but my problem is: He does not answer my emails for payment
or for any other reason, "e.g. when will the payment be made?" ,...,
he hasn't paid (IBAN) to date, but I'm surprised that he has currently
received 10 positive ratings from a ... today, on the one hand again 2 ratings
from someone ... and on 06/18/2023 Received 5 positive ratings from ... is this
normal?

I don't want to be hasty, but in most cases the transfer is credited to the
account the next day at the latest. I've already read the negative reviews
but before I conclude this is... I'd rather get a second/third opinion on
it, secondly his seller privileges are forfeited.

I would look forward to answers or assistance that have already had experience
with ... in the past.

Not sure if I am looking at the right store but on the terms page it says Suspended
for violation of BL Terms of service. Again as others have said, wait 5 days
and open an NPB, complete it in 7 days .

Author:

brac.brick

Posted:

Jun 19, 2023 16:37

Subject:

Re: Positive Negative or Neutral

Viewed:

59 times

Topic:

Feedback

In Feedback, TeeBoxLu writes:

Let's say I pay a fair price for relatively rare part. When picking the order
the seller apologizes and says they don't have the piece and immediately
processes a refund for that piece only. I indicate to the seller that I now have
to source that piece elsewhere and pay another shipping fee. No reply. What feedback
would you leave this seller?

I would wait to leave feedback until you hear from the seller if they are going
to refund the shipping. You don't mention if this order is the single part
or if there are other parts you need. If you still want the other parts, then
the shipping charge is somewhat justified , although it depends on the order.
If the order was the 1 part, then they need to refund you the total you paid,
not just the part value.
Either way I would reserve judgement until you hear back from the buyer about
the final resolution. If they are prompt and refund everything, there is no reason
you cannot leave a positive about the experience. if they fail to respond or
respond negatively, then I see. no other choice but to leave negative feedback.
Also, if you don't get the full amount back and nothing is shipped, hopefully
you used Paypal to pay with and can open a case there .
I really hope this works out for you.

Author:

brac.brick

Posted:

Jun 19, 2023 06:01

Subject:

Re: Test "instant checkout" for a quote request?

Viewed:

32 times

Topic:

In Shipping, Gaston.La.Brick writes:

Hi,
I have a buyer who has requested a quote for shipping a number of items, asking
for a very specific shipping option I offer.
I have instant checkout active in my store. I see no items in the quote that
have missing dimensions, so I wonder if the customer sees that option (I have
asked him, no reply yet) or why the specific shipping option would not be showing.

Is there a way to have the instant checkout rules applied to a quote? It would
make sense to have this option, as it's basically applying the exact same
logic as during checkout.
This way, I could verify if something might be wrong in my shipping methods configuration.

Thank you for your feedback, suggestions and tips!

The quote option , if you have it checked, is to allow the buyer to see a shipping
quote (including handling fee if you charge them) BEFORE they commit to the purchase.
There is no way to apply a quote to Instant checkout. The purpose of Instant
checkout is to allow buyers who are committed to the sale to pay quickly. Quotes
are more like manual, request for invoice but with no commitment. If they do
not accept the quote in 3 days, then the potential sale does not go through .
it is actually a much easier process for both buyer and seller rather than purchase
and then request to cancel. Quotes are not a binding transaction. If they accept
the quote, then they pay & you ship. Not sure what you mean by quotes for instant
checkout.

Author:

brac.brick

Posted:

Jun 15, 2023 16:33

Subject:

Re: Items missing pack. dimensions

Viewed:

21 times

Topic:

In Shipping, Gaston.La.Brick writes:

Hi,
somebody bought item

15265 Technic Digger Bucket 15 x 23
Parts: Technic {Black}

Since there are only stud dimensions and no packing dimensions (in cm), the buyer
was able to select "Large letter". Large letter is configured as max
thickness of 3 cm, so no way this will fit.
How can I configure (easily) when a cart has item(s) that don't have packing
dimensions specified, the instant checkout is disabled?
I hope I don't have to look for all such items in my store and do a change,
but rather have some general setting somewhere?
Thanks for your help and suggestions,
Gaston

I set all parts with no packing dimensions or I deem too large for standard First
Class ( US) shipping to Manual. Then they have to check out with manual invoice.

Author:

brac.brick

Posted:

Jun 11, 2023 07:22

Subject:

Re: sorting parts

Viewed:

43 times

Topic:

In General, mkbricksandmore writes:

Hi, everyone how do you sort your Lego? By color, parts and how do keep them
separate for example a tile or bullion by color?

I sort by color and then by type - plates, tiles, slopes, etc all in different
bags.

Author:

brac.brick

Posted:

Jun 7, 2023 18:36

Subject:

Re: Order status

Viewed:

43 times

Topic:

In General, LocoPorLego writes:

Thats exactly what I did... Ive been around buying from BL before these new rules
(newish haha), and compiled my terms and condtions from store I have done business
with and liked. Now I know.

In General, wildchicken13 writes:

In General, peregrinator writes:

It's really not that messy for newer (2017 and later) sellers. They (we)
can only offer onsite payments (not counting sellers who can offer IBAN with
permission from BL admin). The OP falls into this category.

I think part of the problem is that new sellers sometimes copy their store terms
from old sellers who still offer offsite payment methods.

I get you have been burned by some newbie buyers who ordered and then had sticker
shock at the cost of shipping. If you want buyers to be informed up front, then
maybe post your shipping prices in a nice section on your terms. I have one in
my store which gives prices based on weights. I also mention that manual shipping
options are available and will be quoted to the buyer.
I view my role as a seller to provide product and a service and I try hard to
make the experience as friendly as possible. I had one recent buyer who was upset
at the shipping price , they requested to cancel, I agreed and I blocked them,
moved on. I require new buyers to use instant checkout ( zero feedback) and I
believe this would solve some of your problems. They would see the shipping cost
before they paid. you can also direct buyers to use the shipping quote option
- it's the last step before payment . Not trying to tell you how to run
your store, just offering some friendly advice.

Author:

brac.brick

Posted:

May 28, 2023 18:28

Subject:

Re: Shipping not being added on?

Viewed:

25 times

Topic:

In Shipping, 1986saephan writes:

Anyone else having problems with shipping not being added on when a buyer wants
an invoice?

If you are talking about manual invoice - the buyer requests an invoice, you
have to add it and any handling you charge. You add it to the shipping cost field
and then save changes, then send the invoice.

Instant checkout should have the shipping method the buyer selects when they
checkout.

Not sure what you mean otherwise..

Author:

brac.brick

Posted:

May 28, 2023 18:26

Subject:

Re: I feel kind of stupid... HELP!!!

Viewed:

44 times

Topic: