Scam?

[Former_Member]

I don't think it is but I'm starting to wonder...

EDIT: -This is a new customer to Etsy and possibly her first transaction, according to her profile.
-Someone doesn't read the entire listing description, purchases anyway regardless of holiday ordering deadline passing a week ago. (common)
-Puts in note to seller that she wants it for the holiday so I suggest expedited shipping or a rush fee. (common)
-Meanwhile, CC payment is taking much longer than normal to clear. (strange)
-Chooses the rush fee. (fine)
-Wants a second shirt, also rushed. (fine too)
-I create a listing for second shirt plus rush fees for both shirts.
-Buyer says she purchased second shirt with rush fees. Nope. Doesn't show in my shop payment account, paypal account and the listing is still available for purchase. (REALLY strange)
-First payment finally clears. (okay)
-Still no purchase on rush fees/second shirt listing.

The worst part and what makes me wonder about a scam: All this needs to ship Monday morning by 9:00am. It's Sunday afternoon at 4:30. Does this sound like some kind of scam to you or just a scatterbrained customer? I would like to believe the latter.

I've sent convos explaining that I can't ship anything until the second purchase is made and that if it isn't cleared by the deadline, I'll issue a full refund and cancel the transaction. I've sent links to Etsy Help question/answers that apply and I've apologized for confusion. I've also contacted Etsy but I know I'll get faster responses from you all here and maybe someone has had a similar experience.

[BaloolahB]

Ugh, sounds like a mess.....I would refund straight away, looks like you've done all you can......

[PiecesOfMePaperCraft]

It sounds like a scatterbrain buyer to me. If it was a scam I doubt you'd have any payment at this point. You've done all you can do. Give her a specific time deadline for tonight (you do have to sleep, after all) to get the second listing purchased and payment cleared and hope she comes through. If not, cancel and refund.

[Former_Member]

Thanks Claire and Judy! I gave her the deadline of tomorrow at 9am so we'll see. Her order isn't crazy so I'm going to make her items. I can always just keep them for my own son if she doesn't end up getting them. I was going to make him one anyway.

[Former_Member]

Sounds like what I would do. She does sound like she is trying to get things together and make it happen, but waited until the last minute.

[AGlassofHarmony]

Definately sounds like just a customer. I do TONS of custom orders outside of Etsy and it takes all kinds. :) I like the idea of a deadline and if not met refund.

Good luck!

[CarolBradley]

You've handled it well. I think it's just a scatterbrained buyer. :) She might be buying from different shops and getting mixed up about what happened where.

[Former_Member]

You were all right! It worked out! I'm so thankful that she finally got it figured out. I was trying to remain helpful and not get too frustrated but there is only so much I can do to help. We're both very appreciative of the other's patience, that's for sure!

[Former_Member]

Great to hear.