customer returns one disk, but not the other?

[Red96TA]

I sold two dvd's to a customer, one in January and another in February. Both disks were authored exactly the same using mpg video and ac3 audio.

Today, I get a return for one disk, but not the other. The returned disk plays fine in both my PC and set-top players without a problem. What do you think would cause one disk to play and the other to crap out considering they were both completed using the exact same methods.

FWIW, this is the first return on this disk (I've sold about 25 disks of this program already) and I'm wondering if he just wants a refund to fund something else he's purchased...or, more diabolically, he made a copy of the disk and is trying to return it for a refund after getting his own copy.

[Bodyslide]

I guess it depends on what your stated policy is. On some items I sold via Ebay a few years ago. I stated no refunds, only exchanges for a bad disk.
Have you tried to test the DVD with the https://www.videohelp.com/tools?tool=Nero_CD-DVD_Speed?

[Red96TA]

I tested it and the results are good, no problems there.

I really don't mind refunding or exchanges, but was looking to forward myself so I don't run into the problem in the future.

[Sabro]

From a business aspect you need to take each case on an individual basis, however refunding this person's money could lead to others wanting the same.

While this person may have a legit reason for wanting the refund, others may not and thus use your refund to this person as a stepping stone to disaster.

Wether its eBay or the real world, if it's an item that can be copied, I'd follow slide's advice and only offer an exchange of the same item for defective items.

Sometimes it's it WON'T work with their equipment, other times its been copied and yes a refund is nice cause now they have 2 items for the price of 1, or they just simply didn't like the item which is their fault for not properly researching the item before purchasing.

If it truely won't work with their equipment they won't mind a replacement what so ever.

I'd suggest keeping an open mind and taking it on a case by case basis, however, refunding the money might possibly open you up to a whirlwind of returns which you'll be stuck with in the long run...

Sabro

[samijubal]

I've sent DVDs to people who had problems with some of the discs and not others, so it can happen. None of them asked for a refund, I just sent replacements and they were happy.

[lordsmurf]

If the disc is fine, they can piss off. You are not responisble for their crap players, you are also providing copy-able media. These cons are pretty evident. Good buyers ask for replacements, not refunds. Crooks as for refunds. At least, that's the usual case. At least, assuming the content is decent and as stated. Tech errors is not grounds for refund. Just replacement.

[anzimike]

Consider adding a disclaimer in your sale "add" that the discs are burned and to check compatability of your equipment before purchase, then add no refund, only exchange for defective disc. This should avoid the pirates. Best of luck.

[vitualis]

Replacement discs first. However, when I sold the "Demo VCD", I did offer refunds as a gesture of good will.

However, a refund is only for the cost of the disc, not postage and handling.

Regards.

[Supreme2k]

My usual policy is exchange only. If it's eBay, the policy is "buyer beware".

Of course, I always have the disclaimer (as suggested above) to check player compatability, no refunds, etc.

That's probably the only retail store policy that seems unjust (to some) with which I agree. Anything that can be copied, will be copied, and there really is no legit reason to return videos (and most other copyable media).