I bought a $5,000 card on eBay. Tracking showed “Delivered.” I got home 2 hours later—no package. A doorbell camera showed a guy taking it. I opened an “Item Not Received” case on eBay. The seller uploaded the tracking number and won the case. I was out $5,000.
Key Takeaways
- Seller’s Responsibility Ends at Delivery: Under eBay/PayPal rules, once the status is “Delivered,” the seller has done their job. The risk shifts to the buyer.
- Porch Piracy is Your Loss: Since the package was delivered to your property, it is considered your property that was stolen. You must file a theft claim with your insurance.
- Signature Confirmation is Key: If the package was over $750, eBay requires a signature. If the seller didn’t require a signature and just left it, you can win the eBay case.
- The deductible problem: If you claim this on homeowners, you pay your deductible.
The “Why” (Possession)
Insurance covers your property. Once FedEx drops it, it is yours.
“We cover personal property owned or used by an insured while it is anywhere in the world.”
The Investigation: Who Pays?
I looked at the dispute resolution process.
1. eBay Money Back Guarantee
- Scenario A (Under $750): Tracking says Delivered. Seller Wins. Buyer loses money.
- Scenario B (Over $750): Tracking says Delivered (No Signature). Buyer Wins. Seller failed to follow signature rule.
2. Carrier Claim (FedEx/UPS)
- Result: Denied. They fulfilled the contract by delivering it. Porch theft is a police matter.
3. Buyer’s Homeowners Insurance
- Result: Covered. This is theft of personal property. But is it worth the deductible and rate hike?
Comparison Table
| Value of Item | Signature Used? | Who is Liable? |
| $200 | No | Buyer (Porch Pirate Risk) |
| $5,000 | No | Seller (Violated eBay Policy) |
| $5,000 | Yes (You signed) | Buyer (You had it, then lost it) |
Step-by-Step Action Plan
- Demand Signature: When buying high-end cards, message the seller: “Please require Signature Confirmation.”
- Use a PO Box / Hold for Pickup: Do not let $5,000 cards sit on a porch. Redirect them to a FedEx Office for pickup.
- Check eBay Rules: If the item was >$750 and the seller didn’t use signature, appeal the eBay case citing the “Signature Requirement Policy.” You will get your money back.
FAQ
Does my credit card cover this?
Many premium cards (Amex/Chase) have “Purchase Protection” covering theft for 90 days, including porch piracy. Check this before filing an insurance claim.
[IMAGE: Screenshot of eBay “Case Closed: Seller provided tracking” message]