u/TechnicalOwl5555

So, around three weeks ago, I posted a hardback book that was in perfect condition. I wrapped it in bubble wrap, put it in a padded envelope, and added tissue paper for extra protection. When the buyer collected it, she raised an issue with Vinted saying the book had arrived damaged.
I saw the photos myself, and there was some damage to the spine, although it was fairly minor and only slightly noticeable. Vinted suspended the order and said they would investigate the issue within 48 hours.
The book itself wasn’t particularly valuable, but I decided to leave it up to Vinted to resolve because I didn’t want to just lose the money. I know that’s probably a bit stubborn on my part, and realistically, I can afford to lose the tenner.

But do I just set aside my pride and refund the buyer and let her keep the book?

With all the trouble I’ve had with Vinted recently, I’m seriously starting to wonder if it’s even worth the fiver I might make from selling.

I sent a parcel last Friday, and because of the whole A Post tracking issue, it still showed as “not sent.” I was about to miss the four-business-day deadline, so I contacted Vinted support. I specifically explained that my buyer hadn’t received the parcel yet, but the tracking wasn’t updating, and I asked them to intervene before the order was automatically cancelled.
A few minutes later, the order suddenly showed as delivered on my end, and then immediately showed as accepted by the buyer. This was around 8–9pm, which seemed odd, but I was relieved because I thought the whole mess was finally over.
I received my payment, but then my buyer messaged me saying she never received the parcel and definitely didn’t accept the order. I checked the tracking, and she’s right—it was never actually delivered.
As most people know, it’s almost impossible to open a case with Vinted once an order is completed, but I managed to contact support and I’m still waiting for a response.
Has anyone else had this happen? I’ve never heard of an order being falsely marked as accepted before. I’m completely on the buyer’s side because she clearly hasn’t received the parcel.
I’d happily refund her if I could, but Vinted just told me to “arrange my own return”… which doesn’t exactly work when the parcel was never delivered in the first place.
At this stage, I think this might be the end of my Vinted career because it’s becoming far more hassle than it’s worth.
Has anyone experienced anything similar, or have any advice?