US $2900 Chanel Jacket at Risk: 'I Don’t Recognize This Charge'—A Chargeback Case of Double Dipping

What Is a Chargeback? Even High-End Chanel Jackets Aren’t Immune

A chargeback occurs when a buyer tells their credit card company, "I didn’t authorize this transaction" or "I don’t recognize this charge." The credit card company forcibly issues a refund.

While this may seem like a system designed to protect victims of card theft, in reality, some abuse it to obtain both a refund and the product—what we call "double dipping." This poses an especially serious risk for sellers involved in international transactions.

Real Case: A Chanel Jacket Buyer Who Initiated a Chargeback

We have sold high-end Chanel jackets on eBay for over 15 years to clients around the world. Most buyers are honest and respectful, but this case was different.

The buyer purchased a Chanel jacket listed properly on our store. The purchase was completed immediately, but before shipping, we always confirm the shipping address and double-check sizing. The buyer responded politely, stating they understood everything and confirmed the details.

Shipping was handled via DHL with full tracking and insurance. The package was shipped internationally from Japan using our standard procedures.

Why Did the Buyer Claim 'I Don't Recognize This Charge' Just Before Delivery?

At the very moment the parcel reached the buyer’s region—but before it was delivered—the buyer filed a chargeback with their credit card company, claiming they didn’t recognize the transaction.

Why Would Someone File a Chargeback Before the Item Arrives?

Many would assume a fraudulent buyer would wait until the product arrives before filing a chargeback, to ensure both the product and refund. However, some intentionally file the chargeback right after the parcel reaches their local area—but before it is delivered.

This is because credit card companies place significant weight on whether the product had been delivered at the time the chargeback was filed.

In other words, the claim "I haven’t received the item, yet I was charged" is more likely to be accepted—even if the product is delivered hours or days later.

The buyer ends up receiving the product while the chargeback refund is already in process. Due to time zone differences between Japan and the buyer’s country, the seller often cannot stop the delivery in time—even if they try.

That’s exactly what happened in this case.

Here’s what the buyer did:

• Ignored the return process, even though it was available
• Filed a chargeback under "unauthorized transaction"
• Successfully processed the refund before receiving the item

We immediately submitted the following evidence to eBay:

• Shipping confirmation and tracking
• Message history with the buyer
• Details of the product listing
• Screenshot of the buyer’s written agreement confirming size and shipping details

Despite this, the credit card company took the buyer’s side. If the item is not returned, we will face a complete loss of ¥430,000.

Can eBay’s Seller Protection Save Chanel Jacket Sellers?

Fortunately, eBay does have a Seller Protection Program for such situations. If the seller provides valid tracking, shipping proof, and buyer communication history, eBay may reimburse the lost transaction.

We are currently preparing to request a review and compensation within the 30-day window.

Why We’ve Never Faced a Chargeback in 15 Years Selling Chanel Jackets

Our policy has always been to maintain direct and respectful communication before and after every sale. We don’t just ship and forget—we confirm the buyer’s comfort with the item, size, and delivery timeline.

This proactive communication creates trust and dramatically lowers the risk of chargebacks or disputes.

We also publish accurate measurements, detailed descriptions, and ample product photos. Our listings are built from the perspective: “If I were the buyer, what would I want to know?”

How to Protect Yourself from Chargebacks When Selling Chanel Jackets

• Keep all communication with buyers within eBay
• Use tracked, insured, and signature-required shipping (e.g., DHL, EMS)
• Document product condition before shipping via photos or videos
• Save all messages where the buyer clearly agrees to the purchase

These records could become your only protection if a dispute arises.

Final Thoughts: Sell With Confidence, Backed by Preparation

This case reminded us: recordkeeping is a seller’s strongest weapon.

Most of our customers are wonderful, Chanel-loving clients who appreciate craftsmanship. But for the few who may abuse systems, preparation is your best defense.

We will continue refining our methods to protect honest buyers and our business.

If you also sell Chanel or other high-value items internationally, we hope this real case serves as a useful reference.

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