Note:
This article describes theIntra-platformDispute process of SecretUndies. The processes and rules presented here relate exclusively to the contractual agreements between users and the platform – they representNo legal adviceand do not replace the advice of a lawyer. For questions about your legal rights as a consumer (e.g. according to BGB, Distance Selling Act) please contact aConsumer centre or lawyer.
When a dispute can be initiated
Before you open a formal dispute, you should know what situations are appropriate for it. Not every misunderstanding immediately requires a complaint – often a short exchange with the saleswoman helps to eliminate ambiguities.
Typical reasons for a dispute include: the item deviates significantly from the product description, the delivery remains out or the condition does not correspond to the agreed conditions. Even if evidence photos are missing, although they have been promised in advance, this can be a justified reason.
It is important that you report the dispute within a certain time window after receipt. Don’t wait too long for your request to be dealt with quickly. When in doubt, he will help you.Supportwhen assessing whether a formal dispute makes sense.
How to report a problem: The process clear steps
The complaint process is deliberately kept simple so that both sides can quickly reach a fair solution. Four clearly defined steps take you through the entire process – from the first contact to the final clarification.
Step 1: Contact the seller or seller
First, write a factual message about the internal chat. Describe exactly what does not meet your expectations: Which aspect deviates? What did you expect? Often, an agreement can already be reached in this phase – for example by a price reduction, a subsequent delivery or a voluntary refund. Stay polite and specific, even if you are disappointed.
Step 2: Open a dispute
If there is no satisfactory answer within 48 hours or the seller refuses a solution, you can officially open a dispute. To do this, you navigate to the corresponding order and select the option “Report problem”. Describe the facts in as much detail as possible and attach relevant proof – screenshots of the product description, photos of the received article or chat history can speed up the processing.
Step 3: Support team reviews the case
After opening the dispute, the support team will take over the examination. Both sides – buyer and seller – are given the opportunity to present their point of view and submit supporting documents. The team evaluates the submitted information neutrally and is guided by theMarketplace rules. This process usually takes a few business days.
Step 4: Solution and Refund
Based on the audit, the support team makes a decision. Possible results are a full refund, a partial refund for partially justified complaints or a conclusion without refund if the dispute is unfounded. Both parties will be informed of the result. In the case of a refund, the amount is booked back directly via the wallet system.
When will the escrow money be released or refunded?
The escrow system is a central security mechanism for every transaction. Your money will not be paid out immediately to the seller after the purchase, but will be stored in trust. Only if you confirm the receipt and report no complaint, the amount will be released.
If you initiate a dispute, the money will remain in the escrow until a decision is made. This gives you additional security as a buyer: You never pay for something that you did not receive or that deviates significantly from the description. More about buyer protection can be found inSafety Guide.
Escrow protection at a glance
- Your money will be held in trust after the purchase
- Release only after confirmation by the buyer
- In case of disputes, the amount remains blocked until a solution is reached
- Refunds are made directly via the wallet system
- No financial risk for buyers in legitimate complaints
Tips for avoiding disputes
The best dispute is the one that does not arise. With a few simple precautions, you can significantly reduce the risk of disappointment. The following checklist will help you make the right decisions before and after the purchase.
- Read the product description carefully – pay particular attention to material details, wear details and extras included
- Ask questions before buying if something is unclear to you – ask once more than be disappointed afterwards
- Prefer verified profiles with positive reviews and a traceable sales history
- Request verification images if they are not already included in the offer – this creates transparency
- Confirm receipt in a timely manner or report problems immediately so that you do not miss your window for a complaint
- Document the condition of the item immediately after unpacking with your own photos
As a salesperson: handling disputes
Also for sellers a dispute can be unpleasant. What matters is how you respond to it. A professional and transparent attitude not only protects your reputation, but can often clarify the case faster.
Respond quickly to messages from the buyer and show readiness for a solution. If the complaint is justified, a voluntary partial refund or replacement item may defuse the situation before a formal dispute is opened.
Keep your product descriptions accurate and honest. Don’t promise anything you can’t keep. Describe materials, wear details and the condition of the item as accurately as possible. Those who work transparently receive fewer complaints.
If there is still a dispute, submit your receipts in full: shipping proofs, carry logs, photos before shipping and chat history. The better your documentation, the easier the support team can evaluate the case fairly. Repeated legitimate disputes may have limitations on your account, so it’s worth taking care of from the start.
Frequent questions about the dispute process
How long do I have to report a dispute?
After receiving the article, you usually have a few days to initiate a complaint. Check the article as soon as possible after unpacking and document defects immediately with photos. If you are unsure whether your time window is still open, contact the support - there you will receive a binding information.
Do I always get my money back?
Not automatically. The support team examines each case individually based on the submitted documents and the product description. If the complaint is justified and the deviation can be clearly documented, a full or partial refund is common. In the event of unfounded complaints or lack of proof, the dispute can also be decided in favour of the seller.
Can the seller contest the dispute?
Yes, both sides will have the opportunity to make their point. The seller can submit her own documents – such as shipping proofs, photos before shipping or chat history. The support team considers all information from both parties before making a decision.
What counts as a valid reason for dispute?
Valid reasons include: items not received, significant deviation from the product description, missing agreed extras such as verification images or carry logs, and damaged or contaminated goods that were not described as such. Subjective dissatisfaction without a concrete defect is usually not a sufficient reason for a refund.
How long does the processing take?
The processing time depends on the complexity of the case. Simple cases with clear evidence are often resolved within a few business days. More complicated situations where both sides provide different representations can take a little longer. You will be informed about the progress and can view the status of your case at any time.
What happens to the seller account in the event of repeated disputes?
Repeated legitimate disputes are taken seriously. Depending on the frequency and severity, measures can follow – from a warning to temporary restrictions to the permanent suspension of the account. These consequences protect the community and ensure that quality standards are met.
