Return

Long story short…

I purchased an iPad on May 24th (I learned my lesson and will never do this online again) and she sent it locked. After sending me messages reassuring me that it was unlocked through the Apple store.

The iPad arrived yesterday 7/07 in a paper mailer with no padding and it is locked to the owner. Before I even got the package off my steps she messaged me, as if she has been watching tracking, and said the Apple Store told her to tell me to call them and they will unlock the iPad. I’ve been with Apple since 2013 I know this is not something they would do, but for shits and giggles called anyways. They confirmed my thoughts. She stopped replying to me after she said “I did the best I could.” I don’t think she was trying to s c a m, but just doesn’t know apple products very well. Once they’re locked they’re nearly impossible to unlock as a second party and basically an overpriced paperweight. Which sucks and I can understand her frustration. She also told me Apple offered her $255 trade in value so in the end she’s really not losing.

I contacted Mercari and sent all the proof over. They approved my return request and said they’re going to contact the seller for their address so they can then send me a shipping label.

My questions now- what if she doesn’t respond in 24hrs? They told me I only have 3 days to ship it back. Is that 3 days from the 24hrs or 3 days starting from the return approval? Will they still send me a label if she doesn’t respond? Do I send it back in the same exact mailer she sent it to me in or get a box? I’ve never had to return anything with Mercari before so I’m clueless