1. Definitions
Before diving into the processes, it is crucial to define key terms:
Buyer: Any registered user who purchases a product or service on NewiMetanic.com.
Seller (Vendor): A business or individual who lists and sells goods on the NewiMetanic marketplace.
Refund: A return of funds to the buyer, either in full or part, due to product or service issues.
Dispute: A formal disagreement between a buyer and seller that requires mediation by NewiMetanic.com.
Return: The physical sending back of a product to the seller, typically as a precursor to a refund.
2. Overview of the Refund Policy
NewiMetanic.com enables vendors to set their own refund and return policies within a standard framework enforced by the platform. The marketplace also enforces minimum guarantees to protect buyers in case of fraud, non-delivery, or misrepresentation.
2.1 Eligibility for Refunds
Refunds may be granted under the following circumstances:
Item not delivered: The product was not received within the expected timeframe.
Item not as described: The product differs significantly from the description or images.
Damaged or defective product: The item arrived damaged or malfunctioning.
Order canceled by seller: The seller is unable to fulfill the order.
Duplicate charges or incorrect billing.
Refunds are not guaranteed in cases of:
Buyer’s change of mind without seller’s agreement.
Items labeled as “non-refundable” or “final sale.”
Damage caused by buyer mishandling.
2.2 Refund Timeframe
Buyers must initiate a refund request within 14–30 calendar days from the date of delivery (or estimated delivery).
Exceptions to this timeframe may apply for:
Pre-orders and delayed shipments.
Custom or made-to-order items with specific terms.
3. Refund Process
3.1 Initiation by Buyer
Buyers may request a refund through their NewiMetanic dashboard:
Navigate to My Orders > Request Refund.
Select the order and reason for refund.
Upload relevant documentation: photos, delivery confirmation, or correspondence.
3.2 Seller Response
Once the request is submitted:
The seller has 7 calendar days to respond.
Approve and process refund.
Propose a resolution (e.g., replacement, exchange).
Reject with a reason and supporting evidence.
If the seller fails to respond within the time limit, the refund may be automatically approved depending on the evidence provided.
3.3 Refund Approval and Processing
Refunds are processed back to the buyer’s original payment method.
Depending on payment gateways (e.g., credit card, digital wallet), funds may take 3–10 business days to appear.
Buyers may opt for store credit instead, which is available instantly upon approval.
4. Return Policy
NewiMetanic allows vendors to define their own return window and restocking fees, but these must be clearly disclosed in product listings.
4.1 Buyer Responsibilities
Return items in original condition with all packaging.
Use tracked shipping to confirm delivery to seller.
Bear the return shipping cost unless:
The item was damaged or incorrect.
The seller failed to mention return fees in the listing.
4.2 Seller Responsibilities
Provide a valid return address and accept returns within the disclosed timeframe.
Inspect the returned item and process the refund within 5 business days of receipt.
Notify both the buyer and NewiMetanic if there are issues with the return.
5. Dispute Resolution Process
Disputes are escalated when buyers and sellers cannot resolve refund issues on their own. NewiMetanic acts as a neutral third party in disputes, using documentation and communication logs to resolve the matter.
5.1 Escalation Criteria
A dispute may be raised when:
A seller rejects a refund unreasonably.
A buyer is not satisfied with the seller’s resolution.
Communication between parties breaks down.
5.2 How to Raise a Dispute
Go to the order in question and click Escalate to Dispute.
Provide detailed description of the issue.
Upload all supporting documents and evidence.
5.3 Platform Mediation Steps
Initial Review: A NewiMetanic support representative reviews the case within 72 hours.
Evidence Collection: Both buyer and seller are contacted for further clarification.
Resolution Proposal: The support team proposes a fair resolution:
Full or partial refund.
Store credit compensation.
Return & replacement.
Final Decision: If no agreement is reached, NewiMetanic issues a final ruling.
Decisions made by the platform are binding, and further disputes may be reviewed only under special circumstances (e.g., fraud, new evidence).
6. Role of NewiMetanic.com
NewiMetanic is not a direct party in transactions but plays an active role in:
Enforcing Marketplace Rules: Ensuring sellers adhere to minimum refund and service standards.
Monitoring Seller Behavior: Repeated complaints or disputes against a seller may lead to penalties, suspension, or permanent bans.
Educating Buyers and Sellers: Providing resources and guidance to help users avoid disputes.
7. Responsibilities and Best Practices
7.1 For Buyers
Read product descriptions carefully.
Check seller reviews before purchasing.
Maintain all records (screenshots, tracking numbers).
Communicate respectfully and give sellers time to respond.
7.2 For Sellers
Set clear and fair refund/return policies.
Respond to refund requests promptly.
Use accurate descriptions and photos.
Provide tracking information and delivery estimates.
Document all communications with buyers.
8. Penalties and Seller Compliance
NewiMetanic holds vendors accountable through a structured system:
Warning Notices for minor policy violations.
Temporary Listing Suspension for multiple refund complaints.
Commission Holds if unresolved disputes exceed a threshold.
Account Termination for repeated fraud or non-cooperation.
Sellers who maintain a high satisfaction rate may be eligible for Verified Vendor status, which comes with enhanced visibility and lower fees.
9. Handling Special Cases
9.1 Digital Products
Refunds for digital goods (e.g., downloads, licenses) are evaluated differently:
Generally non-refundable once accessed or downloaded.
Buyers must prove technical issues or incorrect product delivery.
9.2 Services
Refunds for services (e.g., design work, custom orders) depend on:
Completion percentage.
Delivery of promised milestones.
Communication and agreement logs.
9.3 Fraudulent Claims
Buyers found abusing the refund system (e.g., false claims, chargebacks) may face bans and forfeiture of refunds.
Sellers engaging in misrepresentation or scam tactics are reported to financial authorities.
10. Updates to This Policy
NewiMetanic.com reserves the right to update this policy based on user feedback, regulatory changes, or platform improvements. All users will be notified in advance of significant changes.
The latest version is always accessible in the Help Center > Refund & Dispute Policy.