Dispute it as a wrong-item / item-not-as-described case, not as a normal return. In your claim, state clearly that you ordered one size or color variant, but the parcel contained a different SKU, so the received item does not match the order.
Start by collecting the proof that shows the mismatch:
- Your order page or order confirmation showing the exact size, color, and SKU you bought
- Photos of the item you received, including any product label, barcode, or SKU on the item, box, or inner packaging
- A photo of the shipping label on the parcel, if it shows a different SKU or product code
- The message or invoice from the seller, if it lists the ordered variant
The key detail is whether the received SKU is different from the SKU tied to your order. If the parcel label, invoice, or product sticker shows the wrong SKU, say that in the dispute. If the outer label looks correct but the contents are wrong, say the seller packed the wrong variant inside the correct shipment.
When you open the dispute with the marketplace or seller, use wording like:
- “I ordered [size/color/SKU], but received [different size/color/SKU].”
- “The package arrived, but the contents do not match the ordered variant.”
- “Please resolve this as a wrong item / variant mix-up.”
Then ask for the remedy you actually want. Usually the practical options are:
- Replacement with the correct size or color, if the seller can send it promptly
- Full refund if the correct variant is unavailable, the seller cannot replace it, or you do not want a replacement
If you are happy to keep a different variant only at a reduced price, ask for that only if the marketplace or seller lets you negotiate it. Do not assume a partial refund will be offered automatically.
If the seller asks you to return the item, check who pays return shipping and whether the return address matches the seller or the marketplace process. Keep the return label, tracking number, and proof of posting. If the seller wants you to keep the item and accepts the mistake, get that confirmation in writing before closing the case.
If the platform has a dispute window, use that route first. The exact deadline depends on the marketplace or payment method, so check the order’s help, complaint, or buyer-protection section for the claim date and the status wording you need to use. If you paid by card or another payment provider and the platform route fails, check that provider’s dispute deadline separately.
If the seller or platform asks for more proof, send only the evidence that proves the mismatch: ordered variant versus received SKU. That is usually stronger than general packaging photos alone.
Practical tip: take a single photo showing the order page with the ordered SKU next to the received item’s SKU label, because that makes a variant mix-up much easier to understand.
