Created label two weeks ago but has not shipped, deceptive or normal?

[JoeBMW33]

Hi all,

I bought an $1,100 item from a US merchant who has to procure the item from overseas.  This was going to take a few weeks for the merchant to receive it and then it would be shipped to me.  However, right after I placed the order, I got a UPS shipping notification with tracking.  I was surprised (and excited) because I had been in communication with him and knew it was going to take 2-3 weeks to get to me.

The label was created but it has not moved.  He does not have the item yet and when I asked him about why I got a UPS shipping notification, he said he would look into it.  I never heard back on this particular question and I am assuming that he created the label on purpose to expedite the paypal payment I sent to him.  Is this true that merchants don't get the funds until the item ships?  It really did not ship.

Is there anything to be concerned about here?  I understand it is an expensive item and he needs the funds to actually buy it, but communication has not been great.  I just want to make sure I am protected if something goes south here.

Thanks,

Joe

[PayPal_Sean · Accepted solution]

Hi JoeBMW33, Welcome to the community forum and thanks for posting. The creation of a shipping label before the product is sent is a fairly standard process. If however, you do not receive the item purchased, you can raise a dispute with the seller. PayPal's Buyer Protection covers you in the event that you do not receive your item. Here's how to file a dispute: https://bit.ly/2QhoExR. I hope this information is helpful. Sean

[JoeBMW33]

Thank you Sean, ironically, the seller called me yesterday and the item is now in transit.