Grrr sold item saying cash on collection...

[Nepotism]

And buyer has just emailed me 24 hours later to say he's using a courier. He'd already asked lots of questions before bidding and never mentioned that. It's a large, delicate item which would require a lot of packing and I'd already explained it's not at my house. Also I work full time so collection would have to be evening or weekend. Am I within my rights to cancel?

I would hope so, you sold under specific terms so that was his choice to buy. Grrrrrr time wasters are so annoying.

Absolutely you should and must cancel.
(a) if courier delivery had been listed on the item you might have had a different auction result. It is not fair on other eBay buyers to allow this change
(b) if he arranges the courier then he is the customer and you have no protection if the item is damaged in transit.

Always always insist on cash on collection auctions staying as cash on collection.

This has happened to me a few times. Just cancel it.

Buyer: I'll pay for a courier.
Me: sorry, i clearly stated collection only. I had 36 watchers. But I don't want to package it or wait in.
Buyer: yeah, so why didn't they bid?
Me: because it was strictly COLLECTION ONLY, as I explained to people that emailed me. Argh!

I've had this before just tell them it's collection only and then get them to cancel transaction so you get your fees back. You are not obliged to agree to a courier

Thanks all, I feared I was being stroppy. He's just paid so I'll email and refund.

If you look at the wording on eBay it actually states 'Collection in Person'. A courier isn't in person.

It's bloody rude and one of my biggest eBay bugbears. I always put NO COURIERS in big and bold to deter the stupid.

I've heard back from him today. Refunded him and gave him the opportunity to collect it himself. He was a bit indignant that I said I would wrap it for a courier. Thanks all.