Summarize the purchase timeline and communication attempts succinctly, then open a PayPal dispute stating the remedy you prefer and asking PayPal to verify shipment and carrier records. Request mediation and, if the seller cannot provide adequate proof, ask paypal to apply buyer protection and issue a refund. Ask for a single escalation contact and a written interim status so the dispute progresses without repeated prompts. Clear, factual dispute submissions help PayPal reach a protection decision more quickly.