View Full Version : Costco/BB/CC/Sears/Dell et al Master Thread: NO PRICING /NO COUPONS


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kgoetz97
12-27-06, 07:10 PM
I've returned 2 RPTV's to BB inside of a month with no issues. One of them was so perfectly boxed that they did not think I had opened it...the other was not (no box).
No problems on either return and they gladly exchanged for a different model. Of course, I've purchased (and kept) 4 tv's from them in the last 2 months....so they should be nice to me :)

dayoff_88
12-28-06, 07:08 AM
SIGH, my panny 600u shipped from Costco.com on 12/6/2006 and still NO phone call from the carrier on making a delivery date. i'm beginning to think my TV is stuck somewhere all alone :(

anyone else had to wait 20+ days for the Costco.com carrier to call you?

Yes, waited almost 5 weeks for px600u and they delivered a px6u! I hope that doesn't happen to you.

Bud-man
12-28-06, 08:14 AM
We knew it was coming, now read this at Techbargains site, we might be grandfather'd in.

I might go there tonight and get the real scoop, i might return my ED PM50 panny for a 50", there has been longstanding underscan problems that have bothered me since i bought it, alot of others here have returned them due to it also.

HDMI has a 1/2" shift on top causing white lines to appear esp watching 4:3 material on HD channel's, also any upconverting dvd players causes shifting, hdmi also blinks out every min or so as i've been using component all along.

It has been a great set with beautiful HD picture from 6' back.

The new 42" have reported clayface issues fixed by firmware, i'm not a HD believer like most here thinking i'm not seeing every stinkin detail on HD, let's not go there please........

Costco TV Return Policy Change, Dec. 27

You can currently return a Costco purchased TV at ANY time. We tested this and verified it. There are rumors that this will change Jan 1, 2007 to a 6 month period. Owners prior to 1/1/07 will probably be grandfather'd in. Time to return that busted TV or buy a new one... Bring in all accessories including remote and power cables.

jamski
12-28-06, 08:28 AM
Even if that is true, 6 months is still way better than any other store around.

Generally, a unit will fail--if it's going to fail--within that time, and 6 months is more than enough time to decide if you like your purchase.

I got my Vizio 42" LCD earlier in the month, and although I'm leaning on keeping it, I'm glad I still have time to decide.

JBUNGIE
12-28-06, 11:56 AM
So if it is true..I would expect them to begin to offer extended warranties?

dtrell
12-28-06, 12:15 PM
to whom it may concern, just got the latest costco coupon book, and at the end of march there is money off the new vizio 60 inch plasma...and it shows it as 1366x768 resolution...so much for the people hoping for a large 1080p vizio.

brotherman
12-28-06, 03:49 PM
to whom it may concern, just got the latest costco coupon book, and at the end of march there is money off the new vizio 60 inch plasma...and it shows it as 1366x768 resolution...so much for the people hoping for a large 1080p vizio.
I don't think anyone expected a 1080p plasma from Vizio. They will, however, come out with a 47" 1080p LCD shortly.

HiHoStevo
12-29-06, 12:15 AM
At Sam's the other night I noticed an Akai LCT42Z6TM that is a 1920x1080 LCD.

Have any of you or your friends purchased this unit?? and if so, what has been your experience?

Quatre
12-29-06, 04:23 AM
We knew it was coming, now read this at Techbargains site, we might be grandfather'd in.

I might go there tonight and get the real scoop, i might return my ED PM50 panny for a 50", there has been longstanding underscan problems that have bothered me since i bought it, alot of others here have returned them due to it also.

HDMI has a 1/2" shift on top causing white lines to appear esp watching 4:3 material on HD channel's, also any upconverting dvd players causes shifting, hdmi also blinks out every min or so as i've been using component all along.

It has been a great set with beautiful HD picture from 6' back.

The new 42" have reported clayface issues fixed by firmware, i'm not a HD believer like most here thinking i'm not seeing every stinkin detail on HD, let's not go there please........

Costco TV Return Policy Change, Dec. 27

You can currently return a Costco purchased TV at ANY time. We tested this and verified it. There are rumors that this will change Jan 1, 2007 to a 6 month period. Owners prior to 1/1/07 will probably be grandfather'd in. Time to return that busted TV or buy a new one... Bring in all accessories including remote and power cables.


note the word rumors. we've already been through this. its not changing as far as anyone knows and as far as costco high ups have said.

snickersbar
12-29-06, 08:41 AM
I keep hearing about how fantastic the costco return policy is. I live 20 minutes from 2 Costcos. I am considering buying a 1080P LCD TV in the near future. Does the Costco return policy justify the negative of having a limited selection from Costco?

m_vanmeter
12-29-06, 08:55 AM
take a few minutes and go speak with the manager at one of the Costco stores. Find out exactly what their return policy is and whether it will be changing in 2007 (a hint of this on other sites).

The current policy is not a warranty, but a "satisfaction guarantee". Not satisfied 18 months later, take it back (under current policy). Check the price for extended warranties for most HDTV's and this policy is worth a couple of hundred dollars or more you don't have to spend to protect your investment.

M4P
12-29-06, 10:47 AM
I've returned 2 RPTV's to BB inside of a month with no issues. One of them was so perfectly boxed that they did not think I had opened it...the other was not (no box)

Do you know if BB will charge a restocking fee if you return a tv without doing an exchange?

nollchr
12-29-06, 11:02 AM
I keep hearing about how fantastic the costco return policy is. I live 20 minutes from 2 Costcos. I am considering buying a 1080P LCD TV in the near future. Does the Costco return policy justify the negative of having a limited selection from Costco?
My 2 cents:

I think it all depends on what you are looking for. Costco prices are usually fair but not always the best. Their selection is limited but they usually have what a typical consumer is interested in. If you are a higher end audio/video phile type, then your own knowledge will be your guide. However, if you are looking for economy, i think the return policy is a good plus for the lower cost equipment from companies such as Vizio and Maxent. They get you into an HDTV for a reasonable price and the return policy gives you the added protection of buying a brand most people have never heard of. Then if you get it home and are unhappy, you can return it easily. However, for the bigger name brands, price may be better elsewhere and perhaps less benefit with better return policy due to a little higher quality/sophistication.

ld100
12-29-06, 01:06 PM
Do you know if BB will charge a restocking fee if you return a tv without doing an exchange?


no. i returned two screens already with no fee. make sure everything is perfect. for the secdond screen they checked carefully if it is working and after about 10 minutes of angry looks i had to step in and tell them to plug the freaking thing into the power outlet. all of the sudden and magically panel came to life and i got full credit back. but i tell you their nerd squad or whatever they call it is just a bunch of complete morons. for 10 minutes they could not figure out why the panel wasn't working... even their boss told them to check the power. after 10 minutes i just could not hold myself back anymore and told them to plug it in in the back... morons

jayhui339
12-29-06, 01:17 PM
Can someone give me a return policy and there experience on returns for Target and Walmart. Looking for a low price 32 inch lcd , but not sure on the poloraid on gaming.

thanks

LiK
12-29-06, 02:51 PM
Yes, waited almost 5 weeks for px600u and they delivered a px6u! I hope that doesn't happen to you.

holy crap, i hope not. i'd be so pissed, lol...

kgoetz97
12-29-06, 07:33 PM
no. i returned two screens already with no fee. make sure everything is perfect. for the secdond screen they checked carefully if it is working and after about 10 minutes of angry looks i had to step in and tell them to plug the freaking thing into the power outlet. all of the sudden and magically panel came to life and i got full credit back. but i tell you their nerd squad or whatever they call it is just a bunch of complete morons. for 10 minutes they could not figure out why the panel wasn't working... even their boss told them to check the power. after 10 minutes i just could not hold myself back anymore and told them to plug it in in the back... morons
I can't say quite yet b.c I've always gotten another screen to replace what I was returning. They don't advertise a restocking fee so I'd raise holy cain if they tried that....especially after dropping 5K plus there over the last 2 months.

I'll find out soon though when I return my father-in-laws lcd next week. He decided that he wanted a bigger screen and we got his replacement at Costco.

dtrell
12-29-06, 08:00 PM
no. i returned two screens already with no fee. make sure everything is perfect. for the secdond screen they checked carefully if it is working and after about 10 minutes of angry looks i had to step in and tell them to plug the freaking thing into the power outlet. all of the sudden and magically panel came to life and i got full credit back. but i tell you their nerd squad or whatever they call it is just a bunch of complete morons. for 10 minutes they could not figure out why the panel wasn't working... even their boss told them to check the power. after 10 minutes i just could not hold myself back anymore and told them to plug it in in the back... morons
yes, their geek squad guys are total morons when it comes to plasma tv's

av30
12-30-06, 06:01 PM
We knew it was coming, now read this at Techbargains site, we might be grandfather'd in.

I might go there tonight and get the real scoop, i might return my ED PM50 panny for a 50", there has been longstanding underscan problems that have bothered me since i bought it, alot of others here have returned them due to it also.

HDMI has a 1/2" shift on top causing white lines to appear esp watching 4:3 material on HD channel's, also any upconverting dvd players causes shifting, hdmi also blinks out every min or so as i've been using component all along.

It has been a great set with beautiful HD picture from 6' back.

The new 42" have reported clayface issues fixed by firmware, i'm not a HD believer like most here thinking i'm not seeing every stinkin detail on HD, let's not go there please........

Costco TV Return Policy Change, Dec. 27

You can currently return a Costco purchased TV at ANY time. We tested this and verified it. There are rumors that this will change Jan 1, 2007 to a 6 month period. Owners prior to 1/1/07 will probably be grandfather'd in. Time to return that busted TV or buy a new one... Bring in all accessories including remote and power cables.

No word of this here in Costco Canada, and not gonna happen according to senior management. Please verify your information with the company before you post something like this.

rsander
12-30-06, 07:00 PM
to whom it may concern, just got the latest costco coupon book, and at the end of march there is money off the new vizio 60 inch plasma...and it shows it as 1366x768 resolution...so much for the people hoping for a large 1080p vizio.

Where did you get the coupon book at the store or are you signed for an emailing?

dtrell
12-30-06, 07:33 PM
Where did you get the coupon book at the store or are you signed for an emailing?
in the mail.

scherer326
12-30-06, 11:40 PM
I bought a tv a few days ago from C.C. I belive that have a 30 day policy. If there is a problem with the tv and I get a replacement tv delivered 15 days later. Does the 30 day policy start over again. Or do I have only 15 days left on the new tv.

Just wondering.

kgoetz97
12-31-06, 08:42 AM
^^^^ I would think so since you have a 30 day return policy on the tv that you are purchasing. I've always gotten a new 60 day price match from BB when I've exchanged my sets in...'course I've been getting different sets/brands each time so I'm not sure if that matters.

kenabb
12-31-06, 01:32 PM
I think it's best to get a refund and purchase your next set then the 30 days will definitely start over again. I got caught not getting a 30 day return when I exchanged a unit for a different brand and they added up all the days for both units towards the 30 days.

SHADO 1
12-31-06, 02:05 PM
All over the net people are talking about Costco's return policy change after the first of the year. I just talked to a manager at the St Peter's store, and their is no change, but they will start enforcing the current policy...All items have a 30 day return no questions asked. After that it is on a case by case basis. If their is a problem with the item, you must go through the mfg first for repairs. If that can not be done, they MAY do an exchange or a credit. Only exceptions is on computers, which after 6 months no exchanges or returns.

yellowcanary73
12-31-06, 03:05 PM
This is what I recieved

Thank you for your email to Costco Wholesale.

Our return policy will remain the same, as this is just a rumor.

With few exceptions, Costco has a 100% guarantee on all of our merchandise.

If you are not completely satisfied with your purchase, simply return the
product and packaging, along with the receipt, if possible, to your
nearest Costco warehouse.

Costco Wholesale will no longer accept returns of saleable cigarettes for all brands.

Only Exceptions:

All Un-saleable cigarette will continue to be accepted with prior approval from the
tobacco vendor's representative. All un-saleable cigarettes will have a sticker
from the tobacco representative that identifies it as being un-saleable.

Pre-approved saleable cigarette returns will only be accepted with prior written
approval. This approval for return will be a return authorization form with a list
of the items being returned, signed by the tobacco vendor's representative.

There are no other exceptions to Costco Wholesale's new return policy on
saleable cigarettes.

Please note, as of November 4th, 2002 , the return policy for all desktop
and notebook computers is six months from the date of purchase.
Six months after purchase, all computer services and technical support
will be subject to the applicable remaining manufacturer’s warranty.

We apologize if your household was not part of the demographic group to be sent one of these mailers. Recent manufacturer sponsored coupons mailings have been limited to the highest coupon redeemers from past mailings.

The Wallet and Passport coupon books offered beginning in January and June are mailed to a wider range of members. The primary of a Business or Goldstar membership and one per Business add-on with a home address on file will be sent these coupons. Below are a few reasons members may not receive these mailings:

Opted out to not receive mailings from Costco.
The mailing address is incorrect in our system.
Have moved within the last three months.
Became a member within the last two months.
The membership has been expired for the last few months.

Please contact Costco to confirm or update your address or opt-out information.


Thank you,

Costco Wholesale Corporation

ht12345
12-31-06, 05:16 PM
Checked local stores and online. They don't have any of Vizio plasma TVs.

Called the stores but wasn't of much help as they couldn't say if they were going to get new stock or not.

Does anyone have better information on this?

TIA.

dtrell
12-31-06, 05:18 PM
was just in the phoenix area last week and the costcos there were teeming with vizio plasmas and lcd's. must just be your area.

dtrell
12-31-06, 05:20 PM
All over the net people are talking about Costco's return policy change after the first of the year. I just talked to a manager at the St Peter's store, and their is no change, but they will start enforcing the current policy...All items have a 30 day return no questions asked. After that it is on a case by case basis. If their is a problem with the item, you must go through the mfg first for repairs. If that can not be done, they MAY do an exchange or a credit. Only exceptions is on computers, which after 6 months no exchanges or returns.
this is yet another example of a local manager making up his own rules. unfortunately this seems to be happening way too often anymore. the corporate policy is NOT changing and any manager than goes against it should be reported to the corporate office, as all costcos are corporate owned.

kgoetz97
01-01-07, 07:47 AM
Do you know if BB will charge a restocking fee if you return a tv without doing an exchange?
Just returned a LCD that we purchased for my father-in-law the week before Christmas and there were no issues. I did not exchange it, just a straight up return/refund.

opus312
01-01-07, 09:31 AM
All over the net people are talking about Costco's return policy change after the first of the year. I just talked to a manager at the St Peter's store, and their is no change, but they will start enforcing the current policy...All items have a 30 day return no questions asked. After that it is on a case by case basis.

Nonsense

iBleedGarnet
01-01-07, 02:36 PM
Way to be persistent. Did the manger say antyhing else as he was ringing it up? Did he just outright lie?


Just had a productive hour at CC here in NJ. They have the 50px60u on display at list. Comp USA is running a 2 day sale at considerably less (the circular can be printed on line). Long story short, the store manager refuses to honor the 125% guarantee which is:

Q: What about the 125% Unbeatable Price Guarantee for TVs?

A: We have an even better price match for TVs. If you find a local competitor offering a lower advertised price on a TV with the same item in stock, show us their offer and we’ll match that price, plus offer you an additional 25% of the difference. If you’ve already bought a TV form us and within 30 days you find a local competitor offering a lower, currently advertised price for the same TV with the item in stock, we’ll refund to you 125% of the difference between our price and theirs.

He points around the store and says, "Do you see any 125% price guarantee? I've never heard of that. The 110% guarantee is on the wall." Then he adds, "And I will only match the price they are advertising, not the extra 10%."

At this point, I'm pissed and he walks away. So I call CC cust. svc. while standing at the counter. I get someone on the line and explain the story. The rep hangs on the phone while the store manager hides in the back for about 15 minutes. He finally comes out and I hand him my cell phone. He readily acknowledges the 125% guarantee with the rep and gives his understanding of the policy. The rep instructs him to honor the 125% policy.

So in the end, I got a huge windfall and justice was done. The Comp USA sale ends today so don't delay!

qdogg
01-01-07, 05:09 PM
Been thinking about returning my Pioneer 5050 to Costco and getting the new model for about 1k less. Went to the Costco website yesterday and they don't have the Pioneers listed anymore. Anybody have any info?

hdplasmas
01-01-07, 06:07 PM
My guess is they sold out or Pioneer canned costco if they had a low advertised price. Some manufacturers are strict on minimum advertise pricing.

4DHD
01-01-07, 06:15 PM
Costco, as a rule, only sell products that they get a good deal on, from the manufacturer. And once they have sold out that particular model/brand its never seen again, in many cases.
Case in point. About 4 months ago the local Costco had a shipment of remote controlled Casablanca fans. The second or third time I was in there I bought one. By the fifth time they were all gone. And there haven't been any since.

maxdog03
01-01-07, 06:35 PM
Been thinking about returning my Pioneer 5050 to Costco and getting the new model for about 1k less. Went to the Costco website yesterday and they don't have the Pioneers listed anymore. Anybody have any info?

Returning it? Is something wrong with it, or just want new technology? How long have you had it? That TV of yours is 2 generations old now and returning non defective merchandise because of a very liberal return policy only effects all consumers.

omeletpants
01-01-07, 06:43 PM
Been thinking about returning my Pioneer 5050 to Costco and getting the new model for about 1k less. Went to the Costco website yesterday and they don't have the Pioneers listed anymore. Anybody have any info?

:eek: :eek: :eek: :eek: :eek: :eek:

dtrell
01-01-07, 06:49 PM
no i dont know what happened, but maybe someone in the official costco thread does, which is where you should have posted rather than starting yet another redundant thread:

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=651373

cheridave
01-01-07, 07:05 PM
Threads Merged!

Dave

bananfish
01-02-07, 04:02 PM
Returning it? Is something wrong with it, or just want new technology? How long have you had it? That TV of yours is 2 generations old now and returning non defective merchandise because of a very liberal return policy only effects all consumers.

But Costco has a "Risk-Free 100% Satisfaction Guarantee" and he's clearly not 100% satisfied - how could he be when there are TVs on the market now better than his? How was he supposed to know that several years later, the technology would have gotten better and his TV would no longer be state of the art. You can't blame him for being outraged!

opus312
01-02-07, 06:19 PM
Costco, as a rule, only sell products that they get a good deal on, from the manufacturer. And once they have sold out that particular model/brand its never seen again, in many cases.

Another reason why they need exceptionally liberal return policies...

yellowcanary73
01-03-07, 12:43 AM
My personal take on the return policy is great if you need to really use it I bought the Maxent 50in and it went bad in three days.Took it back they did not have anything worth replacing it with.The Maxent no way on that exchange really wanted the Panasonic 50in but not in stock.So I went with the Toshiba 50HP16 and so far a very superior pictures both HD and SD than the Maxent of course more money,playing DVDs have all so been great the only thing I need to watch is the higher buzzing from behind TV hope it does not get much louder have very good hearing but still to loud.That so far would be the only reason to return this unit Have been running the Breakin Dvd at night My settings have been.
Brightness-10 to 15
Contrast-10 to 15
Sharpness-5 to 10
All on low while running Breakin DVD

retrac
01-03-07, 01:57 AM
I returned a Visio 42" Plasma to Costco today, purchased eairler in 2006, without incidence. Yes there were problems with the Visio and I was asked this by the CSR/MOD that came to inspect the return. This is just a FYI to the questions of returning a purchase made more than 6 months ago. BTW this was in the DFW area.

shagino
01-03-07, 07:49 AM
But Costco has a "Risk-Free 100% Satisfaction Guarantee" and he's clearly not 100% satisfied - how could he be when there are TVs on the market now better than his? How was he supposed to know that several years later, the technology would have gotten better and his TV would no longer be state of the art. You can't blame him for being outraged!

So this entitles him to "trade-up" whenever he wants? I'm sure at some point we was 100% satisfied or he would have returned it earlier.

So if I bought vegetables is bulk there, ate most of it but a few weeks later it spoiled since I didn't eat it all, should I be able to return it now?

I like that the policy is there if I need it, but abuse will get it revoked.

laszlo5
01-03-07, 11:07 AM
So this entitles him to "trade-up" whenever he wants? I'm sure at some point we was 100% satisfied or he would have returned it earlier.

So if I bought vegetables is bulk there, ate most of it but a few weeks later it spoiled since I didn't eat it all, should I be able to return it now?

I like that the policy is there if I need it, but abuse will get it revoked.

i think you missed the tongue in cheek sarcasm in the posting

GooberedUp
01-03-07, 11:27 AM
People sure get emotional and humorless over the Costco thing!

shagino
01-03-07, 12:32 PM
i think you missed the tongue in cheek sarcasm in the posting

Crap. I completely did.

I apologize.

Islander67
01-03-07, 03:14 PM
I'm Looking to Buy the Panasonic 42" TH-PX60U AT one on MY Costcos but the stores I called Don't have any 60U's and truth be told, I Don't know if this model was just an Online availability?? or if it was in their stores here. I Do know MY Costcos have the 42" TH-PX6U IN Stock at my area stores, but I Hear & read the 60U IS a Better model with a few more extras.....

So does anyone know when and if Costco will be carrying this TV again???? I'm kind in limbo here and Don't know what to do yet?? I Also hear the Samsun HP-S42233 is a Nice Choice too but again I'm not sure if it's a Online item only either as I may have to call on this one..

Please. Any Comments & Help would be greatly appreciated.....

I67

GooberedUp
01-03-07, 04:44 PM
The difference between the two isn't that great. A memory card slot and smaller width on the 60U. I'm not sure if there's anything else.

stevesc
01-03-07, 11:39 PM
There is a Phillips 47" 1080p set on Costco.com. No price but $300 off offer on Jan29.

redgtconv
01-03-07, 11:43 PM
I'm Looking to Buy the Panasonic 42" TH-PX60U AT one on MY Costcos but the stores I called Don't have any 60U's and truth be told, I Don't know if this model was just an Online availability?? or if it was in their stores here. I Do know MY Costcos have the 42" TH-PX6U IN Stock at my area stores, but I Hear & read the 60U IS a Better model with a few more extras.....

So does anyone know when and if Costco will be carrying this TV again???? I'm kind in limbo here and Don't know what to do yet?? I Also hear the Samsun HP-S42233 is a Nice Choice too but again I'm not sure if it's a Online item only either as I may have to call on this one..

Please. Any Comments & Help would be greatly appreciated.....

I67

On Jan. 29th Costco will have a coupon on a 42" Panasonic plasma, but it doesn't give a model#

wallstreet123456
01-04-07, 08:31 AM
I am a costco member but never receive these coupons you are mentioning. How can I get them?

Thanks

dtrell
01-04-07, 09:05 AM
for everyone on here....costco does NOT sell nor have they EVER sold anything in the stores for panasonic plasmas but the "6u" versions. the 60u and 600u versions were ONLY sold online at costco.com, as well as the 9uk commercial versions. please make a note of this for future posts.

shelly
01-04-07, 10:13 AM
I am a costco member but never receive these coupons you are mentioning. How can I get them?

Thanks

These coupon books are always available near the exit (why not at the entrance?) at the two stores in my area. I also get them mailed to me. Business member card.

Shelly

wallstreet123456
01-04-07, 10:33 AM
Thanks :)

T Morris
01-04-07, 11:34 AM
for everyone on here....costco does NOT sell nor have they EVER sold anything in the stores for panasonic plasmas but the "6u" versions. the 60u and 600u versions were ONLY sold online at costco.com, as well as the 9uk commercial versions. please make a note of this for future posts.Well, I don't think that's true anymore as I was just in my local Costco and they had several 58px60u in boxes. None were on display though. The smaller size was indeed the 50px6u. I'm heading back there again today to return a plasma stand and I'll pay more attention.

I was surprised to see it but didn't make any special note other than it was 58" and wasn't a 6u as I has already received my 50px60u from elsewhere at a better price via a generous price match policy. While I'm normally a strong C* supporter one also needs to be a smart shopper. I'm also not one to return a product just because it no longer meets my needs 2 years down the road. :rolleyes:

mkellypc
01-04-07, 02:33 PM
My costco today had a 58px600u in the box, tho not on display.

pratzert
01-04-07, 02:39 PM
My costco today had a 58px600u in the box, tho not on display.

Could well have been a "returned" Christmas gift that was ordered off Costco.Com.

RICKSRIBS
01-04-07, 02:45 PM
Could well have been a "returned" Christmas gift that was ordered off Costco.Com.

Good point....

My Costco in LA has displayed 58inch 60U-C

mallu2u
01-04-07, 04:11 PM
50px60u came on the website for sometime. Now its gone! Wonder what happended? Got sold out that fast. I doubt it.

Nemmin
01-04-07, 04:57 PM
they made some changes today, removed the philips 50" ambilight i was going to buy today also :(

i hope they bring it back cheaper :( :( :(

T Morris
01-04-07, 05:06 PM
Could well have been a "returned" Christmas gift that was ordered off Costco.Com.
The C* I was in had multiples of these so I would tend to believe that they are carrying them in store now as opposed to being returns.

RICKSRIBS
01-04-07, 05:39 PM
The C* I was in had multiples of these so I would tend to believe that they are carrying them in store now as opposed to being returns.

Multiple 58 inch 600U or 60U??

NatasNJ
01-04-07, 06:20 PM
Did anyone see the Pansonic 50" 6U for sale in a Costco over the past month? If so what was the price. Or since price talk isn't allowed my specific question is was it EVER under 2k. My store is saying they had a $200 discount going for weeks now where the retail price is $2399. But no mention of it falling below $2k. Where Costco.com price has been up and down from 2199-1999.

Anyway.. Ordered one from costco 3 weeks ago. Should be delievered today. They call me and inform me the TV they got was 42" nto 50" so now I am out of a TV for a few more weeks. Trying to get local store to sell me for same online price but so far no luck. UGH..

commesso
01-04-07, 09:01 PM
Did anyone see the Pansonic 50" 6U for sale in a Costco over the past month? If so what was the price. Or since price talk isn't allowed my specific question is was it EVER under 2k. My store is saying they had a $200 discount going for weeks now where the retail price is $2399. But no mention of it falling below $2k.

Picked one up at the local Costco a week ago........you're math is correct, and that deal expired 12/31/06 but didn't fall below the threshold you mentioned. However theres was an additional Panasonic rebate to offset the cost of delivery/installation.

Beautiful panel btw.

commesso
01-04-07, 09:03 PM
Did anyone see the Pansonic 50" 6U for sale in a Costco over the past month? If so what was the price. Or since price talk isn't allowed my specific question is was it EVER under 2k. My store is saying they had a $200 discount going for weeks now where the retail price is $2399. But no mention of it falling below $2k.

Picked one up at the local Costco a week ago........you're math is correct, and that deal expired 12/31/06 but didn't fall below the threshold you mentioned. However theres was an additional Panasonic rebate to offset the cost of delivery/installation.

Beautiful panel btw.

T Morris
01-04-07, 09:49 PM
Multiple 58 inch 600U or 60U??
The Costco I visited today had 3 boxed 58px60uc on the floor and one on display.

RICKSRIBS
01-04-07, 10:29 PM
The Costco I visited today had 3 boxed 58px60uc on the floor and one on display.

Yes..you are correct.....I saw the same at the LA store.....But I think the other poster said it was a 58 inch 600U he saw in a box...but not on display

Harden
01-05-07, 07:57 AM
FYI - Costco has a new booklet for the spring that cites several plasma/LCD tvs.

Osteoman
01-05-07, 09:01 AM
Picked one up at the local Costco a week ago........you're math is correct, and that deal expired 12/31/06 but didn't fall below the threshold you mentioned. However theres was an additional Panasonic rebate to offset the cost of delivery/installation.

Beautiful panel btw.


This TV at Costco did in fact fall below the threshold he mentioned, shortly after thanksgiving for a while. I bought mine then as did several on these boards.

mallu2u
01-05-07, 10:42 AM
Did anyone see the Pansonic 50" 6U for sale in a Costco over the past month? If so what was the price. Or since price talk isn't allowed my specific question is was it EVER under 2k. My store is saying they had a $200 discount going for weeks now where the retail price is $2399. But no mention of it falling below $2k. Where Costco.com price has been up and down from 2199-1999.

Anyway.. Ordered one from costco 3 weeks ago. Should be delievered today. They call me and inform me the TV they got was 42" nto 50" so now I am out of a TV for a few more weeks. Trying to get local store to sell me for same online price but so far no luck. UGH..

Even I bought the TV when it fell to the bottom. Even the shipping was free at that time! Have not received the TV as yet

NatasNJ
01-05-07, 12:12 PM
Even I bought the TV when it fell to the bottom. Even the shipping was free at that time! Have not received the TV as yet

Yeah. Same boat. Just got call and it looks like Monday is my new expected date of arrival. I hope. :)

flankerr
01-05-07, 05:29 PM
On Jan. 29th Costco will have a coupon on a 42" Panasonic plasma, but it doesn't give a model#

According to SKU it's the same old TH-42PX6U

Also there is 52" 1080p Sharp Aquos, item #399052, which looks like LC-60C52U

kontrabass
01-06-07, 08:17 AM
On Jan. 29th Costco will have a coupon on a 42" Panasonic plasma, but it doesn't give a model#

What's the discount amount / final price?

dtrell
01-06-07, 10:29 AM
What's the discount amount / final price?
discounts and prices are not allowed to be discussed on this forum. im even amazed that the mods have let go so much of whats been let go in this thread..

pdawg17
01-06-07, 11:39 AM
I think at this point the return policy changes are on a store-by-store basis...the store in Foster City, CA now has a 30 day policy on all electronics...it has been confirmed by myself and several of my friends/family members...only on new purchases so returns on older items is still ok...this store had changed its policy before the 1st of the year...

opus312
01-06-07, 03:44 PM
I think at this point the return policy changes are on a store-by-store basis...the store in Foster City, CA now has a 30 day policy on all electronics...it has been confirmed by myself and several of my friends/family members...only on new purchases so returns on older items is still ok...this store had changed its policy before the 1st of the year...

Are you saying their written policy has changed? Is this new policy actually posted somewhere in writing?

pdawg17
01-06-07, 04:14 PM
Are you saying their written policy has changed? Is this new policy actually posted somewhere in writing?

I didn't get that far...all I know is numerous friends of mine have been told the same thing at my local C...

dtrell
01-06-07, 07:07 PM
thats pretty F'ed up pdawg...its just a matter of the local managers AGAIN making up their own rules which are not the same as corporates...its time for everyone on this forum that are costco memebers to contact corporate and tell them whats going on. this is BS.

GooberedUp
01-08-07, 10:54 AM
I agree. It's a load of bull. It will be interesting to see whether Corporate will come down on the side of the consumer or the local managers.

As a precaution, I would send corporate a message in email asking about the issue, get their response and then walk into the store with that when doing a refund.

NatasNJ
01-08-07, 12:19 PM
Just got my Panasonic 6U this morning. Can't play with it until after work. But everything worked out and now I need to learn the details of breakin and all the settings, etc... :)
Back with HD. YES!

Now I have to debate if I wall mount it and go through that headache (funneling wires, etc) or just throw it on my TV stand.

mallu2u
01-09-07, 02:12 PM
Just got my Panasonic 6U this morning. Can't play with it until after work. But everything worked out and now I need to learn the details of breakin and all the settings, etc... :)
Back with HD. YES!

Now I have to debate if I wall mount it and go through that headache (funneling wires, etc) or just throw it on my TV stand.

Could you please keep me posted on steps to break-in, etc. I have to do all that as well.

NatasNJ
01-09-07, 02:26 PM
Could you please keep me posted on steps to break-in, etc. I have to do all that as well.

I don't buy into all the "100 hours, yadda yadda yadda stuff"
I lowered all my settings to 0 and will go with that for awhile then after a few weeks slowly adjust them back up. Vivid settings are insanely bright anyway.
But 0 settings makes it dark and the skin tones are bad. But you get used to it after 15 minutes.

Already played xbox for a few hours. Watched different TV shows. All good so far. My only issue is the stretch modes and 1 menu gripe. There is no auto stretch cause I want FULL mode for all HD stuff and HD FILL for all NON HD stuff. Not a huge deal but annoying to have to funnel through all the settings on the occasions. Maybe once I get a universial remote it won't be such a big deal.
And minor gripe with TV/AV input selections. You can SKIP all the external inputs which is cool but not TV. I use HDMI & Component only so I will NEVER use TV but you can't skip that one. My 10 year old Sony TV can.

And if I had to do it over again I would go bigger. :)
I figure I will keep this baby for the future bedroom TV and just buy a 58" sized TV for the family room when I can get one for around $2k range. We will see. Maybe if the NEW Pioneer Plasmas are what they are claiming to be or if OLED or SED makes it out there sooner than later I will buy a new one. But for now this TV is nice.

hiperco
01-09-07, 10:36 PM
FYIW, I just returned a manfunctioning Vizio 50 inch plasma to my local Sam's club after 363 days of use and received a FULL REFUND, including the cost of the extended warranty :cool:

I am amazed, and will likely purchase its replacement there once I figure out what I want ;)

samskiggiddy
01-10-07, 04:12 PM
Just heard from a person that works at Costco that the return policy HAS changed just for TVs. Its now a 6 months no questions asked full return or exchange, then thereafter only TVs that are broken are repaired by costco and if that attempt to repair fails then they will replace the tv.

GooberedUp
01-10-07, 04:17 PM
Which is really no information at all, since even Costco store employees are clueless. Until someone hears from corporate as to a policy change and can point to it on a website, I can't listen to some pimply faced kid at a local store who spouting off what rumors he's read in these forums possibly.

It doesn't mean the policy hasn't changed. It very well may have. But notification needs to come from a credible source.

yellowcanary73
01-10-07, 04:29 PM
Thank you for your email to Costco Wholesale.

Our return policy will remain the same, as this is just a rumor.

With few exceptions, Costco has a 100% guarantee on all of our merchandise.

If you are not completely satisfied with your purchase, simply return the
product and packaging, along with the receipt, if possible, to your
nearest Costco warehouse.

Costco Wholesale will no longer accept returns of saleable cigarettes for all brands.

Only Exceptions:

All Un-saleable cigarette will continue to be accepted with prior approval from the
tobacco vendor's representative. All un-saleable cigarettes will have a sticker
from the tobacco representative that identifies it as being un-saleable.

Pre-approved saleable cigarette returns will only be accepted with prior written
approval. This approval for return will be a return authorization form with a list
of the items being returned, signed by the tobacco vendor's representative.

There are no other exceptions to Costco Wholesale's new return policy on
saleable cigarettes.

Please note, as of November 4th, 2002 , the return policy for all desktop
and notebook computers is six months from the date of purchase.
Six months after purchase, all computer services and technical support
will be subject to the applicable remaining manufacturer’s warranty.

We apologize if your household was not part of the demographic group to be sent one of these mailers. Recent manufacturer sponsored coupons mailings have been limited to the highest coupon redeemers from past mailings.

The Wallet and Passport coupon books offered beginning in January and June are mailed to a wider range of members. The primary of a Business or Goldstar membership and one per Business add-on with a home address on file will be sent these coupons. Below are a few reasons members may not receive these mailings:

Opted out to not receive mailings from Costco.
The mailing address is incorrect in our system.
Have moved within the last three months.
Became a member within the last two months.
The membership has been expired for the last few months.

Please contact Costco to confirm or update your address or opt-out information.


Thank you,

Costco Wholesale Corporation

zoro
01-10-07, 06:51 PM
I asked my local store! they were adamant! that less than 3 years or so, should be ok!

dtrell
01-10-07, 07:06 PM
I asked my local store! they were adamant! that less than 3 years or so, should be ok!
again...there is NO TIME LIMIT in the CORPORATE POLICY...and ANY TIME LIMIT...be it 6 months or 6 YEARS is NOT in the OFFICIAL POLICY and is just something MADE UP BY THE LOCAL MANAGER. report it to corporate.

GooberedUp
01-11-07, 10:50 AM
I asked my local store! they were adamant! that less than 3 years or so, should be ok!

Doesn't matter. Store policy will not trump corporate policy. I don't see any exception clauses in the satisfaction guarantee that gives local managers discretion as to how to implement the policy.

In my present job, I've had several ocassions where I've had to slap people down for getting overzealous. It happens. But, corporate still wins.

tdub88
01-11-07, 12:04 PM
So, I ordered a TH-42PX60U when Costco had them back on the site for about 1 day in December.
I received an email saying that the order shipped on 12-22-06. I have been waiting for this thing forever and hounding Costco CS with emails for shipping status as the shipping company website came up with 'no records found' everytime I checked. Finally I got a call from Costco saying that the "vendor" thought I had wanted to cancel the order and needed verification to ship the T.V. I told the Costco CS to ship the damn thing, I had been waiting for a month! The whole time I was talking to him though I kept thinking, "Aren't YOU(Costco) the vendor?"

So a day later I get a letter from the shipping company asking me to call and set up a delivery time for my order from............AMAZON>COM. It's coming tomorrrow between 9 an noon. I think it's kind of weird that it's coming from Amazon.

It better have a Costco receipt in/on the box there's a reason I bought it there. I still can't wait 'til its here though!

NatasNJ
01-11-07, 01:56 PM
It better have a Costco receipt in/on the box there's a reason I bought it there. I still can't wait 'til its here though!


You can print a receipt online from costco.com so you should be fine. My TV didn't come with a receipt.

scherer326
01-11-07, 02:17 PM
my bro wants to know when Circuit City's 30 day return policy starts. Is it from the day you purchase a tv at the store/online or from the day the tv is delivered to your house (say 7 days later).

mallu2u
01-11-07, 02:22 PM
I have been waiting for my 6U for 3 weeks now as well. Called shipping company and was told that item has been LOST! How does on loose a 50" TV? Im now on phone to have Costco re-send the TV. :(

NatasNJ
01-11-07, 02:32 PM
I have been waiting for my 6U for 3 weeks now as well. Called shipping company and was told that item has been LOST! How does on loose a 50" TV? Im now on phone to have Costco re-send the TV. :(

Wow. That sucks. I called Costco about 1 week after I ordered mine. I was given a website and a waybill #. (homesdirectusa.com I think) There I could see where my order was. Mine was mixed up with another TV and my 50" ended up in Houston instead of Dallas. :( But the moving company was rather quick to fix the problem. Was suppost to get on a Thursday and got TV on following Monday.

Sorry to hear it. Good luck. But I would continue hounding the shipping company 1st. Costco can basically only cancel order and let you reorder TV. That was the impression I got from them when I called them. Good luck again.

Barry_R
01-13-07, 06:55 PM
Best Buy reserves the right to deny any return.

This is stated right at the bottom of their websites return policy page. This applies to online and in store purchases. There goes the warm and fuzzies.

mallu2u
01-15-07, 01:21 PM
Wow. That sucks. I called Costco about 1 week after I ordered mine. I was given a website and a waybill #. (homesdirectusa.com I think) There I could see where my order was. Mine was mixed up with another TV and my 50" ended up in Houston instead of Dallas. :( But the moving company was rather quick to fix the problem. Was suppost to get on a Thursday and got TV on following Monday.

Sorry to hear it. Good luck. But I would continue hounding the shipping company 1st. Costco can basically only cancel order and let you reorder TV. That was the impression I got from them when I called them. Good luck again.

I know it sucks. So found out that the TV was stolen and now they're planning to re-send it this week and 'maybe' try to expedite it. I cannot place another order myself since the price that I got the TV then..is lower than now and there was no shipping charges as well then...so Im stuck

tdub88
01-15-07, 01:31 PM
I got the T.V. at 9:30 a.m. Friday. The box said Costco on one label and Amazon on another. The box had a huge tear in it, but we checked the set and it was perfect. I got it set up Friday night after staring at it all day at work - the day took forever. The T.V. is awesome, the SD channels are better than I had hoped(for most channels) and the HD just blew me away - even with break-in settings. I love it. Can't wait to get the mount up so I can get rid of the ugly base.

jvecchio
01-15-07, 02:40 PM
I have been waiting for my 6U for 3 weeks now as well. Called shipping company and was told that item has been LOST! How does on loose a 50" TV? Im now on phone to have Costco re-send the TV. :(


Sorry to here about that.....I had the same thing happen. I ordered a Pio5070 in early Decemeber and after a couple of weeks call to see where it was. Costco directed me to there shipping company (Bekins/Home Direct) who couldn't find the TV. After about a week of calling them everyday to see if they found it they called me back and told me they had lost the TV. Call costco right away and they said they would send another one out and I should receive a new order number. After a couple of days no order number so I called back and they had processed it incorrectly. The kicker was that now they were out of stock on the 5070. The supervisor told me she would talk to the buyers to see if they could get me one. However, I got a message last week that basically said too bad we can't get you one.

Kind of a long response, but the point is if Costco's shipping company is losing 50" TV's this easily they may need to look at this more closely. I personally find it interesting that they are "losing" this many around the holidays.

Barry_R
01-15-07, 02:59 PM
Sorry to here about that.....I had the same thing happen. I ordered a Pio5070 in early Decemeber and after a couple of weeks call to see where it was. Costco directed me to there shipping company (Bekins/Home Direct) who couldn't find the TV. After about a week of calling them everyday to see if they found it they called me back and told me they had lost the TV. Call costco right away and they said they would send another one out and I should receive a new order number. After a couple of days no order number so I called back and they had processed it incorrectly. The kicker was that now they were out of stock on the 5070. The supervisor told me she would talk to the buyers to see if they could get me one. However, I got a message last week that basically said too bad we can't get you one.

Kind of a long response, but the point is if Costco's shipping company is losing 50" TV's this easily they may need to look at this more closely. I personally find it interesting that they are "losing" this many around the holidays.

Now where do you suppose they went :rolleyes:

yellowcanary73
01-15-07, 04:04 PM
I have had some bad luck with Plasmas the first being a Maxent 50 in which died in 3 days took it back to Costco Waited a few days then got the Toshiba 50in but have had problems with The buzzing being heard from 14ft on volume of 5 or 6 on tv.Also I have to turn it off then back on to get rid of the really small lines of different colors from top to bottom.This goes on until the unit warms up must be bad connection somewhere.
Don't like the ideal of having to be worked on after only two weeks was thinking of changing to an LCD but no experiance with LCD only a cheap 20in lcd in bedroom.
Would I be satisfied with it after coming from a 53in CRT RPTV or should I wait for the Vizio 60in plasma now that it looks like all plasma have problems.

bananfish
01-15-07, 04:36 PM
Now where do you suppose they went :rolleyes:

Not sure, but a good fella I know in North Caldwell, New Jersey named Tony says he can sell me one at a real good price. :D

DelJ
01-16-07, 05:52 PM
Watch 'The Sopranos' on HBO if you want to know how plasmas get lost in transit.....

DelJ



...Kind of a long response, but the point is if Costco's shipping company is losing 50" TV's this easily they may need to look at this more closely. I personally find it interesting that they are "losing" this many around the holidays.

mallu2u
01-17-07, 10:14 AM
Now where do you suppose they went :rolleyes:

I was told by Costco Supervisor that its not that uncommon to hear about the stolen TVs. Infact on some occasions an "entire truck" has been stolen! Not THAT is alarming! :D

Johnla
01-17-07, 10:52 AM
I used to have a neighbor that was a truck driver, and there was many various things that were always falling off the back of his truck......

juicius
01-17-07, 04:03 PM
Kind of a long response, but the point is if Costco's shipping company is losing 50" TV's this easily they may need to look at this more closely. I personally find it interesting that they are "losing" this many around the holidays.

My brother worked as a non-union forklift operator at a major trucking depot during college, and the stories he told me about union operators and their "misplacing" of certain items were "entertaining" to say the least. Note, this isn't an union bashing post. It's just that my brother was a non-union temp, he worked the graveyard shift when supervision was lax, with only a few other union operators, and they were apparently very brazen about using the forklift to steal things whole pallet at a time. It's easy when you have a truck and a forklift. Only union guys could've have gotten away with it when the only witness is a non-union college kid who won't be there two months from now anyway.

kingfrog
01-18-07, 10:52 AM
Costco changed their return policy for all electronics purchases. Under the new policy, all electronics purchases as of 2007 can be returned "no questions asked" for up to 3 months after purchase, and up to 6 months for defective merchandise. This is a huge
change to their policy, where all non-computer electronics returns were
accepted for up to 3 years (sometimes 5 years) after purchase with the
original receipt. The new policy is for all electronics, including
televisions, stereos, GPSs, cameras, projectors, MP3 Players, and phones.

Costco stores will still accept returns for all electronics purchased within
the last 3 years, but only for a few more weeks until customers are notified
about the new policy. The product being returned must include the original
receipt, all manuals, cables, and everything which came in the original box.
The original product box itself is not required for most electronics
purchases.


Just received this Email from my brother. Anyone hear of this?

AKA BUD
01-18-07, 11:00 AM
I have had some bad luck with Plasmas the first being a Maxent 50 in which died in 3 days took it back to Costco Waited a few days then got the Toshiba 50in but have had problems with The buzzing being heard from 14ft on volume of 5 or 6 on tv.Also I have to turn it off then back on to get rid of the really small lines of different colors from top to bottom.This goes on until the unit warms up must be bad connection somewhere.
Don't like the ideal of having to be worked on after only two weeks was thinking of changing to an LCD but no experiance with LCD only a cheap 20in lcd in bedroom.
Would I be satisfied with it after coming from a 53in CRT RPTV or should I wait for the Vizio 60in plasma now that it looks like all plasma have problems.


I don't know what your budget is, but you could look at the Panasonic plasmas. From what I've read, the Panasonic plasmas are rated very high...close to the Pioneer...and certainly above any of the sets you mentioned above.

VinceDee
01-18-07, 11:18 AM
Costco changed their return policy for all electronics purchases. Under the new policy, all electronics purchases as of 2007 can be returned "no questions asked" for up to 3 months after purchase, and up to 6 months for defective merchandise.

Do you have a more widely known source for this information?

Vince

kingfrog
01-18-07, 11:29 AM
Do you have a more widely known source for this information?

Vince

I wish I did. A search came up with nothing but rumours. I have not spoken to my brother to get his source. But I was sure it would be found here by someone if it were true. It does sound very plausible but like many others if it is true my TV is going back and my membership canceled. I'm waiting to hear form Costco.

GooberedUp
01-18-07, 11:51 AM
It's BS as of now.

I wouldn't even listen to the Costco store mopes. Corporate policy is the only thing that carries weight. And where did that limit on 3 or 5 years come from?

kingfrog
01-18-07, 01:23 PM
I hope you are right. IM guessing many will return their TVs if it is true as many would have purchased EWs otherwise not available at Costco.

sfhondapilot
01-18-07, 01:54 PM
Do you have a more widely known source for this information?

Vince

It was posted this morning on hotdealsclub.com.

Costco Changes Return Policy for Electronics: Costco changed their return policy for all electronics purchases. Under the new policy, all electronics purchases as of 2007 can be returned "no questions asked" for up to 3 months after purchase, and up to 6 months for defective merchandise. This is a huge change to their policy, where all non-computer electronics returns were accepted for up to 3 years (sometimes 5 years) after purchase with the original receipt. The new policy is for all electronics, including televisions, stereos, GPSs, cameras, projectors, MP3 Players, and phones.

Costco stores will still accept returns for all electronics purchased within the last 3 years, but only for a few more weeks until members are notified about the new policy. The product being returned must include the original receipt, all manuals, cables, and everything which came in the original box. The original product box itself is not required for most electronics returns.

If you still have the original receipt from an electronics purchase made within the last 3 years, you may want to consider returning it soon before the new policy formally takes affect. For example, if you purchased an upconvert DVD player 2 years ago for $120, a 32" LCD HDTV 2 years ago for $900, a 37" LCD HDTV 2 years ago for $1700, or a Garmin Nuvi 350 GPS a year ago for $800, you can return it today for a complete refund which can be used toward anything including a brand new HDTV or GPS. HDTVs have dropped in price by half over the past 2 years, and GPSs have dropped in half over the last year. Getting a full refund for a past purchase and upgrading to a new model is definitely a hot deal.

All non-electronics purchases still can be returned years after purchase, with the original receipt.

dschmaltz
01-18-07, 01:56 PM
Costco looks like one of the safe places to purchase; many are buyer beware.

GooberedUp
01-18-07, 02:21 PM
I hope you are right. IM guessing many will return their TVs if it is true as many would have purchased EWs otherwise not available at Costco.

If they chnge their policy, they will certainly lose a lot of sales. At the very least, buying electronics from there won't be quite as compelling.

GooberedUp
01-18-07, 02:24 PM
It was posted this morning on hotdealsclub.com.


I wonder what their source is. I'm hoping it's not true.

mjasinski@sbcglo
01-18-07, 06:39 PM
I wonder what their source is. I'm hoping it's not true.
Well, it's not true according to a new post at hotdealsclub:

Thursday, January 18, 2007 * last*update:**6:04pm*(EST)
• Costco Electronics Return Policy NOT Changing: In response to our recent article about Costco's return policy on Electronics changing, we were contacted by a member at Costco Corporate who told us this was a rumor and is untrue. Costco Corporate is aware store managers have documents detailing a change in the Costco return policy, and are relaying this false information to their employees and customers. Their return policy continues be an unlimited return policy on all electronics purchases, including HDTVs, GPSs, stereos, projectors, cameras, MP3 players, and phones. While they have no limit on how long they will accept returns with the original receipt, some stores may give difficulty with electronics returns greater than 3 years old.

hope this helps...

sfhondapilot
01-18-07, 07:53 PM
Well, it's not true according to a new post at hotdealsclub:

Thursday, January 18, 2007 * last*update:**6:04pm*(EST)
• Costco Electronics Return Policy NOT Changing: In response to our recent article about Costco's return policy on Electronics changing, we were contacted by a member at Costco Corporate who told us this was a rumor and is untrue. Costco Corporate is aware store managers have documents detailing a change in the Costco return policy, and are relaying this false information to their employees and customers. Their return policy continues be an unlimited return policy on all electronics purchases, including HDTVs, GPSs, stereos, projectors, cameras, MP3 players, and phones. While they have no limit on how long they will accept returns with the original receipt, some stores may give difficulty with electronics returns greater than 3 years old.

hope this helps...

Thanks, I was about to return to post this update. Does anyone else find the bolded section curious?

Someone distributed documents (plural) to store managers (plural).
The documents describe a change in refund policy.
Who, other than Coscto corporate, would be distributing anything to store managers?

kingfrog
01-18-07, 11:24 PM
IM glad I saved my box.........

There are obviously some corporate communication's in the hands of store managers regarding the return policy. Now corporate is putting their thumb in the leak.

I will bring back my TV because of the change in the implied buyer's contract. The ONLY reason I bought at Costco and became an exec member was the return policy. I bought three flat screens there. Best Buy is out of the question for purchases like this.

Kevin R
01-19-07, 01:15 AM
I had my father-in-law (he's a costco employee) ask the warehouse manager about this "memo" and he had said he hasn't heard anything about a change.

opus312
01-19-07, 09:38 AM
Costco changed their return policy for all electronics purchases. Under the new policy, all electronics purchases as of 2007 can be returned "no questions asked" for up to 3 months after purchase, and up to 6 months for defective merchandise. Just received this Email from my brother. Anyone hear of this?

Well, obviously your brother is a more reliable source than

http://www.costco.com/Service/FeaturePageLeftNav.aspx?ProductNo=10166081#Returns

which makes no mention of this change.

AKA BUD
01-19-07, 10:27 AM
Alright, I'd like to get this sorted out. I just bought my new set at Costco that cost me $4600 with tax. I specifically got it at Costco , not to return and upgrade every year, but to not have to buy an extended warranty at a crazy price but still be covered for at least a few years.

If they did indeed change the "POLICY" ... is that only for CASH BACK and does that also apply to in-store exchange or credit ?? Should they not INFORM ALL CURRENT MEMBERS via MAIL since they have our addresses.

If now all I have is 90 days of coverage, well I'd be better going somewhere else with more selection. I have always kind of settled for what Costco had (not that it is a bad thing) even though I seen something I would maybe like moreat another store for no other reason other than the RETURN POLICY.

I'd love to find out FOR SURE if it is true about the change and what EXACTLY is the policy on the sets. I bought the 67"DLP about 2 months ago and the RBE is becoming and issue. I was going to wait till the warm weather hits Canada again (May - June) before returning it since -30C weather and HDTV's don't mix and by then I am sure they will also have something I want in the Plasma line. But if
rumour is true, I will have to rent a truck sooner than later and risk letting the cold kill a set that is in perfect condition for those that do not see the RBE.

If it is true, I wonder if for those of us who bought BEFORE this new rule can be grandfathered ??? After all, we would probably taken a differnet path if we knew.

BTW, who would keep a box for 3-5 years ??????

Anyway, needless to say this has me concerned and second guessing why I have a Costco membership. Electronics is my main use ... the price in gas to get to Costco ... well, I can buy meat and eggs much closer to home.

Any info would be great

Cheers

Since you are bothered by the RBE and are also concerned about a possible change in Costco's return policy, I would say just to go ahead and return it now. For one thing, when these sets are shipped to Costco in cold weather, the trucks used to transport them aren't heated either even though the trucks are enclosed. I'm sure you don't want to damage the set on return, but I would doubt that the set would be killed during your return process because of cold weather. Also, Costco's return policy doesn't state that the set has to be working when it's returned. They also do not require that the original box be returned....just the remote, wires/cables and the documents/owners manual that came with the set.

At the end of the day, a change in Costco's return policy is still all rumor and speculation. No one knows anything for sure until Costco officially announces a new policy. I'm no lawyer, but one would think that for those who have already purchased a tv under the existing return policy, Costco would have a very hard time denying a return in the event that they do initiate a new policy. Kind of like buying a new car that has a documented 10 year/100,000 mile warranty and the next model year they only give a 5 year/50,000 mile warranty on the same model car. The car you bought is still covered by the original 10 year/100,000 mile policy.

yellowcanary73
01-19-07, 12:55 PM
Costco has the Panasonic TH-50PX6U FOR XXXXwith 400.00 instant rebate picked one up in place of my Toshiba so far this Panasonic is superior by far SDTV great HDTV fantastic.

NatasNJ
01-19-07, 02:20 PM
Costco has the Panasonic TH-50PX6U FOR XXXX with 400.00 instant rebate picked one up in place of my Toshiba so far this Panasonic is superior by far SDTV great HDTV fantastic.

Bestbuy has 60U model for same price right now. And I am sure you can use those 10-12% coupons on top of that. Great deal since they seem to be moving out their 06 models in anticipation of the newer 07 models.

NatasNJ
01-19-07, 02:48 PM
Check BB website.

NatasNJ
01-19-07, 04:25 PM
You have the Panasonic 6U? I got that one myself. Love it. And I have Xmen 3 DVD at home waiting for me to get home and watch it. :)

yellowcanary73
01-19-07, 05:05 PM
Even with keeping it at zoom it looked amazing also very please with SDTV using the Dish 622 dvr connected thru HDMI also have a cheap Toshiba upconvert DVD that I got for a very good price at Costco.For got about no pricing policy.

Barrybud
01-19-07, 05:37 PM
Please do not post pricing other than MSRP.

yellowcanary73
01-19-07, 05:45 PM
Sorry My Bad

srauly
01-19-07, 07:49 PM
There are obviously some corporate communication's in the hands of store managers regarding the return policy. Now corporate is putting their thumb in the leak.The quote was confusing, but one possibility is that the "documents" they're referring to are print-outs of the false info distributed on the internet.

M4P
01-19-07, 08:15 PM
Bestbuy has 60U model for same price right now. And I am sure you can use those 10-12% coupons on top of that. Great deal since they seem to be moving out their 06 models in anticipation of the newer 07 models.

If I remember correctly, the Costco one has the silver bezel, but the one at BB is black with silver around that, is that right? I would like to buy it from Costco but I'm not crazy about the all silver bezel.

NatasNJ
01-19-07, 09:29 PM
If I remember correctly, the Costco one has the silver bezel, but the one at BB is black with silver around that, is that right? I would like to buy it from Costco but I'm not crazy about the all silver bezel.

Look on BB to see the 60U model. Then go to Costco website to see the 6U model. The pictures show the difference. THe 60U is a brighter silver were the 6U is a grayish silver frame. The 60U also has a few more connections and a SD card slot I think...

I like black bezels overall but of the two above I prefer the 6U. :)

Mikey_Gee
01-20-07, 12:33 PM
Since you are bothered by the RBE and are also concerned about a possible change in Costco's return policy, I would say just to go ahead and return it now. For one thing, when these sets are shipped to Costco in cold weather, the trucks used to transport them aren't heated either even though the trucks are enclosed. I'm sure you don't want to damage the set on return, but I would doubt that the set would be killed during your return process because of cold weather. Also, Costco's return policy doesn't state that the set has to be working when it's returned. They also do not require that the original box be returned....just the remote, wires/cables and the documents/owners manual that came with the set.

At the end of the day, a change in Costco's return policy is still all rumor and speculation. No one knows anything for sure until Costco officially announces a new policy. I'm no lawyer, but one would think that for those who have already purchased a tv under the existing return policy, Costco would have a very hard time denying a return in the event that they do initiate a new policy. Kind of like buying a new car that has a documented 10 year/100,000 mile warranty and the next model year they only give a 5 year/50,000 mile warranty on the same model car. The car you bought is still covered by the original 10 year/100,000 mile policy.




Thanks for the reply on my delema. But the issue still is … if I return my set now due to RBE, Costco has nothing I want at the moment as a replacement. Since I am a gamer and my room is bright, my choice is a nice 50-52″ LCD (prefer 1080p) and Costco does not have this.

So If I return my DLP to Costco now, I will be without an HDTV. Only other option is to go elswhere for the set, in which case .. I am now without Costco’s great policy. For that reason alone, as long as the Policy at Costco is still 3 years (even one year) for refund or instore credit .... I will try my best to put up with the RBE till the day Costco has what I am looking for be it 10 days or 10 months.

I really wish I didn't see the RBE. The 67" Sammy DLP is a KILLER SET and the PQ is very awsome. Sucks to be me I guess.

Anybody know a way to find out what Costco will be getting in ??? I know that carry samsung, and if they are getting the 52" or 57" 1080p LCD sets .... I then know just to hang tight and be patient.

skyriderfox
01-20-07, 08:06 PM
What's the current best overall 37-42" TV (either technology) that is available at Costco for a variety of purposes: Sports watching, DVD, 20% video games?

AKA BUD
01-21-07, 11:07 AM
Thanks for the reply on my delema. But the issue still is … if I return my set now due to RBE, Costco has nothing I want at the moment as a replacement. Since I am a gamer and my room is bright, my choice is a nice 50-52″ LCD (prefer 1080p) and Costco does not have this.

So If I return my DLP to Costco now, I will be without an HDTV. Only other option is to go elswhere for the set, in which case .. I am now without Costco’s great policy. For that reason alone, as long as the Policy at Costco is still 3 years (even one year) for refund or instore credit .... I will try my best to put up with the RBE till the day Costco has what I am looking for be it 10 days or 10 months.

I really wish I didn't see the RBE. The 67" Sammy DLP is a KILLER SET and the PQ is very awsome. Sucks to be me I guess.

Anybody know a way to find out what Costco will be getting in ??? I know that carry samsung, and if they are getting the 52" or 57" 1080p LCD sets .... I then know just to hang tight and be patient.

There should be no RBE with this set as it is LCOS....JVC HD-56FN97..available at Costco although a little larger than you're looking for.

AKA BUD
01-21-07, 11:10 AM
What's the current best overall 37-42" TV (either technology) that is available at Costco for a variety of purposes: Sports watching, DVD, 20% video games?

You might check their website...that will show you all that's available in the sizes you're interested in.

Mikey_Gee
01-21-07, 01:10 PM
There should be no RBE with this set as it is LCOS....JVC HD-56FN97..available at Costco although a little larger than you're looking for.

Yeah, to big. Plus my local costco does not carry that set. Not even the Costo Canada site has it listed ... plus whenI called and enquired ... they said Costco Canada is not getting this set.The only RPT they carry are either LCD or DLP. Plus the Sammy 6767 is the only 1080p set the local Costcos carry. Plus I kind of talked myself into likeing the fact of getting away from bulb changes ever 2 or so years.

I am going for the 52" LCD 1080p Sharp set. I know some folks have banding issues, but once again .. that is where the Costco 100% Satisfaction comes in. Many of the banding problems are yapped about on this forum over in the Sharp area. I am a believer that for ever person with banding there are 10 without. Just that folks with bad experiences tend to "TALK" about it a good deal more than those with great experiences. Even if I need to exchange it 3 times to Costco to get one without banding ..... doesn't bug me since my Costco is 10 minutes away.

I forget where I seen the other list of reviews outside of AVS and out of 190 reviews, 182 were all 8's, 9's or 10's with the odd one being a 3 or 4.

EVERY set has it's lemons.

AKA BUD
01-21-07, 05:24 PM
Sounds like you've dialed in on what you want. Good luck.

treetops
01-22-07, 12:44 PM
Does anyone know if Costco Canada carries the 42" Panasonic TH-42PX60U ?
Or if they do not?

yellowcanary73
01-23-07, 06:58 PM
I bought the Panasonic 50PX6U from Costco and have noticed on all the other Panasonics it has this statement
(This item is covered by Costco's guarantee to refund your purchase price if you are not completely satisfied. Costco's guarantee applies, even though this item may not be covered by the manufacturer's warranty, because Costco is not an "authorized" dealer of the merchandise.)
But it does not have this same statement under the 50PX6U was wondering if mine is even covered by Panasonic warranty.
Thanks

tdnone
01-23-07, 07:10 PM
I bought the Panasonic 50PX6U from Costco and have noticed on all the other Panasonics it has this statement
(This item is covered by Costco's guarantee to refund your purchase price if you are not completely satisfied. Costco's guarantee applies, even though this item may not be covered by the manufacturer's warranty, because Costco is not an "authorized" dealer of the merchandise.)
But it does not have this same statement under the 50PX6U was wondering if mine is even covered by Panasonic warranty.
Thanks

I have read some magazine (Money, Kiplinger, or other) that most electronics, purchased by CostCo in large quantity with great discount, come from the gray market since CostCo is not an official retailer. So CostCo provide a customer satisfaction guarrantee, rather than the standard manufacturer warranty. It is a different way of providing warranty, I guess, but still making profit.

opus312
01-24-07, 09:31 AM
I have read some magazine (Money, Kiplinger, or other) that most electronics, purchased by CostCo in large quantity with great discount, come from the gray market since CostCo is not an official retailer. So CostCo provide a customer satisfaction guarrantee, rather than the standard manufacturer warranty.

And of course, this is why a change in Costco's return policy could kill their TV business (although it's likely that the mfg warranty would apply in any case...)

yellowcanary73
01-24-07, 12:45 PM
I have read some magazine (Money, Kiplinger, or other) that most electronics, purchased by CostCo in large quantity with great discount, come from the gray market since CostCo is not an official retailer. So CostCo provide a customer satisfaction guarrantee, rather than the standard manufacturer warranty. It is a different way of providing warranty, I guess, but still making profit.

I got on line last night and talked to a really nice lady with Panasonics Concierge service.I was worried about this statement on Costco(This item is covered by Costco's guarantee to refund your purchase price if you are not completely satisfied. Costco's guarantee applies, even though this item may not be covered by the manufacturer's warranty, because Costco is not an "authorized" dealer of the merchandise.)after talking with her she said all Panasonics are covered under Panasonic and also the Concierge service and she continued to set up my account.

tdnone
01-24-07, 01:40 PM
I got on line last night and talked to a really nice lady with Panasonics Concierge service.I was worried about this statement on Costco(This item is covered by Costco's guarantee to refund your purchase price if you are not completely satisfied. Costco's guarantee applies, even though this item may not be covered by the manufacturer's warranty, because Costco is not an "authorized" dealer of the merchandise.)after talking with her she said all Panasonics are covered under Panasonic and also the Concierge service and she continued to set up my account.

This is good news and kudos to Panasonic. I hope that more and more manufacturers will come this way, and we will continue to have great product at discount and greater "double" customer service :D

basecamp
01-24-07, 03:47 PM
I am very interested in buying the Sharp LC-40C32U 32" TV from Costco. It is on sale until 1/31.
I have read reviews and seem pretty happy with it, unless someone here informs me of some horrible problem with it.
I am curious what I'll have to get seperately to get it up and running.
I will have a Comcast HD DVR box, but what is the best way to hook it up? What kind of hook up should I attach my DVD player with?
Does the TV have a SD and HD Tuner in it?
I really need some advise, there's only a few days left for the sale.
Thanks, hope everyone's having a great day!

bronhim
01-24-07, 06:43 PM
It's entirely false that Costco buys most of their TV's on the gray market. It would be impossible to stay in stock and find that many televisions. Plus they'd get hammered when there are price moves. Considering how many price moves there's been in just the past 6 months they'd be losing a heck of a lot of money if they didn't buy direct from a manufacturer.

Plus, many of the models that Costco sells are ones made specifically for them. Thus... not gray market.

locomo
01-24-07, 10:35 PM
Any guesstimates when the price of the 65" 1080p Panny plasma will be the current price of the 50" 1080 Panny at Costco?

kenabb
01-24-07, 10:57 PM
I just got one (commercial model) so it better not be real soon.

scherer326
01-25-07, 06:56 AM
I am very interested in buying the Sharp LC-40C32U 32" TV from Costco. It is on sale until 1/31.

How much is the Sharp LC-40C32U 32" HDTV on sale for?
If there is a coupon, is it instant or mail in?

basecamp
01-26-07, 10:12 AM
Quote:
Originally Posted by basecamp
I am very interested in buying the Sharp LC-40C32U 32" TV from Costco. It is on sale until 1/31.


How much is the Sharp LC-40C32U 32" HDTV on sale for?
If there is a coupon, is it instant or mail in?[QUOTE]

(PRICING NOT ALLOWED)

raven69david
01-26-07, 12:15 PM
Quote:
Originally Posted by basecamp
I am very interested in buying the Sharp LC-40C32U 32" TV from Costco. It is on sale until 1/31.


How much is the Sharp LC-40C32U 32" HDTV on sale for?
If there is a coupon, is it instant or mail in?[QUOTE]

It's on sale for $MSRP, no coupon.

You need to get rid of the price if it's not the MSRP price. No prices are allowed on the forums other than MSRP.

renlopez
01-26-07, 02:29 PM
Looks like costco has the 65" and 50" Panasonic 1080p plasmas

65pf9uk and 50pf9uk

tdnone
01-26-07, 03:05 PM
I like the Pan 65pf9uk but its price is still way too steep, may be having to wait for another year so the price will drop to a more affordable level, the Vizio 60" MSRP level :-)

Mikey_Gee
01-26-07, 06:13 PM
Costco's great return policy "NOT SO GREAT" after all !!!

Costco's policy on TV's is NOT that great. I "JUST" got off the phone and came right out and asked .... if I dump $4600 into a TV, how long will Costco cover me for ??

I was told 1 year and nothing more.

So I replied .... WOW .... if I spend $4600 on a TV and as little as 2 years later it has a LEGIT issue, Costco will not help me out ...??

I was told NO

"Not even a year and a half" I asked ........ was told "NOPE"

I asked if I could buy an extended warranty since I can get a bigger selection and a 5 year full warranty at most places for the same if not close to what Costco wants (case in point the set I want at Costco is $3999, I can get it at my local B&M stores for $3800) and once again I was told "NO"

So now, I have no intention of abusing the return policy to UPGRADE a few years from now ... HOWEVER .... when I spend $4600 (tax in) on a HDTV .... I do expect to get more than one year of backing on a product.

tdnone
01-26-07, 06:20 PM
I guess we have to read the warranty more carefully. This is CostCo in Canada. CostCo in the US may be different.

garycase2001
01-26-07, 11:53 PM
Well, obviously your brother is a more reliable source than

http://www.costco.com/Service/FeaturePageLeftNav.aspx?ProductNo=10166081#Returns

which makes no mention of this change.


I don't know if Costco has this statement "buried" on their site (didn't see it with a quick scan) ... but Sam's Club's return policy has this comment clearly noted on theirs: "... At samsclub.com, we reserve the right, at any time, to modify, alter, or update this policy. Your order constitutes an agreement to be bound by such modifications, alterations, or updates to this policy."

... I suspect Costco can do the same thing ==> and if a notable number of folks begin to abuse the policy (probably what happened with computers a few years ago to cause that change) I'm sure it will change quickly. And it's very unlikely they will "grandfather" the policy for existing purchasers. In fact, several folks on these forums have indicated that Costco already limits the "cash back" period on TV's to a nominal period ... and then just gives a credit towards another TV.

I would consider both Sams and Costco as having excellent customer service, with a generous return policy, for any truly defective merchandise ... i.e. things that develop problems in the first few months of ownership ... but NOT as a substitute for long-term issues.

If you really want an extended warranty, get the price at Costco; then go to BestBuy and get a price match ... and buy their warranty. Personally, I don't buy extended warranties ... but I DO buy everything with either a Platinum Mastercard or (at Costco) an American Express ==> that way the warranty is doubled (up to an extra year). I've used those automatic warranty extensions several times ==> they work very well; BUT be sure you keep (a) your receipt, showing that the item was charged to the credit card; (b) the credit card statement that shows the charge; and (c) a copy of the warranty. You'll need all of these to file a claim.

Barry_R
01-27-07, 12:11 AM
They all bury that sort of stuff in their policies. You are at the mercy of their decision. BestBuy has it too. We reserve the right to refuse any returns is BestBuys policy.

Mikey_Gee
01-27-07, 12:54 AM
But the fact is I had NO INTENTION to abuse the Costco policy, however, I will not sleep well at night knowing that my $4600 investment is only safe for 12 months. If my set was to go on the 14th month and I am left in the cold ........... i would be PISSED BAD !!! Maybe they should offer extended warranty services.

So as of now, Costco will lose my $4600 and I will go to another B&M shop that was giving me the set for $200 less then costco. that way I can buy a warranty and know I am protected for 5 years.

Barry_R
01-27-07, 01:16 AM
You gotta do what you are comfortable with.

garycase2001
01-27-07, 03:37 AM
Agree you should do what you're comfortable with.

From my perspective ... if you buy a TV (for $4600 or whatever) you'll probably know within a few weeks, or at least months, whether or not you're satisfied with it. Costco will apparently still accept returns for a full year ... which is FAR more than most stores. If you purchased it using an American Express card you'll have a 2-year warranty on it (the 1-yr manufacturer's warranty, plus the American Express warranty-doubling protection) ... so any problems with it will be covered for a 2nd year. Beyond that, it's not unreasonable to expect to have to pay for service calls ... OR, if you elect to do so, to purchase an extended warranty that will cover any additional service you need.

... and if you know another store that you can buy the set for $200 less, then that's $200 you can apply towards the cost of an extended warranty :) Personally, I'd buy it at the cheaper store with a warranty-doubling credit card (American Express; Platinum Mastercard; Platinum Visa; etc.) and NOT buy an extended warranty. With my luck, if I bought a 5-year extended warranty, it would fail in the 61st month :) ... so I'd just bank the cost of the extended warranty and use it to help pay for repairs whenever they were needed.

Mikey_Gee
01-27-07, 11:58 AM
Ok, after getting my very sad news from Costco yesterday about the return policy, I found myself having a hard time really thinking they would only cover me for 1 year on a $4600 purchase.

SO .... I just called back and SPECIFICALLY asked for the returns manager. Did not tell why, I just had to speak to the Return manager.

Conversation went like this: (M= Me / CM = Costco Return Manager)

==============================================

M:
I called yesterday in regards to your return policy on TV sets and was told it was only one year is this true ??

CM:
Well that depends

M:
Well I always keep my boxes, receipt, original stuff that came with it

CM:
OK, that's good , so what really are you looking to find out.

M:
Well I will be spending a total of about $4600 on a HDTV set and to be very honest, the fact I will only have Costco back me if something goes wrong for only a year ... that does not make me happy at all. In fact, it has causes me to start shopping arount at other stores with more selections and in many cases a better price.

CM:
Well the first thing you have to consider with the return policy is the PRICE of the item. If you buy a $500 TV from us, the info you got was correct ... we will cover it for only a year. HOWEVER, in your case you are spending well over that, $4600 I think you said correct ??

M:
Yes ..

CM:
Well of course you want more than 1 years peace of mind. Other wise I think you would be crazy to not go elsewhere and get a extended warranty. HOWEVER, not sure who you spoke to, but they left out one VERY BIG detail.

M:
Oh ?? And what is that ??

CM:
Our policy is 1 year per every $1000 in regards to Televisions and most electronics. .. but not computers.

M:
Yeah I knew about that and computers. But hey .. I am liking what I hear and feel better.

CM:
Yes, I am sure you do. So long story short, your $4600 set will be backed by our well known policy for 4 years. As I said .. one year per $1000

M:
Well that make me feel much better and I guess now I can buy will confidence again at Costco. Other wise, my business and many other of my friends would probably go to another store for our stuff.

CM:
Sure you would ... and rightfully so. Costco is hoping to get a more DIRECT explanation of our policy since it seems to be shadowed with rumours and questions far to much.

M:
Yeah, your not kidding. Well thanks for the info, and not I can happily say I will be getting my TV at Costco now.

CM:
Very glad to hear that and we appreciate the business.

M:
Oh, one more thing .... not that I have any intention on doing so, but with such a good policy you must get abuse from it.

CM:
Sure we do .... but it is not like we don't know this. Trust me, I will not get into the details but this "Abuse" is factored into the big pictures. At anual conferences we discuse and understand the pros and cons of our policy. Lucky for us .... and the customers ..... the pros far outweigh the cons.

M:
NICE !!! Well thanks for your time and I look forward to my new TV from Costco.

CM:
Your more than welcome and I am happy to be able to clear the water.

=======================================================


So, not WORD FOR WORD .... but pretty close for sure. This makes me feel better so I guess I will retract my last statement.

Just to confirm I called a second Costco in my area but kept it short when taking to the Return Manager by simply asking .... "I am looking to spend $4600 on a HDTV ... is it true you guys give one year coverage per $1000??" and I was very quickly told "YES, that is true"



Just goes to show ..... DO NOT TALK TO DESK JOKEYS ..... 90% of the time they are clueless. Needles to say, I will be going back to my original plan and getting my set at Costco and sleeping well at night knowing I am covered.

Cheers;

Mike

garycase2001
01-27-07, 12:32 PM
Ok, after getting my very sad news from Costco yesterday about the return policy, I found myself having a hard time really thinking they would only cover me for 1 year on a $4600 purchase.

SO .... I just called back and SPECIFICALLY asked for the returns manager. Did not tell why, I just had to speak to the Return manager.

Conversation went like this: (M= Me / CM = Costco Return Manager)

==============================================

M:
I called yesterday in regards to your return policy on TV sets and was told it was only one year is this true ??

CM:
Well that depends

M:
Well I always keep my boxes, receipt, original stuff that came with it

CM:
OK, that's good , so what really are you looking to find out.

M:
Well I will be spending a total of about $4600 on a HDTV set and to be very honest, the fact I will only have Costco back me if something goes wrong for only a year ... that does not make me happy at all. In fact, it has causes me to start shopping arount at other stores with more selections and in many cases a better price.

CM:
Well the first thing you have to consider with the return policy is the PRICE of the item. If you buy a $500 TV from us, the info you got was correct ... we will cover it for only a year. HOWEVER, in your case you are spending well over that, $4600 I think you said correct ??

M:
Yes ..

CM:
Well of course you want more than 1 years peace of mind. Other wise I think you would be crazy to not go elsewhere and get a extended warranty. HOWEVER, not sure who you spoke to, but they left out one VERY BIG detail.

M:
Oh ?? And what is that ??

CM:
Our policy is 1 year per every $1000 in regards to Televisions and most electronics. .. but not computers.

M:
Yeah I knew about that and computers. But hey .. I am liking what I hear and feel better.

CM:
Yes, I am sure you do. So long story short, your $4600 set will be backed by our well known policy for 4 years. As I said .. one year per $1000

M:
Well that make me feel much better and I guess now I can buy will confidence again at Costco. Other wise, my business and many other of my friends would probably go to another store for our stuff.

CM:
Sure you would ... and rightfully so. Costco is hoping to get a more DIRECT explanation of our policy since it seems to be shadowed with rumours and questions far to much.

M:
Yeah, your not kidding. Well thanks for the info, and not I can happily say I will be getting my TV at Costco now.

CM:
Very glad to hear that and we appreciate the business.

M:
Oh, one more thing .... not that I have any intention on doing so, but with such a good policy you must get abuse from it.

CM:
Sure we do .... but it is not like we don't know this. Trust me, I will not get into the details but this "Abuse" is factored into the big pictures. At anual conferences we discuse and understand the pros and cons of our policy. Lucky for us .... and the customers ..... the pros far outweigh the cons.

M:
NICE !!! Well thanks for your time and I look forward to my new TV from Costco.

CM:
Your more than welcome and I am happy to be able to clear the water.

=======================================================


So, not WORD FOR WORD .... but pretty close for sure. This makes me feel better so I guess I will retract my last statement.

Just to confirm I called a second Costco in my area but kept it short when taking to the Return Manager by simply asking .... "I am looking to spend $4600 on a HDTV ... is it true you guys give one year coverage per $1000??" and I was very quickly told "YES, that is true"



Just goes to show ..... DO NOT TALK TO DESK JOKEYS ..... 90% of the time they are clueless. Needles to say, I will be going back to my original plan and getting my set at Costco and sleeping well at night knowing I am covered.

Cheers;

Mike


As I noted earlier, both Sams and Costco have excellent Customer Service and a very generous return policy ... HOWEVER, they CAN change these at will and are unlikely to "grandfather" previous purchases if that happens. When Costco changed their computer purchase return policy a few years ago, there was no "grandfathering" => and IF the TV policy should be changed, I'm sure it would be the same. I doubt they'll change it ... but it COULD happen => and as best as I can tell the $1,000/year concept is not stated anywhere in their policies (which basically means that's the current "guidance" for their return managers ... but NOT an official policy). Also, remember that they aren't "covering" the TV => they'll simply accept a return. In some respects that's better (you can get a newer one) ... but it's also a hassle. If you really want solid coverage of your purchase, I'd buy it elsewhere with a 5-year extended warranty => you indicated you could get it $200 cheaper; so that will help offset the cost of the warranty.

Costco is an excellent store ... I spend a LOT there every year and easily recover the $100 cost of my Executive Membership; but I would not plan on being able to return a TV set ... no matter what I paid for it ... after an extended length of time.

Mikey_Gee
01-27-07, 12:59 PM
I can get it for $200 less but than can add another $799 (cdn) at BB for an extended warranty or at THE BAY I can get the 5 year for $650

The exchange if something happens works even better for me IF need be.

Regardless, I still hope i get the set and it works without issues till I decide to PURCHASE (not exhange) another set in many years from now.

YOu comment about GUIDANCE is very true, and I they know this but are leaning toward fixing that issue. The is what I understand his statement to mean when he said:

"Costco is hoping to get a more DIRECT explanation of our policy since it seems to be shadowed with rumours and questions far to much."

Cheers

Barry_R
01-27-07, 01:07 PM
A policy that is not in writing is no warranty at all. It cannot be enforced by any legal means. The right to change the policy may be so loosely applied that a store manager can apply it on a case by case basis.

A extended warranty is a written contract between 2 parties and is legally enforcable. The problem with many warranties lies in the verbage of the agreement. They often contain wording that places the decision of how and even if to perform the service in the hands of the party that is paying for it. A clear conflict of intererest.

So the bottom line is that these businesses have constructed their policies and contract verbage in such a way that we the consumers have little or no control at all. You are at their mercy because they can decide to ignore your claim at anytime with little to no excuse for doing so.

Mikey_Gee
01-27-07, 01:17 PM
Yes .... but .... I do not ever recal Costco screwing someone over . If anything, I have see the policy take more sh1t and abuse than any other.

garycase2001
01-27-07, 01:21 PM
Yes .... but .... I do not ever recal Costco screwing someone over . If anything, I have see the policy take more sh1t and abuse than any other.

Agree. As I've said several times, Costco has EXCELLENT Customer Service ... and for any REASONABLE problem they'll take care of you. I simply don't think it's reasonable to expect to return a TV set 2 or 3 years after you've purchased it ... and would not be surprised if they refused to accept it at that point. If that's your expectation, then I would spend the $$ for an extended warranty.

Barry_R
01-27-07, 01:28 PM
Agree. As I've said several times, Costco has EXCELLENT Customer Service ... and for any REASONABLE problem they'll take care of you. I simply don't think it's reasonable to expect to return a TV set 2 or 3 years after you've purchased it ... and would not be surprised if they refused to accept it at that point. If that's your expectation, then I would spend the $$ for an extended warranty.

The manager said 1 year per $1000 but you are saying that it is not reasonable to expect that. So which is it? The answer is whatever the store decides to do and that was my point.

garycase2001
01-27-07, 02:12 PM
The manager said 1 year per $1000 but you are saying that it is not reasonable to expect that. So which is it? The answer is whatever the store decides to do and that was my point.

As you noted earlier, "... A policy that is not in writing is no warranty at all." The real "warranty" for these TV's is whatever the manufacturer provides ... typically one year. And how much you pay for the TV doesn't change that (although I often feel it should). If I buy a Porsche (which I've done) I'd expect it to be more reliable than a Kia (no offense to Kia owners) ... but the Kia actually has a better warranty :-)

... Costco and Sam's Club return policies are nice ... but they are NOT warranties. They are simply excellent return policies ==> but it is not, IMHO, reasonable to expect to return something as "defective" after it's worked fine for 2-3 years. As an example, we bought a foam mattress topper last year ... after using it for a couple of months we decided it wasn't right for us, so we returned it. I think that was reasonable ... it does take some time to decide. But if I'd kept it for a year or longer, I would NOT expect them to take it back (I wouldn't even try) => although they probably would (but IMHO that's an abuse of their policies). Electronics that fail after 2-3 years aren't defective ... they simply need service. I think it's unreasonable to expect Costco (or anyone else) to accept a return at that point (although they may).

JBUNGIE
01-27-07, 04:44 PM
Agree. As I've said several times, Costco has EXCELLENT Customer Service ... and for any REASONABLE problem they'll take care of you. I simply don't think it's reasonable to expect to return a TV set 2 or 3 years after you've purchased it ... and would not be surprised if they refused to accept it at that point. If that's your expectation, then I would spend the $$ for an extended warranty.

If thats the case they shouldnt offer a lifetime guarantee on their products. I bought a Sharp LCD for $2000 and if it craps out on me in the next 2 years you can bet your ... its going back. If they offered a 1 or 2 year guarantee I would have gotten my tv else where, but they have a Risk-Free 100% Satisfaction Guarantee policy so they got my business. ;)

Also not sure where they are pulling the 1 year per thousand dollar policy from, its not stated anywhere on their site. I am sure it would be noted if that were the case.

Barry_R
01-27-07, 05:09 PM
If thats the case they shouldnt offer a lifetime guarantee on their products. I bought a Sharp LCD for $2000 and if it craps out on me in the next 2 years you can bet your ... its going back. If they offered a 1 or 2 year guarantee I would have gotten my tv else where, but they have a Risk-Free 100% Satisfaction Guarantee policy so they got my business. ;)

Also not sure where they are pulling the 1 year per thousand dollar policy from, its not stated anywhere on their site. I am sure it would be noted if that were the case.

That was a great piece of sweet talk wasnt it, no wonder they made him a manager :D

dtrell
01-27-07, 05:25 PM
people, its just more bs from some local costco managers making up their own rules.

Mikey_Gee
01-27-07, 05:26 PM
Regardless, I am not much in the mood to pay the $799 for a 5 years warranty the BB wants to charge me.

If the one year per $1K is true (I doubt he pulled that from his ass) than that is awsome. The fact the manager at the second local Costco told me this was correct, tells me it is not a conspiracy, but rather a documented policy somewhere. Perhaps that hide it as general knowledge to try and CUT DOWN the abuse ... who knows.

IF HOWEVER all I get covered for is two years .... still .... I will go with Costco. BB wants 599 for two years coverage.

Here is the link:
http://www.bestbuy.ca/psp/popup_benefits.asp?newlang=EN&SKU=0926HDS0010079998&Action=Add&logon=&langid=EN

And I have not found other local B&M places with warranties much cheaper at all. Maybe a $50 bill here or there.

dtrell
01-27-07, 05:29 PM
Agree. As I've said several times, Costco has EXCELLENT Customer Service ... and for any REASONABLE problem they'll take care of you. I simply don't think it's reasonable to expect to return a TV set 2 or 3 years after you've purchased it ... and would not be surprised if they refused to accept it at that point. If that's your expectation, then I would spend the $$ for an extended warranty.
here we go again...the costco policy does not have the word "reasonable" in it anywhere. and your opinion of whats reasonable doesnt matter in the least. the policy is based on each individuals "satisfaction" nobody else's opinion matters. the only thing that matters is that if you have too many returns your account will be flagged. but if i return a tv after 3 years for whatever reason...its still one return and it wont be flagged.

Barry_R
01-27-07, 05:38 PM
I have seen extended warranties for items under 5K for much less than. Also you can get a protection plan from most manufacturers including Sharp.

http://www.sharpusa.com/SharpDirect/Advisor_Protection_Plans/

Most often nothing goes wrong but when it does I can buy alot of repair for $799.00.

Mikey_Gee
01-27-07, 06:12 PM
here we go again...the costco policy does not have the word "reasonable" in it anywhere. and your opinion of whats reasonable doesnt matter in the least. the policy is based on each individuals "satisfaction" nobody else's opinion matters. the only thing that matters is that if you have too many returns your account will be flagged. but if i return a tv after 3 years for whatever reason...its still one return and it wont be flagged.

Only problem is, what if I get this TV, and it has problems and I take it back and change for the same model 3 times (lets say it is a bad QC batch) ... will I be flagged for 3 returns when in reality it is the same TV, just trying to get a good one.

And does anybody actually have a REAL COPY of the policy? I email Costco a few minutes ago and hope to get a reply in ref to getting a look at the actual policy in wrighting.

Mikey_Gee
01-27-07, 06:14 PM
I can buy alot of repair for $799.00.

EXACLTY !!!!

garycase2001
01-27-07, 06:32 PM
EXACLTY !!!!

Agree ... that's why I would NOT buy an extended warranty. I'd buy it at the least expensive place (for $200 less than Costco); and use a warranty-doubling credit card. That way you're covered for two years ... and can simply bank the $799 you would have paid for the extended warranty. If you need any service in years 3-5 you have $799 to pay (or help pay) for it. If the TV works fine for 5 years (as it most likely will), you're $799 ahead :) You could probably buy it for even less via an internet-based store; although I'm not sure what's available to you in Canada.

Jerrymac
01-27-07, 06:41 PM
IF HOWEVER all I get covered for is two years .... still .... I will go with Costco. BB wants 599 for two years coverage.
=======================================
Mike,

If that's the case and you would settle for 2 years at Costco why don't you as many have done, purchase your HDTV anywhere BB, CC etc for maybe a cheaper price and a newer model and put it on your MC, Visa or AE where they will double your manufacturers warranty for free?

Just a thought.
---Jerry---

yellowcanary73
01-27-07, 06:44 PM
Only problem is, what if I get this TV, and it has problems and I take it back and change for the same model 3 times (lets say it is a bad QC batch) ... will I be flagged for 3 returns when in reality it is the same TV, just trying to get a good one.

And does anybody actually have a REAL COPY of the policy? I email Costco a few minutes ago and hope to get a reply in ref to getting a look at the actual policy in wrighting.


Thank you for your email to Costco Wholesale.

Our return policy will remain the same, as this is just a rumor.

With few exceptions, Costco has a 100% guarantee on all of our merchandise.

If you are not completely satisfied with your purchase, simply return the
product and packaging, along with the receipt, if possible, to your
nearest Costco warehouse.

Costco Wholesale will no longer accept returns of saleable cigarettes for all brands.

Only Exceptions:

All Un-saleable cigarette will continue to be accepted with prior approval from the
tobacco vendor's representative. All un-saleable cigarettes will have a sticker
from the tobacco representative that identifies it as being un-saleable.

Pre-approved saleable cigarette returns will only be accepted with prior written
approval. This approval for return will be a return authorization form with a list
of the items being returned, signed by the tobacco vendor's representative.

There are no other exceptions to Costco Wholesale's new return policy on
saleable cigarettes.

Please note, as of November 4th, 2002 , the return policy for all desktop
and notebook computers is six months from the date of purchase.
Six months after purchase, all computer services and technical support
will be subject to the applicable remaining manufacturer’s warranty.

We apologize if your household was not part of the demographic group to be sent one of these mailers. Recent manufacturer sponsored coupons mailings have been limited to the highest coupon redeemers from past mailings.

The Wallet and Passport coupon books offered beginning in January and June are mailed to a wider range of members. The primary of a Business or Goldstar membership and one per Business add-on with a home address on file will be sent these coupons. Below are a few reasons members may not receive these mailings:

Opted out to not receive mailings from Costco.
The mailing address is incorrect in our system.
Have moved within the last three months.
Became a member within the last two months.
The membership has been expired for the last few months.

Please contact Costco to confirm or update your address or opt-out information.


Thank you,

Costco Wholesale Corporation

Mikey_Gee
01-27-07, 06:57 PM
Thank you for your email to Costco Wholesale.

Our return policy will remain the same, as this is just a rumor.

With few exceptions, Costco has a 100% guarantee on all of our merchandise.

If you are not completely satisfied with your purchase, simply return the
product and packaging, along with the receipt, if possible, to your
nearest Costco warehouse.

Costco Wholesale will no longer accept returns of saleable cigarettes for all brands.

Only Exceptions:

All Un-saleable cigarette will continue to be accepted with prior approval from the
tobacco vendor's representative. All un-saleable cigarettes will have a sticker
from the tobacco representative that identifies it as being un-saleable.

Pre-approved saleable cigarette returns will only be accepted with prior written
approval. This approval for return will be a return authorization form with a list
of the items being returned, signed by the tobacco vendor's representative.

There are no other exceptions to Costco Wholesale's new return policy on
saleable cigarettes.

Please note, as of November 4th, 2002 , the return policy for all desktop
and notebook computers is six months from the date of purchase.
Six months after purchase, all computer services and technical support
will be subject to the applicable remaining manufacturer’s warranty.

We apologize if your household was not part of the demographic group to be sent one of these mailers. Recent manufacturer sponsored coupons mailings have been limited to the highest coupon redeemers from past mailings.

The Wallet and Passport coupon books offered beginning in January and June are mailed to a wider range of members. The primary of a Business or Goldstar membership and one per Business add-on with a home address on file will be sent these coupons. Below are a few reasons members may not receive these mailings:

Opted out to not receive mailings from Costco.
The mailing address is incorrect in our system.
Have moved within the last three months.
Became a member within the last two months.
The membership has been expired for the last few months.

Please contact Costco to confirm or update your address or opt-out information.


Thank you,

Costco Wholesale Corporation


But for the most part no mention of a TIME FRAME. "THAT" is what I wish they would pin point. Other wise, am I to assume I can return it after 20 years ?? I think not ... but the OPEN END is left to use to "GUESS AT" and I would rather a straight up "THIS IS HOW LONG" kind of answer.

As for BB and FS, I have had SO MANY unhappy experiences with both these AzzHoles I would NEVER -- EVER buy from either again. Not even as much as a can of pop.

BTW, how old is that email from Costco ?

yellowcanary73
01-27-07, 07:02 PM
Received Dec 30 2007

opus312
01-27-07, 07:05 PM
Ok, after getting my very sad news from Costco yesterday about the return policy, I found myself having a hard time really thinking they would only cover me for 1 year on a $4600 purchase.
SO .... I just called back and SPECIFICALLY asked for the returns manager. Did not tell why, I just had to speak to the Return manager.
Conversation went like this: (M= Me / CM = Costco Return Manager)

If it's not in writing, it's nonsense. Costco's written return policy has not changed.

Barry_R
01-27-07, 07:46 PM
Perhaps it is time to change the way we buy from retailers that are less than honorable when dealing with consumers. Maybe we need to seek out better matches for our hard earned money. Sorta like E-Harmony with their 26 ways of compatibility. We really only need 2 way of compatibility, honesty and integrity.

These attributes seems to have fallen by the wayside here in the USA and probably in most of the rest of the world too. There are so few retailers now that practice good customer service. Most of them only want to see your face when your ready to buy something else. They dread the day that we set foot in their store to make a warranty claim. Often their entire attitude towards us does a 180 from where it was when we were filling their cash drawer with the money for the product and its extended warranty.

Costco seems to be one of the few that still has some decency despite the occasional abuse of their policy. It is clear that Costco keeps its options open and it appears that some of the managers are making their own rules. Perhaps the companies policy is to empower their managers to make case by case policy decisions based on their judgment. If true this can go both ways for the consumer but the track record of Costco so far is good.

shelly
01-27-07, 09:51 PM
So much speculation in this thread.

Here is a quote from the Mitsubishi dlp rptv page at Costco.com


>Shipping & Terms

This item is covered by Costco's guarantee to refund your purchase price if you are not completely satisfied. Costco's guarantee applies, even though this item may not be covered by the manufacturer's warranty, because Costco is not an "authorized" dealer of the merchandise.

Standard shipping via furniture carrier. “Threshold delivery” includes delivery into member’s home (upwards to 2 exterior flights of stairs). Carrier will call to set up a 4-hour delivery window. Extraordinary delivery requirements may necessitate an additional fee to the carrier.

The estimated delivery time will be approximately 20 business days from the time of order.

Delivery is not available to Alaska or Hawaii.

Costco.com offers merchandise which complements our warehouse product selection. Therefore, most items available on our web site are unique to costco.com.

Costco.com products can be returned to any of our more than 400 Costco warehouses worldwide.<

This same policy is posted at the service desk at my store.

It is the written policy.

Shelly

Mikey_Gee
01-27-07, 10:57 PM
Costco still rules in my books and will get my business over all others.

Johnla
01-28-07, 12:09 AM
If the one year per $1K is true (I doubt he pulled that from his ass) than that is awsome. The fact the manager at the second local Costco told me this was correct, tells me it is not a conspiracy, but rather a documented policy somewhere.

If the only place you get it from, is from some managers mouths. Then it is not in any way shape or form, a documented policy!
Unless you see it in writing on a official document that was issued down to them from corporate, then it's nothing more than some managers 'word'.

garycase2001
01-28-07, 12:40 AM
Perhaps it is time to change the way we buy from retailers that are less than honorable when dealing with consumers. Maybe we need to seek out better matches for our hard earned money. Sorta like E-Harmony with their 26 ways of compatibility. We really only need 2 way of compatibility, honesty and integrity.

These attributes seems to have fallen by the wayside here in the USA and probably in most of the rest of the world too. There are so few retailers now that practice good customer service. Most of them only want to see your face when your ready to buy something else. They dread the day that we set foot in their store to make a warranty claim. Often their entire attitude towards us does a 180 from where it was when we were filling their cash drawer with the money for the product and its extended warranty.

Costco seems to be one of the few that still has some decency despite the occasional abuse of their policy. It is clear that Costco keeps its options open and it appears that some of the managers are making their own rules. Perhaps the companies policy is to empower their managers to make case by case policy decisions based on their judgment. If true this can go both ways for the consumer but the track record of Costco so far is good.

I agree there are many "... retailers that are less than honorable when dealing with consumers ..." and that there are few "... retailers now that practice good customer service."

Costco is indeed one of the best (Sam's Club is very good as well). They have, as I've noted several times, outstanding customer service. If, for example, you order one of their TV's online and are dissatisfied with it, if you return it to one of the stores you not only get a full refund of the cost of the TV ... but they also refund your shipping !! And, unlike virtually any other retailer, you can return it LONG past the typical 15 to 30 days that other stores allow ... and with no "restocking fee" which many places charge these days.

That said, just as they are very "honorable when dealing with consumers" ... it would be reasonable for us as consumers to be "honorable when dealing with Costco." To expect to be able to return a product long after the manufacturer's warranty has expired is simply an abuse of the goodwill of retailer. Yes, Costco will ... in most cases ... allow it (to retain your goodwill) ==> but it IS an unethical and abusive practice. I've thrown away several products that were 2 - 3 years old that I had paid $300 to $500 for at Costco (an HP printer, for example) that I COULD have probably returned for a refund => but I have to look at myself in the mirror every day, and prefer to sleep well at night :) (If they had died in 2 - 3 months, I'd have returned them) ... to PLAN to use their generous return policy long after a reasonable timeframe as a substitute for a warranty is simply a breach of good ethics.

redgtconv
01-28-07, 01:21 AM
Only problem is, what if I get this TV, and it has problems and I take it back and change for the same model 3 times (lets say it is a bad QC batch) ... will I be flagged for 3 returns when in reality it is the same TV, just trying to get a good one.

That is correct, it happened to me. I went through 3 Sceptre tv's, all with problems. Each was returned in 1-3 months after purchase. When I brought back the 3rd one, the manger was called out. He pulled me aside and tried to loudly make an example of me in front of the other people on the return line. He accused me of being a technology upgrader and threatened to cancel my membership. I explained that I bought the same tv 3 times, so not exactly an upgrade. I also told him I bought it from Costco.com and that they encouraged me to try the set again, even though I did not want to. He then walked over to the cashier and told her to give me my money and began to walk away. But I was angry, having been falsely accused, and having everyone in line hear his accusations. So I went over to him to continue the discussion. I tapped him on his shoulder to get his attention, and he turns around, points at me and says "Don't ever touch me!" Of wanted to really did want to TOUCH him now, but I stayed calm. Then he says " Well, I guess it's not what I thought it was, or I would have done something about it". I guess no apology was comming.
Next day I called Costco Home Office and filled a complaint against the manager. They said they would definitely follow through and make sure nothing like that happens again, but I have seen similar situations at this store. Bottom line is too much leeway giiven to the individual store managers to interpret the store polciy.

hiperco
01-28-07, 01:27 AM
Is a Costco membership required for online purchases? (The nearest Costco is 3+ hours drive from me...)

C'mon Costco, open a store near me :)

Mikey_Gee
01-28-07, 02:19 AM
I agree there are many "... retailers that are less than honorable when dealing with consumers ..." and that there are few "... retailers now that practice good customer service."

Costco is indeed one of the best (Sam's Club is very good as well). They have, as I've noted several times, outstanding customer service. If, for example, you order one of their TV's online and are dissatisfied with it, if you return it to one of the stores you not only get a full refund of the cost of the TV ... but they also refund your shipping !! And, unlike virtually any other retailer, you can return it LONG past the typical 15 to 30 days that other stores allow ... and with no "restocking fee" which many places charge these days.

That said, just as they are very "honorable when dealing with consumers" ... it would be reasonable for us as consumers to be "honorable when dealing with Costco." To expect to be able to return a product long after the manufacturer's warranty has expired is simply an abuse of the goodwill of retailer. Yes, Costco will ... in most cases ... allow it (to retain your goodwill) ==> but it IS an unethical and abusive practice. I've thrown away several products that were 2 - 3 years old that I had paid $300 to $500 for at Costco (an HP printer, for example) that I COULD have probably returned for a refund => but I have to look at myself in the mirror every day, and prefer to sleep well at night :) (If they had died in 2 - 3 months, I'd have returned them) ... to PLAN to use their generous return policy long after a reasonable timeframe as a substitute for a warranty is simply a breach of good ethics.


Woah !!!

Hang on ... if in any way, shape or form you are saying I am trying to or plan to abuse the Costco policy you are DEAD WRONG. I agree ... with your $500 TV set, but when $4600 is on the line, I am sorry , but in a year or so ... I will NOT just throw it out if it breaks down. My Magic number is 2 years personally .. I think that is a "reasonable timeframe" .. and I would not consider this request to be "LONG AFTER".. after all, it is NOT $500, it is 9X that amount. I do not buy things just to return them with intent to "UPGRADE" when the item has NO DEFECT. But I also know, that even with a warranty, many local places outside of Costco are VERY QUICK to "STICK YOU" and follow every loop hole they can.

"Hmm, looked at your item, and "I" don't see a problem. Your items defect is within an acceptable range" .......

I have been told that before and walked away not very happy.

I hope the intent of your post was not to stand on a soap box and judge me, you don't even know me ... but it sure came across that way. I "AM" a very honest and honorable individual. I have done my tours overseas while serving my Country and make sure my kids are brought up right and have no issue looking at myself in a mirror with my head held high. So ...... I really hope you are not pointing a judging finger in my direction. I do not see wanting to be covered for a $4600 set being an ABUSE of policy at all. Now .. if my intention was to keep this set for 3 years, go back with a BS excuse of how it doesn't work (when it does) just to get the next best thing .. then by all means ... preach till you're blue in the face.

PS ...

If you "DO" have that kind of money, that you are willing to chuck away a $4600 set in 2 years ... sir ..... your limo is waiting !!

Mikey_Gee
01-28-07, 02:27 AM
That is correct, it happened to me. I went through 3 Sceptre tv's, all with problems. Each was returned in 1-3 months after purchase. When I brought back the 3rd one, the manger was called out. He pulled me aside and tried to loudly make an example of me in front of the other people on the return line. He accused me of being a technology upgrader and threatened to cancel my membership. I explained that I bought the same tv 3 times, so not exactly an upgrade. I also told him I bought it from Costco.com and that they encouraged me to try the set again, even though I did not want to. He then walked over to the cashier and told her to give me my money and began to walk away. But I was angry, having been falsely accused, and having everyone in line hear his accusations. So I went over to him to continue the discussion. I tapped him on his shoulder to get his attention, and he turns around, points at me and says "Don't ever touch me!" Of wanted to really did want to TOUCH him now, but I stayed calm. Then he says " Well, I guess it's not what I thought it was, or I would have done something about it". I guess no apology was comming.
Next day I called Costco Home Office and filled a complaint against the manager. They said they would definitely follow through and make sure nothing like that happens again, but I have seen similar situations at this store. Bottom line is too much leeway giiven to the individual store managers to interpret the store polciy.


The reason I asked was the Set I am looking at (Sharp 52" LCD) has many known cases of BANDING. But it ranks very high and is a great set if your lucky to not have the banding. So ... for me .... it would not be an in-house 2 or 3 months. More like 2 or 3 hours, back same day for exchange if problem arrise with banding (they either have it or not ... it doesn't develop). If all works well, first Set, no issues, set it up and hope I NEVER EVER have to talk to Costco about it again.

Case in point ... look at this:
http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/attachment.php?attachmentid=73999
Nice Smudge and Banding .....

NOW, you just paid $4600 for this ... I would have it back to Costco within 30 minutes and want an exchange for another set of the same model. I assume for some ungodly reason if I got 3 bum sets in a row, and all went back the same day ... this should FOR SURE not be looked at as a Technology Upgrade. I mean technology moves fast .... but not 3 times in a day !!!

If I bought it outside of Costco (FS, BB, etc) after dealing with these other places ... I can't even imagine the hasstle and run around I would get if I needed to return 3 to get a good one.

garycase2001
01-28-07, 03:00 AM
Woah !!!

Hang on ... if in any way, shape or form you are saying I am trying to or plan to abuse the Costco policy you are DEAD WRONG. I agree ... with your $500 TV set, but when $4600 is on the line, I am sorry , but in a year or so ... I will NOT just throw it out if it breaks down. My Magic number is 2 years personally .. I think that is a "reasonable timeframe" .. and I would not consider this request to be "LONG AFTER".. after all, it is NOT $500, it is 9X that amount. I do not buy things just to return them with intent to "UPGRADE" when the item has NO DEFECT. But I also know, that even with a warranty, many local places outside of Costco are VERY QUICK to "STICK YOU" and follow every loop hole they can.

"Hmm, looked at your item, and "I" don't see a problem. Your items defect is within an acceptable range" .......

I have been told that before and walked away not very happy.

I hope the intent of your post was not to stand on a soap box and judge me, you don't even know me ... but it sure came across that way. I "AM" a very honest and honorable individual. I have done my tours overseas while serving my Country and make sure my kids are brought up right and have no issue looking at myself in a mirror with my head held high. So ...... I really hope you are not pointing a judging finger in my direction. I do not see wanting to be covered for a $4600 set being an ABUSE of policy at all. Now .. if my intention was to keep this set for 3 years, go back with a BS excuse of how it doesn't work (when it does) just to get the next best thing .. then by all means ... preach till you're blue in the face.

PS ...

If you "DO" have that kind of money, that you are willing to chuck away a $4600 set in 2 years ... sir ..... your limo is waiting !!


I wasn't accusing you of being abusive of the policy ... I was simply noting that Costco's very generous return policy should not be considered a substitute for warranty coverage. My "magic number" is also 2 years ==> and as I've noted before, I always buy with their American Express card; which automatically doubles the warranty ... SO, your set is automatically warranteed for 2 years (one with the manufacturer ... one with American Express).

By the way, I bought a 52" Sharp Aquos last month for our bedroom ==> it's a VERY nice set (bought it at Costco by the way -> for $3500). I WOULD return it if it had a problem "out of the box" (it didn't) ... or if was to fail in the next few months AND I was not satisfied with Sharp's warranty repair. But if it fails 2 years from now I wouldn't think of returning it ... I'd get it repaired (at my expense). If I was concerned about that possibility, I'd buy an after-market extended warranty ==> it sounds like these may be more difficult to get economically in Canada; but, for example, I could buy a 5-year warranty for my Aquos for $264 (http://www.tedunlimited.com/Items/RMT55000) ... although I don't plan to do so.

Barry_R
01-28-07, 03:10 AM
Mikey chill out a bit. I dont think anyone was pointing at you with these posts. I think it is a fact that the retailers that have good policies are taken advantage of and I think this is the only thing that is being pointed out here.

Do you own a D62?

Mikey_Gee
01-28-07, 10:45 AM
Sorry if I took the post the wrong way .. that is why I asked, and as it turns out, it was not inteneded the way it "COULD" have been taken ..... and that is a good thing.

No issues garycase2001 ..... :-) !! We are both thining the same way in regard to the policy Costco offers. Sorry for the misunderstanding.

I am a firm believer that if anything is to go wrong (especially with a none moving part solid state TV) with the set I am thinking of in particular ..... it will happen within the first few months. After a year if you have not issues ......... I doubt you ever will. Yet another reason I refuse to give BB or FS $800 in warranty. As was suggested before .... I'll keep that $800 so "IF" I ever need to use it ... well, $800 can fix a good deal of things on a TV set. Costco here is Canada DOES NOT offer anything in the way of a extended warranty (I'd buy it if the price was right). But as I said ... two years is my magic number. So even if the 1 year per $1000 is cut in half on my $4600 purchase ....... bam ........ there are the two years I am shooting for. Really I just want to get the set home, plug it in an have no problems at all. Then next time I say the word TV in Costco will be 7-10 years from now when I am buying a new one.

Barry_R .........I Do not own the D62 "YET". Just waiting for my local Costco to get it in. Not sure if I mentioned it before, but I have a Samsung DLP 1080p 67" from them. It is a BEAUTIFUL set, but to my dismay, realized after watching Private Ryan and Sin City I see the Rainbow Effect. Now that I have seen it ........ I see it ALL THE TIME and the DLP sets with color wheels that cause some folks to see the RBE is now a NO GO for me. I needed an alternative and found out my Local Costco was getting in the Sharp so I will exhange it for the 52" D62. It really sucks to ... the 67" Sammy is BEAUTIFUL when the odd time arrises that I don't see the RBE.

As for the D62, that is the main reason for my all my posts ........ I have read and understand these Sharp LCD sets have banding issues within a good number of sets .... that is why I am so anal about makeing sure I am covered.

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=733575&page=230&pp=30

And if need be, I like knowing Costco will give my the ability to exchange the set once or twice on the SAME DAY AS I PURCHASE IT (since I will still have the truck rented that I need to return my 67" bastard) without a hastle unlike FS and BB does. That also is why I was asking if each time I exchange a set, if it goes as a "MARK" on my membership.

Maybe now my story is a bit more clear. I can see why perhaps my questions were coming across and giving the impression I may have been one of those "UPDRADERS" that abuse the policy, but indeed .... that is "NOT" the case.

So sorry for any misunderstanding that may have happened.

BTW, those who have the Sharp 52" D62 ......... do you see and banding when you do the grey screen test?? ANd how do you like the set ??? I am hopeing the banding issues is just blown out of probortion.

You hear much more from UNHAPPY folks than HAPPY folks. The Happy ones are busy watching TV and the unhappy are busy chopping up the set here on the AVS forums

Cheers

Barry_R
01-28-07, 02:43 PM
Mikey
You are indeed in a unique situation and are rightfully worried about the outcome of exchanging the DLP for the Sharp D62. I would return the DLP asap and not wait for the D62 shipment. You may have to watch a square box TV for a while but with the money you spent back in your pocket you are not under any pressure when this shipment does finally arrive. Perhaps then you may decide to wait for the next generation of LCD TVs and not take the risk of getting something that you may be unhappy with.

Mikey_Gee
01-28-07, 03:03 PM
Mikey
You are indeed in a unique situation and are rightfully worried about the outcome of exchanging the DLP for the Sharp D62. I would return the DLP asap and not wait for the D62 shipment. You may have to watch a square box TV for a while but with the money you spent back in your pocket you are not under any pressure when this shipment does finally arrive. Perhaps then you may decide to wait for the next generation of LCD TVs and not take the risk of getting something that you may be unhappy with.

I was already in speaking with the return manager about my situtation and since my DLP is not even 3 months old, he assured me I would have no issue in returning the DLP and to just wait for the D62 to arrive (this week) so I could do it in one shot since I have to rent a truck anyway.

I have thought about just keeping my CRT tube set, but to be honest, once you have experienced the HD world of TV, HD-DVD and Games ......... I am not sure I could go back even for a SHORT time !!!

Plus my wife would kill me if I was to stick my old 32" set into the unit we bought to accomidate at 67" set ........... :p

garycase2001
01-28-07, 03:21 PM
Sorry if I took the post the wrong way .. that is why I asked, and as it turns out, it was not inteneded the way it "COULD" have been taken ..... and that is a good thing.
No issues garycase2001 ..... :-) !! We are both thining the same way in regard to the policy Costco offers. Sorry for the misunderstanding.

No problem.



I am a firm believer that if anything is to go wrong (especially with a none moving part solid state TV) with the set I am thinking of in particular ..... it will happen within the first few months. After a year if you have not issues ......... I doubt you ever will.
I agree. That's why I don't buy extended warranties ... the American Express or Platinum Mastercard warranty-doubling gives you two years of protection.



Barry_R .........I Do not own the D62 "YET". Just waiting for my local Costco to get it in.
I do have a D62 => it's a GREAT set. No banding that I can see ... I simply think it's wonderful :)

Not sure if I mentioned it before, but I have a Samsung DLP 1080p 67" from them. It is a BEAUTIFUL set, but to my dismay, realized after watching Private Ryan and Sin City I see the Rainbow Effect.
You didn't mention it before ... but it's easy to see why you're happy with Costco's return policy :) THIS is exactly the kind of situation that policy is made for ... a set that you're truly not satisfied with (for good reason). I came VERY close to being in exactly your situation ... I had decided to buy the 67" Samsung in mid-December; but Costco was out when I went back to buy it. However, in looking more closely at a 61" Samsung (6167 vs the Costco 6767) I noticed that in 4:3 mode there's very noticeable pincushioning. As a result, I started looking at every set in 4:3 mode and found that the Samsung's tend to all have this problem. So when Costco got more of the 67" sets I looked again ... and sure enough the 4:3 window has more pincushioning than I would be willing to live with. Had I bought it, I'd have returned it for that (hopefully not for RBE). So ... I've become very picky about the geometry ... and will probably buy a 70" Sony XBR2 instead of the Samsung for our family room. Meanwhile, I was in a buying mood ... and they had a 52" D62 Aquos that looked VERY good ==> so I took it home and am VERY happy with it. We're actually using it in the family room for now (until I buy a big set) ... and will put it in the bedroom after I buy the larger set.



Maybe now my story is a bit more clear. I can see why perhaps my questions were coming across and giving the impression I may have been on of those "UPDRADERS" that abuse the policy, but indeed .... that is "NOT" the case.
Just out of curiousity, how long have you had the Samsung ?? I tend to agree with Barry_R that it's probably best (even though you'd have to rent a truck twice) to go ahead and return the Samsung set. ... or, as a minimum, be sure you're spoken to the Returns Manager at Costco so he knows you're unhappy with the set and want to return it as soon as they get the D62 back in stock.

By the way ... our Costco has a very nice 63" Panasonic plasma display for about $4000 ==> if you want a display closer to the size of your Samsung that would be a VERY nice choice :) Doesn't work for me for 2 reasons: we still watch a lot of SD (in a 4:3 window) and I have a HTPC that displays the Windows desktop a good part of the day [my wife likes surfing on a BIG screen :) ] ==> so the potential burn-in issues of plasma eliminate that technology. But you might want to take a look at it if your Costco has the same set.

Mikey_Gee
01-28-07, 03:35 PM
^^

Big reason I avoid Plasma is I am a big gamer fan (video game that is) and the worry of burn in is FOR SURE and issue for me. You know, health bars, maps, ammo levels, all stuff that will sit on the screen in the same spot for long periods of time.

My set was only bought on Nov 18th (so a little over 3 months) but I was indeed taking to the Return folks at Costco and explained my situation and was told as long as I have my box, manual, remote and what ever else came with it ... also receipt .... it was no problem. It was them who suggested to just wait and do it all in one shot with the rented truck.

I am always envious of the USA Costco site compared to the Canadian site. You folks have SO MUCH MORE than us on the site. As you said, your costco had the D62 a while ago .... I am crossing my fingers my Costco will get them this week (should have been the 18th)

Much like you, as much as I liked the bigger screen size, I actually think the 52" will be a better fit. I sit 11 feet away HOWEVER, this is the main TV in the house and it does EVERYTHING .... HD, SD, HD-DVD, games, VCR (for the little ones disney VHS I have), and DVD.

Cheers

gemniii
01-28-07, 04:56 PM
Received Dec 30 2007

Woah!!
Received almost 12 months in the future!

yellowcanary73
01-28-07, 05:05 PM
Woah!!
Received almost 12 months in the future!

Yes I'm special
Your bad woops I mean my bad

jodiuh
01-29-07, 01:35 AM
Alright damnit, it's time for some good news!!

Item no: 334660 @ my local Costco has no time of arrival, but the price will be close to this w/ shipping (http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.asp?Item=N82E16889101094). Of course, you'll have to account for taxes and shipping. :D

Barry_R
01-29-07, 01:49 AM
Newegg has a good price and is a good internet retailer with an excellent reputation for customer service.

Johnla
01-29-07, 02:20 AM
Newegg has a good price and is a good internet retailer with an excellent reputation for customer service.
Only as long as you never have to try to return anything to them. Because then they can be a real PITA, even on DOA computer parts. And you can totaly forget about returning a TV of 24" or larger, because they won't accept a return on them for any reason other than a damaged shipment or wrong item sent. And with those you must refuse the delivery!


"Bulk Item Return Policy

* Return for refund within: non-refundable
* Return for replacement within: non-replaceable

This is our Detailed Bulk Item Return Policy. Bulk Items (including but not limited to such items as Air Conditioners, Home Entertainment Systems and Televisions 24 inches and larger) cannot be returned to Newegg.com for refund or replacement service. Therefore, you are urged to carefully examine the box your bulk item ships in before signing for the package. Should you observe any damage to the shipping box, or if the wrong product was sent, you must refuse delivery while the shipping courier is still on the premises. The item will be returned to Newegg.com and you will be refunded the full amount, including applicable shipping costs and tax.

If you determine upon inspection that the condition of the shipping box is satisfactory, an adult is required to sign the shipping courier's release form to complete delivery. By signing this release, you are acknowledging and agreeing to Newegg.com's Terms and Conditions, understanding that you cannot return the television to Newegg.com and that the condition of the delivery meets your expectations. After delivery, please read all included documentation and/or contact the manufacturer directly to determine applicable warranty coverage, if any."

garycase2001
01-29-07, 02:30 AM
Alright damnit, it's time for some good news!!

Item no: 334660 @ my local Costco has no time of arrival, but the price will be close to this w/ shipping (http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.asp?Item=N82E16889101094). Of course, you'll have to account for taxes and shipping. :D

Well ... if you'd read a bit more of the details in this thread you'd know the following 3 things make this a totally useless suggestion:

(1) The set you linked to is a 46" Aquos ... Mickey_Gee wants a 52" (Newegg does have those also, but not any cheaper than Costco)

(2) Newegg does NOT accept returns on these items ... a totally unacceptable practice for such an expensive TV

and (most importantly)

(3) Newegg does not ship to Canada ... so Mickey_Gee couldn't buy it from Newegg even if he wanted to :)

Barry_R
01-29-07, 02:44 AM
Well ... if you'd read a bit more of the details in this thread you'd know the following 3 things make this a totally useless suggestion:

(1) The set you linked to is a 46" Aquos ... Mickey_Gee wants a 52" (Newegg does have those also, but not any cheaper than Costco)

(2) Newegg does NOT accept returns on these items ... a totally unacceptable practice for such an expensive TV

and (most importantly)

(3) Newegg does not ship to Canada ... so Mickey_Gee couldn't buy it from Newegg even if he wanted to :)

I was not posting this for Mikey, just a general price comparison. And yes It seems that Newegg wont take it back if it has banding, however Sharp will exchange it.

garycase2001
01-29-07, 03:46 AM
I buy a LOT of stuff from Newegg (over $10,000 worth in the past 18 months) ... but I would NOT buy a large TV from them ==> there are too many places to buy them at excellent prices and with full return/exchange privileges. For example, the discussion in this thread was about Mickey_Gee's plan to get one at Costco ... AFTER he had already purchased a Samsung 67" set. Fortunately, Costco will allow a return of the Samsung and he can then buy the Sharp ==> and if he finds the Sharp unacceptable (I think that's very unlikely) he can return it to Costco as well and get yet another set (or his $$ back).

As an off-topic aside ... Newegg is an excellent source, BUT they rather strictly enforce their 30-day return privilege AND that does NOT start over if you have to return a defective item. I found that out with a defective disk drive ==> I had the bad luck of getting 2 defective drives in a row ... when I got the 1st one it was a few days before I installed it and realized it was bad. I got an immediate RMA, and shipped it back a couple of days later. When they received it, they shipped a replacement => when I received that I checked it out the next day and realized it was also defective. I called for an RMA and was told I was "just in time" for the 30-day return ==> I had a bit of a discussion to be sure I understood the return policy; and discovered that the RMA/exchange activities do NOT extend the 30 days. In other words, if I should get a 3rd dead drive, it would be too late to return it ... I'd have to deal with the manufacturer. Fortunately my 3rd drive was just fine (I expected as much) ... but I no longer return defective items for an exchange with Newegg ==> I return them for a refund and just re-order them (which starts the 30-day clock over :)

opus312
01-29-07, 08:47 AM
I wasn't accusing you of being abusive of the policy ... I was simply noting that Costco's very generous return policy should not be considered a substitute for warranty coverage.

On the other hand, the policy wording sure makes it look like Costco itself considers it a substitute for warranty...

garycase2001
01-29-07, 10:02 AM
On the other hand, the policy wording sure makes it look like Costco itself considers it a substitute for warranty...

I don't think so. In fact, one of the advantages they advertise for using their American Express card is that it "doubles the warranty" on everything you buy. There's a difference between not being satisfied with a product (e.g. you get a DLP and see rainbows; or an LCD and see banding) ... and having a problem with a product (e.g. your lamp burns out prematurely; or your DLP color wheel stops spinning) ==> in the former case you should return the product; in the latter you should get it fixed. I agree that, in the case of a few items that Costco carries that it is not an authorized dealer for, IF you cannot get warranty service because of that fact then you should return it ... in that case you are undoubtedly "not satisfied" because the normal warranty is not available to you.

HD-Noob
01-29-07, 12:06 PM
I went into my local BB with a CC ad wanting them to match the price on a Sharp 46" 1080p LCD. They would match the price, no problem, but wouldn't give me their deal on $150- off with DirectV-HD upgrade. That made no sense to me, the store manager told me there was no "double-dipping", so I called him an idiot and walked out.

Went to CC the next day, and was able to get them to match BB's $150- off with DirectV-HD upgrade. The CC salesman was a jerk, but they're not on commission so they don't care about customer service.

fullcourt81
01-29-07, 12:33 PM
A recent mailer from Costco has a Maxent 26" LCD with built in DVD, that is perfect for my Mom's bedroom. Has anyone seen this TV at Costco yet?
It is dated Feb. 5th.
I purchased a couple of the old Maxent 26" from Costco last year for my sports bar, and they work great.

Mikey_Gee
01-29-07, 07:20 PM
Hahahahahahaaa

Guess what .... Mikey went to a local WELL RESPECTED B&M shop today to look at some Plasma sets just incase that is why I decide to do and leave Costco out of it once I return my 67" DLP I see the RBE on.

SO I am watching and then I see a dark on light contrast (end credits, white text on black Background)

I say, "hey, did you see that??" The sales guy (whom was very nice and knew his stuff) said "See what??" .... I reply ... "It looked almost like a streak or smear of Yellow as a quick flash"

Here is the best part .... he then goes on to tell me a VERY SMALL AMOUNT Of folks see what they call the RBE of Plasma known as "Yellow Flash"

Can you believe this ??????????????

Arghhhhhhhhhhhhh

So ....... looks like LCD is my only choice. I will get my D62 52" at Costco (when they arrive) and if need be bring the damn thing back 10 times the same day till I get a good one and try it out at home and NOT in the store.

Sorry for the rant, but I am a bit PO'd right now ....... not sure if I am angry with the current technology or my eyes .......

:-(

jodiuh
01-29-07, 09:37 PM
Newegg has a good price and is a good internet retailer with an excellent reputation for customer service.
Agreed. I've bought and returned many items from them. Once I cancelled a shipment from UPS and it got auto RMAed. :D

Only as long as you never have to try to return anything to them. Because then they can be a real PITA, even on DOA computer parts.
I just returned some Patriot RAM and there were no issues, no restock fee...they even reimbursed my shipback charges! FWIW, I've never had an issue w/ them...now ZipZoomFly. :mad:

Well ... if you'd read a bit more of the details in this thread
First post (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=6939434&&#post6939434) makes it pretty clear...
Here you go fellas: your own Costco/BB/CC thread: but you still must abide by forum rules :)

(1) The set you linked to is a 46" Aquos ... Mickey_Gee wants a 52" (Newegg does have those also, but not any cheaper than Costco)
I threw the Costco item number and e$timate up there for the benefit of all who read this thread. It's new information that I figured would put a :) on more than a few faces.

(2) Newegg does NOT accept returns on these items ... a totally unacceptable practice for such an expensive TV
I linked Newegg only to work around the "no price talk" bit wo/ upsetting the rules. Thanks for making me admit my trickery. :(

and (most importantly)

(3) Newegg does not ship to Canada ... so Mickey_Gee couldn't buy it from Newegg even if he wanted to :)
But they do ship to America and I'm fairly certain there's quite a few of us here. :p

Mikey_Gee
01-29-07, 10:07 PM
yes, Mikey is from Canada and the only thing I like more then a good HDTV is a cold beer (and sex of course )

Johnla
01-30-07, 12:30 AM
I just returned some Patriot RAM and there were no issues, no restock fee...they even reimbursed my shipback charges! FWIW, I've never had an issue w/ them...


And I had to send ram back to PQI that I bought from newegg that was faulty from day 1 and would fail a memory test every time and also lock up the PC randomly, because it was easier to deal with PQI than with newegg. And another thing, they also would test the replacement ram that they were sending back to me to make sure it was good, newegg won't. I also bought a motherboard one time from newegg that was DOA out of the box plus it even looked used, and they did not want to exchange it for another one. Instead they wanted me to send it direct to Gigabyte for them to do a warranty repair/replacement, and when I pressed them for a RMA for a refund instead, they told me there would be a 15% restocking charge. Needless to say I called up my CC issuer to dispute their bogus attempt of a 15% restocking charge for something that was DOA, and VISA backed me up and charged it back to them. I got my full refund, and newegg did not get the 15% for restocking.




I linked Newegg only to work around the "no price talk" bit wo/ upsetting the rules. Thanks for making me admit my trickery.

There is also a no 'retail links' rule in this thread as well.
So you were most likely just lucky that it was not removed, more than you tricked anyone.

Mikey_Gee
01-30-07, 04:38 PM
If anyone is curious, here is my corespondance with Costco Canada in regards to return. Just got my reply today. I replace my Address with ( ***my address*** )

It reads from top to bottom, top being MOST RECENT and bottom being the INITAL EMAIL.



On 1/30/07, Canada Customer Service <servicecanada@costco.com> wrote:

Mike,

Thank you for your recent inquiry through Costco.ca, in response, what the manager told you was correct, our warranty is 100% member satisfaction and we will do anything within reason to make sure that happens. You will not have any difficulty returning this item if need be.

If you have any further inquiries, please do not hesitate to write us at servicecanada@costco.com, or you can call us Monday to Friday between 9am and 6pm EST and an agent will be glad to assist you.


Member Service

servicecanada@costco.com
1-800-463-3783

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~


--Original Message--
From: ***my address***
Date: 1/27/2007 5:44:27 PM
To: customerservice@costco.ca
Subject: Re: Question on return policy [#239819]

The reply I got was just a BLANKET STATEMENT .... I need additional assistance. Please read my original email and reply

Cheers;

Mike


~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

On 1/27/07, Canada Customer Service <customerservice@costco.ca> wrote:

Dear valued customer,

Thank you for e-mailing costco.ca.

Costco.ca has a 100% guarantee on all of our merchandise. If you are not completely satisfied with your purchase, we offer two convenient return methods. Costco.ca refunds include shipping and handling fees.

1. You can return the item to the nearest Costco Wholesale location. To find a location, please copy and paste the following address into your browser:

http://www.costco.ca/en-ca/Warehouse/Locator.aspx

2. You can reply to this e-mail. Please include your name, order confirmation number and reason for return. You will be contacted regarding your return within 5 to 7 business days. Please note that this entire return process can take approximately 3 to 4 weeks.

Please note: The return policy for all desktop and notebook computers is six months from the date of purchase. Six months after purchase, all computer services and technical support will be subject to the applicable remaining manufacturer?s warranty.

If you require additional information, please reply to this e-mail requesting additional assistance.

This is an automated message based upon your subject selection.

Thank you for shopping costco.ca

Costco Wholesale Canada ltd.
service@costco.ca


~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

----- ***my address*** Wrote -----
Maybe you can help me out since I am sure the ONLINE and IN-STORE policy is the same on returns.

I was told the policy on TV sets is 1 year, however, when I spoke with a Manager in Return today at my Local Costco I said I was not impressed with this since I plan on spending approx $4600 on a HDTV.

If I am only covered for a year I would be better off buying elsewhere and getting a extended warranty(and bigger selection) to help me sleep at night knowing I am protected. The Manager then told me that

in reality (but they do not normally give out this info for fear of return abuse) you are covered for 1 year for each $1000 in value. So in other words, for my HDTV set .... if anything was to go wrong with it, Costco would back me (via return or exchange) for a period of 4 years since the value is $4600

Can you confirm or prove this wrong for me ????

I want to make it clear I am not one to ABUSE the policy, but if I spend $4600 on a HDTV, I want to know I have some protection on my INVESTMENT !!!

Also, I have looked without success, but does Costco have online or perhaps in some format that you could send me or direct me to that "CLEARLY STATES" what the policy is
exactly??? To me, this kind of thing is only as good as the paper it is written on. Word of mouth has never help up very well. My only complaint is that it seams you can never get a STRAIGHT FORWARD answer, but rather interpertation of the policy.

Any help is much appreciated

Mike Griffin
Ottawa, Ontario

(Member since 1997)




So that is pretty much from the horses mouth and I will FOR SURE keep the original email if I ever need use it to protect my investment.

Cheers

GooberedUp
01-31-07, 10:26 AM
What's that 1 year for every $1,000 spent crap? These local managers have nothing better to do than talk out of their collective butts.

Regardless, corporate once again made clear what the policy really is.

SuperVision2010
01-31-07, 11:21 AM
What's that 1 year for every $1,000 spent crap? These local managers have nothing better to do than talk out of their collective butts.

Regardless, corporate once again made clear what the policy really is.

Relax, if you think about it , it probably has it's roots in some sort of flagging guideline,which managers would have in their knowledge base, but would have no bearing on a refusal of a return. The power they hold is in the right to refuse the renewal of your membership-that is all! Returns always subject to the written policy available on every Costco webpage...sheesh.

Mikey_Gee
01-31-07, 04:37 PM
What's that 1 year for every $1,000 spent crap? These local managers have nothing better to do than talk out of their collective butts.

Regardless, corporate once again made clear what the policy really is.

I think it is in regards to TV's, not other items.

Do really need to be coverd for 4 years on a $200 Tube TV ???

Would you actually take back a $200 TV after even a year ??? To me the lower prices are not worth the hastle of return after an acceptable time frame.

fullcourt81
01-31-07, 06:01 PM
A recent mailer from Costco has a Maxent 26" LCD with built in DVD, that is perfect for my Mom's bedroom. Has anyone seen this TV at Costco yet?
It is dated Feb. 5th.
I purchased a couple of the old Maxent 26" from Costco last year for my sports bar, and they work great.

I'm quoting myself, because I said 26", when in fact it is a Maxent 32" with built in DVD that I am wondering about. Costco item # 399032, no mention of it on their website. Just wondering if anyone has seen one in a Costco?
On the Maxent website, model # ML-3251HLT. It is a good looking TV, all black.

tjh3
02-01-07, 02:34 AM
I had to return a 50 inch AKAI Plasma that I bought at Costco after 1 1/2 years. They took it back without hassle for full refund (~$ 3,000).
They seemed to me more concerned about whether this was the same TV on the receipt than that I returned it. I did not even have the packing material just the TV, manual and remote.

When a TV gets returned, they actually make money as I found out. The returned TV goes back to the manufacturer for a full refund plus additional money for Costco's trouble. Either way they don't lose money...and they know you spend the money there again.

TJH

wallstreet123456
02-01-07, 08:31 AM
How do you know they actually make money when a TV gets returned?

chalankanoa
02-01-07, 11:53 AM
I returned a 50" Toshiba plasma to Costco because the buzzing noise was driving me crazy. Costco called a few days later to make sure that the return went smoothly and that I did not have any problems returning it. Great customer service. I bought my 50" Panny plasma from them and could not be happier.

GooberedUp
02-01-07, 12:47 PM
I think it is in regards to TV's, not other items.

Do really need to be coverd for 4 years on a $200 Tube TV ???

Would you actually take back a $200 TV after even a year ??? To me the lower prices are not worth the hastle of return after an acceptable time frame.

My main issue is that these store managers just have diarrhoea of the mouth.

It's a simple federalism/10th amendment type of concept. The corporation lays down certain guidelines and rules. The stores can only decide those things that are not specifically dictated by corporate.

PG13
02-01-07, 01:47 PM
On the other hand, the policy wording sure makes it look like Costco itself considers it a substitute for warranty...


I don't know about you, but I think the policy is what it is. It's amazing that there are so many people here who like to interpret the policy for you [just like some of the managers do] and come up with reasonable "this and that."

Here's the policy:

Costco.com has a 100% guarantee on all of our merchandise. If you are not completely satisfied with your purchase,
we offer two convenient return methods. Costco.com refunds include shipping and handling fees.


Based on the posts here, I've come up with some alternate policies:

1) Costco has a 99.9%, or less, guarantee...
2) ...If you are not completely satisfied with your purchase, meaning only if your set is somehow visibly defective,...
3) ...has a 100% guarantee on all of our merchandise for the following period: 30 days, for all items under $100, 31 days for all items over $100, but less than $150, and see the attachment for the additional return schedule...
4) If you are not completely satisfied with your purchase, and the majority of AVS forum members consider you to have the moral high ground,...
5) Costco.com has a 100% guarantee on all of our merchandise, but this should not mean you shouldn't also purchase warranty protection and/or use the default manufacturer's warranty before attempting to return the merchandise...
6) Costco has a policy, but we'll threaten to change it or ban you as a customer if you actually use it in a way that isn't the way we "meant" for you to use it!

Hopefully you get the idea.

But, on behalf of any Costco shareholders and people who do make returns to Costco, we appreciate all those people who purchase from Costco and personally eat the cost of bad [meaning any merchandise you are not completely satisfied with] merchandise. It keeps our individual costs lower and shareholder profits up!

Mikey_Gee
02-01-07, 06:08 PM
I asked the same question to "2" mangers at the return are at "2" stores both said the same thing.

THEN I sent that email to the HEAD OFFICE of Costco Canada (to confirm for the third time from the MAIN OFFICE FOR COSTCO CANADA) and was also told the same thing .... what more do you want them to do .... get a tattoo of the policy on their back ??

PS
I have returned stuff to costco that cost me under $100 a good 4 months later with all packageing and receipt and in return I received "Z E R O" hastle.

In all my years as a member (since 1997) I have NEVER eaten the cost on ANY item I have needed to return to Costco. Be it a return after a short term or long term.

If costco does or does not make money on returned items, if they re-sell it or if they eat it ...... I don't really care .... I'll I know is "I" am taken care of.

If Costco rapped up your stuff in gold and sealed it with a kiss, someone would piss and moan about it !!

6) Costco has a policy, but we'll threaten to change it or ban you as a customer if you actually use it in a way that isn't the way we "meant" for you to use it!

BTW, Costco never threatened to do this .... this was what was assumed from all the rumours that folks who heard it from a friend, who told a friend, who heard a friend talking about it to a guy with a Costco magazine in his hand.

BTW, PG13 ... very good post .... :D

yellowcanary73
02-02-07, 01:37 PM
(URGENT)Has anybody bought from Tweeters

GooberedUp
02-02-07, 03:13 PM
I asked the same question to "2" mangers at the return are at "2" stores both said the same thing.

THEN I sent that email to the HEAD OFFICE of Costco Canada (to confirm for the third time from the MAIN OFFICE FOR COSTCO CANADA) and was also told the same thing .... what more do you want them to do .... get a tattoo of the policy on their back ??

PS
I have returned stuff to costco that cost me under $100 a good 4 months later with all packageing and receipt and in return I received "Z E R O" hastle.

In all my years as a member (since 1997) I have NEVER eaten the cost on ANY item I have needed to return to Costco. Be it a return after a short term or long term.

If costco does or does not make money on returned items, if they re-sell it or if they eat it ...... I don't really care .... I'll I know is "I" am taken care of.

If Costco rapped up your stuff in gold and sealed it with a kiss, someone would piss and moan about it !!



BTW, Costco never threatened to do this .... this was what was assumed from all the rumours that folks who heard it from a friend, who told a friend, who heard a friend talking about it to a guy with a Costco magazine in his hand.

BTW, PG13 ... very good post .... :D

Not sure who you are addressing, but the bottom line conclusion has to be that it is corporate that sets the policy, not the local manager (unless that's in the policy itself).

Johnla
02-02-07, 07:20 PM
(URGENT)Has anybody bought from Tweeters

What about Tweeters?

Mikey_Gee
02-02-07, 10:25 PM
Not sure who you are addressing, but the bottom line conclusion has to be that it is corporate that sets the policy, not the local manager (unless that's in the policy itself).

And when I call Costco Canada DIRECT and talk to one of the heads in the RETURN & POLICY division I assume I can trust what he says.

But mabye they are playing a joke on me and I am talking to a janitor .. but I doubt it !!

And to some degree, I am sure the Mangers of individual stores are given some power, but push comes to shove .... I have an email direct from them telling me my $4600 purchase is backed for 4 years. It is saved, printed and in my little metal box for safe keeping if I ever need to pull it out !!

yellowcanary73
02-02-07, 10:34 PM
And when I call Costco Canada DIRECT and talk to one of the heads in the RETURN & POLICY division I assume I can trust what he says.

But mabye they are playing a joke on me and I am talking to a janitor .. but I doubt it !!

And to some degree, I am sure the Mangers of individual stores are given some power, but push comes to shove .... I have an email direct from them telling me my $4600 purchase is backed for 4 years. It is saved, printed and in my little metal box for safe keeping if I ever need to pull it out !!

Good for you I would save as well took my 2 week old 50px6u back due to really bad clicking when turning on the set also had a line in the center of the screen.Was just asked if there was anything wrong with it which there was and gave them the case number from Panasonic.
Then went to BB picked up the TH-50PX600U no more loud clicking and only a buck fifty more.

Quatre
02-02-07, 11:41 PM
there hasn't been much talk here about price adjustment at costco but just wanted to add that like returning it seems to be a very ymmv type of thing.

There is a 30 day price adjust policy that isn't super strictly enforced. But first off the day after i got my tv i noticed the stand that came with it was a little messed up. I tried to take it back to the store to exchange for another one and they wouldnt let me. I had to actually buy a whole second tv of same type nad then switch the st and on my own and then return the second tv with the first stand. The manager even basically hinted for me to do it that way. i would thin they'd have rather switched it out and sent it back as a damaged stand.

anyway my receipt was really marked up because when i tried to use the receipt from day before soi could keep the day later receipt they marked up the orig and then made me use that days receipt. the guy at exti was like " he just left with that tv and now he come back in with it" its like... so?

then i had to get a price adjust less then a week later when the price went down and it wasnt neccesarily super fast easy and smooth and my receipt being all marked up saying returned on it and then not returned which i made them right when i did the exchange otherwise i'dve had a receipt tht said returned.

didn't have costco amex so they gave price adjust in cash.

now just over 30 day later price goes down again so i go to get price adjust using costco amex statement as receipt (most places let you use this) and they give me a whole hard time saying you can't use that, then i couldn't use the green duplicate receipt i was given when i asked for a receipt that wasnt all marked up. that is useless nad cant use it.

before the lady even knew it was just over 30 days, she was just looking for one reason after another to not do price adjust. had to get manager who already knows me from before and gave me a hard time. he tells me price is the same and rotates computer screen to show me. which id idnt' care because i knew for a fact that the price came down. They would have hoped i gave up at that point.

But then they send someone to look at the display and price which i go to and sure enough its lower. So i ask the guy whey he insisted it wasn't and tried to turn me away when others have gotten the price adjust and the displayh clearly shows the new price. he then just says that its an instant rebate so computer still shows old price and they dont have to price adjust the new price with instant rebate. to me that is bs, but was his way of saving face and not apologizing. plus he hit me with the technically we dont have to do it and plus its past 30 days, which i said yeah by like 1 or 2 days and its been down before then and i know they can adjust beyond 30 day.

point is my costco is super strict and they give me a hard time for doing anything and act like its a problem when its completely legit. in the end the guy knew i could just return mine and get a new fresh tv at new price. so he saved us both some trouble on the return rebuy but why they insist on being difficult about it, attitudish, never apoligizing or admitting when wrong. its like they are pissed you are an educated customer getting the price adjustment. its not like they sold it to me personally and have to give money back.

anyway, i guess i would still buy a tv from costco as at least i did get my price adjustments though not without some aggravation. because there is nothing worse then getting a large ticket item and then it going down soon after you purchased and while most stores have price adjust, it usually is limited in how many days after.

plus while the return policy is somewhwat ymmv, i have already verified it works once even though mine was a same day buy/return.

i dont think costco, as far as their prices or policy, is a to be to end all place to buy, plus they dont have the greatest models, but i would still probably buy another tv from there based on the end result of experience with first one.

What larger 1080p tvs does costco carry now that are worth looking into.

If i can sell either my Daewoo ED 42' plasma, and/or my Panny 720p/1080i 60" rp lcd, i would think about buying another tv from costco.

either the 70" jvc hdila or whatever, or maybe the 63" panny plasma, or maybe sharp aquos 52" or sony 1080p lcd 46"?

the price on any of those doesnt seem to be that great though, while the the Samsung 1080p 67" DLP at 2500 now is a steal considering it started at like 4k or more and the 71" version at magnolia is at least 2k more for ony 4 more inches.

Quatre
02-03-07, 01:06 AM
The samsung hls 6767 dropped in price significantly wiht a manufac. instant rebate of $500 making it a really amazing deal for the quality tv you get.

i'm tempted to just get another one but like to have a variety in manufac. (though i do like samsung a lot lately and have a 26" sammy flat lcd) and technology (already have plasma, rp lcd, flat lcd and obviously dlp in the 6767)

would be open to led dlp in considering that a diff enough tv tech that i dont have but costco doenst carry the samsung 5679 led model. Wonder if they ever will carry a version of any led dlp models with more samsung models coming in other sizes and other manufacs to come out with led dlp.

anyway, are there any other good deals/price drops on 1080p sets from costco in a tv tech other hten dlp, like maybe the JVC hdila which is lcos right? 70" one. That price seems to have stayed the same for awhile.

Or the Mitsu's 65" and 70"? are those costco online only? can you bring receipt into store for price adjustment if it drops within 30 days after you bought? i would imagine store could do it, as long as its onlineprice that dropped but if they can't then not worth buyign online and seveal models are online only.

any good deal or price drop on any sony 1080p lcd model that costco has?

the 63" panny plasma seems ok, but i'm over plasma and its no 1080p

mallu2u
02-03-07, 08:06 AM
I just received the 6U after a month of wait and am so bummed. I did not know the Panny does not have a VESA compatible mounting system! I already have a mount and now have start searching for another TV! Sharp, Philips and most other brands are VESA compatible. This is so silly on part of Panny. Just venting :(

Barry_R
02-03-07, 01:33 PM
point is my costco is super strict and they give me a hard time for doing anything and act like its a problem when its completely legit. in the end the guy knew i could just return mine and get a new fresh tv at new price. so he saved us both some trouble on the return rebuy but why they insist on being difficult about it, attitudish, never apoligizing or admitting when wrong. its like they are pissed you are an educated customer getting the price adjustment. its not like they sold it to me personally and have to give money back.


What will they ever do if all customers become well educate and no longer put up with any games that the big corp stores play. Places like BB, CC etc. with their poor performance when it comes to customer service and warranty performance will actually have to become reasonable. One can only wish that the consumer becomes more hard nosed about where and what they buy because aslong as we continue to put up with these shenanigans they will continue to play games and put us in the weak position.

dtrell
02-04-07, 11:38 AM
any good deal or price drop on any sony 1080p lcd model that costco has?

the 63" panny plasma seems ok, but i'm over plasma and its no 1080p
price drops and deals are not allowed to be discussed on here, and panny doesnt make a 63 inch set. they make 58 inch and 65 inch...and no, panny and pio plasmas are not 1080p..and its good youre over it...but the picture quality is still every bit as good as 1080p lcd's and expecially 1080p RPTVs.

ted08721
02-04-07, 12:15 PM
(URGENT)Has anybody bought from Tweeters
I bought my DLP set from Tweeters. So whats the question???

yellowcanary73
02-04-07, 12:17 PM
I bought my DLP set from Tweeters. So whats the question???
Was wondering how their CS was but forget it I bought from BB

Johnla
02-04-07, 03:56 PM
and no, panny and pio plasmas are not 1080p..

Actually, a few of the models from both brands are indeed 1080p. And with more such models on the way sometime later this summer.

ted08721
02-04-07, 04:11 PM
Was wondering how their CS was but forget it I bought from BB
CS is just ok. I thought being it was a smaller specialty store it would be better then the average big box store, but I don't think so. First they forgot to deliver my set, I had to go pick it up in order to have it for openning day of NFL season (2003). Had 2 repairs done. Had to wait almost 2 weeks for Tweeter tech to come out. but was satisfied with repairs. Recently called for repair, they said no longer had their own techs. The outfit they had said was to come out never contacted me or Tweeters that they didn't service my area :eek: lucky for me I realized problem was really with STB not the set or else I would have no TV for tonights Super Bowl. But you know I have come to accept sh##ty service is part of the American Way. :(

Mikey_Gee
02-05-07, 01:01 AM
Actually, a few of the models from both brands are indeed 1080p. And with more such models on the way sometime later this summer.

Sir, you are very correct !!

InYourEyes
02-05-07, 06:11 PM
You would not believe this, but I was amazed to see so many flat-panel TVs being returned to Costco today. There were 12 plasma and 8 LCD TVs behind the CSR desk (wow). Also, I stopped by to Best Buy as well and found the same thing. There were 6 plasmas and 2 LCDs TVs behind the CSR desk. All are over 42". Is it possible that people just buy them only to watch Super Bowl on a big screen and return them back when they are done, because it costs too much to own? What do you think?

patrickjherbert
02-05-07, 06:13 PM
If you are in the market for an "open box" special, this can work to your advantage...

vili
02-05-07, 07:47 PM
There were a few posts about this prior to the Super Bowl. It seems to happen every year, some people go out and get the biggest and baddest TV's to watch the game on and after it's over they have no need for it and turn it in for a full refund.

mallu2u
02-06-07, 03:27 PM
Costco does not sell returned TVs but BB does. So one could get a better deal at BB. Costco rep once told me that all returned TVs are sent back and never sold since they don't want to take chances with customers not being satisfied with used TVs and coming back to store for e return. Thats a nice touch.

bananfish
02-06-07, 04:48 PM
In fairness, there are plenty of legitimate reasons why someone might buy a TV right before the Super Bowl and then return it, without the whole thing being an underhanded scheme to get a free "rental."

They might have learned that the TV doesn't fit the space they have for it, perhaps they didn't see the benefits of HD like they thought they would, maybe they found glare from the plasma or motion blur from the LCD unwatchable, etc. etc.

That said, I'm sure there are plenty of "free renters" out there. The stores simply hope that these renters are so overwhelmed with the picture that they keep it or come back another time to buy one.

Lelekid
02-06-07, 08:53 PM
You would not believe this, but I was amazed to see so many flat-panel TVs being returned to Costco today. There were 12 plasma and 8 LCD TVs behind the CSR desk (wow). Also, I stopped by to Best Buy as well and found the same thing. There were 6 plasmas and 2 LCDs TVs behind the CSR desk. All are over 42". Is it possible that people just buy them only to watch Super Bowl on a big screen and return them back when they are done, because it costs too much to own? What do you think?


They are clearly Super Bowl returns. Smart asses who think the retailers are not on to them and their free rental games. They know the deal, get it on Friday return it on Monday for a full refund on Costco, but not on most retailers like Best Buy, Circuit City and Sears who are charging restocking fees to prevent this abuse.

There's a regional store in South Florida and certain areas of Georgia that have the tightest restriction for returns, {is not HH Gregg} their policy is only 5-days to get your money back and 30-days for exchange for the same brand and model.

Their policy works like this after the 6-day: If they customer returns it for a defect the first time, if will be verified by a technician that the unit is indeed defective and they have to get the same brand/model, the second time they will need manager's approval on top of the verification from the technician., the third time, no chance! deal with the manufacturer.

They know how to detect abusers., There's always the first time is "my set buzz" the second time is "I need a bigger size" then the third time is "I rather have a Panasonic instead of a X-brand" no way jose! If I was the manager of a Costco or Best Buy, I'll personally turn them away and let them deal with the manufacturers.

I think EVERY single retailer in this country should follow this store's policy, it will save the rest of us consumers from the high-rise cost these establishments have to endure to cover these temporary "rentals" expensives which in the end is past to us.

You has the buyer are solely responsible for having enough time to see the set you intend to purchase IN THE STORE. Is not get it now, play with it at home, then take it back for another brand because you did not like the bezel or the flesh tones do not look as accurate as your neighbor's TV and so on with the infinite excuses until you have tested all the TVs in the store.

yellowcanary73
02-06-07, 09:27 PM
They are clearly Super Bowl returns. Smart asses who think the retailers are not on to them and their free rental games. They know the deal, get it on Friday return it on Monday for a full refund on Costco, but not on most retailers like Best Buy, Circuit City and Sears who are charging restocking fees to prevent this abuse.

There's a regional store in South Florida and certain areas of Georgia that have the tightest restriction for returns, {is not HH Gregg} their policy is only 5-days to get your money back and 30-days for exchange for the same brand and model.

Their policy works like this after the 6-day: If they customer returns it for a defect the first time, if will be verified by a technician that the unit is indeed defective and they have to get the same brand/model, the second time they will need manager's approval on top of the verification from the technician., the third time, no chance! deal with the manufacturer.

They know how to detect abusers., There's always the first time is "my set buzz" the second time is "I need a bigger size" then the third time is "I rather have a Panasonic instead of a X-brand" no way jose! If I was the manager of a Costco or Best Buy, I'll personally turn them away and let them deal with the manufacturers.

I think EVERY single retailer in this country should follow this store's policy, it will save the rest of us consumers from the high-rise cost these establishments have to endure to cover these temporary "rentals" expensives which in the end is past to us.

You has the buyer are solely responsible for having enough time to see the set you intend to purchase IN THE STORE. Is not get it now, play with it at home, then take it back for another brand because you did not like the bezel or the flesh tones do not look as accurate as your neighbor's TV and so on with the infinite excuses until you have tested all the TVs in the store.

Not everybody is doing this but I will tell you I do expect to get what I paid for maybe it is time for Manufactures to stop using the consumers as testers and put out what they advertise.Then they would not get the returns they do and the sales people will tell the consumers anything to make the sell this is where the retailers need to stand up and do whats right but they do not cause most are as crooked as the customers who bring these sets back.

DarkRogue
02-06-07, 10:18 PM
I've known local companies to buy Blu-Ray players for their own testing purposes against several sets then return them.

opus312
02-07-07, 07:08 AM
In fairness, there are plenty of legitimate reasons why someone might buy a TV right before the Super Bowl and then return it, without the whole thing being an underhanded scheme to get a free "rental." They might have learned that the TV doesn't fit the space they have for it, perhaps they didn't see the benefits of HD like they thought they would, maybe they found glare from the plasma or motion blur from the LCD unwatchable, etc. etc.

And, considering the number of TVs that are sold every day, they might not even have watched the Super Bowl.

opus312
02-07-07, 07:15 AM
You has the buyer are solely responsible for having enough time to see the set you intend to purchase IN THE STORE. Is not get it now, play with it at home, then take it back for another brand because you did not like the bezel or the flesh tones do not look as accurate as your neighbor's TV and so on with the infinite excuses until you have tested all the TVs in the store.

Nonsense. There are plenty of legitimate reasons to return a TV, even after taking the time to evaluate it in the store. One obvious problem is that the settings for store display are entirely different than those you'll want to use at home.