While ordering software online, the VioSoftware web site clic-through ordering ordering pages offered me a choice of USPS or UPS shipping. On the next page, my choice got kicked back and the only shipping method offered to my location in Hawaii was UPS, 2nd Day delivery for $25.00, as if the USPS mysteriously didn't deliver to Hawaii anymore.
Two business days went by, still no sign of the UPS delivery driver at my door. A week later, my software arrived in my mailbox, in a USPS pre-paid flat rate envelope, priority mail with a printed stamp priced at $4.05.
Inside, was my ordered software with a packing slip confirming a UPS shipment, which of course didn't occurr. I was ripped-off by $20.95.
I called the company to complain, but the sales rep insisted on trying to help me first. He actually did: he (said) he would credit my credit card for $20.00 even. I agreed, although I haven't been able to verify the credit yet, and so I suppose my case is to be considered settled.
The reason why I am making this report is because this is not the first time a company screws me on shipping like this. What is new is that I found this site and so this is the first time I get to report this.
The "modus operandi" is always the same: companies offer various shipping choices, then after credit card information is secured, the cheaper USPS chosen shipping method kicks back and a higher cost door-to-door UPS or FEDEX shipping method is required for some mysterious reason.
In the end, you still get your products USPS and they (the seller) just got an extra bonus!
To those who might think: "Oh well, if you live in Alaska or Hawaii, maybe the USPS doesn't deliver"... Bull! We have US Post Offices here because we are a state and always have regular service, and it doesn;t cost extra to write or ship USPS to Alaska or Hawaii. It just takes an extra day, that's all!
Besides, when I lived in the continental U.S., the same shipping rip-off's occurred! Buyer beware - if somebody compells you to pay more for door-to-door, make sure you get that door-to-door service you paid for.
My advice: Until some TV show like 60 minutes decides to uncover this scam, save the online page that kicks back USPS and requires UPS/FEDEX as proof - because it may not be stated in your confirmation page, confirmation e-mail or packing slip.
If you have proof, the company will try to satisfy you somehow because you now have grounds for a lawsuit.
0 comments