From: James H. E. Maugham (CaptJHEM_at_waterw.com)
Date: Wed Dec 09 1998 - 10:59:19 EST
On 9 Dec 98, at 8:27, Steve Meisner wrote:
> For example, I purchased a Viewsonic PS90 monitor, just as I received it, the
> price dropped on NECX $100. I called them back before I opened the box. After
> haggling a bit, we split the difference and the actually refunded me $50.
> Overall I was happy.
Herein is the another problem when dealing with mail order houses. People's
perception of what makes them happy differs across the spectrum.
I wouldn't have been happy unless I had received the full $100.00! But that's
me.
Anytime you deal with these folks you have a friend on your side even if
you're not aware of it. The credit card company. A quick call to them
(especially AMEX) stating that you have a problem with a purchase that you
are attempting to resolve (or cannot resolve) will result in the vendor's
account being debited for your purchase.
The end result of this is a 180 degree sea change on the part of the vendor
with them actually calling YOU! Once you put your hand in their pocket, albeit
electronically, they suddenly are all sweetness and light. Even the surly ones
in Brooklyn with last names ending in a vowel!
This is also the reason that they will almost insist that you pay by check or
money order by tacking on "handling" fees to credit card purchases of
anywhere up to 7 or 8 percent.
I agree very strongly with the list's consensus of opinion that the best way to
head off these problems is to deal with a nationally recognized company
(CDW, Microwarehouse, etc.) or people you know and trust, like Bill. So you
might pay a little more, think of it as peace of mind insurance.
Regards,
James
James H. E. Maugham, V.P.
CaptJHEM_at_waterw.com
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