Amazon Trade-In FAQ 5.0

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handsomepete

handsomepete

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Welcome to the Official CAG Amazon.com Trade-In Thread

THIS IS NOT A FLIPPING THREAD. USEFUL CREDIT TRANSFER OPPORTUNITIES WELCOME, BUT KEEP THE PROFIT MARGIN TALK / SNEAKY OR LYING SHENANIGANS OUT

Hey trade-in pals! SENDING THINGS IN DISC / CARTRIDGE ONLY / GENERIC CASE NO MANUAL / ANYTHING BUT COMPLETE COULD RESULT IN REJECTION. THERE ARE NO EXCEPTIONS TO THIS. YOU MIGHT GET ACCEPTED, YOU MIGHT NOT. NO ONE KNOWS. IF YOU CUT OUT A UPC OR DO ANYTHING TO TRICK THE FINE(?) FOLKS AT AFS EXPECT IT TO BE OPENED AND REJECTED. THERE ARE NO HARD AND FAST RULES. IF IT IS ACCEPTED, IT WILL ALMOST CERTAINLY ONLY BE CONSIDERED "ACCEPTABLE." RISK YOUR TIME AND EFFORT AT YOUR PERIL!

I'm getting an acceptance rate of about one per day; it makes me think some supervisor is standing around with a glass of absinthe next to a couple of dumptruck loads of games...while the one responsible for the glitch is made to scan each item and recite its TIV with tears in their eyes. - Indigo_Streetlight
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Amazon.com Trade-in Home Page

------- FAQ BELOW - LEAVE ME ALONE PLEASE -------
Useful links:

-- BlueLobstah

-- CheapAssGamer

THANKS TO DISILLUSION386 and GI60 FOR POSTING AND MAINTAINING THE PREVIOUS AMAZON TRADE-IN FAQ THREADS

This thread’s primary purpose is to discuss Amazon.com’s video game trade-in program. Conspiracy theories about AFS smashing games before sending them back / stealing children / sneezing and touching public door handles / etc welcome, but try to avoid going nutso. PLEASE READ THE TRADE-IN DEAL DETAILS AND FAQ BEFORE ASKING ANY QUESTIONS.
Trade-In Procedure

1. SELECT ITEMS: Search for items to trade in. Your trade-in items must meet the product eligibility criteria.
2. SHIP GAMES FREE: Print a shipping label and packing slip, package your games, and ship them
3. GET A GIFT CARD: An Amazon.com Gift Card will be deposited into your account upon receipt of games

Shipping Instructions

1. Print this entire page. (Packing slip and shipping label once you have submitted a trade)
2. Cut out the shipping label and the packing slip.
3. Make sure your items are in good working condition and include the case and cover art.
4. Securely pack the items in a box or envelope and include the packing slip in the package.
5. Attach the shipping label squarely onto the outside of the package and add your return address.
6. Take it to your nearest UPS Store and mail it by (one week from submission of trade)
7. Or you can ship to:
note to self: look up new address
Trade-In Product Eligibility

Trade-in items must match the exact version displayed in the Amazon Trade-In Store, not be damaged, include original packaging (e.g. the manual, cover art, and case), and be postmarked no later than 7 days after submission. You will receive an e-mail confirmation and an Amazon.com Gift Card will be deposited into your account within 2 business days of item receipt and verification by the merchant. Items not accepted by the merchant will be returned to you approximately 14 days after receipt.
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GENERAL FAQ (Updated 12/26/2012)
Can I post a question on this thread?
Only if you can't find the answer from below. And please let me know if it needs to be added to FAQ.

Can I edit this FAQ? (updated 6/7/11)
You bet!

Since when did Amazon start doing trades?
The program began in 2009 and is handled by a third party merchant, previously known as NorAm International. Now known as AFS (Amazon Fulfillment Services).

What kind of shipping does Amazon provide us?
Free UPS ground ---- USPS is no longer available for free. There is now also an option to provide your own shipping.

Do I have to provide my own box or envelope?
Yes.

Do all my games in the same trade-in submission have to be shipped in the same box? (updated 3/9/11)
Not necessarily - people have sent in multiple boxes for the same trade-in submission successfully. It's even possible to send half at one time and the other half at the end of the valid shipping period. However, it's probably best to always ship everything at once.

Can I put separate trades in to a single box? (updated 6/7/11)
Sure, and they'll likely be accepted just fine. However, it isn't recommended since you would only have proof that you sent one of the trades (whichever mailing label you used). So it can be pretty risky.

Can I send in sealed games?
Yes. They won't reject games that still have the original shrink wrap.

Can I add Delivery Confirmation and Insurance to my shipment?
UPS Ground already provides you with tracking information, and I imagine you could get some sort of insurance added at a UPS store or location if you were so inclined.

I don't trust UPS ground. Can I pay for postage myself? What's the address?
Yes. You're more than welcome to do so. Just use the address on the amazon provided shipping label and make sure to get some sort of tracking.

When do I have to send my games once I have submitted my trade order?
You have 1 week (7 days) to send your games. There have been reports of submitting trades up to 15 - 20 days late, but that is definitely ymmv and not in the written rules. Send on time for the best chance at success!

Crap, I have one day to go before my shipment deadline, but the website states that my deadline has already passed. How do I print out a shipping label and packing slip? (Updated 9/9/13)
Load up any existing order (if you don't have any, check your browser's history or just submit a new one to use the link), and substitute the transaction ID for the trade-in order you need at the end of the URL.

Some step by step directions:
1. Go to your trade-in page on Amazon and find the Trade-In ID of the transaction:

Trade-In Placed:

August 24, 2013

  • Total Amount Submitted: $35.00
  • Amount Paid: $0.00
2. Copy the entire Trade-In ID (i.e. TRN-1234567-1234567) to your clipboard by highlighting it and hitting Ctrl+C or right click -> copy with your mouse

3. Paste the Trade-In ID to the end of this link:
https://www.amazon.com/gp/tradein/multicondition-your-account/print-label/ref=trdrt_ya_yaprnt?ie=UTF8&orderID=

So it should look like this:

https://www.amazon.com/gp/tradein/multicondition-your-account/print-label/ref=trdrt_ya_yaprnt?ie=UTF8&orderID=TRN-1234567-1234567

The Print Shipping Label screen for that trade should now come up.

How long does the whole trade-in process usually take?
From the time you send in your games, it may take up to 14 business days for the package to arrive. Most people usually receive their credit (Amazon GiftCard) in 3 to 5 business days, however.

How long does the "processing" status usually take? (Updated 10/11/12)
Usually a day or two with little delay at all. It may take multiple days or even weeks if it's an usual item/hardware.

My games were received on Friday (based on Delivery Confirmation), will I have to wait until Monday to receive credit?
People have received credit on a Saturday.

I do not have the manual, cover art, or original case for a game I want to trade in. Will they accept it? (updated 6/9/11)
While the details specifically state that original packaging is necessary, people have reported in the past that their trades were accepted despite missing some of these. This is extremely YMMV, however since some were also rejected by missing manual or cover art. On the other hand, older gen games; such as SNES, N64, and GB cartridges, normally get accepted without the original box and manual, but still YMMV.

It should be noted that with the new condition requirements (see later in the FAQ), you may be able to send an item in missing some or all of the required items (manual / cover art / case) and still have it accepted in "Acceptable" condition.

I do not have the manual, accessories, original box, original included game, etc for a console or accessory I want to trade in. Will they accept it? (updated 3/9/11)
The current wisdom is "probably not" - it's pretty YMMV but AFS seems stricter than they should be on this. Your chances seem to be better for them accepting a console or accessory without the box / manual / etc if it's older generation or rare. You're more than welcome to give it a shot though if you're feeling lucky - just pack it well and include as much as you can! Don't expect greater than 'acceptable' condition though.

My game is really beat up, what are the chances they’ll accept it?
This is YMMV. Some people have reported in the past that they sent in games in bad shape that were still accepted. Your best bet is still to trade in games in mint condition. Minor scratches are expected as these are used games.

My game came with DLC codes and I used them. Will my game be accepted? (Updated 12/28/11)
It is expected that included DLC codes have already been redeemed, so you should be fine. It is a kindness however if you have no use for it to not redeem it and let the next lucky soul who buys it from awd or wherever have a crack at it. Up to you!

My cover art (PLATINUM HITS) differs from the pic on amazon, will my trade be accepted?
It all depends on the UPC so just turn your game around, type in the UPC into the amazon search box. If the game comes up, then it's accepted regardless of cover art. Click on that result to submit your trade.

I have a game from a limited edition bundle, will they accept it?
If the game’s cover art has a UPC barcode, they will most likely accept it. If your game's cover states "Not for Resale" and does not have a UPC barcode, the game will most likely get rejected. Some people have had their games accepted in the past, but this is very YMMV.

The UPC barcode is not intact on my game's cover art, will that be accepted? (updated 3/9/11)
This is YMMV, but probably not. The UPC is all powerful within the walls of AFS..

I sent in my games, all of which were in pristine condition with the original packaging, but they said that one game is damaged and is now being returned.
Always pack your games well. Put a lot of newspaper around your games in the box to secure them and to prevent any damages from haphazard box cutting. People in the past have requested their entire trade-in order if it’s obvious the damage wasn’t their fault, and Amazon ended up accepting the rejected game. This is YMMV as well.

Can I trade in multiple copies of the same game?
Yes. Once you click “Trade in” for a particular game, you may change the quantities. Once you submit, you can no longer change quantities on that trade-in batch.

How many multiple copies of the same game can I trade-in (updated 1/11/11)?
Maximum of 2 copies within 3 a month period.

I locked in X copies of a game but I now only have Y available to send. Can I just send in Y without being penalized? (updated 3/9/11)
Yes, you can always just send in a portion of your trade-in order and they'll just credit you for whatever they receive. However, the quantities you submitted for will stay locked in that instance (I think) so if you, for example, submitted for 2 copies and only sent 1, you may not be able to trade any more copies of that game for 3 months (see previous question).

Will the Trade-in of the Day TIV stay for 24 hours?
It's been reported that there is a limit (maximum # of copies) that will get the promoted TIV so lock yours.

So if I find a good flip, I can just send 2 copies of that game and not worry about Amazon accusing me of stolen merchandise?
Technically yes, but do keep in mind that other CAGs might want to participate in the current deal, and trading in a large number of the same game will definitely lower the TIV of said game. Let’s be nice to other people. This is probably moot for most folks now with the per account / address trade-in limit.

Wow, these TIVs suck (updated 3/9/11)!
Really? Hrm. While that may be true, they're often better than other comparable places. Your options of what to do with your used games are greater now than they've ever been, so feel free to shop your trades around or just sell them off on glyde/ebay/whatever. Also, not a question.

What the fuck? The TIV of a game I just bought for this deal tanked! What do I do?
The TIVs on Amazon fluctuate depending on the number of trades that are submitted, and we really can’t do anything about it. The best course of action for trading in games is to lock in your trade if you already have the games or are absolutely sure that you can obtain them. You can always cancel the trade submission if you end up not finding the games.
LOCK = SUBMIT YOUR TRADE, Don't just put it in the cart.

Can I edit a submitted trade?
Nope - once upon a time you could modify trade in quantities of submitted trades, but that ability has been removed.

Can I use my credit on items that are not video game-related?
Yes. This is the other perk for trading in games at Amazon since you're not limited to just video games.

Can I use my credit on items sold by third-party merchants on Amazon?
According to the fine print of the Amazon gift card use, some merchants are excluded. Your best bet is to try it on the checkout page of your order.

Strategy guides? I can trade in game/strategy guides? Whaaaaa?
Go to the Textbook Buyback section (http://www.amazon.com/Textbooks-Trad...ode=2205237011[/URL]). You can either search on the title of a strategy guide you have to see if they'll accept it, or search for guides. The two best search strings to start with are 'prima guides' and 'bradygames'. Might try 'doublejump' if you want to trade in some of those. (Thanks eugaet)

I locked in some hilariously overvalued trade for some weird rare game/accessory/etc that I can pick up for cheap cheap cheap. They didn't accept it. What should I do? (updated 3/9/11)
The truth is that AFS can reject things for any reason they see fit. While some people have managed to get silly things like a $200 credit for some cheerleading game (or for a PS2 - just ask io!), it's sooooooo YMMV that often it's not worth the effort. EXPECT REJECTION ON THINGS THAT ARE CLEARLY MISVALUED. That said, as long as you're willing to risk it, go for it!

What's all this item condition nonsense? And how can I get screwed over by it? (updated 6/9/11)
We're still kinda sussing out the details surrounding the new item condition portion of Amazon Trade-Ins, but it looks like there's a couple things to consider:
Good Condition eligibility (games):
- The video game, original manufacturer packaging and all original elements are included, but shows wear from normal use
- Game still plays perfectly
- Disc may have light scratches and other elements may have minor damage
- Item may have been personalized (marked or identified)

Acceptable eligibility (games):
- Game still plays perfectly
- Item may have been personalized (marked or identified)
- Item may be missing or have irreparable damage to one or all of the following: case, manual, artwork, bundled accessories, UPC

Note that a game will almost certainly not be accepted if it meets any of these conditions:
- Game does not play perfectly
- Disc is cracked
- Marked Not for Resale (or is otherwise marked not for sale)

Consoles/accessories have some slightly different criteria, but the idea is the same.

Did it seriously just ask me if I wanted my game / other item returned if they refuse to give me credit for it? (updated 6/9/11)
Yes, that just happened.

Unless you're purposefully sending them things you deem to be trash, please remember to choose the option that has them return your item to you during the checkout phase.

Who is AFS? (updated 9/14/13)
Amazon Fulfillment Services (previously known as NorAm). Dunno if they changed names, were bought up by Amazon, or what. Not too interested anyhow.

Why does my package jump back and forth between states? (updated 9/14/13)
Look at a map of the involved cities and it'll make sense. Something to do with UPS hubs and proximity to the state border/cities.

Post away!

 
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Vigilante said:
Yeah, I think you'd only have an issue if there was a separate listing for the white microphone, but since there isn't, it should be accepted.
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Yeah I am hoping for the best lol

Thanks Vigilante,everything should work fine haha.

64 into 140 is nice ;)

also its in cali so I should get it quick :p

 
i just want to confirmed something regarding amazon trade in for video games , if your item does not match the EAN: #  that is listed on the trade in sheet from amazon. your trade in will get rejected, unless you elect for the "acceptable trade in value". right?

 
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YBX87 said:
i just want to confirmed something regarding amazon trade in for video games , if your item does match the EAN: # that is listed on the trade in sheet from amazon. your trade in will get rejected, unless you elect for the "acceptable trade in value". right?
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What are you talking about?

If your item ean matches it is eligible for a good or like new value. Usually they need a box but sometimes its inconsistent.

An acceptable value wouldn't need any of the product box, and if its the same or similar item you will be most likely fine.

 
Echocentricity said:
What are you talking about?

If your item ean matches it is eligible for a good or like new value. Usually they need a box but sometimes its inconsistent.

An acceptable value wouldn't need any of the product box, and if its the same or similar item you will be most likely fine.
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i made a typo, i meant if my video game does not match the ean # amazon provided, i will not get the full good value.

 
YBX87 said:
i made a typo, i meant if my video game does not match the ean # amazon provided, i will not get the full good value.
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It will get rejected immediately I think. But if you were to send an item without it, or in this case without a case then just send it as acceptable.

 
Echocentricity said:
It will get rejected immediately I think. But if you were to send an item without it, or in this case without a case then just send it as acceptable.
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thanks, just like i thought, it is too late for me, because i did not choose the downgraded option.

 
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Echocentricity said:
There is a picture of the white one guys so i'm sure they will take them, just make sure that you have a screenshot or something if there is a problem with it.

I mean if thats whats one the page, obviously thats what there taking as a trade in. Why even have a picture of it seriously.
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The white one is a customer photo however.

 
Hey so quick question that I just want to make sure I don't screw it up; I submitted a trade in for the new NFS and AC4 and want to do the trade up program. I should receive $54. 1) If I choose to receive the $$ now I can still get the bonus $25 (x2) right now, correct? and 2) This will stack with the $49 NFS xbox one price making me only pay $110 - 54 - 50 = $6, correct? If I'm wrong please correct me.

 
Dallas12Cowboys said:
Hey so quick question that I just want to make sure I don't screw it up; I submitted a trade in for the new NFS and AC4 and want to do the trade up program. I should receive $54. 1) If I choose to receive the $$ now I can still get the bonus $25 (x2) right now, correct? and 2) This will stack with the $49 NFS xbox one price making me only pay $110 - 54 - 50 = $6, correct? If I'm wrong please correct me.
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if you take payment now, you do not get the $25 bonus. you get the $25 bonus when it's processed.

yes, it works on any price. but lately, the $25 promo hasn't been deducting. my $25 promo won't come off nfs.

 
Miami Flash15 said:
if you take payment now, you do not get the $25 bonus. you get the $25 bonus when it's processed.

yes, it works on any price. but lately, the $25 promo hasn't been deducting. my $25 promo won't come off nfs.
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Well dang, that defeats the purpose of doing that.. I was only gonna do it so I wouldn't have to worry about it later. I plan on calling if the $25 deduction doesn't work for me as it states that it will be running through the end of December. Thanks for the reply! Guess I'll be waiting it out :/

 
Dallas12Cowboys said:
Well dang, that defeats the purpose of doing that.. I was only gonna do it so I wouldn't have to worry about it later. I plan on calling if the $25 deduction doesn't work for me as it states that it will be running through the end of December. Thanks for the reply! Guess I'll be waiting it out :/
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you can chat them and they should apply the $25--can't see why they would not

 
Miami Flash15 said:
you can chat them and they should apply the $25--can't see why they would not
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You think it's worth trying on receiving the money right now? One more thing -- when I did the trade in it only gave me a "good" or "acceptable option". Now these are Christmas presents for me so they're unopened, is there any chance I'll make more money if I wait and they upgrade it to "like new" (if they even will upgrade it).

 
Dallas12Cowboys said:
You think it's worth trying on receiving the money right now? One more thing -- when I did the trade in it only gave me a "good" or "acceptable option". Now these are Christmas presents for me so they're unopened, is there any chance I'll make more money if I wait and they upgrade it to "like new" (if they even will upgrade it).
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yeah if the values are good. 'good' is highest for video games.

 
Miami Flash15 said:
Anyone recently have luck getting the $25 deducted at checkout automatically on their upgraded games :360:?
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Bought Madden 25 Fri for $25 with it. I had an extra bonus so I used for the eff of it. Im officially out of bonuses now, will trade that to BB for $44
 
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Yea. Just put it in cart, went to checkout screen and it said promotion applied.
That could be the problem, maybe it doesn't allow stacking. No way to remove it?
 
have an Acceptable mic locked in, hope I can find one at GS.

Also, I am looking to trade in the Last of Us as I just beat my BF copy.  Its currently $17.xx on Amazon TIV but was $30+ not too long ago...anybody think it could creep back up into the $20+ range?

 
Just put in to trade in Ghosts and AC4 to upgrade to Xbone. Both brand new, bought them at dirt cheap between my Kmart discount, $30 in points (twice), and an additional $10 in points I'm pretty much getting BOGO for these after upgrading.
 
Will Amazon erase a console's contents before reselling it?  I'm going to mail my black Wii in tomorrow as an "Acceptable" Mario Kart bundle.  I'd rather not erase all my VC content in case it's rejected and returned, but I will if they'd resell the thing with all my stuff still on it.

 
How are you guys sending the Rock Band bundle out? In order to get Like New, you need the original box. But does the original box have a UPC that matches Amazon's? If it doesn't, it is hard to remove the UPC and taping over it will just have them remove the tape.

 
@FIF said:
Will Amazon erase a console's contents before reselling it? I'm going to mail my black Wii in tomorrow as an "Acceptable" Mario Kart bundle. I'd rather not erase all my VC content in case it's rejected and returned, but I will if they'd resell the thing with all my stuff still on it.
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I highly doubt they will wipe it.

I ordered a Vita from AWD and the guy that had it before me -- his account info and games played were still on the memory card/system.

 
AzureFlame said:
How are you guys sending the Rock Band bundle out? In order to get Like New, you need the original box. But does the original box have a UPC that matches Amazon's? If it doesn't, it is hard to remove the UPC and taping over it will just have them remove the tape.
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I sent two in 'Like New' with just the keyboard (in box, unopened) with a Rock Band 3 disc & inserts placed in a shiny new PS3 game case. Just tossed them both into the same box and shipped them out.

 
AzureFlame said:
How are you guys sending the Rock Band bundle out? In order to get Like New, you need the original box. But does the original box have a UPC that matches Amazon's? If it doesn't, it is hard to remove the UPC and taping over it will just have them remove the tape.
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There is no specific UPC for the Amazon bundle. It's just the two items sold together. I'm the one who came up with this deal originally and the way I sent was just to throw the keyboard with the box, manuals & wire and the game with case & manual into the same shipping box.

 
Confucius said:
is amazon trade in slowing up these days because of holiday rush?
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Pretty much always slow around the holidays - this year it's probably due to folks flushing their 'last gen' collections. Historically they've had some weird ass promos around this time that I would guess increase trades, but who knows.

 
handsomepete said:
Pretty much always slow around the holidays - this year it's probably due to folks flushing their 'last gen' collections. Historically they've had some weird ass promos around this time that I would guess increase trades, but who knows.
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Based on my experience, there is a three days delay during holiday season.

 
jetsaredim said:
There is no specific UPC for the Amazon bundle. It's just the two items sold together. I'm the one who came up with this deal originally and the way I sent was just to throw the keyboard with the box, manuals & wire and the game with case & manual into the same shipping box.
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Thanks very much. I'll do that then.

 
I created two separate trade-ins for two items that are identical. However I would like to ship them in the same box. If I put the packing slip for both in the same box, will this cause a problem?

 
lastemp3ror said:
I created two separate trade-ins for two items that are identical. However I would like to ship them in the same box. If I put the packing slip for both in the same box, will this cause a problem?
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Yes, there's the potential for problems with that. Only one label will show tracking information, so if they don't process one of the items, one of the items gets lost, etc. you'll have no proof that you sent in the second item and thus no recourse if something goes wrong. I wouldn't risk it.

 
Has anyone tired to ship the trade-in after the deadline? I missed one and worry about whether the shipment or trade-in will be accepted.

 
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mask-air-raid said:
They've been cracking down on them now. It looks like they're counting processing days too. Maybe that's just me.
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Thanks for your reply. I had a typo in my last post. I mean shipping the trade-in items after the date on the shipment label you print (there is a line saying all items must be mailed by a date).

 
Doesn't seem any slower from my end.  Got my Kinect received and accepted.  $66.  Woohoo!!

 
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The anticipation of my microphones is killing me. Feels like this summer all over again. It's been so long since I've sent anything into Amazon. Such a rush. It's like gambling with the odds in your favor.

 
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