Amazon Trade-In FAQ 6.0

DealSeeker2U

DealSeeker2U

Banned
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!

Where do I trade in video games on Amazon?

On the Amazon Video Game Trade-In Store or on all (desktop) video games product detail pages. Customers can find the trade-in feature right below the price and above the platform selection on all desktop video games product detail pages while shopping for new video games.

-- FAQ

-- BlueLobstah

-- CheapAssGamer

THANKS TO HANDSOMEPETE, 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 1/18/2015)
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 are Amazon's T&Cs for trade-ins?

Trade-In Program Terms & Conditions


 
  • Your participation in the trade-in program (the "Program") is subject to the terms and conditions stated below, Amazon.com's Conditions of Use and Privacy Notice, and all rules and policies for the Program included on Amazon.com, including those stated in Frequently Asked Questions and Help pages (collectively, "Program Terms").
  • Items you submit for trade-in using the Program must be shipped only from the United States or APO/FPO, and you must have a physical address or P.O. Box located in the United States or APO/FPO. Products shipped from outside the United States or APO/FPO may not be accepted or returned.
  • Items you submit for trade-in using the Program are subject to acceptance by us, and may be purchased by us or a third-party merchant participating in the Program.
  • Items we accept will be purchased from you and you will be paid for the items with an Amazon.com Gift Card(s) issued for the value of your trade-in. Amazon.com Gift Cards are subject to the Amazon.com Gift Card Terms & Conditions. The Amazon.com Gift Card(s) will be deposited directly into your Amazon.com account. You will not be entitled to any other payment for items you submit for trade-in using the Program.
  • You represent and warrant that you have the legal right to sell all items you submit for trade-in using the Program, that the items are not counterfeit or stolen, and that your submission of them complies fully with the Program Terms. We may use a stolen goods database to determine if submitted items were ever reported stolen.
  • The items you submit must meet the Product Condition Criteria, as determined by us in our sole discretion, or such items will be rejected. Rejected items will be subject to the Rejected Items terms and conditions below.
  • Prior to choosing a condition for your item, you must review the condition description presented to you during the trade-in submission process, inspect your item thoroughly and ensure that it meets the condition criteria you specify. We will inspect your item against the same condition criteria.
  • We cannot confirm the trade-in value (TIV) of an item until We receive your trade-in. Despite our best efforts, a small number of the items in our catalog may display an inaccurate TIV. If the correct TIV of an item is lower than the stated TIV, we may, at our discretion, either contact you for instructions on whether you wish to submit the trade-in at the correct TIV or cancel your trade-in and notify you of such cancellation. If your trade-in is cancelled due to an incorrect TIV, we will return the item to you at no additional cost. You will not receive any payment for the returned item.
  • We reserve the right to cancel any trade-in in our sole discretion, including without limitation if certain quantity limits are reached. If we cancel a trade-in that you have already shipped, we will return the item to you at no additional cost. You will not receive any payment for a canceled trade-in.
  • We may terminate your participation in the Program at any time in our sole discretion, including without limitation if you submit items for trade-in that do not meet the condition criteria you specify or are counterfeit or stolen.
  • We may revise the Program Terms at any time and may suspend or terminate the Program at any time without notice to you.
 
Rejected Items
  • Items are inspected upon receipt using the Product Condition Criteria, as determined by us in our sole discretion. Items failing to meet the Product Condition Criteria will be rejected ("Rejected items"). You will not receive any payment for Rejected Items.
  • We will not return the following Rejected Items to you: Lost, Undeliverable, or Counterfeit items. We will dispose of Undeliverable items in our sole discretion.
    "Lost" items are items that are lost in transit.
  • "Undeliverable" items are items that were rejected and returned to you, but were returned by the carrier back to us as undeliverable.
  • "Counterfeit" items are items that match the exact version displayed in the Trade-In store, but are counterfeit reproductions of the originals.

[*]We may, in our sole discretion, dispose of or return to you the following Rejected Items: Extra, Damaged, Incorrect, or Incomplete items.
  • "Extra" items are items received by us but not on the trade-in list.
  • "Damaged" items are items that match the exact version displayed in the Trade-In store but are not in any acceptable condition.
  • "Incorrect" items are items that do not match the exact version displayed in the Trade-In store.
  • "Incomplete" items are items that are missing any required components, as specified in the Condition Criteria (like CD-ROMs) that were included in the original item.

[*]We may, in our sole discretion, accept Incorrect items for trade-in. If the Incorrect item is eligible for trade-in, we may provide you with an Amazon.com Gift Card(s) in the amount of the TIV for the Incorrect item instead of disposing of or returning the Incorrect item to you.
[*]We will return the following Rejected Items to you: Downgraded items.
  • "Downgraded" items are items that are graded in a lower acceptable condition than what was specified during the submission.

[*]However, if the item was Downgraded to a lower condition that is still eligible for trade-in, and you opted to receive the TIV for the lower condition when you selected the return option, then you will receive an Amazon.com Gift Card(s) in the amount of the TIV for the lower condition instead of receiving the item back from us. Rejection reasons and return package tracking progress can be viewed from Your Trade-In Account .
[*]In addition, we may not return items to you if the number of Rejected Items received from you reaches a limit that is determined by us in our sole discretion.
 
Instant Payment
  • If you are eligible for and choose to participate in Instant Payment, you will receive Amazon.com Gift Card(s) in the amount of the TIV at the time you initiate a trade-in.
  • Your participation in Instant Payment is subject to these terms and conditions, as well as the Program Terms.
  • Eligibility for Instant Payment is determined at our sole discretion and may change at any time without notice.
  • Instant Payment may be offered on eligible trade-ins and you have the option to accept or reject this option for a trade-in. Once your choice is made for a particular trade-in, it cannot be changed.
  • Instant Payment requires you to select a valid payment method which you have the legal right to use. Once the payment method is selected for a particular trade-in, it cannot be changed
  • If you selected Instant Payment and we have delivered you an Amazon.com Gift Card(s) in the amount of the TIV, then you authorize us to:
    charge your payment method for the Amazon.com Gift Card(s) if you cancel the trade-in;
  • charge your payment method for the Amazon.com Gift Card(s) if no items are received within 25 calendar days;
  • charge your payment method for the Amazon.com Gift Card(s) issued for any Rejected item, unless the item was Downgraded and you opted to receive the TIV for the lower condition when you selected the return option; and
  • charge your payment method for the Amazon.com Gift Card(s) less an amount equal to the actual TIV for the trade-in product determined in the grading process if the item was Downgraded and you opted to receive the TIV for the lower condition when you selected the return option.

[*]We will not be liable for any charges, interest, or other fees incurred by you due to the need to charge your payment method for the Amazon.com Gift Card(s).
[*]In the event your payment method must be charged but the transaction cannot be completed successfully, we reserve the right to pursue any available remedies.
[*]We may limit or restrict the number and amount of Instant Payment trade-ins you can place in our sole discretion, including under the following scenarios:
  • You have Instant Payments outstanding
  • Your payment method failed validation
  • We were unable to charge your payment method successfully
  • Any abuse of this program

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.

Carry on! :)

 
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Upvote 0 Downvote
I'm watching Judge Mathis. The kid on there said he didn't go to college because his mom told him his GPA was 1.6. He says his GPA was 3.2, so it averages to 4.0. (The numbers may not be exactly what he said, but you get the idea that no matter what his math is off)

He also said he just started a job at amazon receiving. I shit you not.

 
looks like Gamestop raised some prices again!  a bunch of $6.99s went up to $9.99 (really 10.99 with the $1 fee) and $12.99 up to $14.99/15.99, and also some $14.99s up to $17.99/18.99... ugh making most things not really worth even looking at now (well, at least making it a lot harder to find a gem).

 
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I sent in a PSTV bundle that was never used complete with everything except the Dualshock 3. It got graded as A which I was expecting due to missing accessory, but the reason they gave was "minor discoloration". Not sure how that's possible when I didn't even use the darn thing!
 
Ebay -> Amazon.  I have traded in two of these so far.  I submitted one as (A) and was upgraded to (G).  Submitted the next as (G) and got downgraded to (A) :whistle2:k I think because it had different packaging but the same UPC.  I was rejected on my first attempt so there is a risk involved like all other trade-ins here.  It says there are two left from this seller right now so jump on it quick if interested.

Ebay: XBOX Live Gold Starter Kit No Live Card Codes No Points - $10.99

Amazon: Xbox LIVE 12 Month Gold Starter Kit - $23.80 (G), $19.64 (A)

 
3dHene said:
Ebay -> Amazon. I have traded in two of these so far. I submitted one as (A) and was upgraded to (G). Submitted the next as (G) and got downgraded to (A) :whistle2:k I think because it had different packaging but the same UPC. I was rejected on my first attempt so there is a risk involved like all other trade-ins here. It says there are two left from this seller right now so jump on it quick if interested.

Ebay: XBOX Live Gold Starter Kit No Live Card Codes No Points - $10.99

Amazon: Xbox LIVE 12 Month Gold Starter Kit - $23.80 (G), $19.64 (A)
Click to expand...
Gone from eBay seller.

 
3dHene said:
Ebay -> Amazon. I have traded in two of these so far. I submitted one as (A) and was upgraded to (G). Submitted the next as (G) and got downgraded to (A) :whistle2:k I think because it had different packaging but the same UPC. I was rejected on my first attempt so there is a risk involved like all other trade-ins here. It says there are two left from this seller right now so jump on it quick if interested.

Ebay: XBOX Live Gold Starter Kit No Live Card Codes No Points - $10.99

Amazon: Xbox LIVE 12 Month Gold Starter Kit - $23.80 (G), $19.64 (A)
Click to expand...
Thanks. I took a chance and bought one.

 
I just got graded by the hater - 4 out of 5 games rejected for "severed damage," and the 1 that was accepted was downgraded for "missing manual."  2 out of the 4 games were complete copies with manual and VERY clean discs,  1 was the clean disc and case with no manual, and the last was a DS game (cartridge only) that was slightly miscolored.  The 4 rejected were like $7-13 games trading in for $16-23, of course all the TiVs have completely tanked as of now.   The 1 accepted was a DS game they gave me $4 for...

I just packed up 10 more games to send off.  I already scrutinized any disc only trades, and decided against 2 of them - and that was without knowing this had happened.  I'll roll the dice again because why not, they're already packed up, but I hope the salty fuck who was grading today gets food poisoning the day these new trades get there and they end up spewing from both ends for days while one of the normal graders gets my batch of games.

It's not going to take too many rounds ending up like the last one for this to stop being fun. 

 
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jeffcrazy said:
I just got graded by the hater - 4 out of 5 games rejected for "severed damage,"...*edit snip*

It's not going to take too many rounds ending up like the last one for this to stop being fun.
Click to expand...
Dude...that sucks. Sorry to hear that. The roller coaster of grading continues.

I've been kinda lucky thus far. Hope it doesn't devolve into what just happened to you.

 
I've had multiple 360 discs go into the "Severe Damage" rejection routine, though they tend to be the cheaper price discs that likely go through the resurfacing machine more times than they likely should.  I always test my stuff before sending it out and if it doesn't get accepted @ NorAm, they go back to GS as defective.

 
Darby27 said:
The moral of the story is hope your stuff doesn't get graded on Friday.
Click to expand...
Or Monday. Monday seems to be another "rough" day for some grading.

EDIT: I just went and check back through my trades from the last couple of weeks and I sent in 19 360 games and had 15 accepted and 4 rejected. All four that were rejected were due to "Severe Damage" of some kind, though I've only had one of them come back to date and if it had severe damage, I couldn't see it.

All of them checked out OK before being sent out, so I know they all worked. Due to some anal-retentive graders, most likely.

 
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jeffcrazy said:
I just got graded by the hater - 4 out of 5 games rejected for "severed damage,"
Click to expand...
Sounds like my experience with bestbuy.com shipping. Often I'll get a game and the case looks like it's been stepped on, though the disc is always unharmed. Wonder if these mailing companies just handle stuff with zero care...

Z6G9JR.gif


 
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I have definitely noticed them getting stricter with trades. My recent pipboy trade was brand new yet downgraded to acceptable for minor discoloration. I'm starting to get more downgrades and rejections from my gamestop trades as well. It's almost starting to not be worth the effort and am seeing a lot fewer worthy trades. Thanks to jq for keeping this alive.
 
There's a number of things that have affected grading as time has gone on:

* It seems like the more of an item they grade, the more chances the random bullshit rejection / downgrade reasons start showing up.  I sent in my Pip Boy and got LN on it, though I think I was one of the earlier ones to get it.  As time went on, the "missing items", "minor discoloration" and other random BS reasons started up.

* Also, there's no uniform standards for what is what for conditions, even though there should be.  This is why someone gets Good on one disc and Acceptable on another one when they were in the same condition.  It's random when someone decides differently for two of the same items.

* The previously mentioned situations with graders on Friday and Monday being far more of an asshole about condition than during the middle of the week.

* Most graders don't do the testing needed for complex electronics like phones, tablets and the like, as we've caught them rejecting / downgrading items with reasons that are 100% bullshit.  Especially on rejections.

* I know from personal experience that I've had items rejected and come back broken / damaged that could never have been damaged or broken save in the tender hands of NorAm due to my anal packaging requirements for protecting items in shipment.

So yes, there's way too much bullshit involved in the grading process, though you either hunker down and deal with it or you pack it in and stop trading stuff in.

 
I always opt to have the item returned, instead of accepting the lower trade value... however I dread the day when I send in a game sealed, it gets rejected, and they send it back (as there's no telling whether they ripped off the shrink wrap/etc., in which case I wouldnt be able to return the game when it gets sent back to me). It hasn't happened yet, knock on wood (still waiting for my Rory McIlroy to be accepted), but I'll be pissed if it ever happens.
 
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DisGonnaBeGood said:
I always opt to have the item returned, instead of accepting the lower trade value... however I dread the day when I send in a game sealed, it gets rejected, and they send it back (as there's no telling whether they ripped off the shrink wrap/etc., in which case I wouldnt be able to return the game when it gets sent back to me). It hasn't happened yet, knock on wood (still waiting for my Rory McIlroy to be accepted), but I'll be pissed if it ever happens.
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I typically accept the value because I don't feel it's worth the extra effort/anxiety of hoping you actually receive the return, and that it's in remotely the same condition as when you sent it. I've seen enough awful packaging from people who have zero incentive to properly package your item. Then you have to return it. I'd rather just cut my losses on the value difference and try again.

 
Darn. It looks like Life is Strange is OOS for shipping. Hopefully it comes back. I want to buy a copy to keep as well. 

Edit: Wow, I'm tired. It just occurred to me to buy myself an Xbox One copy.   :D/

 
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SonictheHedgehog1337 said:
Darn. It looks like Life is Strange is OOS for shipping. Hopefully it comes back. I want to buy a copy to keep as well.

Edit: Wow, I'm tired. It just occurred to me to buy myself an Xbox One copy. :D/
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Well worth it IMO. There is a couple of fetch sections I didn't care for but overall it's a good one. The soundtrack was great as well.
 
2 of 6 rejected for damages. i call bs as they all were the same condition prior to shipping. 

gs -> amzn trades are are razor thin margins and a few rejection would completely wipe out gains for previous 3-4 trades. i'm prolly gonna hang it up with these gs trades and only settle for new bby ->gs. 

 
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Daring said:
2 of 6 rejected for damages. i call bs as they all were the same condition prior to shipping.

gs -> amzn trades are are razor thin margins and a few rejection would completely wipe out gains for previous 3-4 trades. i'm prolly gonna hang it up with these gs trades and only settle for new bby ->gs.
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That's not as clear-cut as you make it, as there's not always a lot of BBY to GS flips to be had. GS to AMZ, yes, though GS isn't the only game in town for items to send to AMZ.

 
shrike4242 said:
That's not as clear-cut as you make it, as there's not always a lot of BBY to GS flips to be had. GS to AMZ, yes, though GS isn't the only game in town for items to send to AMZ.
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Absolutely. I'm just taking a break because I know this is just a simple dry season that probably comes every year. The good trades will be back, and so then will I.

Being in Memphis, locating the games for the trades are difficult enough, but to tack on the random rejections makes all the work less desirable.
 
Confidance said:
Absolutely. I'm just taking a break because I know this is just a simple dry season that probably comes every year. The good trades will be back, and so then will I.

Being in Memphis, locating the games for the trades are difficult enough, but to tack on the random rejections makes all the work less desirable.
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GS is putting the "$1 fuck you fee" on lots of items, so I don't think things are magically going to change in the future, since that's getting figured into the mix, as well as the $4.96 pricing online for items that are less than $4.99 in-store, plus adjusting items in-store to match more of the online prices.

It might be time to be more picky than packing it in completely.

 
I'm afraid to mail my copy of Quantum Break since all it came with is the Alan Wake DLC card and I'm sure they're going to downgrade it. Just going to take it to GS.

 
Flash15 said:
I'm afraid to mail my copy of Quantum Break since all it came with is the Alan Wake DLC card and I'm sure they're going to downgrade it. Just going to take it to GS.
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I didn't have a manual for King Of Fighters XIII, so I cut out the last page with the warranty info for an old copy of SF IV. That worked to keep it from being downgraded. May want to include a one page random insert to avoid a bogus downgrade.

 
Good grader for me today so far:  Both :ps3: Kung Fu Panda's went through as Good.  :360: Kinect w/ Kinect Adventures went through as Good without the AC Adapter.  Panda x2 were complete.  Kinect had no original packaging but game was complete.

 
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