Official Amazon Trade-In FAQ 4.0 - READ 1st POST

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handsomepete

handsomepete

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

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. 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!

[quote name='Indigo_Streetlight']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.[/QUOTE]

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 NORAM 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
Click to expand...
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
Click to expand...
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.
Click to expand...
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GENERAL FAQ (Updated 06/07/2011)
Can I post a question on this thread?
  • Only if you can't find the answer from below. :lol: And please let me know if it needs to be added to FAQ.
Can I edit this FAQ? (updated 6/7/11)
  • You bet! Up top there is a section for notable TIVs - feel free to add anything in there (and if you can remember, clean up after yourself in a few days when the TIV has undoubtedly dropped). You can edit the FAQ too, please just make sure it's useful and well formatted! Thanks!
Since when did Amazon start doing trades?
  • The program began in 2009 and is handled by a third party merchant, NorAm International.
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. The address is:
    NorAm International
    22 Hampshire Dr
    Hudson, NH 03051
    (This is also an option when submitting your trades)
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. 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?
  • 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.
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 6/8/11)
  • Usually a day or with little delay at all, but the longest reported days so far is 4.
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 NorAm 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!
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 NorAm.
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/gamestaq/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 NORAM 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)
      Click to expand...

      [*]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
      Click to expand...

      [*]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)
      Click to expand...
    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 6/9/11)
  • Not sure yet, but that's the name on the trade-in shipping labels now instead of NORAM. May just be NORAM with a different name. This will be updated as we learn more.
Post away!
 
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^^ Until very recently I had never sent anything in late. But a few weeks back I sent some stuff in a day or two late and it was fine. I'm sure others have waited longer. It probably makes a big difference if you are close to them as out here on the West Coast it takes 7-8 days for delivery so sending it more than a few days late is probably pushing it. I think what they do is just close out trades a few weeks after they are submitted (may be as much as 3 or 4 weeks - I'm sure someone else can give specifics). (Note that my rejected trade-in was sent on time...)

[quote name='JungleRot']If a trade in gets denied will it tell you first and the trade in order status change in your account?
What I mean is I have never had a trade denied before but I currently have one that I sent over two weeks ago via usps and it still is in "not received" status. I can't track it and I am wondering if it got denied and I wont even know until it hits my mailbox.

Strange as I have never had it take so long. This is the first time I used USPS vs UPS though. Last time I do that.[/QUOTE]

I would use USPS in a heartbeat over UPS if I could (for free shipping I mean) since UPS is so slow. But for USPS you definitely need delivery confirmation so there is at least some tracking.

As for what they do when they reject something, I got the email just like usual - it will just say it was rejected and the reason for the rejection. In my case it just says it was "unacceptable" condition. That is utter BS as it was near mint. They didn't even just downgrade from "good" to "acceptable" which would have warranted a return (since I said to return it if not accepted at the condition I specified). But to go all the way to "unacceptable" is pretty severe. As I said before, it will be interesting to see what I get back. I'll be contacting Amazon shortly about getting the credit as they have always been good about making up for these problems. I hate having to do that when I shouldn't have to, though. Let's just say this: I sent in 2 copies of Epic Mickey and they were in identical condition. Why was one accepted at "good" and one rejected as "unacceptable"? They usually say if it is cracked or something like that but it doesn't say that...

The email looks like this:
Disney Epic Mickey
Platform: Nintendo Wii 1 Good $18.00 Gift Card Deposited

Disney Epic Mickey
Platform: Nintendo Wii 1 Unacceptable $0.00 Returned
Click to expand...
 
I had to log into my Amazon account to find out why the item was rejected. That was where I saw it was rejected due to the disc being cracked. The email didn't list the reason. Just that it was unacceptable.
 
[quote name='io']^^ Until very recently I had never sent anything in late. But a few weeks back I sent some stuff in a day or two late and it was fine. I'm sure others have waited longer. It probably makes a big difference if you are close to them as out here on the West Coast it takes 7-8 days for delivery so sending it more than a few days late is probably pushing it. I think what they do is just close out trades a few weeks after they are submitted (may be as much as 3 or 4 weeks - I'm sure someone else can give specifics). (Note that my rejected trade-in was sent on time...)



I would use USPS in a heartbeat over UPS if I could (for free shipping I mean) since UPS is so slow. But for USPS you definitely need delivery confirmation so there is at least some tracking.

As for what they do when they reject something, I got the email just like usual - it will just say it was rejected and the reason for the rejection. In my case it just says it was "unacceptable" condition. That is utter BS as it was near mint. They didn't even just downgrade from "good" to "acceptable" which would have warranted a return (since I said to return it if not accepted at the condition I specified). But to go all the way to "unacceptable" is pretty severe. As I said before, it will be interesting to see what I get back. I'll be contacting Amazon shortly about getting the credit as they have always been good about making up for these problems. I hate having to do that when I shouldn't have to, though. Let's just say this: I sent in 2 copies of Epic Mickey and they were in identical condition. Why was one accepted at "good" and one rejected as "unacceptable"? They usually say if it is cracked or something like that but it doesn't say that...

The email looks like this:[/QUOTE]

Thanks for the reply and info...:)
 
[quote name='RallyV']I had to log into my Amazon account to find out why the item was rejected. That was where I saw it was rejected due to the disc being cracked. The email didn't list the reason. Just that it was unacceptable.[/QUOTE]

Ah, you're right. On my trade-in page it also just says "unacceptable" and then there is a link for "incorrect condition" which I didn't click on before because I just assumed that was a link to a FAQ about trade-ins (explaining under what conditions they reject games, etc). It does say "disc cracked". Well, while I didn't specifically check for 1mm cracks in the center plastic, I know there was certainly nothing majorly wrong with it and I did look it over pretty closely. I had this happen before (like a year ago) and I'm pretty sure it is due to the way they rip games out of the cases when they inspect them :roll:. But now we've had at least 2 cases of this in the last few days so we'll see if it keeps cropping up.
 
Does anyone know if a non-Greatest Hits version of Heavy Rain would get accepted even though they only list the GH version as tradeable?
 
[quote name='faceless007']Does anyone know if a non-Greatest Hits version of Heavy Rain would get accepted even though they only list the GH version as tradeable?[/QUOTE]

You should be fine.
 
So I have an unopened Hunted: Demon's Forge that I purchased at BB for $10.69 and was going to trade into Amazon for $15.

What's everyone's opinion: Should I leave it sealed or open it before sending it in?
 
WOW.

waited all weekend for the trade in proccess.

Denied for a Cracked disc.

What the fuck

This is pissing me off,

its like the 2nd time

Perfectly sent too.

For those of you that have been rejected for the same reason?
what do you in a situation like this?

and does the game always come back cracked?
 
[quote name='cheapfrag']So I have an unopened Hunted: Demon's Forge that I purchased at BB for $10.69 and was going to trade into Amazon for $15.

What's everyone's opinion: Should I leave it sealed or open it before sending it in?[/QUOTE]

I've sent them in unopened w/ any problems. At least you'll have a bit more piece of mind that they might not reject it.
 
[quote name='cheapfrag']So I have an unopened Hunted: Demon's Forge that I purchased at BB for $10.69 and was going to trade into Amazon for $15.

What's everyone's opinion: Should I leave it sealed or open it before sending it in?[/QUOTE]

Yep, definitely send it in unopened - this isn't like Gamestop where they reject sealed trade-ins ;).

[quote name='ral1121']WOW.

waited all weekend for the trade in proccess.

Denied for a Cracked disc.

What the fuck

This is pissing me off,

its like the 2nd time

Perfectly sent too.

For those of you that have been rejected for the same reason?
what do you in a situation like this?

and does the game always come back cracked?[/QUOTE]

So, there's another. I sense an epidemic ;). I had one sent back (about a year ago) with the tiniest of cracks in the center plastic and someone said theirs came back that way last week too. It doesn't effect their playability, but is annoying nonetheless, especially when they didn't have that when you sent them in. But the way I've seen even some Gamestop and Best Buy clerks bend games out of cases (instead of pushing the center tabs to release them) it wouldn't surprise me if this happens when they are inspected. In fact, I think with my game the original case was not in good condition so I swapped it out with another. And I remember the disc being pretty firmly held by that new case. So if it is one of those tighter-fitting center tabs then if they aren't removed properly there's probably a good chance of them causing damage to the discs.

As for what you do, all you can do is contact Amazon and tell them about it. I have yet to do that myself. Sometimes they will tell you to wait till you get the game back before taking any action.
 
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[quote name='JungleRot']If a trade in gets denied will it tell you first and the trade in order status change in your account?
What I mean is I have never had a trade denied before but I currently have one that I sent over two weeks ago via usps and it still is in "not received" status. I can't track it and I am wondering if it got denied and I wont even know until it hits my mailbox.

Strange as I have never had it take so long. This is the first time I used USPS vs UPS though. Last time I do that.[/QUOTE]


Yeah i did the same thing for my first trade in not even intentionally...im always making trips to usps and must of been on autopilot. So it took a little shy of 2 1/2 weeks because of usps and not ups but everything went thru fine.I would just be a little bit more patient then the notifications will come!
 
[quote name='JUSTSULTAN']Yeah i did the same thing for my first trade in not even intentionally...im always making trips to usps and must of been on autopilot. So it took a little shy of 2 1/2 weeks because of usps and not ups but everything went thru fine.I would just be a little bit more patient then the notifications will come![/QUOTE]

I am still waiting. When I used UPS in the past it went quick but with usps it is taking foreverrrr.

Thanks for the advice.
 
So how many times have you guys asked (For those that get rejected often) Amazon to reconsider giving you some trade in credit for a rejected game disc do to it being cracked, but sent in perfect condition?

I've only received one payment from Amazon from their only mistake (I guess) in the past before for a trade in that went wrong. It was a console trade in and they didn't deny giving credit.

I will ask amazon again about my recent cracked disc after it is returned but i don't want to severe ties with them either.
 
[quote name='nbballard']geez. What happened to the TIVs? Resistance 3 is $10.50, Dead Island is $12. Usually they would be around $25-35 this close to release.[/QUOTE]

I was thinking about trading in both of those and I've been watching the TIV, each hasn't went above $13 and I think one of the two dropped as low as $8. :puke: They've only been out a few weeks. 8-[ Meanwhile Gears 3 already has a TIV of $36+ :roll:
 
k im a total newb here (havnt really mailed stuff much haha)but i'm thinking of getting into this at least for some of my older games because i really dont feel like dealing with the hassle of ebay or cregs list.

question tho before i read the site some about it. it says you print out labels. i take it you go to a ups store with the print and they take the info and make a pretty sticker and provide a yellow slip and not the post office with a yellow slip and some tacky printed out lable thats glued to a yellow slip hehe.
 
[quote name='Kevfactor']k im a total newb here (havnt really mailed stuff much haha)but i'm thinking of getting into this at least for some of my older games because i really dont feel like dealing with the hassle of ebay or cregs list.

question tho before i read the site some about it. it says you print out labels. i take it you go to a ups store with the print and they take the info and make a pretty sticker and provide a yellow slip and not the post office with a yellow slip and some tacky printed out lable thats glued to a yellow slip hehe.[/QUOTE]

Printed it out on a piece of paper, taped the paper on to the package with clear packing tape, dropped it in the ups box. As simple as that.
 
[quote name='Kevfactor']
question tho before i read the site some about it. it says you print out labels. i take it you go to a ups store with the print and they take the info and make a pretty sticker and provide a yellow slip and not the post office with a yellow slip and some tacky printed out lable thats glued to a yellow slip hehe.[/QUOTE]

I have no idea what you are talking about with yellow slips and glued things...

In either case when you get a free shipping label (a UPS one from Amazon or, say, a USPS one from Gazelle) you box up the game yourself (I tend to use boxes Amazon sent me for purchases), tape the label on the top, and bring it to the appropriate store. Yes, this requires you to have some minimal packing supplies like boxes and a nice roll of clear packing tape (since you'll want to cover most, if not all, of the printed label).

I also bring my UPS dropoffs into a UPS store and get a printed receipt as proof of mailing just in case they ever say I didn't mail it in time. Plus that guarantees it is entered into the system as opposed to putting it in a drop box - I always avoid that as it could just disappear with there being no proof you ever sent it. I always thought I was being paranoid about that sort of thing but then a few months back someone blew up our community mailbox (kids with an M-80 most likely). They could have jsut as easily done that to a USPS/UPS/Fedex box ;).
 
[quote name='io']In either case when you get a free shipping label (a UPS one from Amazon or, say, a USPS one from Gazelle) you box up the game yourself (I tend to use boxes Amazon sent me for purchases), tape the label on the top, and bring it to the appropriate store. Yes, this requires you to have some minimal packing supplies like boxes and a nice roll of clear packing tape (since you'll want to cover most, if not all, of the printed label).[/QUOTE]
And if you're like me, Amazon provides all the premium boxes and packing material you could want for free from orders. All I've ever needed to buy was packing tape, so hang onto them! Even the mailer slip-boxes are great for single games.
 
[quote name='retail sucks']I was thinking about trading in both of those and I've been watching the TIV, each hasn't went above $13 and I think one of the two dropped as low as $8. :puke: They've only been out a few weeks. 8-[ Meanwhile Gears 3 already has a TIV of $36+ :roll:[/QUOTE]
I ended up taking Resistance to Best Buy and trading them towards Rage. I ended up getting $42 credit. I'm not done with Dead Island, but it was pretty similarly priced.

I know this is the Amazon thread- but I was really impressed with Best Buy's Trade-in Kiosk. I was helped quicky, the transaction when smooth, and it was not gamestop.

Probably do this more often going forward.
 
Here is a chat I had with an Amazon Customer Associate earlier. He/She did not have much to tell besides that the merchants decide the trade in value by , platform, release date, and demand of the games. Which I already knew. Just seems way too low for games that isn't even old yet.....

HERE IS THE CHAT

Hello, my name is Prathap. How can I help you?
Me:Just wondering. Who sets the trade in value for video games on Amazon's site? I've been waiting to trade in Dead Island & Resistance 3, both released just 3 weeks ago and the trade in value hasn't went over $13 each meanwhile Madden NFL 12 which is a week older is at $37 and Gears of War 3 which released this past week is at $37
Usually games that are newly released have a trade in value of $25-$35
Prathap:Trade in values are decided by the amazon merchants.
The merchants handle all the trade ins.
The trade-in price you see on the detail page isn't a guaranteed price.
The price may be different when you actually trade the book in at a later date.
Me:Hmm, I've never seen them so low and I trade in all my games to Amazon
Prathap:I'm sorry about that. We'll offer a specific dollar value when you place your trade-in order, and you can decide whether that offer is acceptable before placing the order.
Me:$13 just seems like a mistake IMO for a new game
It's been a topic on several game forums and I was just hoping to get some info
Thanks, I guess the merchant just doesn't really want those games
Prathap:I'm sorry I'll forward your feedback regarding this to the concerned department.
Me:Thank you. Yeah that price seems way too low!
Prathap:The merchants decides the price according to many criterias as re-sale value, demand etc
 
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Anyone traded in their copy of Madden 12 and had it accepted? I am kind of nervous that my trade-in will not be accepted because EA decided not to include a physical copy of the game manual. I have no faith in these merchants to realize that the game doesn't include a manual, aside from the one on the disk.
 
[quote name='nastyislegend']Anyone traded in their copy of Madden 12 and had it accepted? I am kind of nervous that my trade-in will not be accepted because EA decided not to include a physical copy of the game manual. I have no faith in these merchants to realize that the game doesn't include a manual, aside from the one on the disk.[/QUOTE]

I traded it in when it was $40 credit just fine, but someone else in this thread had a different experience regarding the manual situation so it's not a 100% success rate.
 
Do you think UPS would have a problem with me using a USPS box to ship my games in? I'm lazy and I'd much rather ship the games in this same box GameFly shipped them to me in :lol:
 
[quote name='nastyislegend']Anyone traded in their copy of Madden 12 and had it accepted? I am kind of nervous that my trade-in will not be accepted because EA decided not to include a physical copy of the game manual. I have no faith in these merchants to realize that the game doesn't include a manual, aside from the one on the disk.[/QUOTE]

I had the issue before where it was returned with a 'Manual Missing' tag. I ended up re-sending it and wrote out a note, saying the manual was on the game disc and wasn't printed. Got my $37.80 or whatever it was deposited today. Also got a $5 credit after I complained the first time to the CSR so it worked out fine -- I just would, from now on, write that the manual is on the game disc if there isn't one.
 
[quote name='theking20']sent in my gears 3 copy for $40 today, hopefully it doent get rejected[/QUOTE]
Same here, hoping they don't "find" something wrong with it now that the TIV is lower.
 
[quote name='PimpLimp']Do you think UPS would have a problem with me using a USPS box to ship my games in? I'm lazy and I'd much rather ship the games in this same box GameFly shipped them to me in :lol:[/QUOTE]

As a rule I wouldn't use any usps packing material (flat rate boxes, priority mail envelopes, etc) with ups only because they could transfer the package to usps by mistake and then who knows where it would end up.
 
[quote name='PimpLimp']Do you think UPS would have a problem with me using a USPS box to ship my games in? I'm lazy and I'd much rather ship the games in this same box GameFly shipped them to me in :lol:[/QUOTE]

flip it inside out, I used to do that all the time.
 
[quote name='PimpLimp']Do you think UPS would have a problem with me using a USPS box to ship my games in? I'm lazy and I'd much rather ship the games in this same box GameFly shipped them to me in :lol:[/QUOTE]

I work at UPS and I deal with boxes from USPS on a regular basis so it wouldn't a problem. I even have to convert packages from UPS to USPS because soon enough UPS is gonna have a big share of the postal market since USPS is going down financially.
 
[quote name='boogie4114']I work at UPS and I deal with boxes from USPS on a regular basis so it wouldn't a problem. I even have to convert packages from UPS to USPS because soon enough UPS is gonna have a big share of the postal market since USPS is going down financially.[/QUOTE]

I doubt that's ever going to happen. Can you mail a letter or postcard for under 50 cents with UPS? Mail a package cross-country for under $2 with 1st Class shipping?

This whole idea that "UPS is going to take over the postal system" is, to me, absurd. No doubt USPS has countless financial issues (as a government entity that's totally unsurprising) but IMO it's not ever going to be privatized out to a carrier like UPS or Fedex, where the cheapest package you can ship is, what, basically $6? UPS/Fedex are totally ill-equipped to handle letters, magazines, and other forms of mail for the prices they charge and business structure they have...it's one thing to offer Overnight mail on documents for $10-$20, but for the average consumer who sends letters out or gets a magazine or newspaper in the mail, they don't have that ability in place.
 
[quote name='kouleefoh']flip it inside out, I used to do that all the time.[/QUOTE]
They've started printing 'Priority Mail Postage Required' or some such shit on the INSIDE of the flat rate boxes anymore.:cry:
 
[quote name='IAmTheCheapestGamer']They've started printing 'Priority Mail Postage Required' or some such shit on the INSIDE of the flat rate boxes anymore.:cry:[/QUOTE]

Pretty obvious why.
 
[quote name='phantomfriar2002']I doubt that's ever going to happen. Can you mail a letter or postcard for under 50 cents with UPS? Mail a package cross-country for under $2 with 1st Class shipping?[/QUOTE]
It's not about the low-pricing, they simply cannot sustain themself with the low volume of mail these days. Email is killing them, not competitors.
 
[quote name='cheeky']Pretty obvious why.[/QUOTE]
That's the thing though. I don't think I personally have ever used a PM FR box for anything besides shipping a Priority Mail package.

But I have definitely stretched out the FR envelopes and boxes to where they looked 'pregnant' and about to burst from all of the crap I packed into them.:lol:;)

Whenever I was given an argument as to the deformed boxes, I would quote the commercials 'if it fits it ships'. Moreover I was told repeatedly that as long as it closes without being modified or using other tape besides the pre moistened glue strips then it could ship in it's deformed state and that was good enough for me.;)
 
Was successful in getting credit for my game that got rejected for a broken disc.

The game hasn't arrived yet do, so lets see how it comes back.
 
[quote name='ral1121']Was successful in getting credit for my game that got rejected for a broken disc.

The game hasn't arrived yet do, so lets see how it comes back.[/QUOTE]

Curious as to what you did. I have a game on its way back for being cracked, but I know it wasn't cracked when I sent it.
 
Would a game be accepted if I send it with a generic box but still contains the original artwork and manual?
 
Anybody have success submitting those 360 game discs from gamestop.com with the metallic silver doughnut tape on both sides of the spindle hole? I guess Gamestop is now putting those on discs with cracks and selling them. I had one and successfully traded it in to BB recently but did not know where it was actually from. I got it from an individuaol on goozex. But I just received 3 of those disc today in a gamestop.com order.
 
[quote name='ral1121']Was successful in getting credit for my game that got rejected for a broken disc.

The game hasn't arrived yet do, so lets see how it comes back.[/QUOTE]

I kind of forgot about mine and just got it back today. There is an obvious 1/2 inch crack in the center plastic that extends into the metallic part of the disc (but not the data portion). Clearly this was not there when I sent it in. As I suspected, this particular game was in one of the "tighter" Wii cases where you really have to be careful removing the game from the center spindle.

I suspect the person at NorAm just ripped the disc out as I have occasionally seen Gamestop and Best Buy trade-in people do. The crack almost for sure happened at that point. It seems there is a little epidemic of this, so I assume that it is probably the same person who cracked all our discs. You'd think a big video game trade-in processor like NorAm would train people to depress the center spindle to release discs. They so thoughtfully placed a sticker with an arrow pointing right to the crack. Too bad they caused the damn thing in the first place!

Anyway, I just sent an email to Amazon right now and I had better get full credit for it. I had this happen before (over a year ago) but it was a much smaller crack that to be honest I might have missed. At that time, all I asked for was the difference in price between when I originally sent it and when I got it back. This time I asked for the whole amount as they essentially destroyed it.
 
[quote name='io']I kind of forgot about mine and just got it back today. There is an obvious 1/2 inch crack in the center plastic that extends into the metallic part of the disc (but not the data portion). Clearly this was not there when I sent it in. As I suspected, this particular game was in one of the "tighter" Wii cases where you really have to be careful removing the game from the center spindle.

I suspect the person at NorAm just ripped the disc out as I have occasionally seen Gamestop and Best Buy trade-in people do. The crack almost for sure happened at that point. It seems there is a little epidemic of this, so I assume that it is probably the same person who cracked all our discs. You'd think a big video game trade-in processor like NorAm would train people to depress the center spindle to release discs. They so thoughtfully placed a sticker with an arrow pointing right to the crack. Too bad they caused the damn thing in the first place!

Anyway, I just sent an email to Amazon right now and I had better get full credit for it. I had this happen before (over a year ago) but it was a much smaller crack that to be honest I might have missed. At that time, all I asked for was the difference in price between when I originally sent it and when I got it back. This time I asked for the whole amount as they essentially destroyed it.[/QUOTE]


This has happened to me twice already. The exact same thing that you describe here. A very small crack close to the center of the disc. It is really frustrating especially when this has happened to me twice in a row. The games that they send back do work but I didn't send them over to have them cracked and then mailed back to me for nothing.
 
[quote name='myl0r']Curious as to what you did. I have a game on its way back for being cracked, but I know it wasn't cracked when I sent it.[/QUOTE]

Your best option here is just to send them an email. It hasn't failed me yet.


I usually never demand things whenever I send them emails (I really don't want to, but they leave me with no other choice). Amazon always tries to make things right so I expect them to do something about it. I just basically state of how disappointed I am that they affiliate themselves with a company such as Noram and also explain that I am a loyal customer of Amazon. That usually works.
 
The Video Game Trade-In of the Day is Read Dead Redemption for :ps3: with a TIV of $18. Seems like a decent deal to me with the GOTY coming out soon. It's worth $6 more than the 360 and it beats BB TIV by $5.
 
[quote name='ral1121']This has happened to me twice already. The exact same thing that you describe here. A very small crack close to the center of the disc. It is really frustrating especially when this has happened to me twice in a row. The games that they send back do work but I didn't send them over to have them cracked and then mailed back to me for nothing.[/QUOTE]

Be careful with amazon trade in. Take pictures of the case and disc before you send in.

I have had a case recently where I sent in a disc in mint condition. They sent back a cracked disc with many scratches on it. This is not the disc I sent in. Why do I know (besides the condition), I marked it with a marker. To top it off, they sent back a case that had the corner cracked off it. I originally sent it in a cardboard box with bubble wrap all around.


The second time they screwed me was for Black ops. Trade in was 42.50. I sent it in after I got 1000 on it really quick. They cut open the box with a razor knife and cut the case and cover art. Sent it back sating I sent it in damaged. Really, they are not careful at all opening boxes. What a joke.

In both cases I called amazon right away and told them that I did not get the money and the trade in place damaged my items. Since I had pictures, I could prove it.

Be careful. I think the next time I send in a game I am adding a note that I took pictures of the game and case. Also, be careful taking the game out of the case. Press the button.


Also, in both cases the trade in value dropped 2 - 4 dollars each. Makes you wonder if they damage games on purpose.
 
[quote name='IAmTheCheapestGamer']They've started printing 'Priority Mail Postage Required' or some such shit on the INSIDE of the flat rate boxes anymore.:cry:[/QUOTE]
Yea I know, we still flipped it inside out because it still looks less like a Priority flat rate box. Yep the old company I worked for was a cheap ass :lol:
 
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