My recent purchases from Amazon have been CD’s which are shipped in recyclable, padded paper envelopes. I feel your pain. Every CD case has been cracked or crushed, but the CD’s were not damaged.
I've gotten several records in plastic bags at this point. Most of the time when I order from Amazon Warehouse (their used/returned department) but a few times brand new. Always an instant return though. I've also had Target do this once as well.
Having received a few records from Amazon with little to no packaging, the thing that gets me is having to go out of my way to send it back. If it’s a defect with the pressing, fair enough - totally out of Amazon’s hands. But if they haven’t bothered to package it, and it arrives damaged, they need to adjust their policy so that you’re not obliged to return it AND they send you a replacement. With that in place, I bet that all future records are properly packaged haha! 🤣
Amen to that comment! I am sick and tired of the hassle of having to print off a return label with my paper and my ink, pack up the record with tape I pay for, and drive a return to the post office with my gas every time I have to send back a damaged or warped/defective LP. And believe me, I've sent so many records back to Amazon for replacements that I've lost count. It has been dozens, literally dozens! And a few times I've sent back the replacement because it's no better. So tired of it. Why send it back if they are only going to trash it. Or maybe resell for peanuts!
Gotta return it, there’s no excuse for that. I’ve bought several records from them, and they’ve always come in nice oversized heavy cardboard boxes. I hope this isn’t their new policy. 😬
@@DorianPaige00 I do, I always shop brick and mortar stores first for both new, and used titles. I only buy albums from Amazon when they’re not available at local stores. 👍
Amazon don’t have a policy. The underpaid, and exploited fulfilment centre staff just use the closest box or bag to them. The have no time to think or to look for a more appropriate box. If they did, they would get fired for not working fast enough. You can’t blame the exploited workers. Blame Steve Bezos and yourself as a consumer for chasing low prices. This is the cost of those low prices.
They did this a few times to me, and now I choose "gift packaging" for all records and they ship in boxes again. Can't believe they think this is OK....
@@Channel33RPM Also if you buy from sellers that don't do Amazon fulfillment (FBA) and ship the items themselves you will have better odds of good packing.
@@SteveReevesvlogs I have the opposite experience. Amazon fulfilled orders usually come in a carton box within a carton box, the others usually just the one carton box. I guess it depends on location.
At least you got a bag… When I worked at that hell hole I was constantly arguing with supervisors about the way vinyl was shipped out… record with no packaging, slap a shipping sticker on it, finished. They thought I was mental.
Back in the day I got the Beatles vinyl stereo collection box sent to me from amazon with no packaging. A miracle it arrived in good condition. More recently a Blue Note Tone Poet lp got sent in a bag. Again, I got lucky. Sent nasty messages each time though.
I ordered a record from Amazon last summer. I only ordered one but when it was delivered, it was actually a box full of 10 copies of the same record. I'm guessing they never unpacked the shipment from the pressing plant and just shipped me the the unopened box.
I'm in the UK - I bought a lot of records from Amazon during lockdown as I couldn't record shop in person. I have never seen anything as insane as that and people should return them and hopefully things will change. All my records came in proper LP mailers. I got a couple of grubby records but that's down to the pressing plant and came up fine after cleaning.
Happened just Friday. Record was in the same white soft bag yours was in. The mail lady had shoved it in my small apartment letter box. She could barely fit it in when the whole wall of doors was open that only USPS can open. But when she closed it, I would have had to bend and scrape it to get it out. Honestly, not sure it would have even come out. Luckily she was there putting mail in other boxes. I was as nice as I could be, considering the frustration, but when I gently mentioned that it's a vinyl record and should probably not be put in the tiny letter box, she got a huge attitude with me. Fun stuff. I will say, I've ordered a decent amount from Amazon, and they have almost all been in large boxes, but I've had issues with maybe 1 out of 5. Which is way too high! I only keep making the mistake of ordering through them because the deals are so good sometimes and it's sooo easy to impulse buy late at night while streaming the albums.
3 times here too, and from international shippings. What the hell are they thinking? The packaging varies wildly there. Sometimes they send my records in one big a** box, sometimes in thin cardboard protection.
Frank, I once got a record from Amazon that arrived with the shipping label placed directly on the shrink wrap! No bag at all. I sent it back. ETA: I just remembered I got one in a bag once, too. Damage was minimal, so I kept it.
Highly recommend the podcast "Mega Corp" detailing the conditions of working in Amazon warehouses. Having worked at one myself (but for groceries) there was often a lot of hurried mistakes made to keep "rate" because otherwise you'd get a warning (no matter how long you'd been there) that you were going to slow.
Hey Frank, I have had a couple of LP's shipped to me from Amazon in the exact same way. I kept mine, because like you, there were no other copies in stock. I kind of think that this is not Amazon policy, but employees being lazy. Good luck with it...
Happened one too many times for me. I've since stopped buying from them. I have had warehouse stickers placed DIRECTLY on the cover, bent corners etc. Call and complain if you can live with it. They will give you a discount coupon for your next purchase. Assuming there is one.
I noticed last summer that albums were not arriving in the good cardboard boxes that you mentioned. Wrapped less and less with less protections. I quit buying albums from them and bought them other places. I buy a lot of CDs also but started noticing this year that they quit using cardboard protection and only sent them in bags. Other places sent them in nice wrapped shipping containers so my last CD from Amazon was last month. Cracked cases irk me. I bought a lot of records and CDs from them over lockdown but I'm done unless I just can't find it which is rare.
Yup I've had things that were dangerous to return broken they said I must to get a refund or replacement like a new mirror for my Yukon that was smashed to pieces it also had a possibility toxic green fluid inside it that was used for the Auto Dim, I don't know how it worked but it's was a liquid between 2 Layers of glass, I told the CS agent that whoever handles that box for delivery or opens it could get cut badly! Makes you wonder how many workman's comp claim's are because the people working on the other side of the planet telling customers to send it back had never worked in a warehouse the most dangerous thing they ever did was break a nail typing on Facebook. Sorry I'm a little bitter towards Amazon customer service I've had too many issues and money lost to them.
Now I just noticed that you can get a SIGNED copy from Colin's website - you might want to go with it instead. The price is a little more BUT it is signed and you are supporting Colin directly.
Colin James !! Who Knew ?? I just streamed his latest album that you featured in this video - - Love it !! Thanks for featuring it - - unfortunately for being damaged ...
I always have recieved amazon records shipped in a record envelope, little thin flat bargain record box but also put in an outer box so you can't tell that they are sending a record. When you check out on Amazon, they used to have an option that would give you the choice. But obviously they should never just send in a bag!!
This happened to me in the US once. I order a large number of records from Amazon and 99% come perfectly (mailer in a box with wrap) but every now and again I get a bad delivery. I have a friend who recently got the same bag delivery from Amazon, he returned it and then the second copy game in a bag again!!! Both were ruined and then they had no more copies left. But in the end, I’m happy with Amazon as most packages are delivered safely, you get easy returns, cheap prices, low price guarantee and no up front cost for pre-orders which I do a lot (only pay for the records when they ship). You really can’t beat that IMO. I order between 5-10 records per month so it’s a good experience overall.
I’ve had about 6 of these plastic mailers from Amazon. All but ONE had to be sent back. The one I kept was damaged with a bent corner, but overall it was ok. The others all had serious damage of one sort or another. The bag on one was torn open and the cover had a big gouge across it, like it was pulled through a small space. Others had such bent corners that I didn’t even open to see the vinyl. The jacket is NOT apart of the packaging, if it’s damaged then the product is damaged. Would you buy a brand new car with a huge scratch on the paint job? Don’t excuse these if it’s just the jacket damaged. You’re correct about the bottom line. I too have received ONE LP where the packing sticker went directly onto the album cover. The Canada Post guy just shook his head and handed it to me. He must see a lot of disasters. And, before anyone blames the US Postal Service or Canada Post for mishandling, could ANYTHING survive undamaged when packaged like this?
They did this to me twice in a row now! I returned both and the second return is taking forever too… they actually started using some custom fitting boxes specially made for records but they just choose not to use it!
And just FYI this happened this week when buying the Madvilliany Instrumental Vinyl off Amazon. So disappointed they shipped it twice in the same crappy packaging!
@@Meowlico I had 2 copies of Cromags Age of quarrel from Amazon arrive with huge seam splits in the same spot. I sent them back and canceled my account. I live 20 miles from nearest UPS store and I got tired of spending money to return crap
That happened to me around the holidays. My gf bought me a record and it came in that kind of packaging. The cover was all bent and damaged. Returned it for an exchange and they re-sent in proper cardboard packaging.
I ordered 3 cds from them years ago. They delivered a small box perfectly sized to fit cds in. Only one small problem, the box had come open and it was empty. They delivered an empty box. I emailed and explained the situation. They replied it wasn’t their problem more or less. Couple days go by and I received another package, identical to the previous one, except the cds were actually there this time.
I buy alot of records and CD's from Amazon and have rarely had ones arrived with physical damage. Usually single CD albums are shipped in padded plastic envelopes, and many have cracked jewel cases. Amazon has been shipping records in plastic bags for awhile , but I have never received one that wasn't also enclosed in a dedicated record mailing cardboard box. The ones I have received were usually single LP's. Sometimes I have received an order which also includes albums and CD's in a larger Amazon Cardboard box with some air pillows thrown in. Very rarely is the album NOT in a cardboard record mailer. Always look at the return address because often Amazon direct ships from an independent distributor. In the U.S., if the return address is from Shepherdsville or Louisville, KY, it was direct-shipped from AEC. Also, many of the LP's come to Amazon pre-boxed in an LP mailer. They are labeled as to what should be inside, but you might get a surprise when you open them. There were 2 Christmas LP's that I ordered last year which had the I.D. sticker, but were the furthest thing from a Christmas album that you could get, with one being satanic. After a couple of exchanges, one finally came correct but the other I had to get a refund. Why do I buy so many records and CD's from or through Amazon? 1). Selection, 2). Customer Service and returns, 3). Fast shipping and 4). Price. Also, returns are "no questions asked" and they give you a "return by" date which allows you to not return until after you have received the replacement(s). With multi-disc sets, it allows you to keep the best and return the rest. If Amazon offers an exchange for the same record, eventhough they may no longer list it for sale on their website, that means that there are more or they are expecting more. This album you received looks like it came with a download card. USE IT! Also, every record or CD I receive, from anyone, gets recorded to hard drive using lossless wav, whether I return them or not. Many terabytes later, after several years, I am only through about 1/3 of my LP and 12" collection and almost through the "A's" of my 7" 45's collection. All my several thousand CD's are saved to an almost full 2TB external hard drive and all my hard drives are backed up on an 8TB external hard drive. ALWAYS! Save your collection to Hard drive and use the download cards! Oh, Amazon gives you the option of returning without ANY packaging.
One other time I ordered a CD version of a box set as it was cheaper, they sent me the 3LP + 7" version instead lol. Happy days! Checking the reviews on Amazon, I wasn't the only one - but worse were the people that ordered the LP and received the CD! Presumably the UPC numbers got switched around somewhere.
Had the same here in the UK, luckily the record was ok, what's weird about amazon is how sometimes they go the opposite way, i've had records turn up in a record mailer that's then been put in a box.
I got one a few weeks ago as well. Was shocked to see it, luckily no damage. Surprised to see it, as Amazon in Europe usually packages records very nicely (carton box in a carton box).
YUP!! They did it to me too!! I went nuts on them when I reviewed the album. The album jacket was damaged (SHOCKER!!) I don’t know what they’re thinking when they package items. Like you said they usually over package their items.
The worker doesn't choose the packaging. The packing order tells them what to send it in and they get wrote up if they stray from the instructions. That's why sometimes you get a small item in a large box or a record in a sealable bag.
The only time this happened for me Acid Bath- when the kite string pops, replacement was packaged the same way but was treated worse through the mail and came even more damage.
My last record purchase from Amazon was packaged this exact same way, I wrote a 1 star review of the packaging and Amazon would not allow it to be posted.
Twice they did this to me with the same record. “Freak Out” by Mothers of Invention. First one came trashed, I sent for a replacement, and they sent me the same one in the same plastic bag, and it was trashed too. This was like 2 years ago and it didn’t happen before and hasn’t happened since.
They sent me the wrong album last time I used them. Won’t use them for albums again. Going small shops only now. This is the second time I have heard about this new plastic bag only thing. I got a bent package this week but records were fine. For that one I went with a shop that I used before. One time they told me it would take longer because the record jacket was bent and they even sent it priority due to the delay. Better service with real people. Thanks!
Every time i come across the Amazon website i get so put off by how awful it is so i dont buy anything anyway. I think i might have bought like 2 DVD´s there like 15 years ago or something just because they werent avalible here in Sweden.
I just got one shipped in the same box as an alternator for my truck. Thankfully it was in a cardboard mailer. Still don't know how it wasn't beat completely to hell.
Just yesterday I got my first record from Amazon Canada in a bag. That was my first time with this problem. But the good news for me was that the record was near mint despite the poor packaging.
I just showed the paper bag they sent me a record in. Some of my viewers mentioned they get the album with the Amazon sticker right into he shrink wrap lol. Quality control Frank is alive and well.
I stay in Singapore and lately, this happens a lot. Generally, if the record is not warped or damaged, I'd usually just keep it. Unless it's totally unplayable. Of which, I had return 3 different occasions. Really troublesome to do so. There was one occasion where I have return the record but they had no more stock, so they refunded me. However, due to the fluctuating exchange rates, I lost a few dollars.
1:00 My most recent record purchased on sale from Amazon was the 'Halloween Kills' album with new versions of the 'Halloween' soundtrack as reimagined by John Carpenter and it arrived in great condition. It wasn't packed in a typical cardboard mailer, but was wrapped in a foam packing sheet and was then wrapped in a second foam sheet while being packed inside a bubble-wrap bag which was then packed inside a second bubble-wrap bag while being mailed inside a large Amazon box along with a few other items I purchased. So, what's really odd is the cardboard mailer would have been less work for the Amazon picker/packer and less waste since foam sheets and bubble wrap can't be recycled easily compared to a sturdy LP mailer, so I don't understand the sudden shift in packing methods, but at least in my case, Amazon did go above and beyond to ensure that the record arrived intact. Anyway, good luck with your return, Frank, as well as with any future Amazon or other online record purchases. Cheers.
It happened to me recently. I ordered a record that came in that same grey-ish baggie. Had the consistency of a sandwich baggie. It was crushed and already had ring wear from pressure even though new. It was shipped by Amazon but sold by someone else because sold out. I decided to keep it because having a defective copy was better than no copy. Bummer. Now I buy almost exclusively from EBay because those sellers are collectors too and they understand.
Last mail order album I bought that had a bent corner was John Lennon - Plastic Ono Band. It was the double LP version on white vinyl that I ordered directly from the John Lennon website. The packaging wasn't damaged at all and I realize that it had probably been bent by a handler in the shipping warehouse. The bend put a shallow crease in the cover but it wasn't as bad as Frank's LP so I decided to keep it.
I had an album sent to me like this from Amazon once. I sent it back. From then on, I use their "gift" option just before paying. This ensures I get a boxed item.
I used to work at Amazon as a Packer, and just wanted to give you some info. The Amazon system tells the Packer what box, or mailer to use. This is based on the dimensions and weight of the item. If it will fit in a polybag, the system says to put it in a polybag. The Packer, however, can override this if an item is breakable or contains liquid. The Packer just uses what what the system says to use most of the time. Just some info for you on how Amazon packing works.
I actually chatted with them live (pop up screen texting back and forth) when I was in a similar situation. They agreed to let me keep the damaged vinyl (emailed them a pic of the lp) and also refunded me since the now “out of stock” album couldn’t be replaced. One of the few times I’ve gotten good service from Amazon. Actually got the guy’s name/code and emailed Amazon to tell them how helpful he had been to a long time customer. You owe it to the good ones.
I watched this video this past Wednesday 2022-06-22 and decided to check amazon market place after words. I found a gem! I picked up a copy of 1969 self titled album -The Animated Egg . Numbered edition 55/750 for $16.80 Canadian !!! New - an yes it was sent in double boxed record packaging
Fortunately I haven’t had that happen yet. However there sadly a lot of cardboard waste from e-sales…Labels will do individual cardboard protector sleeves on vinyl, which makes the final shipping carton larger than it needs to be, but they are using bunched up paper to insulate the record(s) in the shipment.
Once I ordered a 45 from a seller, like a regular guy, not a store, and it turned out perfect. The issues I have are with other things. Almost no packing material or none at all, or label related. Once the printing was off center and you almost couldn't read the address and name. The most recent one was an item that costed $15. The alert showed that it was delivered, but I didn't get it. No problem I thought, I reported it stolen and they sent me another one. A few days later it shows up, and the problem was the small yellow sticker was covering the name and address, and it was mostly peeled away like someone tried to see it, and my neighbor put it in front of my door for me. The person was too fast in slapping the sticker on and didn't pay attention.
Ahhh, Amazon. I'm in Australia so no matter how you look at it, they are the cheapest way to import items from the US and UK - especially when you have Prime free shipping. But I've received a few poorly packed records, usually when they post in the oversized box but NOT with the bubble protector and NOT with the inner record mailer. Just a record bouncing around in a box that could fit six pairs of shoes in it. Lots of dings, bends, squished spines. I take photos and email Amazon, not once have I had to return anything. They just refund it. The worst one the record itself was cracked due to the packaging with a whole chunk from the edge floating around inside the box.
I'm so glad my record buying days are over via mail. I guess the bigger a company gets the less they care about quality control. There's no way that was going to arrive without damage. Sad way to conduct business.
I bought a couple of jazz records that arrived together in a larger box. Each individual record was in it's own mailer, but one of them had the opening strip ripped off, and was re-taped shut. The record inside had the shrink slit open as well. Fortunately for me the record was fingerprint-free and pristine, so I kept it. Still, who would sell an opened record as new? Amazon would...
I’ve heard of it happening to other people before, but it had never happened to me until a couple of weeks ago, and twice at that, too, from two different retailers. I had a vinyl box set shipped to me from Amazon, and as soon as I saw the dreaded polybag, my heart sunk, as I was worried about how damaged it might be. Thankfully, after I opened the bag, it was in a more typical cardboard vinyl mailer inside, which I’m pretty sure was the box the label sent it to Amazon in. Thankfully, no damage when I opened that. The second one was from Target, and I had never had an issue with stuff I’d bought from them before. I often get exclusive releases from them, especially when I can’t find them in my local store. This time, the album I ordered came in an oversized box (that you could have fit 20 albums in), with hardly any packing inside. As such, the record bounced around loose in the box, to the point the top of the box had partially split open. When I took it out, as expected, there was damage to the album, with one of the corners crumpled and bent at a 30 degree angle. With that one, I checked out the online return site, and they wanted me to send it back before I got another copy shipped out to me (which was fine). However, I decided to call the corporate office instead, and explain what happened which damaged the album, in hopes of when they sent the replacement copy, they would send it correctly. I told them I didn’t want to have to go through the same experience of having it shipped the same way, and showing up damaged again. I also said I was kind of annoyed that it would likely take another two weeks to get a replacement - waiting for the return to go back and be processed, and then waiting again for another copy to come - which felt like being doubly punished for something which was their error to begin with. She agreed, and had them send out the replacement right away, (which cane two days later) and told me to just keep the damaged copy, too, no need to send it back. Moral to the story is it doesn’t hurt to actually talk to somebody about the issue. All that said, the replacement came shipped the exact same way as before, but at least this time there was no damage.
I ordered 10 vinyl records from Amazon, only one of them came in a plastic sleeve and the rest came in big boxes, but 6 of the vinyl sleeves were bent.
I've ordered 3 records from Amazon over the years and the first 2 were packaged properly, but the last one was shipped just like this. Miraculously it arrived in perfect condition. Not even a bent corner or anything. I was in shock that the record survived the journey in just a bag and nothing was wrong with it.
Something similar is happening to CDs, too. CDs don't come in jewel cases anymore (or at least that often) which you could replace if they crack during shipping. They come is cardboard envelopes that look like small lp jackets, or digipack cases made of cardboard. And although they´re less prone to getting damaged, I've had a few that haven't arrived in mint condition. I'm forced to keep buying from them since no other retailer will ship to my country at no cost. :-(
This is why I don't order individual records from Amazon anymore. They do the same with CD's. I think it happens more often if it's a third party seller through Amazon. They just choose the cheapest packaging. One time I ordered a couple of records and they were sent in an oversized box just loose and rattling around inside. In my experience, MusicDirect and Acoustic Sounds use the best, most protective packaging for records.
During the checkout process they often default to that method that says that it'll be shipped in packaging that shows what the product inside actually is and there's also a box you can check where you're given the option: "Ship in Amazon packaging"? - you should always check yes!
Amazon did the same to me a year or so ago. I ordered two LP's. One came in its own stupidly oversized box with 'some' padding, the second arrived in a black bag with a label on it! Mine had a little damage on one of the corners. That was just one of my numerous recent Amazon experiences that have pushed me to wean myself off the Amazon drip feed. I'm now buying records and most of my blu rays either from shops, or anywhere else online.
It has! If you can believe it, I have experienced this MORE than once. I wish I could upload a photo, but once I received a record where they attached mailing labels DIRECTLY onto the cellophane of the record. NOT EVEN A BAG TO PROTECT IT! I keep giving them feedback and tell them to ALWAYS use their special record mailers. My most recent purchase was Maria McKee and yep, it arrived in a bag. I returned it and told them in the comments that I expect the return to be sent in a proper record mailer. You need to make it clear and tell them.
I got one from Amazon US packaged just like that. I’m in Australia so you can imagine the state of the sleeve by the time it got here. Unfortunately it was a limited edition coloured vinyl which was already sold out by the time I received it. The LP itself was OK so I kept it. I sent a complaint to Amazon but unsurprisingly received no response.
The same thing happened to me a few weeks back. I order quite a few records from Amazon and 90% of the time they come double boxed with bubble wrap inside. The odd time they come in a single record mailer. I've never had a problem. Well when this came I had one look and thought this can't be good. Sure as hell one corner had a crease where it had been bent. I never opened it and got on the phone with amazon. The fellow on the other end wanted to give me a discount, but I insisted I wanted a replacement. I wanted to move quickly on this because like you said these things can sell out fast, then you are stuck. When the replacement arrived double boxed as usual, it was perfectly fine. So I just put the first copy back into the double box and sent it back to them. I hope this isn't going to be standard practice from now on. If anything comes like this again and isn't 100%, It's going straight back to them.
Absolutely submit for return/exchange due to damage and hopefully you can get another. My past experiences that I’ve exchanged a damaged record were quick and easy. But man…never got in just a plastic bag. This seems to be a never ending battle. Good luck!
I had AMZ send me a very hard to find record they happened to have a copy in stock with a label slapped on the shink wrap. I was SO PISSED. They didn't have any other copies, no sign of copies on eBay, etc... They ended up giving me a full refund and told me to keep the record. I'm happy to have the record - that was the most important thing - but I would have preferred if it hadn't been shipped that way, since it got roughed up in transit.
Yep, got one. I rarely buy records from big-box online but could not resist when an offer for Ozzy's Diary of a Madman crossed my path for 17$cdn from Amazon Prime. It came just in a plastic bag, complete with slightly bent jacket corners, but in good condition otherwise. It was acceptable enough to be a keeper, but it was a first in that kind of inadequate packaging for me. Previous orders have arrived overpacked in mailers inside of larger airbag filled cartons.
Living in Dubai for years where there were no record/CD shops, I had no choice but to order from Amazon UK for all my non-classical / jazz music CDs (I ordered classical and jazz from Presto - wonderful people, service, and packaging). Amazon's packaging was awful. Luckily, it's very difficult to damage a CD, but the jewel cases were shattered and the boxes from boxed sets were crushed. Last year I bought a new phone and in the process of transferring photos, I saw that I had more photos of damaged goods from Amazon on it than photos of my family!
It’s happened to me twice. Luckily, both times the record(s) and jackets were good. But. I work from home and have a doorbell cam, so on both occasions, it was brought inside immediately. I often have to rely on Amazon, as local shops don’t often stock the records I’m after. I shop quite a lot at my locals, but I just can’t rely on them to have certain (semi-underground) titles I can find on Amazon. It’s always disappointing to find them poorly packaged; while the bag thing happened to me twice, it’s more common for me to get an oversized box (with bubble packing) and a record NOT in a mailer. I’ve been fortunate, but it always ticks me off.
Just sent four vinyl records/box sets back over Christmas due to bad packaging. Some were in paper bags, some were in boxes, but all damaged. There must be poor treatment of the items before they're even packed. Some sleeves seem to have long fingernail scratches all over them. Lesson learnt won't be buying from them again.
Target did this same thing to me. I received Nirvana Nevermind (gray vinyl) in a bag. Corners were bent but record was fine. I called their customer service and they refunded my money and told me to keep the damaged copy.
At least in the US it's very easy to return Amazon products. Simply request a return through the app and you'll get an email with a QR code. Then take the album and rerun it to a Whole Foods store. No packaging needed. They won't change their ways until the return levels are too high.
I’ve gotten records in a bag from Amazon, Walmart, and Target before, and every one of them have been damaged. I’m not sure why any company would ship something fragile like a record without any proper packaging.
Amazon USA usually overboxes vinyl records for protection which is good, I've never received one in a mailer like this, but I have received CDs in these crap mailers and the jewel cases are usually cracked, broken, or smashed.
I unfortunately, have no choice but to order records online as there aren't really any music stores anymore in my country. I have had 2 similar experiences with Amazon. I ordered two of the same records which were shipped separately for some reason, one was fine the other came broken in 3 pieces. The other was shipped in a very thin cardboard mailer and part of the record was bent. Needless to say I complained on both counts and they of course wanted me to send it back. I told them it was not feasible for me to ship it back as it was already forwarded to my country. They were understanding enough and sent replacements anyway. The downside was that I had to pay shipping once again to have the records forwarded to me. I hope Amazon gets more stock of the Colin James records so you can get back another copy of it.
It's happened to me three times! Two were saved, because they were double albums in sturdy jackets. But one had 2 LP's in a slightly thicker single jacket. However, the damage wasn't too bad, so I kept it. Mainly just a small bend on the bottom left hand corner. And it doesn't show from the front.
I ordered a record from Amazon, they sent it in that plastic bag, but it gets better, on my porch they set it UNDER a step stool on the porch and in a spot where when I open the door, it hit the corner and damaged the album cover, I didn’t even waste my time trying to get it replaced. Album was fine and life can go on, but I’ll think twice before buying from them again, I’ve gotten many albums in the mail and they were shipped proper
I have experienced problems with Amazon order package also. I don't like ordering music from Amazon anymore. They do give good customer service. They credited me for a damaged product. Definitely send the record back.
I received a record from Amazon that had absolutely NO packaging at all. They just stuck the label on the record and sent it out. Needless to say, it was trashed when i received it.
They might as well just slapped the shipping label directly on the LP. I received an LP from Amazon and it came in a giant box once. It actually damaged it because it was bouncing around inside it. I would keep it unless it was a fantastic cover.
If it’s super impossible to replace now, just keep it 🤔👍 When I order from Amz I request ‘send in Amazon packaging’ when that option is offered at checkout.
I have gotten a couple like that... received a re-issue of Led Zep I, (one of the Page remasters which sound great by the way), and it didn't even have a bag, they just stuck the packing slip right on the shrink wrap and shipped it! The corner was bent but oddly the record inside was fine. I called them and they refunded my money and let me keep the record so worked out ok.
First, I only order LPs from Amazon when I can exactly match the part number and get the pressing I'm looking for. Most of the time for new releases, they do in fact give enough info. Most of the time. When in doubt I order elsewhere. I like ordering on Amazon because the price is almost always competitve and their return policy is fantastic. Second, I have had a few problems over the years. I think maybe 2 or 3 issues over a several year period. I've been a victim of the 'waybill on LP shrink wrap' myself. It was a miracle but the LP was just fine after a careful inspection. It took about 20mins+ to remove the waybill. Annoying but amusing. Except in cases like your where the LP is sold out, it's not a big deal. They'll fix their screw-ups. Best of luck to you, Frank.
About a year ago I ordered Scorpions - Taken By Force 50th reissue and Amazon did not even bag it they just stuck a shipping label right on the shrink and sent it with Amazon shipping , I could not believe they did that but what was even more strange was there was nothing wrong with the album it was mint and I kept it. I just can not believe they sent it like that and it did not get damaged.
I got one the same as that Iron Maiden one with the delivery label stuck directly on the LP.The delivery guy actually apologised and said he kept it up front on the seat which was great as there was no damage done.I also got one a couple of years ago the exact same as yours in a poly mail bag.The cover had a dink in the corner and after complaining to Amazon they said I could swap it,refund it or keep it for half price.I kept it.
Same thing happened to me. The record cover was creased all the way around. it was horrible. Instant return. I have called and complained to amazon upwards of 10 times. Nothing is going to change. They dont care about shipping media properly. Very sad..
My recent purchases from Amazon have been CD’s which are shipped in recyclable, padded paper envelopes. I feel your pain. Every CD case has been cracked or crushed, but the CD’s were not damaged.
I've gotten several records in plastic bags at this point. Most of the time when I order from Amazon Warehouse (their used/returned department) but a few times brand new. Always an instant return though. I've also had Target do this once as well.
Having received a few records from Amazon with little to no packaging, the thing that gets me is having to go out of my way to send it back. If it’s a defect with the pressing, fair enough - totally out of Amazon’s hands. But if they haven’t bothered to package it, and it arrives damaged, they need to adjust their policy so that you’re not obliged to return it AND they send you a replacement. With that in place, I bet that all future records are properly packaged haha! 🤣
Amen to that comment! I am sick and tired of the hassle of having to print off a return label with my paper and my ink, pack up the record with tape I pay for, and drive a return to the post office with my gas every time I have to send back a damaged or warped/defective LP. And believe me, I've sent so many records back to Amazon for replacements that I've lost count. It has been dozens, literally dozens! And a few times I've sent back the replacement because it's no better. So tired of it. Why send it back if they are only going to trash it. Or maybe resell for peanuts!
Ebay always fixes shipping mishaps and seller/return issues. I don't buy from Amazon.
Gotta return it, there’s no excuse for that. I’ve bought several records from them, and they’ve always come in nice oversized heavy cardboard boxes. I hope this isn’t their new policy. 😬
Support yer local record store, Artty!! (LOL)
@@DorianPaige00 I do, I always shop brick and mortar stores first for both new, and used titles. I only buy albums from Amazon when they’re not available at local stores. 👍
@@artamussumatra6286 I am gulity of that too.......sometimes you just can't find them in stores.
Amazon don’t have a policy. The underpaid,
and exploited fulfilment centre staff just use the closest box or bag to them. The have no time to think or to look for a more appropriate box. If they did, they would get fired for not working fast enough. You can’t blame the exploited workers. Blame Steve Bezos and yourself as a consumer for chasing low prices. This is the cost of those low prices.
@@chrisrenoir Jeff Bezos.
They did this a few times to me, and now I choose "gift packaging" for all records and they ship in boxes again. Can't believe they think this is OK....
Ahhh.. I never thought of that. Good tip
@@Channel33RPM Also if you buy from sellers that don't do Amazon fulfillment (FBA) and ship the items themselves you will have better odds of good packing.
@@SteveReevesvlogs I have the opposite experience. Amazon fulfilled orders usually come in a carton box within a carton box, the others usually just the one carton box. I guess it depends on location.
At least you got a bag… When I worked at that hell hole I was constantly arguing with supervisors about the way vinyl was shipped out… record with no packaging, slap a shipping sticker on it, finished. They thought I was mental.
Had that happen two weeks ago.......sent it back.
Back in the day I got the Beatles vinyl stereo collection box sent to me from amazon with no packaging. A miracle it arrived in good condition. More recently a Blue Note Tone Poet lp got sent in a bag. Again, I got lucky. Sent nasty messages each time though.
The thing is, Amazon DID have record mailers back then, the fold out cruciform type, but never used them.
that happened to me before too and for things other than just vinyls too. Unbelievable.
I ordered a record from Amazon last summer. I only ordered one but when it was delivered, it was actually a box full of 10 copies of the same record. I'm guessing they never unpacked the shipment from the pressing plant and just shipped me the the unopened box.
Nice return on investment! lol
I've gotten 2 of the same record stuck together. Just shows how rushed the Amazonians are. That's what they're called. I used to work there.
@@frankmurray1549 nah, I actually sent them back. I didn't want to have the artist lose out on any money. They're a smaller band.
That’s what I would call a “sound” investment!
I'm in the UK - I bought a lot of records from Amazon during lockdown as I couldn't record shop in person. I have never seen anything as insane as that and people should return them and hopefully things will change. All my records came in proper LP mailers. I got a couple of grubby records but that's down to the pressing plant and came up fine after cleaning.
I just would personally never buy anything from Amazon. But the people there are worked so hard that i'm not suprised this would happen.
I just had a record delivered today by Amazon in the USA, same cheap bag.
Happened just Friday. Record was in the same white soft bag yours was in. The mail lady had shoved it in my small apartment letter box. She could barely fit it in when the whole wall of doors was open that only USPS can open. But when she closed it, I would have had to bend and scrape it to get it out. Honestly, not sure it would have even come out. Luckily she was there putting mail in other boxes. I was as nice as I could be, considering the frustration, but when I gently mentioned that it's a vinyl record and should probably not be put in the tiny letter box, she got a huge attitude with me. Fun stuff.
I will say, I've ordered a decent amount from Amazon, and they have almost all been in large boxes, but I've had issues with maybe 1 out of 5. Which is way too high! I only keep making the mistake of ordering through them because the deals are so good sometimes and it's sooo easy to impulse buy late at night while streaming the albums.
3 times here too, and from international shippings.
What the hell are they thinking?
The packaging varies wildly there. Sometimes they send my records in one big a** box, sometimes in thin cardboard protection.
I have gotten many poorly packed CD's from Amazon. Most with broken cases. I try not to use Amazon.
Frank, I once got a record from Amazon that arrived with the shipping label placed directly on the shrink wrap! No bag at all. I sent it back.
ETA: I just remembered I got one in a bag once, too. Damage was minimal, so I kept it.
That's unbelievable. I would have been pissed!
Highly recommend the podcast "Mega Corp" detailing the conditions of working in Amazon warehouses. Having worked at one myself (but for groceries) there was often a lot of hurried mistakes made to keep "rate" because otherwise you'd get a warning (no matter how long you'd been there) that you were going to slow.
Hey Frank, I have had a couple of LP's shipped to me from Amazon in the exact same way. I kept mine, because like you, there were no other copies in stock. I kind of think that this is not Amazon policy, but employees being lazy. Good luck with it...
Happened one too many times for me.
I've since stopped buying from them.
I have had warehouse stickers placed DIRECTLY on the cover, bent corners etc.
Call and complain if you can live with it. They will give you a discount coupon for your next purchase. Assuming there is one.
I noticed last summer that albums were not arriving in the good cardboard boxes that you mentioned. Wrapped less and less with less protections. I quit buying albums from them and bought them other places. I buy a lot of CDs also but started noticing this year that they quit using cardboard protection and only sent them in bags. Other places sent them in nice wrapped shipping containers so my last CD from Amazon was last month. Cracked cases irk me. I bought a lot of records and CDs from them over lockdown but I'm done unless I just can't find it which is rare.
Yikes! I hope this is not a trend, otherwise I will not buy from them again.
I got a CD from Amazon in a similar mailer. It was smashed to bits. They actually wanted me to send back the pieces too.
Yup I've had things that were dangerous to return broken they said I must to get a refund or replacement like a new mirror for my Yukon that was smashed to pieces it also had a possibility toxic green fluid inside it that was used for the Auto Dim, I don't know how it worked but it's was a liquid between 2 Layers of glass, I told the CS agent that whoever handles that box for delivery or opens it could get cut badly! Makes you wonder how many workman's comp claim's are because the people working on the other side of the planet telling customers to send it back had never worked in a warehouse the most dangerous thing they ever did was break a nail typing on Facebook. Sorry I'm a little bitter towards Amazon customer service I've had too many issues and money lost to them.
I always try for one of the sellers instead of fulfilled by Amazon unless I don't have a choice.
Now I just noticed that you can get a SIGNED copy from Colin's website - you might want to go with it instead. The price is a little more BUT it is signed and you are supporting Colin directly.
Colin James !! Who Knew ?? I just streamed his latest album that you featured in this video - - Love it !! Thanks for featuring it - - unfortunately for being damaged ...
I always have recieved amazon records shipped in a record envelope, little thin flat bargain record box but also put in an outer box so you can't tell that they are sending a record. When you check out on Amazon, they used to have an option that would give you the choice. But obviously they should never just send in a bag!!
This happened to me in the US once. I order a large number of records from Amazon and 99% come perfectly (mailer in a box with wrap) but every now and again I get a bad delivery. I have a friend who recently got the same bag delivery from Amazon, he returned it and then the second copy game in a bag again!!! Both were ruined and then they had no more copies left. But in the end, I’m happy with Amazon as most packages are delivered safely, you get easy returns, cheap prices, low price guarantee and no up front cost for pre-orders which I do a lot (only pay for the records when they ship). You really can’t beat that IMO. I order between 5-10 records per month so it’s a good experience overall.
I’ve had about 6 of these plastic mailers from Amazon. All but ONE had to be sent back. The one I kept was damaged with a bent corner, but overall it was ok. The others all had serious damage of one sort or another. The bag on one was torn open and the cover had a big gouge across it, like it was pulled through a small space. Others had such bent corners that I didn’t even open to see the vinyl. The jacket is NOT apart of the packaging, if it’s damaged then the product is damaged. Would you buy a brand new car with a huge scratch on the paint job? Don’t excuse these if it’s just the jacket damaged. You’re correct about the bottom line.
I too have received ONE LP where the packing sticker went directly onto the album cover. The Canada Post guy just shook his head and handed it to me. He must see a lot of disasters. And, before anyone blames the US Postal Service or Canada Post for mishandling, could ANYTHING survive undamaged when packaged like this?
They did this to me twice in a row now! I returned both and the second return is taking forever too… they actually started using some custom fitting boxes specially made for records but they just choose not to use it!
And just FYI this happened this week when buying the Madvilliany Instrumental Vinyl off Amazon. So disappointed they shipped it twice in the same crappy packaging!
@@Meowlico I had 2 copies of Cromags Age of quarrel from Amazon arrive with huge seam splits in the same spot. I sent them back and canceled my account. I live 20 miles from nearest UPS store and I got tired of spending money to return crap
That happened to me around the holidays. My gf bought me a record and it came in that kind of packaging. The cover was all bent and damaged. Returned it for an exchange and they re-sent in proper cardboard packaging.
You must have requested "frustration free" packaging. (LOL)
I ordered 3 cds from them years ago. They delivered a small box perfectly sized to fit cds in. Only one small problem, the box had come open and it was empty. They delivered an empty box. I emailed and explained the situation. They replied it wasn’t their problem more or less. Couple days go by and I received another package, identical to the previous one, except the cds were actually there this time.
I buy alot of records and CD's from Amazon and have rarely had ones arrived with physical damage. Usually single CD albums are shipped in padded plastic envelopes, and many have cracked jewel cases. Amazon has been shipping records in plastic bags for awhile , but I have never received one that wasn't also enclosed in a dedicated record mailing cardboard box. The ones I have received were usually single LP's. Sometimes I have received an order which also includes albums and CD's in a larger Amazon Cardboard box with some air pillows thrown in. Very rarely is the album NOT in a cardboard record mailer.
Always look at the return address because often Amazon direct ships from an independent distributor. In the U.S., if the return address is from Shepherdsville or Louisville, KY, it was direct-shipped from AEC.
Also, many of the LP's come to Amazon pre-boxed in an LP mailer. They are labeled as to what should be inside, but you might get a surprise when you open them. There were 2 Christmas LP's that I ordered last year which had the I.D. sticker, but were the furthest thing from a Christmas album that you could get, with one being satanic. After a couple of exchanges, one finally came correct but the other I had to get a refund.
Why do I buy so many records and CD's from or through Amazon? 1). Selection, 2). Customer Service and returns, 3). Fast shipping and 4). Price.
Also, returns are "no questions asked" and they give you a "return by" date which allows you to not return until after you have received the replacement(s). With multi-disc sets, it allows you to keep the best and return the rest. If Amazon offers an exchange for the same record, eventhough they may no longer list it for sale on their website, that means that there are more or they are expecting more.
This album you received looks like it came with a download card. USE IT! Also, every record or CD I receive, from anyone, gets recorded to hard drive using lossless wav, whether I return them or not. Many terabytes later, after several years, I am only through about 1/3 of my LP and 12" collection and almost through the "A's" of my 7" 45's collection. All my several thousand CD's are saved to an almost full 2TB external hard drive and all my hard drives are backed up on an 8TB external hard drive.
ALWAYS! Save your collection to Hard drive and use the download cards!
Oh, Amazon gives you the option of returning without ANY packaging.
One other time I ordered a CD version of a box set as it was cheaper, they sent me the 3LP + 7" version instead lol. Happy days! Checking the reviews on Amazon, I wasn't the only one - but worse were the people that ordered the LP and received the CD! Presumably the UPC numbers got switched around somewhere.
Had the same here in the UK, luckily the record was ok, what's weird about amazon is how sometimes they go the opposite way, i've had records turn up in a record mailer that's then been put in a box.
99% of my ordered records from Amazon ( (NL/DE) come in a record mailer within a carton box.
I got one a few weeks ago as well. Was shocked to see it, luckily no damage. Surprised to see it, as Amazon in Europe usually packages records very nicely (carton box in a carton box).
YUP!! They did it to me too!! I went nuts on them when I reviewed the album. The album jacket was damaged (SHOCKER!!) I don’t know what they’re thinking when they package items. Like you said they usually over package their items.
The worker doesn't choose the packaging. The packing order tells them what to send it in and they get wrote up if they stray from the instructions. That's why sometimes you get a small item in a large box or a record in a sealable bag.
The only time this happened for me Acid Bath- when the kite string pops, replacement was packaged the same way but was treated worse through the mail and came even more damage.
My last record purchase from Amazon was packaged this exact same way, I wrote a 1 star review of the packaging and Amazon would not allow it to be posted.
They have done the same to me. Every time is a different packing experience...so many records come with seam splits.
Twice they did this to me with the same record. “Freak Out” by Mothers of Invention. First one came trashed, I sent for a replacement, and they sent me the same one in the same plastic bag, and it was trashed too. This was like 2 years ago and it didn’t happen before and hasn’t happened since.
They sent me the wrong album last time I used them. Won’t use them for albums again. Going small shops only now. This is the second time I have heard about this new plastic bag only thing. I got a bent package this week but records were fine. For that one I went with a shop that I used before. One time they told me it would take longer because the record jacket was bent and they even sent it priority due to the delay. Better service with real people. Thanks!
Every time i come across the Amazon website i get so put off by how awful it is so i dont buy anything anyway. I think i might have bought like 2 DVD´s there like 15 years ago or something just because they werent avalible here in Sweden.
Omg. If they do that with my Fear Inoculum purchase, I will be livid.
I just got one shipped in the same box as an alternator for my truck. Thankfully it was in a cardboard mailer. Still don't know how it wasn't beat completely to hell.
Just yesterday I got my first record from Amazon Canada in a bag. That was my first time with this problem. But the good news for me was that the record was near mint despite the poor packaging.
I just showed the paper bag they sent me a record in. Some of my viewers mentioned they get the album with the Amazon sticker right into he shrink wrap lol. Quality control Frank is alive and well.
I stay in Singapore and lately, this happens a lot.
Generally, if the record is not warped or damaged, I'd usually just keep it.
Unless it's totally unplayable.
Of which, I had return 3 different occasions.
Really troublesome to do so.
There was one occasion where I have return the record but they had no more stock, so they refunded me. However, due to the fluctuating exchange rates, I lost a few dollars.
1:00 My most recent record purchased on sale from Amazon was the 'Halloween Kills' album with new versions of the 'Halloween' soundtrack as reimagined by John Carpenter and it arrived in great condition. It wasn't packed in a typical cardboard mailer, but was wrapped in a foam packing sheet and was then wrapped in a second foam sheet while being packed inside a bubble-wrap bag which was then packed inside a second bubble-wrap bag while being mailed inside a large Amazon box along with a few other items I purchased.
So, what's really odd is the cardboard mailer would have been less work for the Amazon picker/packer and less waste since foam sheets and bubble wrap can't be recycled easily compared to a sturdy LP mailer, so I don't understand the sudden shift in packing methods, but at least in my case, Amazon did go above and beyond to ensure that the record arrived intact.
Anyway, good luck with your return, Frank, as well as with any future Amazon or other online record purchases. Cheers.
It happened to me recently. I ordered a record that came in that same grey-ish baggie. Had the consistency of a sandwich baggie. It was crushed and already had ring wear from pressure even though new. It was shipped by Amazon but sold by someone else because sold out. I decided to keep it because having a defective copy was better than no copy. Bummer. Now I buy almost exclusively from EBay because those sellers are collectors too and they understand.
Last mail order album I bought that had a bent corner was John Lennon - Plastic Ono Band. It was the double LP version on white vinyl that I ordered directly from the John Lennon website. The packaging wasn't damaged at all and I realize that it had probably been bent by a handler in the shipping warehouse. The bend put a shallow crease in the cover but it wasn't as bad as Frank's LP so I decided to keep it.
They did the same thing to me. I quit buying vinyl from Amazon a few years ago because they kept sending my Records in padded envelopes.
I had an album sent to me like this from Amazon once. I sent it back. From then on, I use their "gift" option just before paying. This ensures I get a boxed item.
I used to work at Amazon as a Packer, and just wanted to give you some info. The Amazon system tells the Packer what box, or mailer to use. This is based on the dimensions and weight of the item. If it will fit in a polybag, the system says to put it in a polybag. The Packer, however, can override this if an item is breakable or contains liquid. The Packer just uses what what the system says to use most of the time. Just some info for you on how Amazon packing works.
I actually chatted with them live (pop up screen texting back and forth) when I was in a similar situation. They agreed to let me keep the damaged vinyl (emailed them a pic of the lp) and also refunded me since the now “out of stock” album couldn’t be replaced. One of the few times I’ve gotten good service from Amazon. Actually got the guy’s name/code and emailed Amazon to tell them how helpful he had been to a long time customer. You owe it to the good ones.
I've had that happen to me twice, but surprisingly they weren't damaged.
I watched this video this past Wednesday 2022-06-22 and decided to check amazon market place after words.
I found a gem! I picked up a copy of 1969 self titled album -The Animated Egg . Numbered edition 55/750 for $16.80 Canadian !!! New - an yes it was sent in double boxed record packaging
Fortunately I haven’t had that happen yet. However there sadly a lot of cardboard waste from e-sales…Labels will do individual cardboard protector sleeves on vinyl, which makes the final shipping carton larger than it needs to be, but they are using bunched up paper to insulate the record(s) in the shipment.
Once I ordered a 45 from a seller, like a regular guy, not a store, and it turned out perfect. The issues I have are with other things. Almost no packing material or none at all, or label related. Once the printing was off center and you almost couldn't read the address and name. The most recent one was an item that costed $15. The alert showed that it was delivered, but I didn't get it. No problem I thought, I reported it stolen and they sent me another one. A few days later it shows up, and the problem was the small yellow sticker was covering the name and address, and it was mostly peeled away like someone tried to see it, and my neighbor put it in front of my door for me. The person was too fast in slapping the sticker on and didn't pay attention.
Ahhh, Amazon. I'm in Australia so no matter how you look at it, they are the cheapest way to import items from the US and UK - especially when you have Prime free shipping. But I've received a few poorly packed records, usually when they post in the oversized box but NOT with the bubble protector and NOT with the inner record mailer. Just a record bouncing around in a box that could fit six pairs of shoes in it. Lots of dings, bends, squished spines. I take photos and email Amazon, not once have I had to return anything. They just refund it. The worst one the record itself was cracked due to the packaging with a whole chunk from the edge floating around inside the box.
I'm so glad my record buying days are over via mail. I guess the bigger a company gets the less they care about quality control. There's no way that was going to arrive without damage. Sad way to conduct business.
I bought a couple of jazz records that arrived together in a larger box. Each individual record was in it's own mailer, but one of them had the opening strip ripped off, and was re-taped shut. The record inside had the shrink slit open as well. Fortunately for me the record was fingerprint-free and pristine, so I kept it. Still, who would sell an opened record as new? Amazon would...
I’ve heard of it happening to other people before, but it had never happened to me until a couple of weeks ago, and twice at that, too, from two different retailers. I had a vinyl box set shipped to me from Amazon, and as soon as I saw the dreaded polybag, my heart sunk, as I was worried about how damaged it might be. Thankfully, after I opened the bag, it was in a more typical cardboard vinyl mailer inside, which I’m pretty sure was the box the label sent it to Amazon in. Thankfully, no damage when I opened that.
The second one was from Target, and I had never had an issue with stuff I’d bought from them before. I often get exclusive releases from them, especially when I can’t find them in my local store. This time, the album I ordered came in an oversized box (that you could have fit 20 albums in), with hardly any packing inside. As such, the record bounced around loose in the box, to the point the top of the box had partially split open. When I took it out, as expected, there was damage to the album, with one of the corners crumpled and bent at a 30 degree angle. With that one, I checked out the online return site, and they wanted me to send it back before I got another copy shipped out to me (which was fine). However, I decided to call the corporate office instead, and explain what happened which damaged the album, in hopes of when they sent the replacement copy, they would send it correctly. I told them I didn’t want to have to go through the same experience of having it shipped the same way, and showing up damaged again. I also said I was kind of annoyed that it would likely take another two weeks to get a replacement - waiting for the return to go back and be processed, and then waiting again for another copy to come - which felt like being doubly punished for something which was their error to begin with. She agreed, and had them send out the replacement right away, (which cane two days later) and told me to just keep the damaged copy, too, no need to send it back. Moral to the story is it doesn’t hurt to actually talk to somebody about the issue. All that said, the replacement came shipped the exact same way as before, but at least this time there was no damage.
I ordered 10 vinyl records from Amazon, only one of them came in a plastic sleeve and the rest came in big boxes, but 6 of the vinyl sleeves were bent.
I've ordered 3 records from Amazon over the years and the first 2 were packaged properly, but the last one was shipped just like this. Miraculously it arrived in perfect condition. Not even a bent corner or anything. I was in shock that the record survived the journey in just a bag and nothing was wrong with it.
Something similar is happening to CDs, too. CDs don't come in jewel cases anymore (or at least that often) which you could replace if they crack during shipping. They come is cardboard envelopes that look like small lp jackets, or digipack cases made of cardboard. And although they´re less prone to getting damaged, I've had a few that haven't arrived in mint condition. I'm forced to keep buying from them since no other retailer will ship to my country at no cost. :-(
At least they put it in something. I received an album a while back that they just stuck the shipping label on. No packaging whatsoever!!!!!!
This is why I don't order individual records from Amazon anymore. They do the same with CD's. I think it happens more often if it's a third party seller through Amazon. They just choose the cheapest packaging. One time I ordered a couple of records and they were sent in an oversized box just loose and rattling around inside. In my experience, MusicDirect and Acoustic Sounds use the best, most protective packaging for records.
During the checkout process they often default to that method that says that it'll be shipped in packaging that shows what the product inside actually is and there's also a box you can check where you're given the option: "Ship in Amazon packaging"? - you should always check yes!
Amazon did the same to me a year or so ago. I ordered two LP's. One came in its own stupidly oversized box with 'some' padding, the second arrived in a black bag with a label on it! Mine had a little damage on one of the corners.
That was just one of my numerous recent Amazon experiences that have pushed me to wean myself off the Amazon drip feed. I'm now buying records and most of my blu rays either from shops, or anywhere else online.
I also received a record in a plastic bag. Damn bastards!
It has! If you can believe it, I have experienced this MORE than once. I wish I could upload a photo, but once I received a record where they attached mailing labels DIRECTLY onto the cellophane of the record. NOT EVEN A BAG TO PROTECT IT! I keep giving them feedback and tell them to ALWAYS use their special record mailers. My most recent purchase was Maria McKee and yep, it arrived in a bag. I returned it and told them in the comments that I expect the return to be sent in a proper record mailer. You need to make it clear and tell them.
I got one from Amazon US packaged just like that. I’m in Australia so you can imagine the state of the sleeve by the time it got here. Unfortunately it was a limited edition coloured vinyl which was already sold out by the time I received it. The LP itself was OK so I kept it. I sent a complaint to Amazon but unsurprisingly received no response.
I hear it’s tough getting records at all in Australia. If nothing else, at least you got AC/DC records
@@Pluralofvinylisvinyls They’re not manufactured here anymore, so all have to be imported, (even AC/DC). Hence the crazy prices we have to pay.
@@derradune6722 small price to pay to live in such an incredible country
You have to phone them and insist on a discount.
The same thing happened to me a few weeks back. I order quite a few records from Amazon and 90% of the time they come double boxed with bubble wrap inside. The odd time they come in a single record mailer. I've never had a problem. Well when this came I had one look and thought this can't be good. Sure as hell one corner had a crease where it had been bent. I never opened it and got on the phone with amazon. The fellow on the other end wanted to give me a discount, but I insisted I wanted a replacement. I wanted to move quickly on this because like you said these things can sell out fast, then you are stuck. When the replacement arrived double boxed as usual, it was perfectly fine. So I just put the first copy back into the double box and sent it back to them. I hope this isn't going to be standard practice from now on. If anything comes like this again and isn't 100%, It's going straight back to them.
I've given up buying records on Amazon as they don't pack well. The worst is when they shipped me a record in a box with cat litter.
Absolutely submit for return/exchange due to damage and hopefully you can get another. My past experiences that I’ve exchanged a damaged record were quick and easy. But man…never got in just a plastic bag. This seems to be a never ending battle. Good luck!
They've done this to me, too. One was bent and I sent that shit right back.
I had AMZ send me a very hard to find record they happened to have a copy in stock with a label slapped on the shink wrap. I was SO PISSED. They didn't have any other copies, no sign of copies on eBay, etc... They ended up giving me a full refund and told me to keep the record. I'm happy to have the record - that was the most important thing - but I would have preferred if it hadn't been shipped that way, since it got roughed up in transit.
Yep, got one. I rarely buy records from big-box online but could not resist when an offer for Ozzy's Diary of a Madman crossed my path for 17$cdn from Amazon Prime. It came just in a plastic bag, complete with slightly bent jacket corners, but in good condition otherwise. It was acceptable enough to be a keeper, but it was a first in that kind of inadequate packaging for me. Previous orders have arrived overpacked in mailers inside of larger airbag filled cartons.
Living in Dubai for years where there were no record/CD shops, I had no choice but to order from Amazon UK for all my non-classical / jazz music CDs (I ordered classical and jazz from Presto - wonderful people, service, and packaging). Amazon's packaging was awful. Luckily, it's very difficult to damage a CD, but the jewel cases were shattered and the boxes from boxed sets were crushed.
Last year I bought a new phone and in the process of transferring photos, I saw that I had more photos of damaged goods from Amazon on it than photos of my family!
It’s happened to me twice. Luckily, both times the record(s) and jackets were good. But. I work from home and have a doorbell cam, so on both occasions, it was brought inside immediately.
I often have to rely on Amazon, as local shops don’t often stock the records I’m after. I shop quite a lot at my locals, but I just can’t rely on them to have certain (semi-underground) titles I can find on Amazon.
It’s always disappointing to find them poorly packaged; while the bag thing happened to me twice, it’s more common for me to get an oversized box (with bubble packing) and a record NOT in a mailer.
I’ve been fortunate, but it always ticks me off.
Just sent four vinyl records/box sets back over Christmas due to bad packaging. Some were in paper bags, some were in boxes, but all damaged. There must be poor treatment of the items before they're even packed. Some sleeves seem to have long fingernail scratches all over them. Lesson learnt won't be buying from them again.
Target did this same thing to me. I received Nirvana Nevermind (gray vinyl) in a bag. Corners were bent but record was fine. I called their customer service and they refunded my money and told me to keep the damaged copy.
At least in the US it's very easy to return Amazon products. Simply request a return through the app and you'll get an email with a QR code. Then take the album and rerun it to a Whole Foods store. No packaging needed. They won't change their ways until the return levels are too high.
I’ve gotten records in a bag from Amazon, Walmart, and Target before, and every one of them have been damaged. I’m not sure why any company would ship something fragile like a record without any proper packaging.
Amazon USA usually overboxes vinyl records for protection which is good, I've never received one in a mailer like this, but I have received CDs in these crap mailers and the jewel cases are usually cracked, broken, or smashed.
I unfortunately, have no choice but to order records online as there aren't really any music stores anymore in my country. I have had 2 similar experiences with Amazon. I ordered two of the same records which were shipped separately for some reason, one was fine the other came broken in 3 pieces. The other was shipped in a very thin cardboard mailer and part of the record was bent. Needless to say I complained on both counts and they of course wanted me to send it back. I told them it was not feasible for me to ship it back as it was already forwarded to my country. They were understanding enough and sent replacements anyway. The downside was that I had to pay shipping once again to have the records forwarded to me. I hope Amazon gets more stock of the Colin James records so you can get back another copy of it.
It's happened to me three times! Two were saved, because they were double albums in sturdy jackets. But one had 2 LP's in a slightly thicker single jacket. However, the damage wasn't too bad, so I kept it. Mainly just a small bend on the bottom left hand corner. And it doesn't show from the front.
I ordered a record from Amazon, they sent it in that plastic bag, but it gets better, on my porch they set it UNDER a step stool on the porch and in a spot where when I open the door, it hit the corner and damaged the album cover, I didn’t even waste my time trying to get it replaced. Album was fine and life can go on, but I’ll think twice before buying from them again, I’ve gotten many albums in the mail and they were shipped proper
I have experienced problems with Amazon order package also. I don't like ordering music from Amazon anymore. They do give good customer service. They credited me for a damaged product. Definitely send the record back.
I received a record from Amazon that had absolutely NO packaging at all. They just stuck the label on the record and sent it out. Needless to say, it was trashed when i received it.
They might as well just slapped the shipping label directly on the LP. I received an LP from Amazon and it came in a giant box once. It actually damaged it because it was bouncing around inside it. I would keep it unless it was a fantastic cover.
I would take such a thing to the nearest Amazon facility and ask them how they could think a vinyl record can be safely shipped without packing.
Maybe they thought it was a calendar lol
If it’s super impossible to replace now, just keep it 🤔👍 When I order from Amz I request ‘send in Amazon packaging’ when that option is offered at checkout.
Had same issue. Record was trashed. But Amazon said it was considered a "shipping issue" when I tried leaving a bad review
I never buy records unless I can hold them and examine them. No exceptions, no regrets.
I have gotten a couple like that... received a re-issue of Led Zep I, (one of the Page remasters which sound great by the way), and it didn't even have a bag, they just stuck the packing slip right on the shrink wrap and shipped it! The corner was bent but oddly the record inside was fine. I called them and they refunded my money and let me keep the record so worked out ok.
I once received a record from amazon with no packaging at all with the shipping label stuck directly on the visible album cover itself.
First, I only order LPs from Amazon when I can exactly match the part number and get the pressing I'm looking for. Most of the time for new releases, they do in fact give enough info. Most of the time. When in doubt I order elsewhere. I like ordering on Amazon because the price is almost always competitve and their return policy is fantastic.
Second, I have had a few problems over the years. I think maybe 2 or 3 issues over a several year period. I've been a victim of the 'waybill on LP shrink wrap' myself. It was a miracle but the LP was just fine after a careful inspection. It took about 20mins+ to remove the waybill. Annoying but amusing.
Except in cases like your where the LP is sold out, it's not a big deal. They'll fix their screw-ups.
Best of luck to you, Frank.
About a year ago I ordered Scorpions - Taken By Force 50th reissue and Amazon did not even bag it they just stuck a shipping label right on the shrink and sent it with Amazon shipping , I could not believe they did that but what was even more strange was there was nothing wrong with the album it was mint and I kept it. I just can not believe they sent it like that and it did not get damaged.
I got one the same as that Iron Maiden one with the delivery label stuck directly on the LP.The delivery guy actually apologised and said he kept it up front on the seat which was great as there was no damage done.I also got one a couple of years ago the exact same as yours in a poly mail bag.The cover had a dink in the corner and after complaining to Amazon they said I could swap it,refund it or keep it for half price.I kept it.
Same thing happened to me. The record cover was creased all the way around. it was horrible. Instant return. I have called and complained to amazon upwards of 10 times. Nothing is going to change. They dont care about shipping media properly. Very sad..