Odessa

I had a broken motherboard. Found out it was under warranty. The manufacturer, EVGA, was more than happy to offer a replacement, even though it was 4 yrs old. Unfortunately, the replacement would not work with my existing processor and memory. So I had make a choice. See if a compatible MoBo was available or get a new processor and memory.

I found a potential MoBo replacement that could use my processor for $60, but the manufacturer and supplier is someone I am unfamiliar with (in other words, might be a piece of crap). The new processor plus new memory and related stuff will cost about $175 from Newegg (good manufacturers and reliable supplier). Decided to upgrade my computer. Perhaps not the upgrade I envisioned in a year, but an upgrade all the same.

I package up my old MoBo and went to UPS. (That was a story in it's own right. One about rude counter staff - and staff that know when to send said rude staff to the back room.) I forked over $15 for shipping. Then waited. Got word that they would honor the RMA and gave me my choices. I chose one of the boards offered and waited some more. Finally got curious when I didn't get an e-mail, so I logged into EVGA's website and found it was on it's way and will be delivered on Friday.

On the allotted day, I left a note on the door with specific instructions on where the package can be left safely and signed it. I get home to find the typical UPS sticky with "IN PERSON" written. I fume and dial the phone. UPS will not back down and leave the package on Monday because it is the shippers instructions. UPS wants to charge me $6 to change the delivery address. EVGA won't back down because it's "policy" because people don't typically want "$500 video cards left on their doorstep". Huh? I explain that I could have bought another MoBo for under $100 and that I have had $500 of merchandise left here so their policy is irrelevant to me. I also explain that if they had told me the situation up front I would have offered an alternate address.

I finally decide to just go to UPS and pick-up the package Monday. The only good thing is that UPS actually has "working people" hours now and they are open until 9 pm - so no jetting from work like a mad women to make it before the door closes (been there done, that, not fun)

Finally tally:

$15 shipping + $175 in supplies + lots of grief + lots of waiting = slightly improved computer.

vs.

$60 for MoBo from untried but probably OK source + less waiting and hassle = basically the same computer I would have upgraded next year.

Hmm, in hind sight it is a tough call.

Lesson learned - Ask the SoBs how they are shipping the item and adjust accordingly.