If It Looks Too Good To Be True...
...It Probably Is!
The Internet can be a great tool for finding the best prices, but be careful. It's hard to resist the temptation to buy from an unknown company when they're advertising low prices for name brand products. Unfortunately, what looks like a great deal can turn out to be very costly.
Example
A department on campus recently placed an order for camera equipment with a company they found on the Internet. A company representative assured the individual the products were new and would have a US warranty. Upon receipt of the equipment the individual discovered that the software shipped with the camera appeared to be either used or a copy and the documentation sent with the equipment was in Japanese. The department contacted the manufacturer of the camera regarding the warranty and were told because the camera was made in Japan, there was no US warranty. Several phone calls to the vendor were placed by the department and Purchasing, requesting return authorization and refund information, based on what we felt was the company's misrepresentation of the order. A company representative explained their return policy, which included a restocking fee - a minimum of 10% but could be significantly higher if they determined the equipment or software had been used.
Finally, we contacted UVM's General Counsel for advice. The only realistic option we have is to accept the fact that the money is gone, buy another camera from a reputable vendor, and try to get our money back from the first company.
Procurement Services has negotiated Contracts and Pricing Agreements for a variety of goods and services. We're always available to assist you in finding the best prices, delivery, service, etc.
If you're considering placing an order with a company you've never ordered from before, and it looks too good to be true, call us and we'd be happy to help you determine if it is.
Last modified March 06 2008 08:59 AM
