Please tell me the correct return procedure for a Thinkpad

Folks,

Due to some issues with my T61p, I've decided to return it and reorder a new one. After a very long conversation, I've convinced the rep. to waive off the 15% restocking fee and they've issued me a RMA number. I've read horror stories about incorrect RMA procedure, so please help me review it here.

1) Call their number, and ask for a RMA number --> Completed successfully.
2) They ask you to write down the RMA number on the box, along with the shipping address:


LENOVO NATIONAL RETURN CENTER
ODYSSEY B690, DOCKS 51-54
4121 SURLES CT
DURHAM, NC 27703

3) They schedule a UPS pickup for you and someone is supposed to be there in 48 business hours.



Big doubts in my mind:
1) I don't have a tracking number --> how will my package be tracked ? Will UPS even accept this?

2) Is the package insured ??


Please share your return experiences, if any, along with the return procedure that you've used. I'd hate lenovo saying 'we don't have it'.


Thanks....

 

I've never returned anything to Lenovo (yet), but would you mind sharing why you have decided to send it back?

 

Fan running loud constantly under no load. Annoys the heck of out me

 

Did you ask them? That seems like it would be the logical place to start.

 

Doesn't a tracking number get assigned when the package is picked up by UPS? I would think you could ask the UPS guy for the tracking number when he picks it up.

I can't imagine that he would refuse to give it to you.

Then again, I don't actually know this for sure, just throwing out an idea...

 

Yes, this is what I was told by two different reps, but for some reason I have started loosing my trust in them. So, I wanted your inputs about the procedure that you used.

 

I've done this in the past with Dell returns. I took the box to the local retail shipping store in my city. The guy created a UPS order and label, charged me the shipping and I walked out with the tracking number. The shipping label had the correct return address and RMA number on it. Of course I was paying the return shipping... All of my other returns were warranty swaps so they'd send the new part, I'd put the defective part in the box and supply the supplied label on it and be done with it.

I would imagine the UPS guy will give you a tracking number when they get to your location. Otherwise, don't turn it over to anyone.

 

can you please share how you got the 15% fee waived? How did you convince the rep?

 

1) When I was doing my return, I've opted for dropping off the package myself, so the rep just emailed me the prepaid UPS shipping label.

2) I'm sure the shipment is insured by UPS. Just make sure to package the machine the same way as it was done at the factory.

 

Well, to start off with I'm an indian. Indian-Indian buddies

Seriously, it was tough to get them convinced. The only way they'll buy into it is by convincing them that your laptop is defective. I knew it would be a waste calling in without having some sort of a proof that I'm having problems with my laptop. So, I'd sent it in for servicing and had a reference number. Obviously, I'd a reference number and those guys working in 'returns' dept. indeed called their EZSERV dept. to verify that repair reference number.

At first, they wanted me to send it in again for servicing, but I made them aware that it would be a tremendous waste of my time and I needed this laptop urgently and they'd already fixed whatever they deemed was the problem.


In b/w, thanks to all those that replied.

I called the rep again today and managed to get the RETURN tracking number that UPS will assign to my package.

Also, the new laptop has already been shipped with the same specs. and price.

Thanks....