I received another letter from the Florida BBB today. It contained Coastal Dave's response:
The item in question was included in the order and was received in the shipment. Customer stated it was not-in the interest of customer service-we refunded $10 to his credit card. Again-prior to notification of this complaint.
He was given free shipping as compensation for the delay in receiving his backordered item. He was informed it was backordered but wanted it for a trip. Again, free shipping is NOT a requirement and was provided in the interest of customer service. Credit given 9/02/05 prior to notification.
First of all, if the item was included in the package, I would not have contacted them and notified them it was not. Having a small business ourselves, I know how easy it is to ship the wrong package to the wrong person. Whoever got my package got a freebie. That's business.
I realize that free shipping was not required, but it was the least they could do to try to appease an unhappy customer who had to wait without any notification from them as to the status of my order.
By the way, I WAS NEVER informed that anything was on backorder when I placed my order and subsequent phone calls and e-mails were never answered.
I filed my complaint with the BBB on 8/26/05, that is BEFORE 9/02. I believe I would not have gotten my money back if I had not filed the complaint. Also, they NEVER bothered to notify me that they were refunding my money. Thanks again Dave.
My advice, spend your money elsewhere. To those suckers, like myself, who didn't- file a complaint.