jstampa

I'm actually selling those 2 lenses right now on craigslist. One person actually sent me an email asking a lot of questions about the 100-400 and one of them was if i had the original box. I think people like getting a complete package somehow.

I prefer to try CL first to get a local cash sell and if not then I'll list elsewhere. And yes, I have original boxes and all original paperwork.

whatdat Loc: Del Valle, Tx.

I would return it. Could have damage internally that may turn up after a while. I would always have that worry in the back of my mind. For that price, I would wait for one I could have more confidence in. IMO

dandev Loc: Enumclaw, WA

Return it. I don't buy expensive camera gear from Amazon. I use my local camera store - or a place like B&H. They often have prices as good or better than Amazon.

See_the_shot Loc: Bluffton, SC

I would send it back without hesitation. You don't pay that kind of money for something to arrive in that condition. It's obviously had rough handling.

Fredrick Loc: Former NYC, now San Francisco Bay Area

Return it. It’ll always be in the back of your mind that something may be wrong with it, and that you might get less selling it because of the box if you want to do so at some point in the future.

You’re talking about an expensive lens here.

burkphoto Loc: High Point, NC

Please think through this logically. You bought it from Amazon. Check their return policy and give them a call if needed.

You won't know whether the lens is damaged or not until you open it and test it thoroughly, as you should any new lens you buy.

That said, I agree that shipping a lens in the Canon box was the height of risk and stupidity. Popsicle sticks in bubble pillows? THAT's just funny. It cost more to ship than the item is worth.

Bill_de Loc: US

I keep boxes for when I have to ship things, just because stuff fits better.
I wonder if places like KEH make a + or - adjustment for an OEM box.
I've never sold anything privately.

Thanks for responding.

burkphoto Loc: High Point, NC

I find it odd, but some products are worth more in the original box. You can buy empty iPhone boxes on eBay and other sites. They are used to put old phones in for display or resale.

I still have some boxes my camera gear came in. It's been 5-6 years; I can probably trash them now...

Bill_de Loc: US

I have a lot of power tools that came in nice cases. Once I built cabinets I had a bunch of empty, heavy duty cases. I donate quite a bit of stuff to the Habitat for Humanity reStore. I asked if they wanted the cases, and they declined. His explanation was probably true, but sad. He said when they accepted them they sold like crazy ... to people who were stealing tools and wanted cases. Somehow the State Troopers became aware of it and asked them to stop taking them as donations.

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joer Loc: Colorado/Illinois

Not stupid just pressured to make their quota and not knowing the value of the item. Not to worry Amazon has a hassle free return policy. I wouldn't loose any sleep over it...test it and decide accordingly.

burkphoto Loc: High Point, NC

Wow. Criminals have an angle on everything. That's disgusting. But I can see it happening...

joer Loc: Colorado/Illinois

KEH would rather not get photo gear in original boxes.

Bill_de Loc: US

Interesting. Do you know why?

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E.L.. Shapiro Loc: Ottawa, Ontario Canada

I have no information on exactly how Amazon operates its packing and shipping departments. I assume they have a network of warehouses from which they ship a wide variety of items. Some products are "drop-shipped" from God knows where oftentimes directly from China.

Point is, they are not a camera store. An employee may ship a fragile lens with the same finesse as a monkey wrench or many other unbreakable items. I have received merchandise, simply and inadequately packed in a rather flimsy envelope with a thin useless layer of bubble wrap.

The original box that most cameras and lenses are packaged in is not intended for shipping- proper corrugated cardboard cartons of the appropriate strength along with adequate packaging material to absorb impact, vibration and act as a buffer in the event of crushing should be used.

Funny thing is, Amazon usually ships items like underwear, towels and leather goods in oversized boxes.

My advice. based on my experience, to the OP. At my studio, we receive many shipments. I import albums and picture frames, and many items that are not available locally. Any parcel that shows signs of significant damage is suspect and usually, the shipper is IMMEDUIATLY notified as well as the transportation company. When ordering, we make certain that the shipper is providing adequate insurance to cover any damages. In the event of occasional issues, we have received prompt remedial service from UPS, FedEx, Purolator, Canada Post Corporation. U.S.P.S. and Air Canada Cargo. And, of course, reliable suppliers.

Fragile equipment received in damaged containers goes back, no ifs, and/or buts! If the gear fails weeks or months later due to latent damage- you have a problem receiving exchange or compensation. It's not a matter of "I paid for a NEW perfect unit..., etc", it's a matter of prevention and common sense.

On high ticket items, I prefer to deal with local camera stores. If, however, you continuously deal with mailorder and online dealers. create a routine policy, make sure you understand the laws concerning the responsibilities of the shipper, the carrier, and the receiving party- read the small print on the bills of landing.

nervous2 Loc: Provo, Utah

B&H comes thru again. My experience with them has been consistently superb. Great to find a merchant like that. While I'm at it, let me give a shout out to KEH as well. Similar experience. I won't be commenting on Abe's of Maine as I have not tried them--nor will I given the consensus of my fellow Hoggers.