Claiming cashback - 'Special Delivery' -some words of advice

Hello fellow moneysavers,

I have been using cashback offers for 2 years now and have had particular trouble claiming back in the last couple of months, not as a result of the retailer, so I thought I would offer some words of advice.

My first contract was through Carphone Warehouse, who for the most part, were fine to deal with. Having found a significantly better deal elsewhere when it came to renew, I took the brave step of looking at other online retailers who had links to CPW for my new contract. I chose a phone through OneStopPhoneShop which requires me to send bills on 5 occasions totalling 480 pounds. I decided that, given the OSPS policy of invalidating all subsequent claims if you miss one, I would splash out on a form of recorded postage. Royal Mail offer a paltry level of compensation for their recorded delivery so I chose Special Delivery instead (basic compensation up to 500). Having encountered small-print problems twice I am driven to warn all moneysavers to be aware of the limitations of this service:

you may be aware that Special Delivery postage stamps are available for purchase online where you can pay and print out a label to affix to your package. Please be aware that unless you physically go to a post office to register it and obtain a tracking number, the item will be sent by first class post. Luckily, when this happened to me, the envelope arrived and I eventually received my cheque.

SO once bitten twice shy - I sent the second claim form through work as Royal Mail conveniently pick up all mail from my office. This time, a receipt was automatically obtained from the pickup man. When I tried to track the number I was told that it was not registered on the system. After many calls and an honest admission by me that the item was not in itself worth 480 pounds, I receive a charming letter with a cheque refund of the 4.30 postage cost attached. This is a long way from the potential monetary loss! After a very stern conversation with Royal Mail, it transpires that if one needs EXTRA compensation cover for a document which, in the event of late arrival or loss, would result in finacial loss. Incredibly angry though I am, I have no recourse to compensation unless I had paid an extra fee and chose 'Consequential Loss' cover. I feel compelled to warn that even if you are super vigilant like me and get your claims in on time and by a recorded form of delivery, even paying extra for delivery, you may not be covered.

Please, please, please be careful with cashback as even if the company you have found is reliable, our postal service is not!!!