Problem with large computer desk bought on Amazon

lynxptc · 16 February 2019 at 2:56PM

I bought a large wooden computer desk on Amazon which was described as “strong and sturdy” and of “high quality”.

I spent an hour putting it all together and followed the instructions exactly. When I was putting the final screws in I found that the panels didn’t lign up, it was wobbling and I’ve found chips on the side of the wood. Basically it’s nowhere near strong and sturdy as it said in the description and it’s basically of poor quality and not as described.

I contacted Amazon and explained everything to them and they have agreed to a return but they said I am responsible to send it back and they will refund postage up to £4.50.

I’m not sure how to go about this. It’s a very large computer desk, I can’t reuse the packaging because I had to rip it open due to the amount of tape protecting it and it’s going to take me another hour taking it all apart because there are just so many screws and pieces.

I don’t know where I’m going to get new packaging and to have it collected and sent by courier is going to cost about £15-£20. I don’t have a car so this is going to be a total nightmare.

Does anyone have any advice on how to proceed? I’ve asked Amazon if they have any options for example issuing a partial refund if I keep the desk to make up for the quality and misalignment of the panels etc but they won’t budge - they said all they can do is issue a full refund along with £5 return postage charges if I return it myself.

The desk itself was only £54.99 and I’m stuck with it with no real practical way of taking it all apart and getting packaging big enough to return it?

They are in breach of the sales contract so surely there is more they can do practically to get this back to them?

Mr.Generous · 16 February 2019 at 3:35PM

The disadvantage of buying stuff from Amazon, you are basically stuck with it. look at how easily and cheaply you can make it sturdy. If the reviews on the desk are good you probably have done something wrong. getting someone else to look at it is the best idea, hard to spot your own mistakes.