Bad USPS lost my package and lied

[golden_dragon]

Update on 1st Feb: Seller refunded me last week. I've paid another visit to my PO. before that, still nothing. It becomes a mystery where the package is, I wish it would go back to the seller somehow.

Long store short:
I purchased a Spyderco knife from @Mr.Bloodbath, it was a good deal, till the mailman lost my package. It was supposed to deliver on 15th Jan, it went missing after 9 days of searching. I've visited my local P.O. for Three times and they gave me different stories each time. The manager told me today that there is nothing they can do, but if I can show them the security camera record then they'll see what's possible.

Full story:
-On 15th Jan, I had 2 parcels coming that day. The first one was delivered from the mailman(the new guy) and the Spyderco one went missing. Our regular mailman was calling sick, he does that once a week so the new guy backs him up all the time. If you take a good look, the first package arrived at 11:45 am and the Spyderco one arrived at 12:45 pm. (Yes, Two packages for me that day)
Package delivered(Another Knife)
Package missing(Spyderco)

-15th Jan, I messaged the seller that the package went missing but I'll wait for a couple of days.
-16th Jan, I called the local PO. manager A told me to wait for his reply.
-18th Jan, I went to the local PO. manager A told me that the package was left to a lady in my office. Since I am the business owner, everybody at least searched for a while and nothing was found.
-20th Jan, I went to the local PO. and I talked with the mailman who was supposed to deliver this package, he told me he didn't remember any other package that day.
-24th Jan morning, I went to the local PO. manager B told me the mailman went back to deliver the package right after he noticed. The package was left to the door(don't know which) according to manager B. He then asked me to check the security camera.
-24th Jan afternoon, I went to the local PO. I talk to manager B, we've checked the camera that nobody showed up at the building entrance around the delivery time, according to the tracking. The manager further told me today that there is nothing they can do, but if I can show them the security camera record then they shall see what's possible. So I asked the manager what if I show them the video, he replied he'll see it first then decide if he can help.

My shameless PO. here.

Suggestions?

 

[golden_dragon]

Few updates:

-File a claim, yes I did file a help request on 22nd Jan. USPS just get back to me with the case resolved. They double confirmed the package has been delivered to an individual by 15th.

-GPS, according to USPS the mailman went back to deliver the package so they checked GPS, it shows two identical records at the right location.

-Photos of proof, I saw the image of these two packages that day. They both arrived at my local PO. and went out to deliver.

-Security camera, only the builder manager has direct access to the record and I am not allow to make a copy of it.

View media item 7983View media item 7982

 

[golden_dragon]

reserved

 

[Norcaldude]

If you are posting here to try and get your knife or be compensated somehow, you will be disappointed. The USPS is the one you need to talk to. I'd suggest filling out their online form. They should be able to see exactly where the package was when it was scanned as 'delivered'.

If you are posting here to try and warn people to not use the USPS, you will be disappointed. Nobody is going to stop using the USPS because they lost your package.

If you are posting here just to vent, knock yourself out.

 

[knifeswapper]

Go back and ask for the contact information for the regional postal inspector. That usually rattles them a bit as they don't like having them involved. Also ask them for the LAT/LONG where the package was scanned delivered.

Gather up all the pertinent video footage showing the first delivery and lack of any other delivery. Take it to them and very nicely ask them if they can check again for mis-delivery.

In my experience, once the recipient appears as if they are going to pursue figuring out where the package went - all of a sudden the carrier remembers where it might be. Not saying anything shady going on - they just many times need some incentive to stop and think for a minute.

For the most part, unless the carrier remembers and admits to an error - it will be very hard to recoup any significant amount of money on a package scanned delivered. Just too easy to commit fraud that way.

 

[Norcaldude]

Similar thing happened to me last year. Eventually I had somebody from the post office call me to let me know that the package had been delivered to my neighborhood but the wrong box. They also found out that the sender had transposed one of the numbers in my street address. I went to the address that was on the package and knocked on their door. They had my knife. They had opened the box it had been shipped in. Claimed they thought it was a surprise birthday gift from a relative. In the end though, I got my knife.

 

[Peter Hartwig]

Please clarify:
Are you saying both packages were supposedly delivered the same day , but an hour apart, and you only received one. If so that is very strange.
If they were delivered rather than lost in transit, the PO should be able to get a GPS location where they were delivered-apartment complexes and others with grouped postal locations don't work well for this.

 

[blanex1]

similar story hear, I had ordered a starbenza from Wilson Combat 7 months ago but the post office lost it somehow, and WC.said they never received it back at there factory using the tracking # I provided, it took me months to clear the charge of my credit card, although WC. did offer me a refund at the vary end as they no longer make that knife, a nickel short and dime late!!!

 

[golden_dragon]

Please clarify:
Are you saying both packages were supposedly delivered the same day , but an hour apart, and you only received one. If so that is very strange.
If they were delivered rather than lost in transit, the PO should be able to get a GPS location where they were delivered-apartment complexes and others with grouped postal locations don't work well for this.

That's my case indeed. Two knives for me that very day.
The substitute mailman doesn't respect his job somehow. We've received other people's package a few weeks before, I gave it back to him before he left the building.

 

[Bill Roberts]

Related to what Peter said:

I had a number of problems when living at one location and it was quite frustrating. Coincidentally in one instance my case was like yours in that two packages were reported as delivered to my address at different times on the same day, but in fact there was only one delivery.

That was the instance in which the post office person talking with me on the phone so far as I know checked the GPS information in detail to really verify exactly where the delivery was. That doesn't mean that no one else ever did before, but if so they never explained that they tried to troubleshoot with that as opposed to just telling me it was the correct location. Perhaps this time the representative took more care because of the two different times of day factor, which was odd as the Post Office comes to my location only once per day. And sure enough, the GPS was actually a different though nearby location, perhaps only 100 feet away but a different complex entirely, and my package was recovered.

Now you may have been through all that already. If not though, really have them double check that both GPS's are identical. If they differ significantly at all, the one other than for the one delivered is where it went. I hope this helps.

 

[golden_dragon]

Good point indeed. but I don't think I'm going back to my local Po. since they kept pushing me back and declined to offer any help. I could even tell that the manager there would simply claim my camera record isn't sufficient/ accurate enough and kick me away like he did. That was Very bad experience, they've lost all my respect.

Go back and ask for the contact information for the regional postal inspector. That usually rattles them a bit as they don't like having them involved. Also ask them for the LAT/LONG where the package was scanned delivered.

Gather up all the pertinent video footage showing the first delivery and lack of any other delivery. Take it to them and very nicely ask them if they can check again for mis-delivery.

In my experience, once the recipient appears as if they are going to pursue figuring out where the package went - all of a sudden the carrier remembers where it might be. Not saying anything shady going on - they just many times need some incentive to stop and think for a minute.

For the most part, unless the carrier remembers and admits to an error - it will be very hard to recoup any significant amount of money on a package scanned delivered. Just too easy to commit fraud that way.[

Go back and ask for the contact information for the regional postal inspector. That usually rattles them a bit as they don't like having them involved. Also ask them for the LAT/LONG where the package was scanned delivered.

Gather up all the pertinent video footage showing the first delivery and lack of any other delivery. Take it to them and very nicely ask them if they can check again for mis-delivery.

In my experience, once the recipient appears as if they are going to pursue figuring out where the package went - all of a sudden the carrier remembers where it might be. Not saying anything shady going on - they just many times need some incentive to stop and think for a minute.

For the most part, unless the carrier remembers and admits to an error - it will be very hard to recoup any significant amount of money on a package scanned delivered. Just too easy to commit fraud that way.

Good point indeed. but I don't think I'm going back to my local Po. since they kept pushing me back and declined to offer any help. I could even tell that the manager there would simply claim my camera record isn't sufficient enough and kick me away like he did today. That is Very bad experience, I've lost all my respect.

 

[craytab]

Good point indeed. but I don't think I'm going back to my local Po. since they kept pushing me back and declined to offer any help. I could even tell that the manager there would simply claim my camera record isn't sufficient/ accurate enough and kick me away like he did. That was Very bad experience, they've lost all my respect.

Do they know that you know that they have a GPS location of that delivery scan? I didn't see you mention that above.

I'd try going to the local PO once again in person. Be very nice and professional but make it clear that you will not be leaving until you know they have done everything they can (check the GPS, and give you the location). Bring all your evidence. Set aside some time for this and prepare to be dicked around. Just be calm, polite, yet firm.

If this does not result in satisfaction, get the contact information for the postal inspector and/or whomever is in charge. Take down names of everyone you talk to.

If they know you are not going to drop this or go away, more will happen. They are betting on you giving up. Don't.

If what you say is true, you can prove a package was not delivered. Make that absolutely clear.

Have you talked with the sender? Perhaps he/she can ask on the other end since that is who purchased the product (shipping). Get the GPS information from there. Sender might be able to collect insurance etc....

There is more you can do here. Just be persistent.

 

[golden_dragon]

Do they know that you know that they have a GPS location of that delivery scan? I didn't see you mention that above.

I'd try going to the local PO once again in person. Be very nice and professional but make it clear that you will not be leaving until you know they have done everything they can (check the GPS, and give you the location). Bring all your evidence. Set aside some time for this and prepare to be dicked around. Just be calm, polite, yet firm.

If this does not result in satisfaction, get the contact information for the postal inspector and/or whomever is in charge. Take down names of everyone you talk to.

If they know you are not going to drop this or go away, more will happen. They are betting on you giving up. Don't.

If what you say is true, you can prove a package was not delivered. Make that absolutely clear.

Have you talked with the sender? Perhaps he/she can ask on the other end since that is who purchased the product (shipping). Get the GPS information from there. Sender might be able to collect insurance etc....

There is more you can do here. Just be persistent.

Thanks, USPS says they checked GPS, everything looks fine.

 

[annr]

Tell them it doesn’t look fine to you? (They have a weird interpretation of “fine” or a semi–bullet-proof scam.)

Did they show you the GPS info and explain how it is definitive?

I agree with others: you may have to walk it up (all the way up) the chain of command, and they hope you will give up.

Call the postal inspector(?) and tell them you have evidence that your mail was not delivered and you got multiple versions of events —all of which leave you empty handed.

 

[Peter Hartwig]

There is a lot of variance between PO's . They can be very helpful when they want to be, so maybe the seller would have better luck.
I believe you said it was a Spyderco, so unless highly valued pursuit of this will be for principal rather than value. The PO will likely eat up more time then the item is worth. Unfortunately mailing is one of our greater risks.

 

[KELAMA]

Few updates:

-File a claim, yes I did file a help request on 22nd Jan. USPS just get back to me with the case resolved. They double confirmed the package has been delivered to an individual by 15th.

-GPS, according to USPS the mailman went back to deliver the package so they checked GPS, it shows two identical records at the right location.

-Photos of proof, I saw the image of these two packages that day. They both arrived at my local PO. and went out to deliver.

^ The bold parts above, are seemingly powerful facts, provided that you're actually able to get somebody from the USPO, to assist you in further investigating this MIA package of yours.

This reminds me, of the only instance (out of hundred's), where I had a USPS package (with signature mind you), go MIA. The fact that I had added signature confirmation on it, is in all probability, was the only reason we were able to get assistance from several USPS employee's, & eventually locate the package. It's a very interesting read to say the least.

https://www.bladeforums.com/threads/usps-theft.1381487/

Just like in your situation, our case also involved a fill in/temp postal carrier. Fortunately for us, his actions (he actually signed for the missing package) were both incriminating, & just plain stupid. After becoming aware of our dilemma, my BF trading partner & I were able to work together, along with a couple of very helpful postal employee's. I think all told, I made 2-3 calls down the local post office in Florida my package was sent out on delivery from. The postal supervisor I spoke with was very helpful, & genuinely wanted to assist us in every way he could. He actually called me back a couple of times to update me as the situation was unfolding.

This occurred about 4 years ago, back when BF's Moderator, Esav Benyamin (a retired NYC USPS Supervisor- may he be resting in eternal peace <3), spent much of his valuable time here on BF's, sharing his knowledge & helping so many member's here, in situations like this. And we could also count on another BF member/USPS employee, who also helped so many member's here, either locate, or do postal intercept's of packages. John (Monofletch). I can remember him assisting in saving a couple of packages in the nick of time (that had he not gotten involved), most likely would've been delivered that very day, to a known scammer.

*** On a side note: The BF member/seller, who you purchased this knife from (Mr.Bloodbath); I just had an awesome transaction with him this past Tuesday. We met in person locally, not far from where I live in the San Diego North County & had a cash/knife in hand transaction- the best type of transaction IMO. We spent at least a half hour, discussing our passions for knives....& how he'd like to get a few local knife guys in our area, together for a poker/IPA night where we could have some fun socializing & maybe bring a few knives to share.

I wish you the best of luck, GD. I would also suggest, that you continue for as long as it takes, going down to your local USPO, until you can find a Supervisor who genuinely seems concerned & wants to help you....or take the advice (posthumously) from Esav in the link I shared, & contact the Postal Inspector's:
https://postalinspectors.uspis.gov/

Do not just let this matter/theft, go!

 

[KELAMA]

I agree with others: you may have to walk it up (all the way up) the chain of command, and they hope you will give up.

Call the postal inspector(?) and tell them you have evidence that your mail was not delivered and you got multiple versions of events —all of which leave you empty handed.

^^^ This!

 

[craytab]

-24th Jan afternoon, I went to the local PO. I talk to manager B, we've checked the camera there is nobody showing up at the building entrance around the delivery time, according to the tracking. The manager further told me today that there is nothing they can do, but if I can show them the security camera record then they shall see what's possible. So I asked the manager what if I show them the video, he replied he'll see it first then decide if he can help.

So there is a video, that you have seen, showing no package delivered but you no longer have access to it from the building manager even though you are a business owner in the building? That seems odd to me.

I would contact the seller and ask him to get involved on his end.

I would also press the post office to provide physical evidence documenting that the item was delivered (exact gps location and time for both packages) and the names of those who delivered them.

I would run this all up the flag poll with the postal inspector.

Last, I would seriously look at your end of things. As the evidence stands, it looks like the package was delivered as it was supposed to be. This means that all obligations of delivery have been fulfilled by the seller and thus, the post office. You will be hard pressed to prove otherwise unless there is other evidence uncovered.

The whole video thing still sticks in my craw. This appears to be a matter of theft. The building manager with the video should want to resolve this. Perhaps a call to the police is in order.

 

[golden_dragon]

So there is a video, that you have seen, showing no package delivered but you no longer have access to it from the building manager even though you are a business owner in the building? That seems odd to me.

I would contact the seller and ask him to get involved on his end.

I would also press the post office to provide physical evidence documenting that the item was delivered (exact gps location and time for both packages) and the names of those who delivered them.

I would run this all up the flag poll with the postal inspector.

Last, I would seriously look at your end of things. As the evidence stands, it looks like the package was delivered as it was supposed to be. This means that all obligations of delivery have been fulfilled by the seller and thus, the post office. You will be hard pressed to prove otherwise unless there is other evidence uncovered.

The whole video thing still sticks in my craw. This appears to be a matter of theft. The building manager with the video should want to resolve this. Perhaps a call to the police is in order.

Nobody showed up at the building entrance around the second delivery time, the mailman didn't come back and redeliver my package. He simply gave it to somebody else.

 

[craytab]

Nobody showed up at the building entrance around the second delivery time, the mailman didn't come back and redeliver my package. He simply gave it to somebody else.

Okay. Above you say this:

"-GPS, according to USPS the mailman went back to deliver the package so they checked GPS, it shows two identical records at the right location."

What does two identical records mean?

The tracking links show different delivery times, no? Is a GPS marker linked to each delivery time? I'm wondering how this works. Perhaps @Monofletch can explain. It seems to me that two different tracking numbers delivered to the same place but at different times should have two corresponding GPS markers linked to them. Same GPS location, different times.