Sprint Wireless did not allow phone return Overland Park Kansas

I was happy with my Sprint wireless phone until one day I decided to change phones. Reading on their website, and also confirmed verbally over the telephone, I found out they had a program where I could switch to a different phone for little or no cost to me (not more than $50). So I was happy, I told them the new phone I wanted was a Motorola Razr v3, but they said I would have to pay for it in full first (~$350). So I did, and they sent it to me.

I changed activation to my new Razr phone from my old one (a Sanyo Katana), don't remember if I paid an activation fee or not. This all happened in the summer of 2006. I then wanted to take my old Katana to the local Sprint store for return. They told me it was not possible, I had ordered it over the web so I had to return it through the mail. So I asked them to send me a "return kit" which they told me was required for phone returns. I waited a couple of weeks. The return kit never came.

Then, I got on the web and ordered a return kit for my Katana through the internet. They indicated they would send me one. I waited 2 weeks or so, and it never came. Then I called a 3rd time and asked for a return kit over the phone, they said they would send me one. I waited 2 weeks or so, it never came. Then, in disbelief, I actually called customer service a 4th time and asked for a return kit for my Katana yet again. It never came. They said they were sending one, but it never came.

This whole process was not only a waste of my time, it was downright insulting. To be told the return kit is coming then never have one arrive is being lied to, I don't like that. It cost me $300 more than I had been told to switch phones. It was not worth that much to me, if I had been told the truth in the beginning I never would have switched phones.

Also these phones had cameras in them which were advertised as features on the shopping page. However, after you get the phone, you find out you cannot download photos to your computer from the phone unless you pay an additional $5 per month for a special photo email service. Surprise! They get you coming, and they get you going, they are very clever.

On top of everything, Sprint now wants to charge me a $150 early termination fee. It has been more than 2 years since I changed to the Katana. I paid full price for the Razr, that should not add to my commitment. I did not sign anything saying I wanted to extend my agreement for 2 years. They want to make me pay for the privilege of leaving them. I had been a loyal customer for many years, always kept up with my payments, and this is how they thank me?

Sprint is a terrible company. They screwed me. Stay away from them. If you have them already, you poor b*stard, I feel for you.

Muse
Albuquerque, New Mexico
U.S.A.