We ordered four 2.5" Western Digital Velociraptor 600 GB SATA III hard drives listed as fulfilled by Amazon. We received a 19"x14.5"3.5" box with items crashing around loose inside. We did not even think it was the hard drive shipment. Upon opening, we viewed the four drives that had gathered loose in one corner with nothing less than a couple sets of AIRplus pillows that had been thrown into the box. From TN to CA the drives had been beating each other to the extent that the non-padded factory electro static bag of each drive looked like used foil.
No telling what shock and damage this inferior packaging has caused these drives. Absolutely the worst packaging of any product we have received from Amazon. This is beyond missing the mark, it is brand damaging. Is this what is to be expected from Amazon shipments in the future?
Highly disturbing for a $1200 plus electronics purchase.
Updated March 20, 2012:
Per Western Digital Warranty Services Packaging and Shipping Instructions (Specifically B and E):
All products require stable and sufficient packing material, needed to protect the product from ESD (Electro Static Discharge) influences and possible damage during transport. Required Packaging Steps:
A. Place drive in ESD (Electro Static Discharge) Bag (For internal drives only.)
B. Wrap with 2 inches of bubble wrap or non-movable foam cushioning
C. Place in sturdy cardboard box. Do not use chipboard, as it is not strong enough to withstand the rigors of transit. Please make sure the corrugated carton is free from defects and is structurally sound. Note: Returning a WD hard drive in an envelope, will void the warranty.
D. Please print out the RMA Label and affix on the box. Write the Return Material Authorization number on outside packaging, on three sides in bold print.
E. When shipping multiple items, each item must be, packed as above, hard drive must not directly touch each other and cannot move inside the packaging. All products must be, packed in individual anti-static bags and in a sturdy cardboard box. Please utilize Western Digital original packaging when available. DO NOT USE peanuts or packing material that can shift or settle during transit. Warning: Returning a WD hard drive in an envelope, will void the warranty.
NOTE: Per Western Digital web site the shipping provided by Amazon does not even meet Manufacturer's minimum shipping requirements to avoid voiding warranty and potentially causing damage during shipping.