I just purchased a brand-new laptop online, but the packaging has already broken

Hi, I recently bought a new laptop online, but when I opened the parcel, the security seal (circle tag) was already broken. I’ve contacted the seller but haven’t received a response yet—it’s been about 30 minutes.

For context, I’m in Malaysia. I haven’t powered on the laptop yet to avoid any issues with returning it if needed.

A couple of questions:

  • Could this be a display or a used unit? How can I check if it’s truly new?
  • I didn’t request any upgrades, so why might the seal already be torn?:thinking:

Authorization to Return Material (RMA). The item shouldn’t be sent with a cracked seal. Manufacturers might be pretty rigorous when it comes to RMAs, so do not try to test it or anything. You will most likely be able to tick off a box labeled “packaging damaged on arrival” or something similar.

Thank you for the information. I proceeded to return and asking a refund for the laptop this afternoon. The seller said that “it was for quality inspection” and it’s truly BS IMO. The seal is there for a reason. You seem to know the legal side, so I would appreciate if you willing to share more on this topic.

They most likely replaced lower-quality junk with some actual parts from your laptop that you wouldn’t even notice, including the OEM fan, SSD, and RAM.

The manufacturer is in charge of quality control. It is not the third party seller’s place to open a sealed box. Tell him you want your money back and return it right away. Seems like a shady con artist

Did you purchase it online? (Websites for Lenovo, Flipkart, Walmart, eBay, and Amazon)?

Alright, simply return it and state that the seal has already cracked!

Definitely returning. The seller had the nerve asking me if the laptop is still in good condition, probably not wanting to go through return process. I insisted that the seal is broken and I say about probability they’re tinkering with the laptop or replacing it with old units. Right now return is in progress.

Yes I buy online. I used Shopee, bought from official Lenovo reseller.

wise choice made at the appropriate moment Bravo! :+1:

Oh, I neglected to mention that while they were doing a quality check, they claimed the seal was broken. I dial BS. God knows that if I know how, I would really like to pursue this matter in court. For now, receiving the reimbursement is sufficient.

To perform “quality control,” one opens the packaging.

queries the state of the laptop

Yes, it is all nonsense. Get your money back and leave.

Yes, that is absurd.

They told lies. Return it.

Yes, I returned it. I have that store on my blacklist. I am considering reporting it to the relevant authorities in my nation. They even said completely untrue that the broken seal is for quality testing.

Always record your unboxing videos, especially for pricey things.

Yes, I did indeed record myself opening the package as soon as it arrived at my study desk. Everything was taped, including the bubbles at the very end of the plastic parcel box. I was also able to capture the seal that is completely shattered immediately out of the package.