Security Bands and Box Damage

DavidBrickley

I've seen these on some of the larger sets in the past, but now I'm starting to see them on the smaller, under $100 sets. More often than not, these bands have cut gouges into the box. Does this deter anyone from purchasing the sets at a store that uses these? I'm not a MISB collector, but even even buying as gifts, I'd prefer the box not have gouges in it.

On the plus side, I guess if it keeps someone from getting into a box while in the store and removing the minifigures, great. I've seen a lot of posts where folks have encountered this, either when opening to build or when returning for a refund. Have these bands and the damge they do swayed anyone away from a purchase?

pcirone

Absolutely.. most recently at a TRU trying to use rewards coupons, the only set that made sense (I forget which) had the bands with varying amounts of damage.. I left them all on the shelf and went to another TRU. I showed them.

BTHodgeman

This is a huge problem at Walmart... My Walmart uses these "Spider Wraps" on most sets over $30.

Brent

gmpirate

I wouldn't buy them personally for myself but if the set had good resale value I would. But this would only apply to retired or discounted sets, otherwise I would pass.

starfire2

I don't mind it. I think it might mean not getting a set missing figures or bags.

toyz4me

I don't mind it. I think it might mean not getting a set missing figures or bags.

Yeah, if it's for myself, I don't mind it. (especially if it's on sale) Of course a torn up box doesn't make a good gift impression.

madforLEGO

The security devices the TRU by me uses go on when the item is in the store and off when it leaves. Which means someone can buy an item, take it home, extract the figures and what not, then return it.
I have a Passenger train box from a BOGO that is 6 oz less than the other.. still debating if I just want to open it and see if the parts are all there, and if not call LEGO customer service, or try taking it back and try explaining to the Customer service person that the box is lighter so I want another one...

Id rather have straps going around the flaps of the boxes to stop people from buying the set, taking it home, getting the figures or whatever out of it and returning it looking like no one opened it...

starfire2

Lego should use industrial strength glue on the ends of the boxes to seal them. Box collectors may hate them but dishonest people might be detured (sp?)