For sometime I’ve been thinking about upgrading my bike transportation system. No, not my vehicle–though that would nice–what I use to hold the bicycle. I’m currently using an inexpensive trunk rack, but with a new bike on the way, I’ve been yearning for something more secure and sporty.
So yesterday I finally bit the bullet and ordered a Yakima roof rack from Agee’s Bicycles. I got what I presume to be one of the better deals available: a 20% sale, free shipping, and no sales tax (which would be almost 10% locally). Nevertheless, I winced a bit when I hit “place order” because it’s still a nice chunk of change.
This won’t be news to anyone, but I’m struck by the difference in shipping services. Within a few hours of the order, Agee’s e-mailed me the tracking number so I can monitor the UPS delivery. at the UPS website, I can see that it has already left Richmond, VA, and is supposed to arrive here tomorrow.
This contrasts sharply with a recent order I made at Performance Bicycles. I ordered May 1, they allegedly shipped on May 3 (USPS), and I still haven’t received my goodies. Yes, 13 days and counting. I’m not sure where they are shipping from, but the headquarters is in North Carolina. What are they using, pony express? This punches a hole in that “world is getting smaller” theory, doesn’t it?
I sure hope I don’t have to return anything for an exchange; might be July before I see it.
UPDATE: The goods just arrived! No wonder it took so long; they came all the way from Chapel Hill, North Carolina. Why it takes the USPS two weeks to move a couple boxes one state over is beyond me.