How was the RMA process with Toshiba? Were you responsible for any S&H charges? I assume they didn't ask for proof of purchase since we bought these on eBay and you successfully received a replacement. Did they allow the option to cross ship the new drive?
I haven't had any issues with my drives but just was curious for reference in case I encounter that situation in the future.
The process is very painless. I'd also mention that I called and talked to them and they were very friendly and helpful. For Web RMA inquiries, contact Customer Service at 1-877-689-4899.
Go
HERE to create an account. You can check warranty status, pending RMA's, they have a Help section that shows you all the steps in the process even. When you check the warranty you can create an RMA right within the tool. You will provide basic information for shipping, but nothing about purchase information. You pay for shipping to them, they pay for shipping it back. They have two RMA methods (I'll give my explanation for each);
Standard Exchange (REPLACEMENT): Standard replacement process where you ship the bad drive, they receive it and verify that the drive isn't physically damaged on the outside (casing isn't dented, labels are intact, etc) and if that checks out they will ship you a replacement.
Advanced Replacement Program (ADVR): They will cross ship you a replacement drive. However, you will have to provide your Credit Card (Visa, Discover, American Express) in case when they get the drive it is damaged (casing, labels, etc) and therefore not covered by warranty. At which point they will charge you for the cost of the disk at what sounded like MSRP. I forget exactly but I think it was $320 for this disk (call customer service and they will let you know the potential charge).
I decided that ADVR wasn't worth the potential $320 charge if they denied it for whatever reason when I could buy one on Ebay for $70. So I purchased 2 on Ebay (as mentioned) that got here really quick (I think 2 business days). Used one of those to replace the failed disk, put 1 on shelf as spare, and waited for the replacement from Toshiba to put on shelf as spare.
Make sure you follow the return shipping requirements (bubble wrap and make sure it is tightly fit inside a box so not to shake all around. Include the RMA packing slip they provide in the box. Write the RMA # on the outside of the box. Honestly, it was one of the simplest returns I've had to do.
My account at Toshiba shows that I was authorized for a return on 7/28/15, pretty sure I didn't ship it out until the 31st, shipped it out FedEx 2day for like $6 (our company ships everything 2day FedEx so we have rates that make it cheaper than Ground) and the replacement was shipped and case closed on 8/5/15. Shipped FedEx Ground and I got it today 8/10/15.