Unboxing Cosmetic Issues – DJI Mavic 4 Pro (Photos Attached)

[Formula E]

I just unboxed my Mavic 4 Pro and completed FAA registration last night, cutting it very close to the 23rd deadline. I’ve owned and operated DJI drones continuously since 2014, and this is the first unit I’ve ever unboxed with visible cosmetic defects straight from the factory.

Reference photos are attached below.

There was noticeable residue from a protective sticker that came off cleanly using the 3M painter’s tape method and finished up nicely. On the top shell, there was also an oil-like mark or fingerprint embedded in the surface.. Not a major issue on its own, but unusual for a brand-new unit.

After examining the drone more closely over the past 24 hours, that same oil-like mark appears consistent with a light horizontal surface scuff that may have been touched up at the factory. It’s subtle, but becomes noticeable under certain lighting. Attempted cleaning with several approved methods and there is no improvement.

The drone has not had its maiden flight yet due to weather in my area. Registration with the FAA is complete.

Given the current timing and uncertainty around availability, I’m curious what others here would do. Under normal circumstances I would likely return or exchange the unit, but assuming the camera, gimbal, and flight performance are flawless, this may not be a dealbreaker for me.

Interested to hear opinions on whether this is worth pursuing a return with the seller and if its possible to attain another unit and register after the 23rd or if I’m overthinking a purely cosmetic issue.

Seller link for reference:

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DS2HDF1M

 

[GFields]

Most likely happened during manufacture. Test the drone out thoroughly in case there are other issues and return it if necessary.

 

[Formula E]

Despite being somewhat detached from the news, I am aware of the outcome of yesterday’s ruling. However, there are numerous uncertainties that remain. My primary concern is whether returning the device to Amazon and acquiring a replacement would result in any complications regarding its registration. Thanks for any input!

 

[mavic3usa]

What would I do? https://a.co/d/73p6BB6

 

[GadgetGuy]

Carefully reread your Flysafe CR shyster A to Z seller's return policies, since it was not shipped by Amazon, according to your link, meaning you must deal with them directly on any return. Good luck!
This seller's return policies are onerous, charging up to 50% restocking fees plus return shipping!
They will likely claim you damaged the drone.
They have horrible Critical Reviews. Read them.
You may very well have received a returned drone.
Never buy from a third party seller on Amazon unless Amazon is doing the shipping.

====

"Buyer must pay return shipping.
FlySafe CR reserves the right to deem merchandise as unacceptable for return if found to be in used condition, damaged, or mishandled. All merchandise is subject to a minimum 20% re-stocking fee and Amazon allows up to 50% plus the cost of shipping for damaged or used items."

=====

Amazon.com Seller Profile: FlySafe CR

About Seller Flysafe CR​

CUSTOMER SERVICE HOURS: 10AM-6PM MONDAY TO FRIDAY.

ALL EMAILS DURING WEEKENDS AND HOLIDAYS WILL BE ANSWERED ON THE FOLLOWING BUSINESS DAY.
Returns and Refunds
You can cancel your order for any item, provided that the order has not yet entered the shipping process.
- Visit the order summary in "Your Account" on Amazon.
- Click the relevant link in that box to visit the order summary page.
- Once you've reached the order summary page, click the "Need to cancel an item?" button.
- On the next page, click the check box next to any item you want to cancel.
- Be sure to click the "Cancel checked items" button when you are finished.
Return Policy Disclaimer
All products may be exchanged or returned within 30 days of the invoice date. Thereafter, all sales are final. There will be no returns on opened printers, scanners, and special orders.
Pertaining to all items purchased
All exchanges and returns require a Return Merchandise Authorization (RMA) number. Exchanges and returns cannot be accepted or processed without one. An RMA must be requested within 30 days of the original purchase invoice date. Thereafter, all sales are final and any applicable exchanges and returns are the responsibility of the manufacturer. All products are sold with their respective manufacturers warranties. Please note that warranty periods and services vary by manufacturer and product.
Please Remember
1. All items must be returned in "as new" condition in the original packaging and have all accessories, blank warranty cards, and owner’s manuals. The original packing slip from the order must be included and the RMA number must be legibly written on the return label. There will be a nominal fee if the products original box is damaged. Even if only part of an item is defective, the entire original package must be sent back in order to receive an exchange or return credit from FlySafe CR
2. The returned package must be received within 7 days of the RMA issue date.
3. When exchanging an item, you will be sent your new tracking number and replacement item after FlySafe CR receives and approves the returned item.
4. Shipping and handling fees are non-refundable.
All refunds for credit will be issued only to the credit card account that appears on the original invoice. After 14 days, all applicable exchange and return responsibility is turned over to the manufacturer.
5. Buyer must pay return shipping.
FlySafe CR reserves the right to deem merchandise as unacceptable for return if found to be in used condition, damaged, or mishandled. All merchandise is subject to a minimum 20% re-stocking fee and Amazon allows up to 50% plus the cost of shipping for damaged or used items.

6. DJI Products: we do not supply prepaid labels, but we will reimburse the shipping cost to you once we determine the issue with the drone. We allow up to $25. for return shipping after we determine the item is defective. DJI has incorporated a black box on the drone, this black box records all events, from start up to where and when you flew the drone, including all firmware updates and warnings. If the black box determines that the item is defective you will receive a full refund and up to $25.00 for return shipping. In the event the Black Box determines that the issue is User Error then you will be subject to Amazon's return policy for returned damage items. You can also utilize DJI warranty service, you drone is warranty for one year. DJI can be contacted at 818.235.0789 or online at DJI.com/support, online repair.

 

[Formula E]

Carefully reread your Flysafe CR shyster A to Z seller's return policies, since it was not shipped by Amazon, according to your link, meaning you must deal with them directly on any return. Good luck!
This seller's return policies are onerous, charging up to 50% restocking fees plus return shipping!
They will likely claim you damaged the drone.
They have horrible Critical Reviews. Read them.
You may very well have received a returned drone.
Never buy from a third party seller on Amazon unless Amazon is doing the shipping.

====

"Buyer must pay return shipping.
FlySafe CR reserves the right to deem merchandise as unacceptable for return if found to be in used condition, damaged, or mishandled. All merchandise is subject to a minimum 20% re-stocking fee and Amazon allows up to 50% plus the cost of shipping for damaged or used items."

=====

Amazon.com Seller Profile: FlySafe CR

About Seller Flysafe CR​

CUSTOMER SERVICE HOURS: 10AM-6PM MONDAY TO FRIDAY.

ALL EMAILS DURING WEEKENDS AND HOLIDAYS WILL BE ANSWERED ON THE FOLLOWING BUSINESS DAY.
Returns and Refunds
You can cancel your order for any item, provided that the order has not yet entered the shipping process.
- Visit the order summary in "Your Account" on Amazon.
- Click the relevant link in that box to visit the order summary page.
- Once you've reached the order summary page, click the "Need to cancel an item?" button.
- On the next page, click the check box next to any item you want to cancel.
- Be sure to click the "Cancel checked items" button when you are finished.
Return Policy Disclaimer
All products may be exchanged or returned within 30 days of the invoice date. Thereafter, all sales are final. There will be no returns on opened printers, scanners, and special orders.
Pertaining to all items purchased
All exchanges and returns require a Return Merchandise Authorization (RMA) number. Exchanges and returns cannot be accepted or processed without one. An RMA must be requested within 30 days of the original purchase invoice date. Thereafter, all sales are final and any applicable exchanges and returns are the responsibility of the manufacturer. All products are sold with their respective manufacturers warranties. Please note that warranty periods and services vary by manufacturer and product.
Please Remember
1. All items must be returned in "as new" condition in the original packaging and have all accessories, blank warranty cards, and owner’s manuals. The original packing slip from the order must be included and the RMA number must be legibly written on the return label. There will be a nominal fee if the products original box is damaged. Even if only part of an item is defective, the entire original package must be sent back in order to receive an exchange or return credit from FlySafe CR
2. The returned package must be received within 7 days of the RMA issue date.
3. When exchanging an item, you will be sent your new tracking number and replacement item after FlySafe CR receives and approves the returned item.
4. Shipping and handling fees are non-refundable.
All refunds for credit will be issued only to the credit card account that appears on the original invoice. After 14 days, all applicable exchange and return responsibility is turned over to the manufacturer.
5. Buyer must pay return shipping.
FlySafe CR reserves the right to deem merchandise as unacceptable for return if found to be in used condition, damaged, or mishandled. All merchandise is subject to a minimum 20% re-stocking fee and Amazon allows up to 50% plus the cost of shipping for damaged or used items.

6. DJI Products: we do not supply prepaid labels, but we will reimburse the shipping cost to you once we determine the issue with the drone. We allow up to $25. for return shipping after we determine the item is defective. DJI has incorporated a black box on the drone, this black box records all events, from start up to where and when you flew the drone, including all firmware updates and warnings. If the black box determines that the item is defective you will receive a full refund and up to $25.00 for return shipping. In the event the Black Box determines that the issue is User Error then you will be subject to Amazon's return policy for returned damage items. You can also utilize DJI warranty service, you drone is warranty for one year. DJI can be contacted at 818.235.0789 or online at DJI.com/support, online repair.

The company you mentioned is not my seller. Instead, it is Smart Fly Gear, which ships through Amazon and offers a 31-day return policy. The seller you mentioned is also listed $5 cheaper on their website, but I am unable to locate their current link although it was there earlier today. Check out the seller listed and advertised on my drone. I went deep into this before the purchase and it was shipped by amazon to my door in less than 24 hours. Please advise if you think this somehow applies to my seller as well! Appreciate the reply.

Here is a pic of the listed shipper/ return policy

 

[Starz]

From your pictures, something isn’t right. DJI packaging is top notch and well thought out. I’ve opened more than my share of new products from DJI and have never seen what you are dealing with. If I was in your position, it would be heading back to where it came from. Was the original DJI box wrapped with its normal cellophane and seal tabs?

 

[Formula E]

From your pictures, something isn’t right. DJI packaging is top notch and well thought out. I’ve opened more than my share of new products from DJI and have never seen what you are dealing with. If I was in your position, it would be heading back to where it came from. Was the original DJI box wrapped with its normal cellophane and seal tabs?

Yeah there was a green tab on the sealed cellophane. The gimbal and lens seem brand new upon inspection and honestly think it may just have been botched packaging by DJI worker..I need to test the drone more but leaning towards an exchange since I’ve never experienced this with a DJI product either. It’s really not bad but no ideal when spending this much money. I could see the shell being accidentally scratched/touched up during assembly but the way that sticker tab was loose and smudged boggles the mind. I’m going to likely contact them I had short maiden flight and checked the battery cycles before to see 0..

I filmed my unboxing too just for personal use and reacted on camera seeing these issue for the first time on camera removing it from the box/wrap. I unsealed the cellophane off the box off video..snapped some pictures right before the unboxing without it. Only some pics with the seal on right before that but that part was not on video.

 

[GadgetGuy]

The company you mentioned is not my seller. Instead, it is Smart Fly Gear, which ships through Amazon and offers a 31-day return policy. The seller you mentioned is also listed $5 cheaper on their website, but I am unable to locate their current link although it was there earlier today. Check out the seller listed and advertised on my drone. I went deep into this before the purchase and it was shipped by amazon to my door in less than 24 hours. Please advise if you think this somehow applies to my seller as well! Appreciate the reply.

Here is a pic of the listed shipper/ return policy

As long as your purchase was listed as "Ships from Amazon" as your photo shows, the seller's return policy for "Ships from Smart Fly Gear" under the worthless A to AZ Guarantee is irrelevant.

Amazon covers you because Amazon shipped it.

I erroneously thought you had it shipped from Fly Gear directly because the link you provided brought up a ships from Fly Gear offering. That is because Amazon deliberately makes it impossible to link to a specific seller's offering, linking to the so called "Buy Box" instead, that deceptively swaps out Ships from Amazon with Ships from Shyster Seller offerings!

 

[Formula E]

As long as your purchase was listed as "Ships from Amazon" as your photo shows, the seller's return policy for "Ships from Smart Fly Gear" under the worthless A to AZ Guarantee is irrelevant.

Amazon covers you because Amazon shipped it.

I erroneously thought you had it shipped from Fly Gear directly because the link you provided brought up a ships from Fly Gear offering. That is because Amazon deliberately makes it impossible to link to a specific seller's offering, linking to the so called "Buy Box" instead, that deceptively swaps out Ships from Amazon with Ships from Shyster Seller offerings!

Thanks for clarifying the buy box info on their links. It's strange how I was seeing the other listing and sometimes my sellers.

I've gone all the way through on setting up the return with amazon besides the very last step and seems legit like they'll replace and exchange for free just a little odd with how expensive it is. I would keep the drone if I could contact the seller directly and maybe get a slight discount but probably will get an exchange unit since amazon appears to cover this at no cost. I would of never bought the drone if it wasn't shipped through them. I hope this helps others considering a purchase off amazon

 

[GadgetGuy]

Thanks for clarifying the buy box info on their links. It's strange how I was seeing the other listing and sometimes my sellers.

I've gone all the way through on setting up the return with amazon besides the very last step and seems legit like they'll replace and exchange for free just a little odd with how expensive it is. I would keep the drone if I could contact the seller directly and maybe get a slight discount but probably will get an exchange unit since amazon appears to cover this at no cost. I would of never bought the drone if it wasn't shipped through them. I hope this helps others considering a purchase off amazon

Given that it is covered by Amazon's return policy, rather then the seller's onerous terms, you might just activate and fly it, as if you are otherwise happy with it, and make sure it works properly, you still have until January 31 to return it if unhappy with it for any reason. The minor blemishes may be worth accepting. There is no guarantee that Amazon will replace it with a better unit, as they only can guarantee a refund, and this same seller is where any potential replacement would be coming from, and they may just give Amazon another open box return with a worse problem. Your call.

 

[Formula E]

Given that it is covered by Amazon's return policy, rather then the seller's onerous terms, you might just activate and fly it, as if you are otherwise happy with it, and make sure it works properly, you still have until January 31 to return it if unhappy with it for any reason. The minor blemishes may be worth accepting. There is no guarantee that Amazon will replace it with a better unit, as they only can guarantee a refund, and this same seller is where a y potential replacement would be coming from, and they may just give Amazon another open box return with a worse problem. Your call.

Yeah we pretty much have the same read on that and will decide over the next week after a few more test to make sure the drone is working at 100%. My only insight is to see if it was airborne before was the battery cycle and that was showing 0 at the time of unboxing. The lens and unit and rest of unit seemed factory fresh.

Can you or anyone can confirm from the attached picture if this the same oem cellophane/green tab that DJI ships drones the drones with? If it was open box I’d expect they couldn’t replicate this part…

 

[mavic3usa]

Can you or anyone can confirm from the attached picture if this the same oem cellophane/green tab that DJI ships drones the drones with? If it was open box I’d expect they couldn’t replicate this part…

Yeah that's it but this is super simple to replicate.