My experience with BTeam Liquidators, specifically Lou and Kathy, was extremely disappointing due…read moreto poor communication, disorganization, and unprofessional customer service.
After winning an auction item and paying my invoice, I received an email stating pickups were available by appointment only from Friday, May 22nd through Monday, May 25th. The email instructed customers to either schedule through a SignupGenius link or text (801) 503-4014 to arrange pickup.
The SignupGenius link did not work properly and would not allow me to schedule an appointment. There was no indication that creating an account might be required. I followed the alternative instructions and texted the provided number on Saturday, May 24th at 9:54 AM:
"I need to set up a time to pick up Invoice #595586."
I received no response.
Because auction companies often charge storage fees or dispose of items not picked up on time, the lack of communication created unnecessary stress, especially since my credit card information was already on file.
After still hearing nothing, I sent another message Sunday at 12:38 PM:
"Your email told me to text this number to set a time to come pick up my order please respond!"
This time I received a response within three minutes:
"We are here until 3 come get your stuff."
I had already made plans for Sunday because I intended to pick up my items either Saturday or Monday, both of which were listed as available pickup days in the original email. I replied asking whether Monday pickup was still available since the email specifically referenced Monday appointments. The response was:
"We are not available after 3 today."
With limited time remaining and the location being about 20 minutes away, I felt pressured to immediately change my plans and rush over to avoid risking fees or losing my items.
Unfortunately, the experience worsened once I arrived.
There was no signage, organization, or indication of who customers should speak with for pickups. I approached a woman later identified as Kathy, who was assisting another customer. I respectfully waited several feet back until they finished. We made eye contact multiple times, so I reasonably assumed she would assist me next.
Instead, she began walking away without acknowledging me. I had to stop her and say I was there to pick up my items. At that point, another individual, later identified as Lou, stopped what he was doing, and both appeared visibly irritated by my presence.
I provided my invoice number and item information and was curtly told, "It's over there."
After retrieving my item, I calmly suggested they revise the wording in their pickup emails because customers may not receive responses when texting for appointments. The response was dismissive and unprofessional.
The overall impression I left with was that Lou and Kathy either dislike dealing with customers or are overwhelmed and taking that frustration out on paying customers. If they do not want to manage weekend or holiday pickups, that is entirely within their control as business owners. However, if they offer appointment-based pickups and instruct customers to text for scheduling assistance, those communications should be monitored and customers should be treated professionally.
Good customer service requires basic communication, organization, and professionalism. Unfortunately, my experience with BTeam Liquidators lacked all three.