I have no reason to doubt your sincerity, but every story has two sides. I know the local DFW distributor and have a very good relationship with them as a repeat customer.
I also strongly encourage them to avoid getting involved with these “angry mob” type of threads. So, I sincerely hope they don’t take the bait and show up here.
The shop inspecting the item before it goes out is important in a case of damage to the game. If you take home the game and open it damaged, they can’t know if you caused it or not. This is an issue in liability claims with a shipper.
I purchased a GNRLE from them. I paid shipping. They explained the inspection. I asked them to please make sure it didn’t have any issues. I understood and they did it. I showed up and they kindly loaded it into my car. Not a scratch on it.
I assure you I’m not trying to challenge your claims. I’m a fellow enthusiast and collector. Sometimes, hurt feelings and frustration can make something reasonable seem unreasonable.