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They tried reusable plastic boxes for Amazon stuff in Seattle years ago. It was a pretty colossal failure. People just kept the plastic boxes and used them for stuff around the house.

"Bill the people who keep the plastic boxes," is the oft-heard refrain!

What if they're stolen off your porch due to living in a not-great neighborhood? You still owe?

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Bill upfront and credit back on return. Amazon shouldn't be responsible for the stealing happening in your neighbourhood.

They often shoulder that responsibility to reduce friction, and I think it works net-positive in their favor.

Billing the customer and then penalizing them for being a victim of theft introduces so much friction and frustration.

That is true and besides the point which is that they are not responsible.

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