I was shocked when I received an email from Verizon yesterday saying that they didn't receive the set top box that I returned. So I googled and found this to be quite a common issue. I saw numerous posts complaining about this issue on this forum, consumerist.com, and some other forums.
My story is that I moved my apartment recently, and I needed to return three items: a wireless router, a set top box, and a remote control. I packed all three items into the return box that Verizon sent me, and dropped it off at a UPS store on Aug 23rd, 2014. Then yesterday I received the email mentioned above.
Luckily I kept my receipt when I dropped off the box. I have also printed a delivery confirmation from UPS website, which showed the package weighted 9lb. Apparently the set top box was still in the package when it was delivered.
I am a loyal customer of FIOS (yes, I am still using FIOS at my new apartment), as well as Verizon wireless, and I have always been very satisfied with the quality of the services. I believe this is only a small mistake and will be resolved in a timely fashion. So please don't disappoint me this time. Thanks.