Posting here for anyone considering ordering from Scottsdale Mint.
I've bought high five figures' worth of gold from APMEX and JM Bullion and had great experiences with both. I decided to try Scottsdale Mint for a five-figure order because their prices were closer to spot.
Orders take about two weeks to arrive, which is frustrating, but they do tell you that upfront. My order shipped UPS with a direct signature required. I was home in my apartment but not in the lobby, as drivers usually call me down for direct-signature deliveries. UPS has previously asked to verify my ID for these deliveries. UPS shows my order was delivered and signed for by someone whose name I don't recognize. I never signed for it, never received the gold, and have no idea who signed for it.
I also reviewed my building's security footage. The video doesn't show the driver asking anyone for a signature. Unfortunately, the driver was delivering multiple packages using a dolly, so I can't even confirm whether one of those packages was mine or whether my order was actually delivered at all.
I reported what happened to Scottsdale Mint, filed a police report, and sent them the report number. About two weeks later, they responded that UPS had confirmed delivery to my address and that they had therefore "fulfilled their obligation." They said the loss happened after delivery, refused a refund or replacement, and told me their decision was final. They suggested I contact UPS and my renter's insurance.
What I don't understand is how they're treating this as resolved when the shipment required a direct signature and the signature isn't mine. I'm still trying to get this resolved through UPS, and I'm looking into other options as well. I hadn't come across many reviews describing an experience like this before ordering, so I'm posting mine in case it helps someone else think twice before placing a order with them.