Terrybbagit, the fact that manufacturers don't pay for return shipping ('return shipping' meaning that the shipment is going from you to the manufacturer) is quite simple: they are not responsible for where you choose to live. Even so they split the deal with you; most manufacturers will pay for shipping back to your home.
This is how warranty is handled all over regardless of the field of endeavor. It is not a sign of poor service.
This is how warranty is handled all over regardless of the field of endeavor. It is not a sign of poor service.