Ken, yes I understand. Not sure why Bud's can't check the box, unless it is not actually at their warehouse, but one of their affiliates. Your guess is as good as mine.
Instead of emailing, perhaps you should call and ask to speak with a manager. 859-368-0371 9am-9pm eastern Mon-Sat
Good luck.

Ken, buds is a big shop so likely the person you're speaking to isn't in the warehouse it's stored at. Buds also does special orders where they work as a middle man. So you order the item then they let one of the dealers they work with know what you ordered and they ship it. When a firearm shows up at your FFL dealer you can refuse the transfer. I always recommend looking over the firearm thoroughly before doing any paperwork. If it's not as described, or has any defects just deny the transfer and contact buds. They'll arrange to have the FFL dealer ship it back to buds no charge to you and you'll be refunded. So that would likely be your best option. Sorry you're having trouble but hope this helps some.

Hi Ken, thanks for the clarification. You absolutely have the right to order and check the serial number at your local FFL *Before you do the paperwork* and inspect the firearm. Just refuse if anything is not to your liking, Serial Number included and Buds will arrange a pickup and when received back, issue a full refund. Cheers and stay safe. I agree it should not be this complicated..