Well, maybe the problem it's me, but when a package gets lost and vendor's policy about this kind of situation is not clearly written down, I used to try to arrange things finalizing anyway after some chat with the vendor about possible solutions. I can say, after some bad experiences, this is not the best approach. When I see the package is taking too long, first I extend the autofinalization time, writing the vendor why. When it's clear that it is lost forever, I try to demonstrate good will by writing to the vendor and arrange some kind of solution in exchange of a clean finalization of the order.
Wrong. From now on I'll go with disputes: doing as I did make me seem "weak", and it means loosing money or wait months to get what you arranged.
What's your advices and/or usual approach when the vendor is somewhat trustworthy but the package never arrives?
No shit Sherlock