No matter
how hard you shop for the perfect gift, occasionally the item is the wrong size, color, or it simply doesn’t meet the recipient’s desires or needs.
To minimize the hassle of post-holiday returns, the Better Business Bureau
(BBB) advises shoppers to ask about retailers’ return policies before making a
purchase. Also, retain your receipts until you’re certain the gift is right.
Some stores provide refunds, others only issue store credit, and a few
consider all sales to be final. Seasonal stores may have limited hours after
the holidays. Remember that stores aren’t legally required to accept items for
refund, exchange, or credit unless goods were defective or misrepresented.
The BBB reminds shoppers to know their return rights before making a purchase.
It’s always better to ask than to assume. The following tips can help shoppers
avoid post-holiday frustration:
- Ask the store
about its return policy. Can a customer obtain a refund, a
store credit, or exchange unwanted merchandise? How long is the period
when returns are allowed? Some stores have extended return periods for
gifts, while others limit returns to a week or less after the item is
purchased.
- Ask for a gift
receipt and enclose it with the gift. Don’t remove
electronics or similar products from their boxes before wrapping. The
original packaging may be required for a return.
- Do not assume
that regular return policies apply to sale or clearance items. Some
merchants consider the sale of such items to be final, so ask before
buying. If you are the gift recipient, do not assume you have the right to
return or exchange an unwanted present. Like the shopper, you are bound by
the merchant’s return policy. Health regulations, which can prohibit the
return of hats and intimate apparel, also may apply.
- Ask about
restocking fees. Some merchants charge a restocking or "open
box" fee for returns of electronic products or large-ticket items. A
restocking fee can be as high as 25 percent of the purchase.
- Look for a
posted return policy when shopping online. If returns
are permitted, ask what procedures and time frames need to be followed.
Find out whether shipping fees are charged for returning items and whether
shipping costs or restocking fees are deducted from the price of returned
items.
- Save your
receipt.
Keep items in their original packaging and leave tags on clothing. If you
remove the price or black it out on the tag, try to leave the item number
or bar code visible as it will make it easier for a store to process the
return.
- Time your
returns to avoid hassles. Return lines can be lengthy the day
after Christmas, but don’t wait too long to return items. Pick a time when
the store is unlikely to be crowded, and be polite when talking to
customer service clerks. If you are a regular customer or have a store
credit account, mention that as you discuss return options. Merchants are
usually willing to accommodate loyal customers.
Following
these tips can help you to keep the holiday spirit a little longer. For any questions please contact the BBB toll-free at 800-649-6814 or visit bbb.org.