Amazon Returns 101
People are often surprised to hear me say that I LOVE Amazon’s return policy. Why? Because I want you to feel confident shopping new vendors and styles without worrying about being stuck with the cost of an item that ends up not fitting or looking how you want it to!
While I quality check every single item I post (and own and wear most of them myself), if you are a frequent shopper, you will inevitably get something you wish you could return. It may not fit quite right, the material may be different than what you expected, or the style may just not be for you!
Whatever the reason, Amazon’s Fashion Return Policy makes it incredibly easy–and free–to return any unwanted fashion items and receive a full 100% refund. Here’s everything you need to know:
Look for “Free Returns”
Amazon offers free returns on nearly all fashion items, including clothes, shoes, handbags, jewelry, and watches. Look for the “Free Returns” icon next to the product price to be sure that the item is eligible for Fashion Return Policy.
You may have to select a size and color before the “Free Returns” icon will appear.
30-Day Return Window
If you get something you don’t like, you typically have 30 days from the date you received it to initiate the return.
Non-fashion products may have different return windows, so be sure you read the applicable policy to know exactly how long you have.
Initiating the Return
To start a return, log into your Amazon account and navigate to the “Orders” section of the mobile app or website.
Once there, select the specific product you’d like to return and click on the “return or replace items” icon.
Then select the reason for the return. You may also be asked about the product’s condition (i.e. worn or unworn).
Next, you’ll be asked to select your “refund option.”
The fastest way to get your money back is to have Amazon simply refund your Amazon account. However, if you want actual cash and not just Amazon credit, you can ask for a refund to your credit card as well!
Finally, select your return method. Amazon offers an array of different return options, including the ability to drop your item off at a nearby Whole Foods, Staples, or Kohl’s store. For a fee, Amazon will even send UPS to come pick the item up at your door!
The most common method, though, is to simply drop the item off at your local UPS Store.
After you’ve selected your return method, click the “Confirm Your Return” icon at the bottom of your screen.
All that’s left is to physically return your package to your selected destination.
No Printing Necessary
If you haven’t returned an Amazon item in a few years, you may be thinking: “Okay, but how am I going to print out the shipping label?” Well, good news! Amazon has streamlined the process even further.
Now, after initiating your return, Amazon will email you a custom QR code. Simply show that QR code to a store associate at your return destination and the store will print your label free of charge!
Stick with Prime
For the easiest and most flexible return policy, stick with prime-shipped items. Anything prime-shipped is subject to the same return policy that Amazon uses for its own products.
Products shipped by third parties are governed by Amazon’s Third-Party Returns policy. These items typically must be shipped back directly to the vendor, and not Amazon.
Keep the Original Packaging
If you think you may want to return an item, be sure to hold onto the original packaging and tags. Products returned without the original packaging and tags may be rejected by Amazon.
This also makes the return process much easier, since you won’t need to buy a new box or bag!
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