There’s nothing more convenient than shopping online, especially when returns are easy and free. With easy returns, you can avoid the stress of going to the store and try them on in the comfort of your own home. Not sure about your size? Would you like to consider several options and then choose the best one? These are all very viable options if the store offers the best return policy, including free returns.
However, not all retailers offer free shipping and returns. As everyone (including retailers) spends more, some companies are charging shipping or return fees to cover the costs associated with increased shipping prices, labor costs, and material costs. That’s certainly understandable, but it’s most beneficial to know how to avoid these fees. We research some popular retailers that charge return or restocking fees and provide tips on how to avoid these fees when possible.
Zara
Return fee: If you return your online order by mail, a restocking fee of $4.95 will be deducted from your refund. Zara will provide you with a return shipping label, but a restocking fee will be applied after your refund is processed. ZARA allows returns and exchanges for 30 days. All items must be new, unused, unworn, and returned with all original tags, packaging, boxes, and hygiene stickers intact. Exchanges are only available to registered Zara.com users and must be received within 14 days of submitting your exchange request. Items purchased using Apple Pay or PayPal are not eligible for exchange. ZARA EDITED items are final sale and are not eligible for returns or exchanges.
How to avoid this: You can avoid restocking fees by returning your online purchases directly at a ZARA store in the U.S. that has a product section that sells the product type you are returning.
DSW
Return fee: Online returns are subject to an $8.50 shipping fee. Exchanges are free. DSW allows 60 days for returns for any reason, but the item must be unworn, undamaged, and with the original packing slip. Returns without a receipt will receive a store credit equal to the current sale price. Final sale items cannot be returned.
How to avoid this: You can avoid restocking fees by returning items purchased online directly to a DSW store.
J.Crew
Return fee: If you use a J.Crew prepaid label, you’ll pay $7.50. The fee will be deducted from the refund amount. J.Crew accepts returns or exchanges of unused, unwashed, undamaged, or defective items within 30 days of original purchase. If you start multiple orders, all packing slips are included so you can return them in the same package.
How to avoid this: Avoid restocking fees by returning items purchased online directly to a J.Crew store.
urban outfitters
Return fee: For most mailed returns, you will be charged a $5 restocking fee, which will be deducted from your refund. Returns and exchanges will only be accepted for unused or defective items within 30 days of receiving your order. After 30 days, you will receive a refund in the form of a merchandise credit. Shipping and handling surcharges are non-refundable. Finished products and custom-made furniture cannot be returned or exchanged.
How to avoid this: Avoid restocking fees by returning items purchased online directly to an Urban Outfitters store. To receive your refund, please bring your shipping label, order confirmation email, or packing list.
JC Penney
Return fee: To return online orders by mail, there is a flat fee of $8. This fee will be deducted from your refund. Most items can be returned within 60 days with the original receipt. Some items, such as Sephora products and electronics, must be returned within 30 days. Large items such as furniture and special items, Additional pickup and return fees may apply.
How to avoid this: Avoid restocking fees by returning items purchased online directly to a J.C. Penney store. To receive your refund, please bring your shipping label, order confirmation email, or packing list.
thread up
Return fee: The restocking fee for all items is $3.99.
Additionally, if you wish to process your return using your original payment method (rather than issuing it as a ThredUp credit), you will need to pay $10.99 for the ThredUp return label or pay for the return shipping yourself. All items must be in the same condition as received. Original shipping charges will not be refunded. Final sale items cannot be returned.
How to avoid this: If you’re a free threadUP Rewards member, you can cash out your points and avoid restocking fees. You can avoid the $10.99 return shipping fee by choosing to issue your return with ThredUp Credit.
abercrombie
Return fee: There is a $7 return service fee. You can return multiple orders in one package as long as the invoices for all orders are included. Abercrombie accepts returns of resalable items within 30 days as long as a receipt, invoice, or order confirmation is included. Exchanges will be processed free of charge.
How to avoid this: You can avoid restocking fees by returning items purchased online directly to an Abercrombie store in the United States. Alternatively, if you choose to receive your refund in an electronic gift card, Abercrombie will waive the $7 fee.
L.L. Bean
Return fee: Returns and exchanges are subject to a $6.50 package fee. Returns are possible within one year after purchase. For large items, you will need to coordinate with customer service. Items purchased with PayPal will be refunded by check or store credit.
How to avoid this: You can avoid restocking fees by returning items purchased online directly to an LLBean store or outlet. Also, returns are free if you use your LLBean Mastercard or pay with Bean Bucks.
TJ Maxx
Return fee: You will be charged $11.99 for return shipping and handling. TJ Maxx accepts returns within 40 days (for online orders). You must also attach a receipt (delivery note) or shipping confirmation email. Final sale items or items with return restrictions will have the return restrictions specified upon receipt.
How to avoid this: You can avoid restocking fees by returning your online purchases directly to a TJ Maxx store or TJ Maxx Online warehouse. Cannot be returned at Marshalls or other sister brand stores.
wayfair
Return fee: It varies. Typically, you will have to pay for shipping the item you want to return. Because Wayfair’s site includes many third-party products, you can expect return shipping costs to vary depending on what you order. To find out how much it costs to return an item, please log into your account and click Returns to request a return.
How to avoid this: Since Wayfair is an online retailer, there is no way to avoid these return shipping charges. When ordering a product, please read the product description carefully. Also, when ordering home improvement related items, please measure your space carefully to avoid ordering extra items.
Below is an example of the return shipping charges our editors were recently charged to return some tiles and trim.
american eagle
Return fee: $5 on select items. Free returns are available for select items, orders over a certain amount, and orders placed by Top Rewards Members and credit card holders.
How to avoid this: Please return the item at AE Store. Read more about American Eagle’s return policy.
lands end
Return fee: $8.95 will be deducted from your original payment method. You have 90 days to return your product. Proof of purchase required.
How to avoid this: Returns must be made at a Land’s End store. Or choose a product credit instead of a refund. learn more.
Macy’s
Return fee: Return shipping is $9.99 plus tax (if applicable).
How to avoid this: Return shipping is free for Star Rewards members. Not a Rewards member? You can return items for free at any Macy’s store.
Dillard’s
Return fee: If you use Dillard’s prepaid return label, return shipping costs $9.95. The fee will be deducted from the refund amount. Original shipping charges will not be refunded. Some items have an additional restocking fee, which will be clearly displayed at checkout if this fee applies.
How to avoid this: To avoid return label fees, return your item at a Dillard’s store.
The post Is the era of free returns over? These 14 Stores Charge Return/Restocking Fees appeared first on The Real Deal on RetailMeNot.
Source: The Real Deal by RetailMeNot – www.retailmenot.com
