After the chaos of holiday shopping comes the wave of gift returns that simply weren’t the right fit.
The COVID-19 pandemic has changed the holiday shopping season, including returns, in numerous ways.
One of the pros for customers is that many retailers have become more lenient with their return policies.
RetailMeNot shopping expert Sara Skirboll said that many retailers will continue offering curbside service for holiday returns.
“Dicks’ Sporting Goods is really leading the charge with this service,” Skirboll said. “I think a lot of other retailers are going to follow suit, which is great news because it's completely safe, totally contactless.”
With online shopping surging this season leading to shipping issues and delays, Skirboll explained that many retailers have extended return windows.
“Places like Apple and Amazon, Bed Bath & Beyond, Best Buy, and even Target have all extended their return windows where they used to be seven to 14 days. Now a lot of them are offering extensions through the end of January,” she told WGGB-TV.
This even includes extensions on gifts bought earlier in the season.
Consumer World's annual return policy survey notes Amazon’s deadline is January 31 for items shipped as early as October 1, Target’s window covers electronics and entertainment products purchased as early as October 1, while Best Buy’s covers purchases from October 13. Walmart’s return policy varies depending on the product but encompasses products purchased as early as October 16.
Skirboll also warned to expect a delay in refunds if you plan on shipping back returns.
If you plan to go into the store, she suggested waiting until after January 1 when crowds taper off.
"That way those post-Christmas sales, all the crowds for those are really going to die down. Try to go in the morning. Get there quickly, get in and out,” she advised.
The Better Business Bureau also put together a list of tips to tackle refunds amid the pandemic.
One of the major suggestions is getting familiar with the return policies for both in-store and online, which may differ from each other.
Some retailers charge shipping fees, but you may be able to save on those by “returning an online purchase to the local brick-and-mortar store” in certain situations.
The organization suggests getting additional details on a product’s warranty in case any repairs or replacements are needed.
And even if you don't plan on making any returns, keep your receipt and packaging as some stores may only accept returns and/or exchanges with a “receipt and original packaging.”
“Always include a gift receipt with items you give, and hold on to any gift receipts you receive,” the organization noted.
Additionally, when doing in-store returns, always have an ID ready as many stores require them along with an original form or payment to avoid scams!
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