Chances are something you were handed from under the tree last night or early this morning just doesn’t fit or fails to make your heart skip a beat like the giver had intended. Knowing that inevitably there will be returns, the Better Business Bureau has some advice on what to do in the days ahead if you find yourself in that crowd.
While this is the season for giving, we all know some gifts won’t be a perfect fit. The National Retail Federation found that nearly two-thirds of people will return at least one item purchased this holiday season. At the same time, businesses are becoming stricter in their return policies. The National Retail Federation says 1-in-4 businesses have toughened their return policies to combat fraudulent returns.
Phil Catlett is President of the Better Business Bureau serving West Michigan. He tells us, “Some stores make it easier to return items than others,” but adds, “With many stores cracking down on fraud, it is important to know the retailer’s return policy. You want to pay particular attention to how long you have to return an item, and if you need a receipt.”
With that in mind, the Better Business Bureau has some tips to make sure you don’t get burned by that not-quite-perfect gift:
- Ask the store about its return policy. Can a customer obtain a refund, a store credit, or exchange unwanted merchandise? How long is the return period? Some stores have extended return periods for gifts, while others limit returns to a week or less after the item is purchased.
- Keep your receipts. If you are giving the item as a gift, ask for a gift receipt and enclose it with the present. If you get a gift you intend to return, find a way to tactfully ask for a receipt.
- Don’t assume that regular return policies apply to sale or clearance items. Some merchants consider the sale of such items to be final. Do not assume you have the right to return or exchange an unwanted gift.
- Keep items in their original packaging. Don’t remove electronics or similar products from their boxes. The original packaging may be required for a return. In some cases, such as DVDs or CDs, the package must remain sealed.
- Leave tags on clothing. Don’t take the tags off an item until you know it fits and you want to keep it. If the tag falls off keep it in a safe place. Having the tag and bar code will make returns easier.
- Time your returns carefully. Many stores will be busy with returns and exchanges right after Christmas. You can avoid the crowds by waiting. However, be mindful of any return deadlines. You don’t want to miss the return window.
Some Notes to Remember: Every store and online retailer has its own return policy. Some stores provide refunds, while others only issue store credits. A few stores consider all sales to be final. Seasonal stores may have limited hours after the holidays, making it crucial to return items quickly.
