How to Read a Returns Policy Before You Buy (the 6 Clauses That Matter)
Thirty days sounds generous until you discover it means thirty days from dispatch, with a restocking fee, on unopened items only. Here is what to look for.
A returns policy is a contract you agree to by clicking “buy”, and most of us never read it. The headline number – 14, 30, 60 days – is the least important part. The clauses that decide whether you actually get your money back are buried further down.
1. When does the clock start?
“30 days” can mean 30 days from delivery, from dispatch, or from the order date. For a pre-order shipping in six weeks, that difference is the whole window. Look for the word delivery; if the policy says purchase, be careful.
2. Who pays for the return?
“Free returns” sometimes means free in store, or free with a prepaid label that is deducted from your refund. A $7.95 label on a $25 top makes the return hardly worth making. Brands we rate highly on this point are flagged with the returns window on their brand page.
3. Refund, credit or exchange?
Some stores – particularly fast fashion and marketplaces with third-party sellers – refund to store credit by default. Check whether a cash refund requires a different process or a shorter window.
4. Condition requirements
Common wording: unworn, unwashed, with tags attached, in original packaging. Reasonable for clothing. Less reasonable for a mattress or a pair of running shoes you need to try. The best brands explicitly allow a trial period (“100 nights”, “run in them for 90 days”); we highlight these because they are rare.
5. Exclusions
Final-sale items, personalised goods, underwear, earrings, software and opened electronics are routinely excluded. Sale items sometimes carry a shorter window. If the item you are buying is in a sale, read the sale-specific terms, not the general page.
6. Restocking fees
Electronics and furniture retailers may charge 10-20% to accept an opened return. This is legal in many jurisdictions but should be stated clearly before purchase. If it is not, you have grounds to dispute it.
A quick scoring system
- Window from delivery, 30+ days: +2
- Free prepaid label, refund to original payment: +2
- Trial period for try-at-home categories: +2
- Restocking fee or credit-only refunds: -2 each
Anything scoring 4 or above is a store you can buy from without anxiety. Below 2, buy only what you are sure about.