The holiday season is a time for giving, but it also brings a surge in retail returns. Stores are bracing for an influx of unwanted gifts and purchases, with return rates expected to increase by nearly 20% compared to the rest of the year. To accommodate shoppers, many retailers extend their return windows during the holidays.
Bed Bath & Beyond, under new ownership by Overstock, will accept most holiday returns until January 31. However, other stores have set earlier deadlines. Old Navy’s cutoff is January 15, while Best Buy shoppers have until January 14.
Target’s policy varies by product category. Most electronics can be returned until January 24, but Apple and Beats items purchased between November 7 and December 24 must be returned by January 8. Experts advise keeping receipts or requesting gift receipts to streamline the return process.
Holiday return policies overzicht
“Some retailers will honor a return without a receipt,” said Samantha Gordon, an editor. “But the odds of getting that full return or exchange are definitely better if you have that receipt.”
Other tips for hassle-free returns include not opening boxes or removing tags if you anticipate returning the item and checking the store’s return policy before making a purchase.
Interestingly, some stores have implemented “keep it” policies for low-value items. Last year, 59% of stores allowed customers to keep products worth less than $20, especially when restocking costs exceeded the item’s value. As the retail landscape evolves, stores are grappling with the challenges of rising return rates.
In 2024, companies anticipate that 17% of their sales will be returned by year’s end, more than double the 8% return rate in 2019. This surge in returns strains logistics and warehouse operations, forcing retailers to choose between allocating resources for new orders or processing returns. Some stores have begun charging for certain types of returns to offset rising costs.
The changing return policies reflect the broader challenges retailers face in a competitive market. As shopper Rob Raby noted, “I save all receipts for everything.” By being prepared and informed, consumers can navigate the world of holiday returns with greater ease.
