“Amidst the plethora of competitive deals and enticing shopping perks associated with Prime membership, Amazon becomes the go-to destination for many during the Black Friday and Cyber Monday shopping frenzy. While successfully completing your holiday shopping on Amazon is a triumph, the need for returns may arise. Whether due to incorrect orders, damaged items, or simply dissatisfaction, the process of Amazon returns or exchanges can vary in terms of speed, ease, and cost.
Navigating the intricacies of Amazon returns demands a comprehensive understanding, ensuring a seamless experience. We’ve compiled a guide covering every aspect to guarantee cost-effective returns this year. From providing valid reasons for returns to exploring the nuances of returning products purchased with Alexa, and even utilizing the convenience of USPS picking up your package for free, we’ve got you covered on all facets of the Amazon return process.
Give a reason, not an excuse
Try to be honest and precise about why you’re returning the product. If possible, Amazon and third-party sellers want to resell the merchandise, so they’ll check your items against your justification once the package is received.
Some reasons for returns qualify for free shipping and some do not: For example, if you select “No longer needed,” you may be charged for the return.
Here are all the various return reasons Amazon gives you to choose from:
- No longer needed: You changed your mind and don’t want the item anymore.
- Inaccurate website description: For example, the photo shows a royal blue, but the item is a light sky-blue color. Similar to, but different from, “Wrong item was sent” (see below).
- Item defective or doesn’t work: It could be broken or simply doesn’t do what it’s designed to do (for example, a power bank with a broken USB-C port).
- Bought by mistake: You accidentally hit Buy Now or forgot to delete an item from your cart before checking out.
- Better price available: You’ve found the same thing at Walmart, for example, for less than you paid for it at Amazon.
- Product damaged, but shipping box OK: The box isn’t dented, cut or scratched, but the item inside has cosmetic or mechanical damage.
- Item arrived too late: The item was delivered past the guaranteed delivery and missed, for example, a birthday or holiday.
- Missing or broken parts: Similar to “Item was defective or doesn’t work” but applies specifically to the attachments or other items that come with a purchase.
- Product and shipping box both damaged: Somewhere between being boxed up and arriving at your door the package was mishandled, and the product arrived broken.
- The wrong item was sent: If you received a completely different item from the one ordered.
- Received extra item I didn’t buy (no refund needed): Something extra got packaged with your order, and you feel obliged to return it.
- Didn’t approve purchase: Someone, perhaps a child or friend, ordered something on your account without asking and you got charged for it.
