The holiday season is filled with joy, but let’s face it—sometimes the gifts you receive just don’t hit the mark. Whether it’s the wrong size, color, or just not your style, returning those unwanted presents is a common post-holiday ritual. If you’re planning to return a gift this year, here’s what you need to know to make the process as smooth as possible.
According to the National Retail Federation, return rates typically surge by 17% after the holiday season. This means millions of Americans will be heading to stores or online portals to send back gifts. With over $10.1 billion expected to be spent on gifts this year, knowing your return options is more than just useful; it's necessary!
Retailers anticipate this surge, so be prepared for longer wait times or delays, especially if you’re returning items in person. While many retailers extend their return windows for holiday purchases, not every store offers the same policy. Here’s a breakdown of some popular stores and their return deadlines:
- Target: You have 90 days from the date of purchase to return or exchange most items. Certain products, like electronics or opened personal care products, come with stricter return deadlines.
- Best Buy: This year, Best Buy offers returns for holiday purchases through January 14.
- Walmart: Shoppers at Walmart have until January 31 to return most items sold during the holiday season. Remember, having the item in its original packaging helps!
Tags and original packaging are significant! Many stores require items to be unopened or unused to be eligible for return. According to Jessica Brailer, General Manager at Colony Square Mall, “Each store does have its own policy as far as exchanges, layaways, and things of nature. When you are returning or exchanging an item, it is encouraged to leave the tags on.”
The returns process can be simple if you follow these steps: Start by expressing gratitude to the gift giver, even if you’d prefer to exchange their present. If you have the item’s receipt, check the return dates, which typically range from one week to 90 days. The receipt will often specify whether you can return the item online or need to go instore. If allowed, always bring your photo ID, as some stores may require verification to combat the return of stolen items.
Although the notion of returning gifts can seem overwhelming, know you’re not alone. Many Americans engage in the post-holiday returns rush. With shoppers buzzing about malls, the ideal time for returns is usually between the day after Christmas and mid-January, before the crowds peak. While it’s tempting to hang onto gifts longer, returning them sooner could save you some trouble as the month progresses.
This year, gift cards are proving increasingly popular. “Gift cards are a one-size-fits-all type of gift,” noted Brailer. Many people are turning to them as alternatives to traditional gifts, reducing both the stress of choosing the right item and the hassle of returns.
For 2023, holiday shopping has produced impressive numbers. The NRF reported holiday sales increased by 2% to 3% compared to last year, totaling nearly $989 billion during November and December. This showcases Americans' appetite for giving—and for returning gifts!
Retailers are experiencing diverse return experiences this season. Between Target, Shein, Amazon, and Best Buy, all are bracing for this post-holiday surge. For example, Amazon allows customers to return items purchased between November 1 and December 31 until January 31 of the following year.
The key to maximizing your return experience lies in researching policies. Every retailer has its own guidelines; knowing these before heading out can save you from disappointment. Whether returning electronics, clothing, or other gifts, always check the retailers' websites first.
So, as the holiday season winds down, be prepared for the inevitable—gift returns are on the horizon. By following these best practices, you can navigate returns like a pro, ensuring you have the chance to exchange those unwanted gifts for something more to your taste, all the way until the stores quiet down after peak return season.
Whether you regift or exchange, keep holiday cheer alive by handling returns gracefully. Acknowledging the thought behind each gift fosters goodwill, and remembering why we give gifts can make the return process feel less burdensome.
