When a customer makes a purchase on Amazon, they generally have the option to return their order, for example, if the item is damaged or does not match the description on the product detail page. This usually applies to products sold by third parties on Amazon as well. The return process is typically straightforward through an online return center, and the credit is processed quickly.
When can customers return their Amazon package?
The statutory right of withdrawal covers 14 days from receipt of the goods or from the conclusion of the contract in the case of digital content. Additionally, Amazon grants a 30-day return policy for almost all products from the date of receipt. Incorrect, damaged, or defective items sold or shipped by Amazon can also be returned within two years.
Amazon return within 30 days
Customers who wish to return an item to Amazon within 30 days of receipt can do so under certain conditions. The item must be in its original condition. For new items, the product must be new, unused, and complete. Used items should not show any new signs of use or wear. Additionally, there are some product categories that are excluded from this type of Amazon return (e.g., perishable goods) or for which special conditions apply.
Amazon return after 30 days
If the receipt of the goods is more than 30 days in the past, Amazon will only accept the return if it is a complaint about a damaged or defective item (liability for defects). This is generally possible for up to two years. If the item was shipped by a marketplace seller, the customer must contact the seller directly using the “Contact Seller” button in their account under “My Orders.” Statutory warranty rights remain unaffected.
Who bears the cost of the return?
In general, Amazon covers the costs of a return if the goods were sold or shipped by the e-commerce giant and have a value of at least 40 euros. This applies especially if the Amazon return occurs within the statutory withdrawal period. However, if the item is returned simply because the customer does not like it, the customer may have to bear the costs of the Amazon return.
Whether a marketplace seller offers free returns can be found in the seller’s return policy. This information is located on the seller’s profile page, which customers can access by clicking on the seller’s name. The second tab lists the return conditions under which the customer can request a refund for their Amazon order.
How does the Amazon return process work?
To return an order to Amazon, customers have several options: First, the customer can request a return label directly in the “My Orders” section of their Amazon account; second, this can be done through the online return center. If the corresponding button to request an Amazon return label is missing from the orders, the return period has already expired.
After clicking the button, Amazon asks why a refund is requested. Subsequently, the return label is displayed, which the customer prints out and attaches to the package before taking it to the post office.
In general, customers will need a printer or must print the return label elsewhere, such as at a copy shop or at a friend’s place. However, an Amazon return without a personal printer is possible using a QR code. This is then scanned directly at the package shop. If this option is not displayed, customers can contact customer service to receive a QR code from Amazon for the return.
For items that were not shipped by Amazon, the procedure may differ. Further information can be found in the seller’s return policy or directly from them. For international returns, marketplace sellers must provide a free return label or offer the return to a German address, according to Amazon. If neither is possible, they must refund the full amount that the customer paid for the goods. If there is a problem with a return to an Amazon seller, it may also be possible to submit an A-to-Z Guarantee claim.
How long do customers have to wait for an Amazon refund?
In general, Amazon quickly refunds the money to the customer after a return. This is especially true for Amazon Prime returns. Typically, customers do not wait longer than seven days to receive their money after a return. However, the applicable deadlines are dependent on the payment method.
Attention! Officially, there is no limit to how many returns a customer may initiate. However, unofficially, Amazon may suspend customers who make too many returns within a certain timeframe. Therefore, customers should only initiate a return on Amazon when it is truly necessary (e.g., due to a defect). Naturally, the account will also be suspended if any fraudulent activity is detected through it.
Image credits in the order of the images: © fotomowo – stock.adobe.com
