If you’re one of the roughly 15% of people who need (or want) to return a gift you were given over the holidays, consider these tips to make the chore as hassle-free as possible:
Do your research. Most places with websites list their return policies there. Checking ahead of time to see what you need to bring with you can save you time in the long run. Your receipt is another good place to look if you need information about a return policy. At the very least it should give you your “return by” date in most places. If the purchase was made online contact the company via phone to see what their policy is and request a pre-paid return label if you don’t have one.
Return in kind. Return the item exactly how you received it, which means including all bubble wrap, cardboard, instruction manuals, etc. Many places will not return an item that has been opened, had the tags removed, etc. So if you think you might return it, don’t open it fully until you’ve made a decision.
Use pre-paid labels. If you shopped online, use pre-paid labels to return your merchandise for a smooth transaction with no out-of-pocket costs. Be sure to record the tracking numbers, etc. so you know when you should receive your credit.
Utilize “off” hours. If you can wait until a week or so after the new year to make your returns, that is best, but if you can’t try to get to the store really early or really late to avoid as much of the crowd as possible.
Happy returning!
If you’re looking to buy or sell a home in Sussex County, give us a call at Cooper Realty Associates and put us to work for you – 302-856-6434.