Key Takeways:
- Most products can be returned within 15 days (60 days for My Best Buy Plus™ and My Best Buy Total™ members)
- Returns can be made in-store or shipped back using a prepaid UPS label
- Some items, such as activatable devices and drones, may have restocking fees
- Final sale and personalized items are non-returnable
Best Buy is a leading retailer in the electronics and technology industry, offering a wide range of products from computers and smartphones to home appliances and entertainment systems. As a customer-centric company, Best Buy strives to provide a satisfactory shopping experience, including a fair and transparent return policy.
Overview of the Best Buy Return Policy
Best Buy’s return policy allows customers to return most products within 15 days of purchase for a full refund. My Best Buy Plus™ and My Best Buy Total™ members enjoy an extended 60-day return window. The return period begins on the day you receive your product and applies to new, clearance, open-box, refurbished, and pre-owned items.
- Best Buy was founded in 1966 as an audio specialty store called Sound of Music.
- In 2018, Best Buy acquired GreatCall, a connected health services provider for aging consumers.
- Best Buy operates over 1,000 stores across the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
Best Buy Return Methods
There are two convenient ways to return your Best Buy purchases:
In-store: You can return any in-store or online purchase to any Best Buy store. Simply bring the item along with your receipt or order number.
Ship it back: Best Buy provides a free prepaid UPS shipping label for you to ship the item back. Start your return online, print the label, and drop off the package at a UPS location.
Best Buy Return Process
To ensure a smooth return process, follow these steps:
- Ensure the item is in like-new condition, with all original packaging and accessories.
- Locate your receipt or order number. If you can’t find it, a store associate may be able to look it up using your My Best Buy account.
- Choose your preferred return method (in-store or ship it back) and follow the corresponding instructions.
- If returning in-store, bring the item, packaging, and receipt to any Best Buy store. For shipped returns, pack the item securely, attach the prepaid shipping label, and drop it off at a UPS location.
Exceptions and Non-Returnable Items
Some items have specific return conditions or are non-returnable:
- Activatable devices (excluding prepaid phones) have a $45 restocking fee.
- Drones, digital cameras, projectors, and some other products have a 15% restocking fee.
- Final sale, personalized, and custom orders are non-returnable.
- Non-subscription digital content and prepaid cards are non-returnable.
Tips for a Successful Return
- Keep the original packaging and accessories in good condition.
- Ensure the item is in like-new condition, free from damage or wear.
- Return the item within the specified time frame (15 or 60 days).
- Have your receipt or order number ready to facilitate the return process.
- In fiscal year 2021, Best Buy reported revenue of $47.3 billion, a 6.5% increase from the previous year.
- Online sales accounted for 43% of Best Buy’s total domestic revenue in fiscal year 2021, up from 19% in the previous year, largely due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
- Best Buy’s Domestic segment, which includes operations in the United States, accounts for approximately 90% of the company’s total revenue.
Competitor Comparison
Amazon’s return policy allows customers to return most items within 30 days of delivery for a full refund. Some products have specific return policies or may be non-returnable.
Amazon offers free return shipping for many items, and customers can also return eligible items to Amazon Hub locations, Whole Foods Market stores, or Kohl’s stores.
In comparison, Best Buy’s standard return window is 15 days (60 days for My Best Buy Plus™ and My Best Buy Total™ members), which is shorter than Amazon’s 30-day policy. However, Best Buy offers the convenience of in-store returns at any Best Buy location, while Amazon’s in-store return options are limited to specific partner retailers.
Both retailers have similar exceptions to their return policies, such as non-returnable items and restocking fees for certain products. Ultimately, the better return policy depends on the customer’s specific needs and preferences.
Amazon’s longer return window may be more appealing for those who need more time to decide, while Best Buy’s in-store return option may be more convenient for customers who prefer to return items in person.
- Best Buy recently announced plans to expand its in-home consultation program, Total Tech Support, to provide customers with personalized technology advice and solutions.
- The company has partnered with Apple to offer AppleCare+ and repair services at Best Buy stores, making it more convenient for customers to get their Apple devices serviced.
- Best Buy has committed to reducing its carbon emissions by 75% by 2030 as part of its sustainability efforts.
Best Buy’s return policy is designed to provide customers with a satisfactory and hassle-free experience. By understanding the return methods, timelines, and exceptions, you can ensure a smooth return process. If you have any further questions or need assistance, don’t hesitate to contact Best Buy’s customer support or visit your local store.
Can I return items without a receipt?
If you don’t have a receipt, a store associate may be able to look up your purchase using your My Best Buy account.
What if I received a damaged or defective item?
Best Buy will replace or repair the item, or provide a refund if a replacement is not available.
Can I return a gift to Best Buy?
Yes, you can return a gift to any Best Buy store for store credit.
How long does it take to process a refund?
Refunds are typically processed within 3-5 business days after the return is received.
Can I return an item bought online to a Best Buy store?
Yes, you can return online purchases to any Best Buy store.
What if I lost my receipt?
A store associate can look up your purchase using your My Best Buy account, credit card, or other verification methods.
Are there any items that cannot be returned?
Final sale, personalized, custom orders, non-subscription digital content, and prepaid cards are non-returnable.
