As one of the premier fashion retailers carrying top designer brands, Nordstrom aims to offer exceptional service and an unmatched shopping experience. But purchasing apparel and goods remotely does carry some sizing and suitability risk.
That’s why Nordstrom provides generously lenient return policies to ensure customers feel confident exploring new styles and brands while shopping online or in store. This guide will outline the ins and outs of Nordstrom’s return process so you can exchange or refund items with ease. Read on to understand policies, procedures, timeframes and more – and shop Nordstrom without worry!
Overview of the Nordstrom Return Policy
Nordstrom offers flexible return options to ensure fully satisfied customers:
- Most items can be returned within 90 days of original purchase date for a full refund, exchange, or Nordstrom credit. This allows ample trial time.
- To start a return, bring the item and receipt to any Nordstrom location. Or contact customer service online for free mail return labels.
- Refunds are issued once received back in original condition. Funds get credited to the original payment method.
- Clearance merchandise is final sale once purchased and cannot be returned unless defective. Keeps pricing fair.
- Nordstrom investigates and reserves right to limit returns deemed excessive or potential abuse of this generous policy.
Nordstrom’s famously flexible return policy has shoppers’ backs. Now let’s explore specifics.
Founded in 1901 Seattle, Nordstrom has a famous customer service policy which states that customers can return items at any time for any reason. This policy has become so famous that it is often referred to as the “Nordstrom Way”.
Starting In-Store Returns at Nordstrom
Launching a return or exchange at a Nordstrom brick-and-mortar location involves:
- Bring the item with original tags and packaging to any store before 90 days elapse. Have receipt ready.
- Provide the reason for return to the customer service desk – incorrect fit, defective item, changed mind etc.
- Select refund type preference – back to original payment, Nordstrom gift card, or exchange item.
- The associate examines the merchandise then approves and processes the return or swap on the spot.
- Once approved, refunds issue immediately and exchanges are processed quickly.
In-store Nordstrom returns provide fast, convenient, same-day resolutions.
Processing Mail-In Returns for Online Orders
Returning Nordstrom.com purchases by mail works like this:
- Log into your Nordstrom account online and navigate to the Returns page to start a return request.
- Select the item(s) you need to return and provide details like reason for return and preferred refund method.
- Print the free prepaid return shipping label provided and affix to your securely packed return parcel.
- Drop off your package at any UPS location or schedule a free pickup.
- Once received and inspected at the returns facility, allow 1 week for refund processing to your original form of payment.
- Check your account for status updates. Receive email confirmations when the return is completed.
Online returns take a bit longer but the process is smooth and free.
Nordstrom Return Timeframes and Windows
To allow adequate time to evaluate purchases, Nordstrom permits these return windows:
- 90 days – Standard window for returning most merchandise categories to stores or by mail.
- 1 year – For Nordstrom credit cardholders. Having a Nordstrom card doubles the return window.
- 2 years – For Nordy Club members at the Icon, Ambassador and Influencer levels. Perk for elite loyalty members.
- Gift returns – Gifts can be returned within 90 days of original order date, not gifting date.
- Online orders – Return window based on original order date, not shipping or delivery.
- Holiday extension – Purchases from Nov 1 – Dec 25 get extended holiday returns through Jan 31.
Understanding return windows helps avoid denials down the line. Always check receipt terms.
Reasons Customers Return Items to Nordstrom
There are a few common reasons shoppers bring items back to Nordstrom locations:
- Sizing issues – Being unable to try on clothes or shoes in-store means fit uncertainties. Nordstrom gladly allows returns to swap sizes.
- Quality problems – Damaged, defective, or poor quality merchandise warrants returns to exchange for satisfactory items.
- Style dislikes – Returns allowed if a clothing item ordered doesn’t flatter you or fulfill your needs upon arrival and trying on at home.
- No longer needed – Buyer’s remorse sets in, or events that required purchases are cancelled.
- Better price found – Nordstrom price matches select retailers if identical items are found cheaper.
Knowing the rationale behind a return starts you off informed. Now let’s explore the policies.
Types of Items Eligible for Return
Nordstrom allows returns and exchanges on most merchandise purchased through Nordstrom and Nordstrom.com including:
- Apparel – Clothing, shoes in new condition with tags still attached.
- Accessories – Handbags, jewelry, watches, sunglasses. Unused with original tags.
- Beauty – Unopened cosmetics, skincare, hair care items.
- Home goods – New, unused bedding, kitchenware, decor items.
- Furniture – Assembled items can be returned but may have restocking fees.
- Wedding dresses – Typically non-returnable for hygiene but may make exceptions.
Just ensure merchandise meets return criteria of new condition with tags. Nordstrom aims to be reasonable within policy confines.
Receiving Refunds from Nordstrom
Once returned, Nordstrom swiftly processes refunds via:
- Original payment method – By default, funds credit back to the original debit/credit card used on the purchase.
- Nordstrom gift card – Returns can alternatively refund to a Nordstrom merchandise credit for use at stores/online.
- In-store credit – Returns can issue as immediate spendable credit on your Nordstrom profile to shop same day.
- Product exchange – For sizing, defects, or damage issues, Nordstrom will directly swap for a replacement item.
- Check – Rarely, for large refunds, Nordstrom may issue approved return amounts via check.
Be aware of the various Nordstrom return reimbursement methods to select your preference upfront.
Potential Issues and Solutions with Nordstrom Returns
While usually seamless, a few potential return issues can crop up:
- Missing the 90 day window – If unique circumstance, contact Nordstrom courteously to review options.
- No receipt – Nordstrom can lookup past purchases by credit card details. Still returnable.
- Online shipping mishaps – Contact Nordstrom if return delivery fails or package gets lost for reshipping.
- Wrong refund method – To change payment type, visit an in-store customer service representative.
- Items damaged en route – Take photos of box condition and insure high-value returns in case issues arise.
With good records and persistence, many Nordstrom return issues can be resolved smoothly.
Making Informed Purchase Decisions to Reduce Returns
Customers can minimize unnecessary Nordstrom returns by:
- Accurately determining clothing sizes needed by measuring existing garments first.
- Vetting fabric care instructions thoroughly to understand products’ washing and drying requirements.
- Reading online product descriptions, dimensions, and reviews carefully prior to purchase.
- Buying just what you need for the current season or upcoming events. Avoid speculative purchases.
- Trying on items in store whenever possible or ordering multiple sizes if unable to visit.
- Comparing prices across retailers to ensure you get the best value before finalizing a purchase.
Being an informed shopper prevents the need for multiple rounds of returns. This benefits all.
“I love Nordstrom. They’re a great company, they’re a great brand, and they really understand customer service.” – Mark Cuban, entrepreneur and investor
Tips for Smooth, Seamless Nordstrom Returns
Follow best practices for easy Nordstrom returns resulting in fast refunds:
- Keep all receipts, tags, and original packaging accessible in case returns are needed down the line.
- Return sooner than later – come prepared within 90 day window before it expires.
- Repackage items neatly in original shopping bags, boxes, dust covers. Reattach tags.
- Opt for Nordstrom’s free return shipping. Don’t pay postage yourself.
- Return in-store when possible for fastest refund back to original form of payment.
- If exchanging, select replacement at store when returning original.
Proper preparation and understanding Nordstrom’s return policy sets you up for success.
FAQs About the Nordstrom Return Policy
Does Nordstrom accept returns without a receipt?
Yes, Nordstrom can do returns without a receipt by looking up the purchase details. Without proof of purchase, the refund will be in the form of a Nordstrom gift card.
What is Nordstrom's policy on worn or used items?
Nordstrom evaluates returns of worn items on a case-by-case basis. They aim to deal fairly with customers but may not accept significantly used item returns.
How long does it take to get a refund for a mailed return?
Allow 10-14 days for Nordstrom to receive and process the mailed return. Expect the refund to original payment method within 3-5 days after processing is complete.
Can I return a Nordstrom Rack purchase to a regular Nordstrom store?
No, Nordstrom Rack purchases can only be returned to a Nordstrom Rack location, not a regular Nordstrom store. Rack has its own return policy.
Does Nordstrom deduct shipping fees from refunds?
Yes, Nordstrom does not refund original shipping fees when an order is returned. The customer is responsible for any return shipping costs as well.
What if I lost the gift receipt for an item?
Without a gift receipt, returns are refunded in the form of a Nordstrom gift card, not back to the original payment method. Bring the item and ID.
How can I return designer or special occasion items?
These items must be returned with all original parts and tags attached in new unused condition to obtain a refund or exchange from Nordstrom.
