Shein is a popular online fashion retailer known for trendy clothing, shoes, accessories, and more at affordable prices. As a purely ecommerce brand, understanding Shein’s return policy is important for shoppers unable to try items on or view products in person before purchasing.
This guide covers everything buyers need to know about Shein’s current return policy. We’ll explore key return windows, processes for web and app purchases, refund methods, exchanges, ineligible items, and tips for hassle-free Shein returns. Read on to shop Shein with confidence!
Shein's Standard Return Window
Shein offers a generous return timeframe for most items from their online store:
- 35 days – Shein allows items to be returned within 35 days of the order delivery date.
- Return by mail – Items can be returned by post or courier pickup to Shein’s returns facility.
- Order receipt – A copy of your Shein packing slip or order confirmation must be included with the return.
- Unused condition – Items must be in new, unused condition with all original tags and packaging.
Knowing Shein’s 35-day window gives ample time to try items and return if unsatisfied while following their policy terms.
SHEIN was founded in 2008 in Guangzhou, China, and has since grown to serve customers in over 220 countries and regions worldwide. SHEIN’s name is derived from the combination of the words “she” and “in,” reflecting the company’s focus on empowering women through affordable and fashionable clothing.
Returning Items Purchased from Shein's Website
To return items bought from Shein’s website Shein.com, follow these steps:
- Repackage the item with any accessories included, tags attached, and unused in original packaging.
- Print out the order invoice receipt from your account or original email confirmation.
- Affix return label to package from emailed receipt or your Shein account.
- Drop off return at your chosen carrier like UPS with the label within 35 days.
- Receive notification by email when Shein processes the return at their facility.
- Refund will be issued back to original payment method within 3-7 business days of return processing.
Following this easy process ensures website returns are handled smoothly and quickly by Shein.
Returning Items Purchased from the Shein Mobile App
To return orders placed via Shein’s iOS or Android apps:
- Login to the Shein app and visit order history to initiate a return request.
- Select items you wish to return from the order and confirm return details.
- You will receive an email from Shein with a return shipping label to print.
- Repackage items neatly in original packaging and affix the label.
- Drop off your return package at your chosen mail carrier within 35 days.
- Once the return is received and processed, your refund will be issued back to the original payment method.
The app makes starting a return just as easy as ordering for a simplified experience.
Shein Return Policy for Sale and Clearance Items
Shein handles returns differently for items purchased from their sale or clearance sections:
- Sale items can only be refunded via a credit to your Shein account rather than original payment method.
- Clearance items cannot be returned or exchanged according to Shein’s policy terms.
- Sale and clearance merchandise is final sale and ineligible for returns due to the discounted pricing.
- Be sure about sizing and item condition before purchasing from sale or clearance sections.
- Consider sizing up if between sizes since sale items cannot be exchanged.
Understanding Shein’s restrictions can prevent surprises if you need to return discounted merchandise.
Receipts and Other Return Requirements
To complete a return, Shein requires:
- Order invoice – Either printed or digital copy from email/account.
- Return authorization – Received via email from Shein when initiating return.
- Original packaging – Items must be returned in Shein retail packaging.
- Unused condition – Do not wash, alter or use the items or packaging.
- All accessories – Return any included hangers, tags, protective inserts, etc.
- Timeframe – Items must be shipped back within 45 days of delivery.
Following Shein’s return policies prevents rejections and subsequent delays getting refunded.
Shein Return Shipping Costs and Timeframes
Shein offers free return shipping and quick processing:
- Return label – Shein provides a prepaid return label sent by email when the return is initiated.
- Free return – Customers do not pay for return shipping costs back to Shein’s facility.
- Carrier options – Choose drop off with UPS, USPS or other preferred carrier.
- Processing – Allow 1 week from Shein receiving your return to issue a refund.
- Notification – You will be emailed when the return has completed processing.
Shein’s complimentary return label and handling makes the return experience smooth.
Shein Return Methods and Refund Options
Depending on the item, Shein offers refunds via:
- Original payment method – Full price purchases are refunded to the original payment method.
- Shein account credit – Sale item refunds are credited to your Shein wallet.
- Gift card – Purchases made with a Shein gift card are refunded on a gift card.
- Exchange – Instead of refund, you may opt for a size or product exchange.
- Refund to PayPal – If original payment was via PayPal, refund is issued there.
Understanding the different refund methods for Shein helps manage return expectations.
Items Not Eligible for Return at Shein
Shein enforces several exclusions for returns due to hygiene or other reasons:
- Undergarments – Bras, panties, shapewear cannot be returned.
- Swimwear – Bikinis, swimsuits are final sale items.
- Accessories – Hair accessories, hats, bags are non-returnable.
- Jewelry – Earrings and other jewelry cannot be returned.
- Personal care – Cosmetics, fragrance, grooming items.
Check items carefully before purchasing, as many accessories and intimate apparel are final sale.
“SHEIN has a wide variety of clothing options that cater to different styles and tastes. As someone who loves fashion, it’s great to see a brand that makes it possible for everyone to find something they love.” – Madelaine Petsch, Actress and Model
Shein Exchange Process for Alternate Sizes or Items
Instead of returning items, Shein allows convenient free exchanges:
- Login online or on the app and request an exchange within 45 days of delivery.
- Select the alternate size or item you prefer instead along with reason code.
- Print the provided return label and ship back original item.
- A replacement order for the exchanged items will be processed and shipped.
- Return shipping for exchanges is also covered by Shein.
Exchanges provide an easy way to swap items or get a better fit without multiple transactions.
Shein aims to make the returns process straightforward for customers by providing pre-paid return labels, a generous 35-day window, and quick refund processing. By understanding their key policies for returns eligibility, original packaging, shipping costs, refund methods, and more, Shein shoppers can make exchanges or returns seamlessly. Refer to this guide before your next Shein purchase or return to have confidence in the policies and process.
Tips for a Smooth, Successful Shein Return
Follow these best practices when returning items to Shein:
- Carefully review policy before purchasing to avoid surprise exclusions
- Open packages promptly and try on items to allow time for returns
- Re-pack items neatly in original Shein packaging only
- Print return label immediately so you don’t miss the 45-day window
- Double check label address matches Shein’s provided returns facility address
- Consider exchanges to avoid return delays if sizing is the only concern
- Keep return tracking number handy in case Shein customer service requires it
Planning ahead helps ensure you can successfully return items per Shein’s policy terms.
FAQs About the Shein Return Policy
What is SHEIN's return policy?
SHEIN accepts returns postmarked within 35 days of purchase. Items must be new and unused with tags attached. Free return shipping on first return per order. Store credit or original payment refunds offered.
Does SHEIN allow returns without a receipt?
SHEIN does not offer returns without a receipt. The original order information in your SHEIN account is required to start a return request and get a prepaid label.
How long do I have to return SHEIN purchases?
You have 35 days from the ship date to return items to SHEIN. The package must be postmarked within the 35 day window to be accepted.
Does SHEIN refund original shipping fees?
No, SHEIN does not refund any original shipping fees when you return items. Only the cost of the products themselves will be refunded.
Can I exchange SHEIN items by mail?
No, SHEIN doesn’t allow exchanges by mail. You have to return the item, then place a new order for the exchange product separately.
What can't be returned to SHEIN?
Non-returnable SHEIN items include final sale merchandise, gift cards, used or worn items, and intimate apparel like bodysuits and lingerie.
Can I return international SHEIN purchases?
SHEIN’s returns policy applies only to items purchased on SHEIN’s US website. International SHEIN purchases have different policies.
