HUNTSVILLE, AL (WAFF) – Do you have a gift to return after the holidays?
Many stores are ending pandemic policies that allowed more time for returns. Savvy shoppers will want to return gifts as quickly as possible. Currently, the average time to return a gift is about one month.
Lindsay George of the Better Business Bureau says you need to plan accordingly to make the most of your time.
“Plan your day, whether it’s early in the morning or late at night, and try to return these items at off-peak times so you don’t get frustrated saying you don’t need to return items when you actually do,” explains George. “So, just make sure you stay at the return or exchange window.”
A lot of people are shopping online this year, but George recommends returning gifts in person rather than sending them in the mail. She said there are often hidden fees.
“You want to make sure you understand the shipping costs associated with expensive items, whether they’re bulky items, appliances or electronics,” says George. “These types of items may require you to pay a restocking fee, so it may be in your best interest to go to the store and return these items.”
For example, if you received a sweater as a gift from target, please take it back to your nearest target store. Many Amazon items can be returned to Kohl’s.
Staying organized can help with the return process, like keeping the original packaging and gift receipts when you return, says George.
WAFF’s Megan Plotka reports
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