Deciding your Return Policies for Retail Purchase
May 07, 2008
As mentioned in the previous blog titled, "What is your Return Policy?' it is very important to establish your Return Policy and post this policy in a location where the sign is visible in advance of a purchase. If you are participating in online retail, then your Return Policy is often included in your "profile" information and/or on the shopping cart page.
If the purchase is made at your studio or store, post the information in a visible location where the item is purchased.
The following are some criteria that you may decide to include in your Return Policy.
- Under what circumstances will you accept a return?
- How many days does the customer have to return the items purchased?
- Does the item need to be returned unworn, unused, or in salable condition?
- What if the item is damaged? Will you accept a return?
- Does the customer need to include their receipt or Proof of Purchase?
- Is the item returned for a credit with the artist to purchase other merchandise?
- Is the item returned for full credit to their credit card or PayPal?
- Is the item returned for a cash refund?
- Is the client given a full refund? Is there a restocking charge?
- If the client is given a refund, is it immediate; or within 2 weeks; 20 days; or a month?
- Do you refund the client's shipping expenses?
This is not a comprehensive list of possible Return Policies, but it gives you a good idea about what to consider and there are variables under each question. Goodwill is very important to keep with your customer, so flexibility may be essential regardless of your Return Policy.
If the item is returned because it is described as defective, seriously flawed, or poorly crafted then more than likely you are both legally and ethically required to accept a return no matter what your Return Policy may state.
Look for future blog entries for example Return Policies AND:
This post was updated on January 9, 2022