Understanding the Urban Outfitter return policy is key to a stress-free shopping experience. Whether you bought something online or in-store, knowing the rules helps you shop with confidence.
This guide breaks down everything you need to know. We’ll cover timeframes, conditions, and the steps for both online and in-store returns. You’ll also learn about exceptions and some helpful tips to make the process smooth.
Urban Outfitter Return Policy
The core policy is designed to be fairly flexible for most items. You have a generous window to make up your mind about your purchases.
Here are the most important things to remember:
- You have 30 days from the purchase date to return most items for a refund or exchange.
- Items must be in new, unworn, and unwashed condition with all original tags attached.
- You’ll need your original receipt, packing slip, or the credit card used for purchase.
- Final sale items are not eligible for return or exchange.
What Items Are Final Sale?
This is a crucial part of the policy. Some items cannot be returned under any circumstances. Always check the product description before buying, as these are typically marked clearly.
- Face masks and other health-conscious apparel.
- Swimwear (if the hygiene liner has been removed or tampered with).
- Intimate apparel like lingerie and bodysuits.
- Gifted cards and e-gift cards.
- Items marked “Final Sale” on the tag or website.
- Personalized or monogrammed merchandise.
- Opened cosmetics, fragrances, and earrings (for hygiene reasons).
Condition of Returns
Urban Outfitters is strict about the condition of returned items. The goal is to ensure the product can be resold to another customer. An item that looks used will likely be sent back to you.
Make sure the item has:
- All original tags and labels attached.
- No signs of wear, washing, or damage.
- Its original packaging, especially for accessories, home goods, or electronics.
- No stains, odors, or pet hair.
How to Return an Online Order
Returning something you bought online is straightforward. You have two main options: by mail or in person at a store.
Option 1: Return by Mail (Prepaid Label)
This is the most common method. Follow these steps:
- Log into your Urban Outfitters account and go to “Order History.”
- Select the item(s) you wish to return and initiate the return.
- Print the prepaid return shipping label that is generated.
- Pack the item securely in its original packaging, if possible. Include the return packing slip.
- Attach the label to the outside of the box and drop it at a designated carrier location (like USPS or UPS).
Keep your tracking number! It’s your proof that you shipped the return. Refunds are usually processed within 10-14 business days after the return is recieved at their warehouse.
Option 2: Return In-Store
This is often the fastest way to get your refund. You can return online purchases to any Urban Outfitters retail store in the same country.
- Bring the item in its original condition with all tags.
- Bring your packing slip or the original order confirmation email.
- Bring a valid photo ID (this is often required for tracking returns).
- A store associate will process the return. You’ll typically get your refund on the spot if you used a card, or store credit/gift card if you don’t have the proof.
How to Return an In-Store Purchase
The process for items bought at a physical store is similar but has one key restriction.
- Bring the item in new condition with tags attached.
- Bring your original receipt. This is very important for in-store purchases.
- Go to any Urban Outfitters store. You do not have to return it to the exact same location.
- The refund will be issued to your original payment method. Without a receipt, you may only be eligible for store credit at the current selling price.
Refund Methods and Timing
How you get your money back depends on how you paid and how you returned the item.
Refund to Original Payment Method
This is the standard. If you used a credit or debit card, the refund will go back to that card. The timing varies:
- In-Store Returns: Refunds are usually instant but can take 3-10 business days to appear on your bank statement.
- Mail Returns: Once the warehouse processes your return (10-14 business days), it can take another 3-10 business days for your bank to post the refund.
Store Credit or Gift Card
You might recieve store credit in a few situations:
- You don’t have the original receipt or packing slip.
- You return the item after the 30-day window but within 60 days (at the company’s discretion and at the current price).
- You request it as your preferred refund method.
Store credit is issued as an electronic gift card sent via email. It doesn’t expire, which is a nice benefit.
Exchanges
Urban Outfitters doesn’t offer direct exchanges through the mail. Here’s how to get a different size or color:
- Return the original item for a refund (by mail or in-store).
- Place a new order for the item you want.
- For in-store exchanges, you can often do this in one transaction if they have the new item in stock.
Special Considerations and Exceptions
Returns Without a Receipt
It’s possible, but the policy is more restrictive. If you don’t have proof of purchase, the store may offer you store credit for the item’s current selling price. They will also ask for a government-issued ID to track the return. This is subject to manager approval.
Extended Holiday Return Period
Urban Outfitters usually offers a more lenient window during the winter holidays. Purchases made between November and Christmas often have a return deadline in late January. Always check the website’s policy page during the season for the exact dates, as they can change year to year.
International Returns
If you shipped an order to a address outside the United States, you cannot return it by mail to a U.S. warehouse. You must contact customer service to initiate an international return, which may involve custom forms and shipping costs not covered by Urban Outfitters. Returns to international stores may also have different rules.
Return Shipping Costs
Urban Outfitters provides a free prepaid return label for U.S. online orders. However, if you are returning a large item or from an international location, you might be responsible for the shipping fees. Always check the terms when starting your return.
Tips for a Smooth Return Experience
A little preparation can save you time and hassle.
- Keep the tags on: Don’t remove tags until you’re sure you’re keeping the item.
- Save your packaging: Keep the original box and packing materials for at least the return period, especially for electronics or fragile home decor.
- Take photos: If you’re mailing back an expensive item, take photos of its condition and how you packed it for proof if needed.
- Act within 30 days: Mark your calendar. The return window is strict for standard items.
- Check final sale items twice: Be absolutely certain before you buy swimwear, intimates, or marked-down clearance items.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How long does the Urban Outfitters return process take?
For mail returns, plan for 2-3 weeks total from the day you drop off the package to when the refund hits your account. In-store returns are much faster, with refunds issued immediately at the register.
Can I return sale items to Urban Outfitters?
Yes, you can return sale items as long as they are not marked “Final Sale.” They must still meet the standard return conditions: within 30 days, with tags, and unworn.
What is Urban Outfitters’ return policy for online orders?
The policy for online orders gives you 30 days to return items by mail with the prepaid label or to any retail store. You need the packing slip or order number, and the item must be in new condition.
Does Urban Outfitters offer free returns?
Yes, for online orders in the U.S., they provide a free prepaid return shipping label. Returns made in-store are always free.
Can I return something after 30 days?
Officially, the policy is 30 days. However, some stores might accept returns up to 60 days for store credit at the current price. This is not guaranteed and is up to the discretion of the store manager.
What if my item arrives damaged or defective?
Contact Urban Outfitters customer service immediately. They will likely cover the return shipping and offer a full refund or replacement. You should not be charged for a manufacturers flaw.
Do I need the original bag or box to return?
For clothing, you don’t need the original shopping bag. But for items like mugs, tech accessories, or home goods, the original protective packaging is often necessary for a safe return and may be required.
Knowing the Urban Outfitter return policy inside and out means you can shop their unique collections without worry. Always double-check your items before purchasing, keep your receipts, and act within the timeframe. By following these clear steps, you ensure that if something isn’t quite right, you can handle the return quickly and get back to finding pieces you’ll love for good.