If you’ve ever bought soccer gear online, you know the worry of whether it will fit or perform as expected. That’s why understanding the Soccer com return policy is your first step to shopping with confidence. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about returns, exchanges, and refunds, making the process simple and stress-free.
We’ll cover the timeframes, condition requirements, and step-by-step instructions. You’ll also learn about exceptions for custom items and international orders. Our goal is to ensure you have all the information to handle any post-purchase situation easily.
Soccer com Return Policy
The core return policy at Soccer com is designed to be straightforward. Most items can be sent back within 90 days of purchase, as long as they are in new and unused condition. This generous window gives you plenty of time to test cleats on the pitch or make sure that jersey is the perfect fit.
It’s important to note that the 90-day period begins from the date your order was shipped. You can find this date on your packing slip or in your shipment confirmation email. Keeping track of this helps you avoid missing the deadline.
What Items Are Eligible for Return?
Most products you buy from Soccer com fall under the standard return policy. This includes:
- Cleats (unworn and clean)
- Apparel (jerseys, shorts, training gear with tags attached)
- Goalkeeper gloves (unused)
- Shin guards and other protective gear
- Balls (must be deflated and in original packaging)
All returned items must have their original tags and be in the original packaging whenever possible. This is crucial for a smooth refund process. Items should not show any signs of wear, dirt, or damage from use.
Key Exceptions and Non-Returnable Items
Not everything can be returned. Being aware of these exceptions saves you time and potential disappointment. The main categories of non-returnable items are:
Customized or Personalized Products
Any item with custom printing, like a jersey with a specific name and number, cannot be returned. This is because the product is made specifically for you and cannot be resold. Double-check your spelling and number choices before finalizing these orders.
Opened Underwear and Socks
For hygiene reasons, any intimate apparel such as undershorts or socks cannot be returned if the packaging has been opened or the hygiene seal is broken. Make sure you’re certain about size and style before opening these.
Certain Clearance or Final Sale Items
Some products, especially those marked “Final Sale” or on deep clearance, may be exempt from returns. The product page will always state if an item is final sale, so it’s good practice to look for this note before clicking “Add to Cart.”
Condition Requirements: The Unused Standard
The most important rule is that items must be unused. For cleats, this means no wear on the studs, no scuffs on the upper, and no grass or mud stains. For apparel, there should be no deodorant marks, perfumes, or wrinkles from trying on for an extended time.
If you try on a jersey, do so carefully over your own clothes to avoid any transfer of oils or scents. It’s a simple step that ensures the item stays in resellable condition, just in case you need to send it back.
How to Initiate a Return: A Step-by-Step Guide
Starting a return with Soccer com is an online process. You can’t just ship an item back without notification; you need to get a Return Authorization (RA) number first. Here’s how to do it.
- Log into Your Account: Go to the Soccer com website and sign into your account. Navigate to “Order History” or “My Orders.”
- Select the Item: Find the order containing the item you wish to return. Click on “Return Item” or a similar link next to that specific product.
- Choose a Reason: Select your reason for the return from the dropdown menu (e.g., “Wrong Size,” “Better Price Available,” “Changed Mind”).
- Select Return or Exchange: Indicate whether you want a refund to your original payment method, a store credit, or an exchange for a different size/color (if available).
- Print Your Documents: The system will generate a Return Authorization form and a prepaid shipping label. You must print both. The RA number is usually on the label.
- Pack the Item Securely: Place the item, with all tags and original packaging, into a sturdy box. Include the completed RA form inside the box.
- Attach the Label: Affix the prepaid shipping label securely to the outside of the box, covering up any old labels.
- Drop Off the Package: Take the package to a designated drop-off location for the carrier listed on the label (typically UPS or USPS). Get a drop-off receipt for your records.
Once Soccer com receives your return, it takes about 5-10 business days to process it. You’ll get an email confirmation when the process is complete. Refunds to credit cards can then take an additional 3-5 business days to appear on your statement, depending on your bank.
Understanding Return Shipping Costs
For returns within the United States that follow the standard policy, Soccer com typically provides a prepaid return shipping label free of charge. This is a huge benefit that many retailers don’t offer.
However, there are instances where you might be responsible for return shipping costs. These include:
- Returns initiated after the 90-day window.
- Returns of items that are not in their original condition.
- International returns (customers outside the U.S. are usually responsible for the cost of sending items back).
Always check the terms on your return authorization for the most accurate information regarding any potential fees.
Exchange Process for a Different Size or Color
If you need a different size of the same cleat or a different color of the same jersey, an exchange is often the fastest route. During the online return process, simply select “Exchange” as your preferred option.
You’ll be guided to choose the new size or color you want. It’s important to know that exchanges are subject to availability. If your desired variant is out of stock, you may need to opt for a refund instead and place a new order.
For exchanges, you will still ship the original item back using the provided label. Once the return is received and inspected, Soccer com will ship out the new item. You won’t be charged again for the exchanged product, unless there is a price difference.
What About Damaged or Defective Items?
If your item arrives damaged, defective, or is not what you ordered, the process is different. Contact Soccer com Customer Service immediately—do not use the standard online return portal for these cases.
Have your order number ready and be prepared to provide photos of the damage or defect. Soccer com will usually cover all shipping costs for a replacement and will often send out the correct or new item right away, sometimes even before you ship the faulty one back. This is known as an “advanced replacement” and is handled on a case-by-case basis.
International Returns and Special Considerations
For customers shopping from outside the United States, the return policy has some additional layers. The 90-day window still applies, but you are generally responsible for the cost of international return shipping and any applicable customs duties or taxes incurred on the return.
Soccer com does not provide prepaid international return labels. You will need to work with your local postal service or a courier to ship the item back, ensuring you list the contents as “Returned Goods” on the customs form to avoid additional charges. Refunds for international returns are issued to the original payment method, but note that currency conversion fees from your bank may apply.
Returns for Items Bought with a Promo Code or Discount
If you used a promotional code or bought an item on sale, your refund will be for the actual price you paid, not the original list price. If you return part of a multi-item order that qualified for a discount (like “Buy 2, Get 20% Off”), the refund value might be adjusted proportionally.
For example, if you bought two jerseys for $40 total after a discount and return one, you might not get $20 back. The system might calculate the refund based on the discounted per-item rate. Your return confirmation email will detail the refund amount clearly.
Tips for a Smooth Return Experience
A little preparation makes the return process effortless. Here are some best practices gathered from common customer experiences.
- Keep the Original Box: Don’t throw away the shoe box or any product packaging for at least the first 90 days. It’s the safest way to ship items back.
- Take Photos: Before you pack the item up, take a few quick photos on your phone. This provides proof of the condition in which you sent it, just in case.
- Use the Prepaid Label: Always use the specific return label provided by Soccer com. Using a different carrier or your own label can delay processing significantly.
- Track Your Package: Hold onto the tracking number from your drop-off receipt. This allows you to see when Soccer com receives your return.
- Be Patient During Peak Times: After major holidays or big sales, processing times may be longer than the standard 5-10 business days. The customer service team is working through a higher volume.
Store Credit vs. Refund to Original Payment
You often have a choice between getting store credit or a refund back to your card. Store credit (issued as an e-gift card) is usually processed faster, sometimes within 24 hours of the return being scanned by the warehouse. This is a great option if you plan to shop at Soccer com again soon.
A refund to your original payment method is the standard choice. Remember that while Soccer com processes it quickly, the time it takes for the funds to be visible in your account depends entirely on your bank or credit card company’s policies.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How long does the Soccer com return process take?
Once your return is delivered to their warehouse, allow 5-10 business days for inspection and processing. After that, a card refund may take 3-5 more business days to post to your account.
Can I return soccer cleats after wearing them?
No. Cleats must be completely unused, with no signs of wear on the studs or upper, to be eligible for return. Lightly trying them on indoors on a clean surface is acceptable, but wearing them on any outdoor surface voids the return policy.
What is Soccer com’s return policy on jerseys?
Jerseys can be returned within 90 days with all original tags attached. They must be free of stains, odors, and wrinkles. Customized jerseys with printed names/numbers cannot be returned.
Does Soccer.com offer free return shipping?
Yes, for standard returns within the U.S. that are initiated within 90 days and meet condition requirements, a prepaid return label is provided. International customers and non-compliant returns typically cover their own shipping costs.
What if I lost my return label?
You can log back into your return portal on the Soccer com website to reprint your label. If you have trouble, customer service can assist you, but it’s much faster to use the online system.
Can I return an item I bought as a gift?
Yes, but the process is slightly different. The return will typically be issued as store credit to the person making the return, since the original payment wasn’t made with their card. The gift recipient should contact customer service for help with this scenario.
Knowing the Soccer com return policy inside and out removes the risk from online shopping. By following the guidelines on condition, timing, and procedure, you can ensure that your experience is positive, whether you keep your gear or need to send it back. Always check the official policy page on their website for the most current details, as terms can occasionally be updated. With this knowledge, you can focus on what really matters—finding the perfect gear for your game.