B & H Photo Return Policy

If you’ve ever bought camera gear or electronics online, you know a good return policy is key. Understanding the B & H Photo return policy before you buy gives you peace of mind and protects your investment. This guide breaks down everything you need to know, from time limits to condition rules, so you can shop with total confidence.

The core B & H Photo return policy is designed to be straightforward for customers. Most items can be returned within 30 days of receipt for a refund or exchange, provided they are in like-new condition with all original packaging and accessories. It’s a standard that balances customer satisfaction with the practical needs of a major electronics retailer.

What Is the Standard Return Window?

For the vast majority of products, B & H offers a 30-day return period. This clock starts on the day you receive the item, not the day you ordered it. This is an important distinction, especially for pre-orders or backordered gear. Always check your packing slip or online order confirmation for your specific receipt date.

30 Days: Applies to nearly all new electronics, cameras, lenses, computers, and accessories.
Return Method: You can return items by mail or, if you’re local, in person at the famous B & H SuperStore in New York City.
Refund Timing: Refunds are typically processed within 5-7 business days after the return is received and inspected.

Condition Requirements: The “Like-New” Rule

To qualify for a full refund, your return must be in “like-new” condition. This is the most critical part of the policy. It means the product shows no signs of use or wear.

All original packaging, manuals, warranty cards, and accessories (like cables, straps, and batteries) must be included.
The product itself must be flawless—no fingerprints, scratches, or marks of any kind.
For software, movies, or music, the seal must be unbroken. Once opened, these items are generally not returnable unless defective.

Exceptions and Special Cases

Not every product follows the standard 30-day rule. B & H has specific guidelines for certain categories to protect against misuse or for hygiene reasons.

Non-Returnable Items

Some things you buy are final sale. It’s crucial to be sure before you purchase these.

Opened software, DVDs, Blu-rays, and CDs.
Downloaded digital software or media.
Special order and clearance items (clearly marked as such).
Personalized or engraved products.
Opened memory cards, due to potential data privacy issues.

Extended Return Policies

On the flip side, some items have more generous return windows. This is often the case for seasonal or occasional promotions.

Holiday Season: Purchases made between November and December often have an extended return deadline, usually until January 31st of the following year. Always verify the exact date on your receipt.
B & H Credit Card Holders: Using the B & H Payboo card can sometimes extend your return window. Check your cardmember terms for current benefits.

How to Start a Return Step-by-Step

Returning an item to B & H is a structured process. Following these steps ensures it goes smoothly and your refund is processed quickly.

Log into Your Account: Go to the B & H website and access “My Account” and then “Order History.”
Select the Item: Find the order containing the item you wish to return and click “Return Item.”
Choose a Reason: Select your reason for the return from the dropdown menu (e.g., changed mind, defective, etc.).
Print Your Label: B & H will provide a prepaid return shipping label. Print it out. If you don’t have a printer, you can often have the label scanned at a carrier location like UPS.
Pack Securely: Place the item, all accessories, and all packaging materials back into the original box. Seal it securely.
Attach the Label: Affix the prepaid label over the old shipping label on the box.
Drop Off: Take the package to the designated carrier (usually UPS or USPS). Get a drop-off receipt for your records.

Understanding Restocking Fees

Most returns to B & H do not have a restocking fee if they meet the like-new condition requirements. However, fees can apply in specific situations, which are clearly outlined in there policy.

No Fee: Returns in perfect, like-new condition with all items included.
Potential Fee (15-20%): May apply if items are missing original packaging or accessories, or show signs of use. This fee covers the cost to repackage and resell the item as open-box.
Defective Items: If an item is dead on arrival (DOA) or has a verifiable manufacturer defect, restocking fees are typically waived.

Defective Items and Warranty Returns

If your new gear doesn’t work, the process is slightly different. B & H will help you with a warranty return or replacement.

Contact Customer Service First: Don’t start a standard return online. Call or email B & H support to report the defect.
Follow Their Guidance: They may troubleshoot with you or immediately authorize a replacement or repair.
Use Provided Labels: They will often email you a special shipping label for defective merchandise.
Faster Resolution: This path usually leads to a quicker exchange than a standard refund and reorder.

In-Store Returns at the NYC SuperStore

If you can visit the B & H store in Manhattan, the return process is often faster. Bring the item, all packaging, and your receipt (digital or paper). Go to the Customer Service desk. The staff will inspect the item and can often process your refund or exchange on the spot. Remember, even in-store purchases can usually be returned by mail if needed.

International Returns

Returning items from outside the United States involves extra steps and costs. The 30-day window still applies, but you are responsible for all shipping costs and customs fees. B & H does not provide prepaid international return labels. It’s highly recommended to contact their international customer service team before sending anything back to understand the full process and cost.

Tips for a Hassle-Free Return Experience

A little preparation makes the return process effortless.

Save Everything: Keep the original box and all packing materials for at least the first 30 days. It’s a simple habit that saves major headaches.
Document Everything: When you open the box, take quick photos or a video. This provides proof of the original condition if any questions arise later.
Act Quickly: Don’t let the return window slip by. If you’re unsure about a product, initiate the return well before the 30-day mark.
Read Product-Specific Notes: Always check the product page for any special return instructions before adding to cart.

B & H’s Exchange Policy

If you want a different item, an exchange is usually straightforward. The fastest method is to process a return for a refund and then place a new order for the item you want. This gets you the new gear quicker than waiting for a traditional exchange process. For in-store exchanges, you can simply bring the item in and swap it, paying any price difference.

How Refunds Are Issued

Refunds are issued to the original form of payment. The timing depends on your payment method and your bank.

Credit/Debit Cards: 5-7 business days after B & H processes the return.
PayPal: Refunds usually appear in your PayPal account within a few days.
B & H Gift Card: Refunds to a gift card are often the fastest, sometimes within 24 hours of processing.

Remember, your bank may then take additional days to post the credit to your account, which is out of B & H’s control.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Here are a few pitfalls that can delay your refund or result in a restocking fee.

Removing Protective Film: If a screen or lens has a protective plastic film, leave it on if you think you might return the item.
Throwing Away Packing Materials: That molded foam or cardboard insert is part of the “original packaging.”
Using the Product Extensively: A quick test is fine, but using a camera on a two-week vacation makes it “used,” not “like-new.”
Missing Small Accessories: Things like cable ties, small adapters, or even paperwork are easy to overlook but must be included.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is B & H Photo’s return policy?

The standard B & H Photo return policy allows returns within 30 days of receipt for items in like-new condition with all original packaging and accessories. Some items, like opened software, are non-returnable.

Does B & H charge a restocking fee?

B & H typically does not charge a restocking fee for returns in perfect, complete condition. A fee may apply if items are missing packaging or show signs of use, usually around 15-20% of the product price.

How long do B & H refunds take?

After B & H receives and inspects your return, refunds are processed within 5-7 business days. The credit then must be posted by your bank or payment provider, which can take a few additional days.

Can I return an opened product to B & H?

Yes, you can return opened products as long as they are in like-new, unused condition with all parts included. However, items like software, DVDs, and memory cards are final sale once opened unless they are defective.

What if my B & H order is defective?

Contact B & H customer service immediately for defective items. Do not use the standard online return system. They will guide you through a warranty replacement or repair process, which often waives any potential fees.

Can I return a B & H online purchase in-store?

Yes, you can return online purchases at the B & H SuperStore in New York City. Bring the item, all original packaging, and your receipt or order confirmation for a faster process.

What is B & H’s holiday return policy?

Purchases made during the peak holiday season (often November through December) frequently have an extended return window, usually until January 31st. The exact dates are listed on the website and your receipt during that period.

Knowing the details of the B & H Photo return policy empowers you to shop smart. By keeping the original packaging, acting within the time limits, and following the correct steps, you can ensure a smooth experience if a product isn’t right for you. This policy is there to protect your purchase, letting you focus on finding the perfect gear for your needs.