If you’ve ever bought something that didn’t work out, you know how important a store’s return policy is. Understanding the Brandsmart return policy can save you time, money, and a lot of hassle. This guide breaks down everything you need to know, from time limits to condition requirements, so you can shop with confidence.
Brandsmart Return Policy
The core Brandsmart return policy is designed to be straightforward for customers. In most cases, you have 30 days from the date of purchase to return an item for a refund or exchange. The item must be in its original condition, with all packaging, accessories, and manuals included. It’s a good idea to keep your receipt safe, as it’s the fastest way to process your return.
What Items Can You Return?
Most new and unopened items are eligible for return within the standard 30-day window. This includes electronics, appliances, home goods, and more. However, some products have special rules or restocking fees, which we’ll cover in detail.
What Items Have Restrictions?
Certain products cannot be returned or have different conditions. It’s crucial to check these before you buy if you’re unsure about the item.
- Opened Software, Movies, and Music: These are often not returnable if the seal is broken due to copyright protection.
- Special Order or Clearance Items: These may be marked as final sale.
- Damaged or Used Products: Items not in resellable condition won’t be accepted.
- Personal Care Appliances: Some, like hair clippers or massagers, may have hygiene-related restrictions.
Return Timeframe: The 30-Day Clock
The 30-day return period is standard. It starts on the day you receive the item, or the day you pick it up in store. Don’t wait until the last minute, as processing a return takes time. If you’re near the deadline, it’s better to visit a store directly rather than ship the item.
How to Calculate Your Return Deadline
Mark your calendar. If you bought an item online on October 1st and received it on October 5th, your 30-day window typically starts on October 5th. That means you should initiate the return by November 4th. Always confirm the start date on your receipt or shipping confirmation email.
Condition of Items: “Like New” is Key
For a return to be accepted, the item must look and function as it did when you bought it. This means:
- All original boxes, styrofoam inserts, and plastic bags are present.
- All accessories, cords, remotes, and manuals are included.
- No scratches, dents, or signs of use are visible.
- All protective films and stickers are still in place.
Step-by-Step Return Process
For In-Store Purchases
Returning an item you bought at a Brandsmart store is usually the fastest option.
- Gather Your Items: Bring the product, all its parts, and the original packaging.
- Find Your Proof of Purchase: This is your original receipt or the credit card you used. The packing slip for an online order also works.
- Visit the Customer Service Desk: Go to the Brandsmart store where you made the purchase. Any store location may also be able to help you.
- Complete the Transaction: A staff member will inspect the item and process your refund or exchange.
For Online Purchases
You have two main options for returning items bought on Brandsmart’s website.
Option 1: Return to a Store
This is often recommended. Follow the steps for in-store purchases above, but bring your online order confirmation or packing slip instead of a store receipt.
Option 2: Return by Mail
- Initiate the Return Online: Log into your account on the Brandsmart website and find your order history. Select the item(s) you want to return and follow the prompts to generate a Return Merchandise Authorization (RMA) number and a prepaid shipping label.
- Pack the Item Securely: Use the original box if possible. Include everything that came with it. Attach the shipping label to the outside of the box.
- Ship the Package: Drop off the box at the designated carrier (like UPS or FedEx). Keep your drop-off receipt until the refund is issued.
- Wait for Processing: Once the warehouse receives and inspects your return, your refund will be processed. This can take 7-14 business days after they get the package.
Understanding Restocking Fees
Some items, particularly large electronics or special-order appliances, may have a restocking fee if they are opened. This fee is a percentage of the product price (often 15-25%) and covers the cost of repackaging and testing the item for resale. Always ask or check the policy details for the specific product category before opening an expensive item.
Refunds: How and When You Get Your Money Back
Refund Methods
How you get your refund depends on how you paid and how you returned the item.
- Original Credit/Debit Card: This is the fastest method. The refund is issued back to the card used for purchase. It may take 3-10 business days to appear on your statement after processing.
- Cash Purchase: If you paid with cash and have the receipt, you will likely receive a cash refund in store.
- Store Credit or Gift Card: If you don’t have a receipt, or if it’s past the 30-day period, you may be offered store credit for the item’s current selling price.
Refund Timeline
Patience is important. An in-store refund to a card is usually quickest. For mailed returns, the timeline is longer: shipping time + warehouse processing time (7-14 business days) + bank processing time (3-5 business days). Don’t be alarmed if it takes two to three weeks total for an online return refund.
Exchanges and Defective Items
How to Do an Exchange
If you want a different color, size, or model, an exchange is your best bet. The simplest way is to visit a Brandsmart store with the item and your receipt. They can often do the exchange right there. For online orders, you might need to process a return for a refund and then place a new order for the desired item.
What to Do If Your Item is Defective
If your new product is dead on arrival or malfunctions shortly after purchase, you have options.
- Contact Brandsmart First: Within the return window, you can usually return a defective item directly to Brandsmart for a refund, exchange, or repair referral.
- Check the Manufacturer’s Warranty: Most electronics and appliances come with a manufacturer’s warranty. Brandsmart’s customer service can help connect you with the manufacturer for a repair or replacement, especially if the 30-day return period has passed.
- Keep Documentation: Take photos or videos of the defect. This can be helpful when explaining the problem.
Special Policy Sections
Major Appliance Returns
Refrigerators, washers, and ovens have specific rules. Due to their size and installation requirements, returns often must be scheduled and may incur pickup fees. They must be in like-new condition, with no scratches or dents from installation. All parts and manuals must be included. Always review the appliance return details at the time of purchase.
Television and Laptop Returns
High-value electronics like TVs and laptops are subject to strict inspection. The screen must be flawless, with no dead pixels or scratches. For laptops, the factory settings must be restored, and all software licenses must be untouched. These items commonly have restocking fees if the box is opened.
Holiday and Seasonal Return Extensions
Sometimes, Brandsmart offers extended return periods during the winter holidays. For example, purchases made in November and December might be returnable until January 31st. This policy is not guaranteed every year, so you should verify the current holiday return policy on their website or ask in store during the season.
Tips for a Smooth Return Experience
- Keep Everything: Do not throw away the box, manuals, or even the little plastic bags for screws until you are sure you’re keeping the item.
- Save Your Receipt Digitally: Take a photo of your paper receipt or immediately file your email confirmation in a special folder.
- Test Products Quickly: When you buy something, test it within the first week. This gives you plenty of time to address any issues within the return window.
- Be Polite: Customer service agents are more likely to help you find a solution if you are calm and respectful, even if you’re frustrated.
- Know the Policy Before You Buy: For big-ticket items, take a moment to read the specific return rules on the product page or ask a sales associate.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How long is the Brandsmart return policy?
The standard return period is 30 days from the date of purchase or delivery. Some items may have shorter windows, and holiday extensions may apply.
Can I return an opened item to Brandsmart?
Yes, many opened items can be returned if they are in like-new condition with all parts. However, some products like opened software or certain personal care items may not be eligible. Opened major electronics might have a restocking fee.
What do I need for a Brandsmart return?
You need the item in its original condition, all packaging and accessories, and your proof of purchase (receipt, credit card, or packing slip).
Does Brandsmart have a restocking fee?
Sometimes. Restocking fees may apply to certain opened items, such as large electronics, major appliances, or special order products. The fee is typically a percentage of the purchase price.
Can I return an online purchase to a Brandsmart store?
Yes, in most cases you can. Bring the item, all its contents, and your online order confirmation or packing slip to the customer service desk. This is usually the fastest way to get a refund.
What if I lost my Brandsmart receipt?
Without a receipt, you may be offered store credit for the item’s current lowest selling price. If you used a credit card, the store can often look up the purchase with that card.
How long do Brandsmart refunds take?
In-store refunds to a card can process in a few days. For mailed returns, allow 7-14 business days for Brandsmart to process it after receipt, plus additional time for your bank to post the refund.
Can I return a used appliance?
It depends on the condition. If it’s used and shows wear, damage, or is missing parts, it will likely be rejected. Major appliances must be in resellable condition, which usually means uninstalled and without any marks.
What is Brandsmart’s return policy for TVs?
TVs must be returned in perfect condition, with no screen defects. All original packaging is required. Opened TVs are often subject to a restocking fee, so check the policy for the specific model you are buying.
Does Brandsmart offer price adjustments?
Brandsmart does not typically offer post-purchase price adjustments. If an item goes on sale shortly after you buy it, your best option is to return the original item (if possible) and repurchase it at the sale price.
Knowing the details of the Brandsmart return policy makes you a smarter shopper. By keeping your receipts, preserving packaging, and acting within the 30-day window, you can handle any return smoothly. Always check for specific product restrictions before you buy, especially for large items. With this knowledge, you can shop at Brandsmart knowing you have options if your purchase isn’t quite right.