If you’ve made a purchase at Nebraska Furniture Mart and need to bring it back, understanding the Nebraska Furniture Mart return policy is your first step. This guide breaks down everything you need to know, from time limits to condition requirements, so you can handle your return or exchange with confidence.
We’ll cover the standard return windows, special rules for big items like mattresses and electronics, and how to start the process. Whether you shopped in-store, online, or through their outlet, you’ll find the clear answers you need right here.
Nebraska Furniture Mart Return Policy
The core Nebraska Furniture Mart return policy gives you 30 days from your purchase or delivery date to initiate a return for a refund or exchange. This is a pretty standard timeframe for large retailers, especially in the home goods sector. It’s important to note that the clock starts ticking on the day your item is delivered to your home, not necessarily the day you ordered it.
To be eligible, your item must be in its original, like-new condition. It should also include all parts, tags, manuals, and original packaging. For furniture, this often means the boxes and all protective materials. The policy is designed to be fair for both you and the store, ensuring items can be resold without a significant loss in value.
What You Need to Start Your Return
Before you contact NFM or head to the store, gather these items. Having them ready will make the process much smoother.
- Your original sales receipt or invoice. This is the most important piece.
- The credit card or financing account used for the purchase, if applicable.
- A valid government-issued photo ID.
- All parts, accessories, and packaging that came with the item.
How to Return an Item: Step-by-Step
Follow these steps to ensure your return is processed correctly and without unnecessary delays.
Step 1: Review the Policy for Your Specific Item
Before anything else, check if your item falls under any special category. Mattresses, electronics, clearance items, and custom orders often have different rules. We’ll detail those special cases later in this article.
Step 2: Choose Your Return Method
Nebraska Furniture Mart offers two main ways to return items:
- In-Store Returns: Bring the item and your documentation to any Nebraska Furniture Mart location. This is often the fastest way to get a resolution.
- Online/Phone Returns: For items shipped to you, you can start the return process by calling their customer service or using the online portal on their website. They will provide you with a Return Merchandise Authorization (RMA) number and instructions for shipping the item back.
Step 3: Package the Item Securely
If you are shipping the item back, repack it in its original packaging whenever possible. Use sturdy tape and ensure it’s well-protected for transit. If the original box is damaged, use a similar box with ample padding. For in-store returns, ensure all pieces are secure for transport.
Step 4: Complete the Return Transaction
At the store or after the item is received by their warehouse, your refund will be processed. Refunds are typically issued to your original form of payment. If you used NFM’s financing, the refund will be credited back to that account. Allow a few business days for the refund to appear on your credit card or statement.
Special Category Return Rules
Not all items follow the standard 30-day rule. Here are the important exceptions you must be aware of.
Mattress Returns
Mattress returns are a common area of confusion. Nebraska Furniture Mart’s mattress exchange policy is more restrictive than their general policy.
- You typically have a limited trial period (often 120 days) to exchange a mattress for another one, not for a refund.
- A restocking or exchange fee usually applies, which can be a percentage of the mattress price.
- The mattress must be in sanitary, like-new condition, free of stains, odors, or damage.
- You must have your original receipt and the law tag attached to the mattress.
Always check the specific warranty and exchange paperwork that came with your mattress, as terms can vary by brand.
Electronics and Appliances
Electronics, including TVs, computers, and major appliances, have a shorter return window, usually 15 days from delivery. They must be in perfect working order with all accessories and packaging. Opened software, movies, and video games are often non-returnable unless defective.
Custom Orders and Special Orders
Items that are made to your specifications, such as a sofa in a specific fabric or a rug in a custom size, are generally final sale. They cannot be returned unless they arrive damaged or defective. This is because these items are produced uniquely for you and cannot be easily resold.
Clearance, “As-Is,” and Floor Model Items
These deeply discounted items are almost always marked as “All Sales Final.” They are sold with the understanding that they may have minor imperfections or are the last one in stock. Always double-check the tag or listing before purchasing clearance merchandise.
Understanding Restocking Fees
Some returns, particularly for large furniture, special order cancellations, or mattresses, may be subject to a restocking fee. This fee helps cover the cost of inspecting, repackaging, and restocking the item, as it can no longer be sold as new.
- The fee is usually a percentage of the purchase price (e.g., 10-20%).
- It will be deducted from your refund total.
- The customer service representative or your sales agreement should inform you if a restocking fee applies before you finalize the return.
What to Do If Your Item is Damaged or Defective
If your item arrives with damage or has a manufacturing defect, the process is different from a standard return. You should not initiate a normal return.
- Do Not Use or Assemble the Item: If possible, leave it in the state it arrived in.
- Contact NFM Immediately: Call their customer service or visit the store right away. There is usually a specific number or department for damage claims.
- Document the Damage: Take clear, well-lit photos and videos of the damage and the packaging.
- Follow Their Instructions: They will likely send a technician to inspect the item or arrange for a replacement or repair. The process for defective items is usually covered under the manufacturer’s warranty and handled separately.
NFM Outlet Return Policy
The Nebraska Furniture Mart Outlet often operates with its own set of rules. The return window may be shorter, such as 7 or 14 days. All outlet purchases should be considered final until you confirm otherwise at the time of sale. Be sure to ask and get the policy in writing on your receipt when buying from an outlet location.
Tips for a Smooth Return Experience
A little preparation can save you a lot of time and hassle.
- Keep Your Receipts: File them physically or take a photo and save it in a dedicated folder on your phone.
- Don’t Remove Tags: Leave all manufacturer tags and labels on the item until you are sure you’re keeping it.
- Save the Boxes: For large electronics or complex items, keep the original boxes and packaging for at least the return period.
- Ask Questions at Purchase: If you’re unsure about an item, ask the sales associate to clarify the return policy for that specific product before you buy.
- Act Quickly: Don’t wait until day 29 if you know you want to return something. Starting the process earlier gives you more flexibility if any issues arise.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How long do I have to return something to Nebraska Furniture Mart?
For most items, you have 30 days from the date of purchase or delivery to initiate a return. Always check your receipt for the exact deadline.
Can I return a mattress to NFM?
Mattresses are typically eligible for exchange within a trial period (e.g., 120 days), not for a full refund. A fee often applies, and the mattress must be in sanitary condition. Their are specific terms for each brand.
What is the return policy for electronics at Nebraska Furniture Mart?
Electronics and major appliances usually have a shorter return window of 15 days from delivery. They must be in original packaging with all accessories included.
Are there any restocking fees?
Yes, restocking fees may apply to certain returns, like large furniture, special orders, or mattresses. The fee is a percentage of the item’s price and is deducted from your refund.
Can I return custom order furniture?
No, custom order and special order items are generally final sale. They can only be returned if they arrive damaged or defective.
How will I get my refund?
Refunds are issued to the original form of payment. If you paid by credit card, it goes back on that card. If you used NFM financing, the credit is applied to your account.
What if I lost my receipt?
If you used a credit card or have an NFM account, they can often look up your purchase. It’s much faster and guaranteed if you have the physical or digital receipt, so try to keep it safe.
Final Thoughts on Navigating Returns
Knowing the ins and outs of the Nebraska Furniture Mart return policy empowers you to shop with greater peace of mind. The key takeaways are to act within the 30-day window, keep your items in new condition with all packaging, and always be aware of the special rules for mattresses, electronics, and custom orders.
When in doubt, the best course of action is to contact Nebraska Furniture Mart directly or visit their website for the most current policy information. Store policies can occasionally change, and getting information straight from the source is the best way to ensure you have the correct details for your specific situation. With this knowledge, you can focus on finding the perfect pieces for your home.