Understanding the return policy at Saks Fifth Avenue is key to a stress-free shopping experience. Whether you bought something in-store or online, knowing the rules helps you shop with confidence. This guide breaks down everything you need to know, from time limits to condition requirements. We’ll make it simple so you can handle any return or exchange easily.
Return Policy at Saks Fifth Avenue
Saks Fifth Avenue’s policy is designed to be customer-friendly, but it has specific guidelines you must follow. The core of the policy applies to most full-price items bought directly from Saks, including Saks.com, its stores, and its official catalog. The main thing to remember is the 30-day window. You have 30 days from the date of purchase to initiate a return for a refund to your original payment method.
After that 30-day period, you may still be able to return items up to 90 days from purchase. However, these later returns will typically be issued as store credit or a Saks Fifth Avenue merchandise credit. It’s always best to act within the first month for a full refund.
What Items Are Final Sale and Cannot Be Returned?
Not everything can be sent back. To avoid disappointment, you should be aware of the final sale items. These are non-returnable under any circumstance.
- Swimwear and intimate apparel (if the hygiene seal is removed or damaged)
- Personalized items, monogrammed goods, or made-to-order products
- Gift cards, SaksFifthAvenueGiftCards, and e-gift certificates
- Items marked “Final Sale” at the time of purchase
- Certain beauty products, for health and safety reasons
- Opened or used cosmetics and fragrances
- Designer items that have been altered
Condition of Returns: The Golden Rule
The most important part of any successful return is the item’s condition. Saks Fifth Avenue requires all returns to be in new, unused, and resalable condition. This means:
- All original tags must be attached and intact.
- Items must be in their original packaging, including any dust bags, authenticity cards, or special boxes for luxury goods.
- There should be no signs of wear, perfume, deodorant, or stains.
- Shoes must be returned with the original shoebox, and the box should be placed inside another shipping box to prevent damage.
If an item is returned in a condition that is not resalable, Saks reserves the right to refuse the return or issue a reduced refund. They may also send the item back to you.
How to Return an Online Purchase
Returning something you bought on Saks.com is straightforward. You have a few options, and the process is generally free.
- Start Online: Log into your Saks.com account and go to “My Orders.” Select the item(s) you wish to return and choose a reason.
- Choose Your Method: You can opt for a prepaid return label to drop off at a UPS location, or you can choose to return the item to a Saks Fifth Avenue store.
- Pack It Securely: Place the item with all tags and original packaging inside a shipping box. Attach the provided label if using UPS.
- Drop Off or Visit Store: Take your package to a UPS drop-off point or bring everything to a Saks store. Remember to bring your packing slip or order confirmation email.
Refunds are usually processed within 10-14 business days after the return is received and inspected. You’ll get an email confirmation once it’s done.
How to Return an In-Store Purchase
If you bought something in a physical store, the easiest way to return it is to go back to any Saks Fifth Avenue location. Just make sure you bring a few key things with you:
- The item in its original condition with all tags.
- The original receipt or packing slip. If you lost it, they may be able to look it up with the credit card you used or your Saks account number.
- A valid government-issued photo ID. This is standard practice for many retailers to help prevent return fraud.
The store associate will process your return, and if you’re within the 30-day window, the refund will go back to your original payment method. For returns after 30 days, you’ll likely recieve store credit.
The Saks Fifth Avenue Return Policy on Designer Items
Designer merchandise often has stricter return rules. While the standard 30/90-day policy usually applies, some high-end designer boutiques within Saks may have their own specific guidelines. It’s crucial to ask at the time of purchase if there are any special return conditions for designer goods.
Additionally, the condition requirements are even more strict. The integrity of the original packaging—like designer boxes, ribbons, and dust bags—is often non-negotiable. Missing these components can result in a denied return or a significant restocking fee.
Exchanges Made Simple
Need a different size or color? Exchanges are generally easy. The fastest method is to do a return and then place a new order for the desired item, especially online. This ensures you get the new item quickly before it sells out.
In stores, you can simply bring the item you wish to exchange along with your receipt. If the new item is a different price, you’ll either pay the difference or be refunded the difference. Keep in mind that exchange policies for sale items might vary, so double-check the terms.
Returning Gifted Items
If you received a gift from Saks Fifth Avenue and need to return it, you’ll need the gift receipt. With a gift receipt, you can return the item within 30 days for store credit or a merchandise credit. The refund will not go back to the original purchaser’s payment method.
Without a gift receipt, the process is more difficult. Saks may offer store credit at the item’s current selling price, which could be lower than what the gifter paid, especially if it’s now on sale. You will need to provide a valid ID for this type of return.
International Returns and Special Cases
For orders shipped outside the United States, different rules apply. International returns are typically not free. You are responsible for all shipping costs, customs duties, and taxes associated with the return. The item must be received by Saks within 30 days of the original shipment date, and all standard condition rules apply.
For damaged or defective items, contact Saks Customer Service immediately. They will provide instructions for a return or exchange, and often will cover the shipping costs for these situations. Always take photos of the damage as soon as you open the package.
Tips for a Smooth Return Experience
Following these tips can save you time and hassle.
- Act Quickly: Don’t wait until day 29. Start the return process as soon as you know an item isn’t right.
- Keep Everything: Store the original box, tags, and packaging until you’re sure you’re keeping the item.
- Understand Sale Items: Items purchased during promotional sales or at outlet stores (Saks OFF 5th) may have a modified return policy. Always check your receipt for details.
- Track Your Return: When shipping back, use the provided tracking number. This is your proof that you sent the package back.
- Save Your Receipts: Either physically file them or take a photo and save it in a dedicated folder on your phone.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Here are a few errors people often make that delay or complicate their returns.
- Removing tags before being certain you’ll keep the item.
- Using the item “once to try it out” – this often counts as wear and tear.
- Forgetting to include the original packaging for shoes or handbags.
- Waiting to long past the return window and expecting a full refund.
- Not checking the final sale status of discounted items before buying.
Contacting Customer Service
If you have a unique situation or questions, Saks Fifth Avenue’s customer service team can help. You can reach them by phone, email, or through the live chat feature on Saks.com. Having your order number and details ready will help them assist you faster. Remember, store associates in physical locations are also a great resource for policy clarification.
FAQ Section
How long is the Saks return policy?
The standard return period for a full refund is 30 days from purchase. Returns between 31 and 90 days are usually eligible for store credit.
Can I return to Saks OFF 5th?
Saks OFF 5th has its own seperate return policy, which is often shorter (typically 30 days for credit). Items bought at Saks OFF 5th cannot be returned to a mainline Saks Fifth Avenue store, and vice versa.
What is Saks Fifth Avenue’s return policy without a receipt?
Without a receipt, you may be offered store credit at the item’s current lowest selling price. A valid photo ID is required, and there may be limits on no-receipt returns per year.
Are Saks returns free?
Returns for U.S. online orders typically come with a prepaid return label. In-store returns are always free. International returns and special cases are not free.
How are refunds processed?
Refunds are issued to the original form of payment. It can take 10-14 business days for the credit to appear on your account after the return is recieved and inspected.
Can I return beauty products?
Unopened, unused beauty products in their original packaging can usually be returned. Once opened, they are generally considered final sale for health reasons.
What about returning wedding dresses or formalwear?
Special occasion gowns often have a very strict return policy, sometimes final sale. Always confirm the policy in writing at the time of purchase for these high-value items.
By familiarizing yourself with the return policy at Saks Fifth Avenue, you can make informed purchases and handle any post-purchase needs efficiently. Keeping receipts, minding the time limits, and preserving the original condition of items are the three pillars of a successful return. With this knowledge, you can enjoy the luxury and variety Saks offers with complete peace of mind.