If you’ve ever bought something online that didn’t quite work out, you know how important a good return policy is. Understanding the Spencers online return policy is key to a stress-free shopping experience with them. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know, from time limits and conditions to the step-by-step process. We’ll make sure you have all the information to handle returns and exchanges smoothly.
Spencers Online Return Policy
The core of the Spencers online return policy is designed to be straightforward. You have 30 days from the date your order shipped to start a return for most items. It’s important to note that the clock starts on the ship date, not when you receive the package. All items must be in new, unused, and resalable condition with original tags and packaging intact.
Some products have special rules. These are clearly marked on the product page itself. Always double-check this before you buy, especially for seasonal or sale items.
What Can Be Returned?
Most merchandise from Spencers.com is eligible for return. This includes clothing, accessories, room decor, and gifts. As long as you follow the 30-day rule and condition requirements, you should be fine.
What Cannot Be Returned?
For health and safety reasons, certain items are final sale. You cannot return these under any circumstance. The main categories are:
- Body jewelry (for pierced areas)
- Sexual wellness products
- Personal care appliances (like hair straighteners) once opened
- Customized or personalized items
- Clearance or “As-Is” merchandise, unless damaged or defective
- Any item without its original tags or packaging
Condition is Everything
The condition of your return is the most critical factor. “New and unused” means just that. If you wore the shirt once or removed the tags from a poster, it likely won’t be accepted. All original packaging, including any poly bags, should be included.
How to Start a Spencers Online Return
Spencers uses a digital return system. You can’t just pack a box and mail it back. You must start the process online to get a Return Merchandise Authorization (RMA). Here’s how:
- Go to the Spencers Return Center on their website. You’ll need your order number and the email address used to place the order.
- Select the items from your order that you wish to return. You’ll be asked to provide a reason for the return.
- Choose your return method: a prepaid return label for a small fee deducted from your refund, or a free return to a Spencer’s retail store.
- Print your return label and RMA slip if you’re mailing it back. This slip must be included inside the package.
- Pack the items securely with the RMA slip, seal the box, and attach the shipping label.
- Drop the package at a USPS location or, for in-store returns, bring everything to your local Spencer’s store.
The Benefit of In-Store Returns
Returning your online purchase to a Spencer’s store is often the easiest option. It’s free, and you can get your refund processed immediately as store credit. The associates handle everything for you, and you don’t have to worry about shipping delays or lost packages.
Refunds and Processing Timelines
Once your return is received, the processing begins. Timing depends on how you returned the item.
For Mailed Returns:
- Allow 7-10 business days for the return center to receive and inspect your package after you mail it.
- After inspection, refunds are issued within 5-7 business days.
- The entire process, from mailing to seeing the refund in your account, can take 2-3 weeks.
For In-Store Returns:
- Refunds to store credit are instant at the register.
- Refunds to your original payment method from a store may take 3-10 business days to post to your account, depending on your bank.
How Will You Get Your Money Back?
Spencers will refund you using your original payment method. If you paid with a credit card, the refund goes there. For PayPal orders, it goes back to your PayPal account. If you used a gift card, a new e-gift card will be issued. Note that the non-refundable return shipping fee, if you chose one, will be deducted from your refund total.
Exchanging an Item
Spencers does not offer direct exchanges through their online return system. The process is to return the original item for a refund and then place a new order for the correct size or color. This ensures you get the item you want before it sells out.
The fastest way to do a pseudo-exchange is to make a in-store return and use the immediate store credit to buy the correct item right there in the shop. If you’re mailing the return, it’s best to place the new order as soon as possible to avoid missing out.
Damaged, Defective, or Wrong Items
If your order arrives damaged, is defective, or is the completely wrong item, contact Spencers customer service immediately. Do not use the standard return portal. You have 48 hours from delivery to report these issues for the best resolution.
Have your order number ready and take clear photos of the damage, the defective part, or the wrong item next to the packing slip. Customer service will typically provide a prepaid return label at no cost to you and expedite a replacement or refund.
Returning Gifts Purchased Online
Returning a gift you received from Spencers is a bit different. You won’t have the original order number or email. You’ll need to contact customer service directly with the gift receipt information. Without a gift receipt, returns are generally not accepted.
If the return is approved, the refund will be issued as store credit in the form of a Spencers e-gift card, which will be emailed to you. The person who originally sent the gift will not be notified of the return.
Holiday and Seasonal Return Extensions
During the winter holidays, Spencers often extends its return window. Purchases made in November and December may have a return deadline in mid-to-late January. Always check the website’s policy page during the holiday season for the exact dates, as they change slightly each year. This is a nice perk that gives you extra time for gift returns.
Tips for a Smooth Return Experience
A few simple steps can make your return go off without a hitch.
- Inspect items immediately when they arrive. Don’t let them sit in the box for weeks.
- Keep all original packaging and tags until you’re sure you’re keeping the item.
- Choose the free in-store return option whenever possible to avoid fees and speed up the process.
- Always get a drop-off receipt when mailing a return. This is your proof that you sent it.
- Double-check the return address on your label before you seal the box.
What About International Orders?
The Spencers online return policy covered here applies to orders shipped within the United States and its territories. For orders shipped to Canada or other international destinations, different rules and fees apply. International customers should contact customer service before attempting a return to understand the specific process and any customs implications, which can be complicated.
Lost or Delayed Return Packages
If you mailed your return and it’s been over two weeks since you dropped it off, use the tracking number on your return label to check its status. If it shows delivered but your refund hasn’t been processed after 10 business days, contact Spencers with your tracking info and RMA number. If the package is lost in transit, you may need to file a claim with the shipping carrier, as you are responsible for the package until Spencers receives it.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How long do I have to return something to Spencers?
You have 30 days from the date your order shipped to initiate a return for most items.
Can I return online purchases to a Spencer’s store?
Yes, and it’s recommended. In-store returns are free and you get instant store credit. Just bring the items, original packing slip, and your payment method if you want a refund back to your card.
Does Spencers offer free return shipping?
No, return shipping is not free for mailed returns. A fee is deducted from your refund to cover the prepaid label. You can avoid this fee by returning items to a physical store.
What if my item is defective?
Contact customer service within 48 hours of delivery. Do not use the standard return portal. They will provide a free label and help with a replacement or refund.
How long does a Spencers refund take?
After they receive your mailed return, it takes 5-7 business days to process the refund. It may then take your bank a few more days to post it. In-store refunds to cards take 3-10 business days, while store credit is immediate.
Can I exchange an item I bought online?
There’s no direct exchange process. You return the original item for a refund and then place a new order. For a faster swap, return the item to a store and use the credit to buy the correct item right away.
What items cannot be returned to Spencers?
Final sale items include body jewelry for piercings, sexual wellness products, opened personal care appliances, customized goods, and clearance items marked “As-Is.”
Contacting Customer Service
If you have questions that aren’t covered here, reaching out to Spencers directly is your best bet. You can find their contact form and potential phone number on the “Contact Us” page of their website. Have your order number, RMA number (if applicable), and any relevant photos ready before you contact them. This will help them resolve your issue much quicker.
Being familiar with the Spencers online return policy gives you confidence when you shop. Knowing the rules about time limits, condition, and the steps to follow prevents surprises. Always check your items when they arrive and consider the convenience of your local store for returns. With this knowledge, you can shop at Spencers knowing that if something isn’t right, you have a clear path to a solution.