If you shop online, at some point it will be necessary to return an item.
Be proactive in making sure your refund is processed as expected, and you get the credit you’re due.
My Story
If you know me, you know I shop extensively online.
Unfortunately, online shopping goes hand in hand with returns.
A few weeks back, a coworker randomly commented that when she returns an item by mail, she always makes sure she gets a receipt when dropping off her package.
While I always take a picture of the mailing label, I had never considered requesting a receipt, assuming the tracking number on the label was proof enough.
A few days ago, when returning a package, I was informed they were unable to give me a receipt.
They went on to explain that just recently, a customer had dropped off a package that was never scanned when it was picked up from their facility.
The return was never processed, and the customer had no proof that she had ever dropped off a package. She was out the money.
Recalling my coworker’s advice, I opted to drive across town to the main post office, where I was able to get a receipt.
My package was scanned at drop off, and then, nada! Nothing! It was never scanned again.
While I did eventually receive the refund, knowing I had a receipt gave me some peace of mind.
Lesson learned!
If you shop online, assume that there will eventually be an item that will have to be returned.
Taking some minor, proactive steps ensures that you get the refund you are expecting.
The first, most critical step happens before you even hit the Buy Now button.
Check the company’s return policy.
The return policy will dictate if the item can be returned and, if so, how you can expect the credit.
Will your card be refunded or is store credit the only option?
What is the timeframe for returns?
Avoid disappointment and frustration by knowing the refund terms before purchasing.
If you can’t live with the terms, don’t buy the merchandise.
After purchasing an item, print the confirmation and keep it with your bills.
The printed confirmation serves as a reminder of what you’ve ordered, and ensures it gets delivered as expected.
If you shop a lot online, it’s easy to forget what should be coming and overlook the fact that an item didn’t arrive.
Hang on to the printed confirmation until you’ve decided to keep the merchandise.
If you decide to return an item, check the packing slip for directions.
Some returns are easy, and some returns are a bit more complicated.
Follow the directions exactly to ensure your refund gets processed.
Make copies of any forms that need to be filled out and keep them with the purchase confirmation.
Finally, ship your package.
There are multiple options when it comes to shipping.
Whatever method you choose to ship your return, make sure the tracking number and insurance are included.
These are both critical if the package goes missing.
Get a receipt. Immediately write on the receipt what it’s for.
The receipt is useless if it gets thrown in the trash.
Put the receipt with the confirmation, and any other paper you’ve kept regarding the return.
Track your package to the return facility.
Once receipt of delivery is available, print it, and keep it with your other printed documents.
That’s your proof the package was delivered.
Watch for the refund to show up.
Give it a while, but not too long.
If you need to file a dispute, the sooner you start the better.
If the package never gets delivered, follow up with the carrier you used to ship the item.
In a case where the package can’t be found, it will be necessary to file a claim.
In instances where the package was delivered, but no refund issued, follow up with customer service.
You will need that pile of printed documents you acquired during this whole process.
After following up, if there is still no resolution, contact your credit card company and ask about filing a dispute of the charges.
That’s the beauty of a good credit card company.
In this kind of situation, they become your advocate.
It may feel like a lot of work to be proactive, but it’s really not.
As my mom would say, “an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure”.
Don’t let the thought of having to return an item deter you from enjoying the ease of online shopping.
Just be a tiny bit proactive to ensure your refund gets processed and you get the credit you’re due!
********************
TAKE ACTION!!!
LIKE IT? SHARE IT! it’s a little thing that means a lot to me!
********************