RETAILERS are starting to charge customers extra for returning items they’ve bought – but can you avoid the fees?
It comes as Boohoo this week introduced a £1.99 charge for returns after previously offering them for free.
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Although many customers buy different styles, sizes and fits to decide which item of clothing they want, doing so could now be a costly mistake.
In fact, it might cost up to an extra £2.50 just to send stuff back, depending on where you’re buying from.
Boohoo’s new policy applies to shoppers using gift cards, store credit or vouchers as well.
But there may be more stores joining the trend.
This week, the online retailer Boohoo updated its policy, stating:
“Please note a returns charge of £1.99 per parcel will be deducted from your refund amount.
“Returns are FREE for premier customers.”
Boohoo Premier customers pay £12.99 and for that get free next day delivery and returns.
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A Boohoo spokesperson said the change had come with the cost of shipping increasing.
It said the decision was made so the company can “continue to offer great prices and products and do this in a more sustainable way”.
Where else could I be charged for returns?
Other than Boohoo, a couple more retailers are no longer taking refunds for free.
In May, high-street retailer Zara started charging customers £1.95 for returns.
Next gives customers 14 days to return their orders, but still charges £2.50 to collect them back.
But keep a look out for more to start charging – experts warn other retailers will introduce the fee as the cost of living prompts shoppers not to spend money on unwanted purchases.
Other ways to save on your online shop
While it may not always be sale season, there are loads of ways to save on your clothes shopping.
Find secret sales – sometimes you’ll find there aren’t many sales going on when you enter your favourite retailer, but that’s because they’re probably shifted online.
You can also try price matching to make sure you’re getting a great deal, and sometimes that uncovers a hidden deal.
Which? research found that some of the best retailers offer price matching schemes.
Always keep a look out for voucher codes and coupons too – they can also save you up to 25% off or even half price in certain stores.
You can find great sales and promotions with our checker.
You can also use cashback schemes who will, quite literally, pay you to shop.
The likes of Top Cashback and Quidco are great for that – if you want to buy something, rather than directly visiting the retailer’s website, you click the company via a cashback site, such as the two listed above, and you get paid for it.
And remember to never pay for postage and packaging if you can help it – a lot of retailers offer free shipping once you spend a specific amount.
Or if there’s going to be an extra shipping cost, decide whether you can go and pick your order up from a nearby store.
You can find what’s near you using a store locator tool like this one, which is for New Look.
