Holiday Returns: Reduce Stress, Frustration

Ruth to the Rescue: Make The Best of Holiday Returns

DETROIT – The stress of large crowds and long lines is to be expected during holiday shopping. Returning unwanted gifts after the holidays can be just as much of a hassle, if not more! Ruth to the Rescue has teamed up with the Better Business Bureau to help you avoid some of that hassle and frustration.

Melanie Duquesnel is the CEO of the local Better Business Bureau. She recommends that you gather up all of the items you'd like to return and research the return policies of each store before you head out. It can really save you a lot of time and prevent arguments when you get there.

"The Internet is a great way for you to determine what the return policy is for that particular retailer," Duquesnel said.

When looking at the policies, one of the most important questions to ask is how much time you have to return an item. On top of that, be sure to know how you'll be compensated. Will it be cash, store credit, or an exchange?

Another key thing to remember is to keep the item's original packaging. "The more of that packaging they have, so they (the stores) can potentially resell it, the better off you'll be," Duquesnel said.

Other things to note are whether a product is labeled "as is",  and whether you will be charged a restocking or "open box" fee. These often apply to electronics and other big-ticket items. Keep in mind that health regulations may prohibit the return of items like hats, swimsuits and intimate apparel.

Saving Time At The Store

Once you are at the store, Duquesnel has some tips for how to reduce time spent standing in line. "If you think you're going to exchange the item, maybe it's the wrong size, perhaps you should try to find the item before you go and stand in line for the return," said Melanie Duquesnel, CEO of the local Better Business Bureau.

And bring a friend to use time more efficiently, "Bring another person, so if you are going to be standing in line 25 or 30 minutes and yet you still want to do a little shopping, you can actually tag team that standing in line time."

Do Things Differently Next Year?

The above advice can work for any returns you need to make throughout the year. Also, it's probably a good idea to know the return policies BEFORE you make any purchases, especially big ticket items. Remember to question the sales people if you think there's any chance you, or someone you love, might want to make a return.

If the rules are very restrictive, you may not want to make the purchase in the first place. Remember to get your gift receipt, and hold into your store receipt until the holidays are over, and you know you don't need it.


About the Author:

Karen Drew is the anchor of Local 4 News First at 4, weekdays at 4 p.m. and 5:30 p.m. She is also an award-winning investigative reporter.