Online Retailers' Return Policies

[Jay Gould]

Hi, I recently bought a Canon 17-40 f/4L lens from Adorama; trying to decide whether to return the lens - subject of another thread: http://www.birdphotographers.net/for...924#post789924

The decision to return caused me to research more carefully the return policies of the three retailers that I have in the past regularly used:

Adorama: http://www.adorama.com/catalog.tpl?op=faq#returnPolicy

B&H: http://www.bhphotovideo.com/find/Hel...p-_-RtrnPolicy

Hunt's: http://www.huntsphotoandvideo.com/cu...ost_sales&id=5

Time to Return:

Adorama and B&H: 30 days

Hunt's: 7 days; "If you determine that there is an error or you have changed your mind on your purchase, notify us within 48 hours of receipt so that we may initiate the appropriate action."

RMA Required?:

Adorama: "No RMA number is required to return an item, simply download and fill out the Return Merchandise form"

B&H and Hunt's: RMA required; different rules to obtain the RMA

Usage:

Adorama: "Returned products must be in brand new condition and have all original manufacturers packaging, materials and accessories."

B&H: Rules :

• "All returned or exchanged items must be in new condition, in their original box, and must include all packing material, blank warranty cards, manuals, and all accessories.
• Items with timers must show less than 120 minutes of use. Items with shutter counters must show less than 200 exposures."

Seems to allow you to test without ultimately buying! For example, return shipping might be less expensive than renting a lens so long as you have been extra careful with the lens.

Hunt's: "All other unopened product return initiated within 7 days of receipt; cash, check or credit card refund. ... Open product subject to a restocking fee of up to 15%."



I don't know about you; these rules will impact from whom I purchase in the future!!


Certainly, if there are other online retailers that you use that have very liberal return policies like Adorama and B&H, sorry Hunt's there is a big difference between 7 days with a 48 hour notification requirement, and 30 days; please add to this list and provide relevant information.

[Grady Weed]

I don't think I've returned to much, except for 1 item to B&H, and it went smoothly. But the above information is good to know Jay. Thanks for sharing.

[arash_hazeghi]

B&H RMA is generated automatically online. There is no hassle whatsoever. I am not sure how Adorama handles return of a large item like a $12,000 super telephoto lens in case the lens does not pass the critical sharpness test or is not calibrated properly, but with B&H there is no problem at all.

[Hunts Photo]

Hi,
This is Keith Patankar from Hunts Photo. Our 7 day return 14 day exchange policy has been put in place for both out in-store purchases and on-line purchases. While our policy is shorter than bigger outfits like B&H and Adorama, we pride ourselves on excellent customer service and a more personal relationship than bigger stores. We are a smaller retailer and have never denied a return to a customer that is unsatisfied with the product they have. As our loyal customers can attest to we are lenient on returns if you are unsure or traveling and contact us we will extend our written policy to accommodate the customer. Our written policy has been implemented to discourage anyone from taking advantage of consistently buying and returning product to either try out or use for the weekend. We will continue to work for the best possible customer service and remain as fair as possible on product returns and exchanges.

[Arthur Morris]

Always best to trust what is in writing.....

[Don Lacy]

Amazon also has a 30 day no questions ask return policy