EVERETT — The stockings no longer hang by the chimney with care. And once neatly wrapped gifts lay in various spots around the house.
Under the tree, you’ll find only the gifts that need to be returned.
Returns have declined in recent years, thanks largely to the increased popularity of gift cards, according to a National Retail Federation survey. About 64 percent of consumers didn’t have any returns last year. However, those of you with items to take back might want to keep a few points in mind before rushing to the stores Wednesday morning.
The most important tip most retailers and consumer groups have to offer to shoppers: Check the store’s return policy. Locally, Everett Mall spokeswoman, Julie Tennyson, suggests giving the retailer a call to make sure you know how long you have to return a gift and whether a receipt is required.
“If you can wait a few days to return an item, the lines for returns will probably be shorter,” she said.
Many stores concentrate their staffing around the regular registers to accommodate people taking advantage of after-Christmas sales rather than their returns counter.
Generally, returning an item will go smoother if you have a receipt, retailers say. Consumers have responded in recent years by increasing their use of including gift receipts with presents, according to the survey. More than 87 percent of shoppers polled say retailers’ return policies are fair.
Some retailers have changed their return policies since last holiday season. Below you’ll find general return information for several major stores in the county.
Costco
If you received a gift from Costco Wholesale Corp. this holiday, keep in mind the company changed its return policy on electronics products earlier this year. The retailer has set a return period of 90 days to get a full refund on items such as televisions, cameras, computers and iPods. The 90-day limit doesn’t apply to Costco’s other products. To read Costco’s full policy, check out costco.com.
Target
Target also stepped up its requirements for receipts. Shoppers will need a receipt for any item over $20. Did you shop online at Target.com this year? Some items bought online can be exchanged at the retailer’s stores. You’ll want to check the Target Web site’s “Online returns center” for details. If you bought books, CDs, DVDs or other items through the Amazon.com store at Target.com, you only have 30 days from the ship date to return your purchase.
Toys “R” Us
Toys “R” Us allows returns for up to 90 days with a sales receipt or gift receipt. However, the children’s retailer has a stricter policy on its electronics, including video games, radio control items and DVDs. These items should returned within 45 days. Trading cards and collectibles also fall under the 45-day return policy. For more information, go to toyrus.com.
Macy’s
Macy’s maintains one of the most generous return policies, allowing consumers up to 180 days to return many items. Exceptions to the rule include jewelry, furniture and formal dresses. Like Target, many gifts bought online can be returned to a Macy’s store. For Macy’s official policies, check macys.com.
Reporter Michelle Dunlop: 425-339-3454 or mdunlop@heraldnet.com.
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