Renowned for its outdoor gear and equipment, REI has established a customer-friendly return policy reflecting its commitment to customer satisfaction. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the details of REI return policy, ensuring you have all the information you need for a smooth return experience.
What is the REI Return Policy?
REI offers a generous return policy called the “100% Satisfaction Guarantee.” This policy allows customers to return or exchange products within a specified timeframe, depending on their membership status.
For REI Co-op Members:
- 365 days (one year) from the date of purchase for most items
- 90 days for outdoor electronics
For Non-members:
- 90 days from the date of purchase for most items
- 90 days for outdoor electronics
REI Return Policy Time Limit
The time limit for returns at REI varies based on membership status and product type:
- REI Co-op Members:
- 365 days for most items
- 90 days for outdoor electronics
- 30 days for online Re/Supply used gear items
- Non-members:
- 90 days for most items, including outdoor electronics
- Exceptions:
- In-store Re/Supply used gear purchases, REI Co-op Memberships, lift tickets, passes, and gift cards are final sale items and cannot be returned.
REI Terms and Conditions
REI return policy comes with specific terms and conditions:
- Items must be clean and unused with original packaging and tags (if applicable).
- Proof of purchase is required for returns, though REI Co-op Members may return items without a receipt if the purchase was made using their membership.
- Some items, like special orders or customized products, may have different return policies.
- REI reserves the right only to accept returns meeting their policy requirements.
REI Policy Without Receipt
For REI Co-op Members:
- Returns can be processed without a receipt if the purchase uses the membership number.
For Non-members:
- A receipt or proof of purchase is generally required for returns.
REI Return Policy After 30 days
REI return policy extends well beyond 30 days:
- REI Co-op Members can return most items within 365 days of purchase.
- Non-members have 90 days to return most items.
- Outdoor electronics have a 90-day return window for all customers.
REI Exchange Policy
REI allows exchanges both in-store and by mail:
- In-store exchanges: Bring your item to any REI store for a straightforward exchange.
- Mail-in exchanges: Direct exchanges are not available by mail, but you can return the original item and purchase a replacement in a separate transaction.
What Is REI Return and Exchange Fee?
For in-store returns and exchanges:
- There are no fees for returning or exchanging items in REI stores.
For mail-in returns:
- A $5.99 fee is deducted from your refund to cover return shipping for standard-size/weight packages.
- Oversize items (over 32 lbs) incur a $21.95 shipping fee.
- No fee is charged if REI made a mistake with your order or if the item is defective.
REI Warranty
REI stands behind the quality of its products:
- An item with a manufacturing defect in materials or artistry can be returned at any time, regardless of the purchase date.
- For information about warranties covering products sold by REI and warranty returns, refer to the REI Terms of Sale (Part Two).
REI Customer Service
For assistance with returns or any other inquiries:
Phone: 1-800-426-4840
Email: [email protected]
REI Refund Policy
REI refund policy is as follows:
- Refunds are processed to the original payment method in most cases.
- For in-store purchases returned by mail, refunds are issued by check.
- Refunds can take up to 10 additional days for your bank or payment company to process.
REI Items That Are Not Refundable
Certain items are not eligible for return or refund:
- REI Co-op Memberships
- Lift tickets and passes
- Gift cards
- Final sale items (including in-store Re/Supply used gear purchases)
Does REI Have a Holiday Return Policy?
REI standard return policy applies year-round, which is already quite generous compared to many retailers.
REI Authorized Returns
All returns must meet REI return policy guidelines to be considered authorized. This includes:
- Returning items within the specified time frame
- Ensuring items are in clean, unused condition
- Providing proof of purchase (except for REI Co-op Members in some instances)
REI Return Procedures for Authorized Returns
To process an authorized return:
- Gather the item(s) you wish to return, along with any original packaging and tags.
- Locate your proof of purchase (receipt, order number, or membership number for REI Co-op Members).
- Choose your return method (in-store or by mail).
- Follow the specific instructions for your chosen return method.
How to Return an Item to REI
In-Store Returns:
- Bring your item, original packaging and tags (if available), and proof of purchase to any REI store.
- Visit the customer service desk for assistance with your return or exchange.
- REI Co-op Members can often process returns without a receipt if the purchase was made using their membership.
Online Returns:
- Visit REI online return portal.
- Enter your order number and billing ZIP code.
- Select the items you wish to return and follow the prompts to generate a shipping label.
- Pack your items securely, including the original packaging and tags if available.
- Attach the provided shipping label to your package.
- Drop off your package at any UPS location or schedule a pickup.
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FAQs About REI Return Policy
Q: Can I return an item without a receipt?
A: REI Co-op Members can often return items without a receipt if the purchase was made using their membership. Non-members typically need proof of purchase.
Q: How long do I have to return an item?
A: REI Co-op Members have 365 days for most items, while non-members have 90 days. Outdoor electronics have a 90-day return window for all customers.
Q: Can I return an item I’ve used?
A: REI policy covers satisfaction with your purchase. However, items should be clean, and excessive wear or damage may affect your ability to return.
Q: How will I receive my refund?
A: Refunds are typically processed using the original payment method. In-store purchases returned by mail are refunded by check.
Q: Can I return a gift?
A: Gifts can be returned to REI stores or by mail. For mail-in gift returns, include a note requesting a “gift recipient refund” with the recipient’s information.
Q: Are there any items I can’t return?
A: REI Co-op Memberships, lift tickets, passes, gift cards, and in-store Re/Supply used gear purchases are final sale and cannot be returned.
Conclusion
REI return policy stands out for its flexibility and customer-centric approach. With extended return windows for REI Co-op Members and a commitment to customer satisfaction, REI ensures that outdoor enthusiasts can shop confidently. Whether you’re returning in-store or by mail, REI strives to make the process as smooth as possible, reinforcing its reputation as a trusted retailer in the outdoor gear market.