Got a New Phone from Amazon but Want to Return It? Here‘s What You Need to Know

Just purchased a new cell phone from Amazon but having second thoughts? No problem! Amazon makes it easy to return phones within 30 days, even if you opened the box already.

In this detailed guide, we‘ll give you an insider‘s look at everything you need to know about Amazon‘s cell phone return policy. You‘ll learn:

• Step-by-step instructions for hassle-free returns
• Rules around open box, damaged, and late returns
• How refunds are issued
• Comparisons to other major retailers‘ policies
• Pro tips for avoiding fees and headaches

After reading, you‘ll feel confident returning that phone with no worries. Let‘s get started!

Overview of Amazon‘s Return Policy for Cell Phones

Before diving into the nitty gritty details, here‘s a quick rundown of Amazon‘s cell phone return policy:

• Return window: 30 days from delivery date for items shipped and sold by Amazon
• Condition of return: Phone must be in original new condition with all accessories
• Return method: Online return label, shipped back trackable (no in-store returns)
• Refunds: Back to original payment method, usually within 2 weeks
• Return shipping: Free for defects/damage; fees can apply for other reasons
• Restocking fees: Up to 20% for late or damaged returns

Keep reading as we explore exactly how to handle returns to avoid any surprise fees.

Step-By-Step: How to Return a Cell Phone to Amazon

Returning a phone to Amazon is designed to be simple. Just follow these steps:

1. Request a Return Online

Log into your Amazon account and go to the Online Returns Center. Here you can select the phone order and print a free prepaid shipping label.

If you have any trouble finding the label, give their customer support a call at 1-866-749-7538. They are available 24/7 to assist.

Tip: Print 2 copies of the label – one for your records and one to put on the box.

2. Package the Phone and Accessories

Place the cell phone back in the original manufacturer‘s box along with any included accessories like the charger, headphones, case, manuals, etc.

You can keep the generic quick start guides that come in the box, but all accessories unique to that model should be returned.

Before packing, turn off the phone and reset it to factory settings if possible. This will wipe any of your personal data. Don‘t worry about removing your SIM card.

Pro Tip: Double check that you have all accessories and manuals before sealing the box to avoid restocking fees.

3. Ship It Back to Amazon

Tape the return label to the box, seal it up securely, and drop it off at the shipping location indicated on the label.

For phones, Amazon only allows trackable return shipping methods. Most likely, you will ship via UPS or USPS.

Be sure to get a receipt or tracking number when you drop it off as proof of timely return in case any issues come up.

And that‘s it! Sit back and relax while you await your refund.

Can You Return an Open Box Phone?

Here‘s some great news – Amazon allows returns on cell phones even if you opened the box already.

As long as the device is still in brand new, unused condition and you return all original accessories, you‘ll get a full refund within the 30 day window.

So feel free to carefully open the packaging to inspect your new phone, set it up, or just peek inside. As long as you don‘t damage it, you can send it back to Amazon if it‘s not the right fit.

For example, let‘s say you purchased an iPhone directly from Amazon…

• You open the box and take the phone out to set it up and realize you actually want the bigger storage size. No problem – return it!

• You open the box, don‘t take the phone out, but notice a scratch on the screen right away. You can absolutely return this damaged item to Amazon for replacement.

• You use the phone for a few days, decide you want to switch to an Android device instead, and send it back. As long as the iPhone is still in new condition, Amazon will refund your money.

So don‘t feel like you are stuck with a phone if you open the box but change your mind within 30 days. Amazon‘s got your back!

How Long Do You Have to Return a Cell Phone?

For phones shipped and sold directly by Amazon (not third party sellers), you have 30 days from the delivery date to return or exchange it.

You can find the return timeframe on the Amazon product page before adding the phone to your cart. It will be clearly stated in the return policy section.

Phones sold by third party sellers on Amazon may have different return windows, so be sure to check guidelines before purchasing.

Returns outside the 30 day window are subject to up to a 20% restocking fee at Amazon‘s discretion. So for a full refund, be sure to get it shipped back within that timeframe.

Key Takeaways:

• 30 days to return phones sold directly by Amazon
• Third party sellers may have different time windows
• 20% restocking fees may apply for late returns
• Check return policy on product page before buying

Are Restocking Fees Charged for Cell Phone Returns?

Amazon strives to make returns easy and affordable for customers. Here‘s a breakdown of when you may or may not be charged restocking fees:

No Restocking Fees:

Amazon will not charge a restocking fee if you are returning a cell phone due to:

• Defective phone – Example: Screen is cracked right out of the box
• Phone damaged in shipping – Example: Box is dented and screen is cracked
• Wrong phone shipped – Example: You ordered an iPhone 13 but they sent a iPhone 12
• Product not as described – Example: Listing showed 128GB but phone only has 64GB storage

They also won‘t charge you a fee if you simply changed your mind and the phone is in original new condition within 30 days.

Restocking Fees May Apply:

Amazon reserves the right to charge up to a 20% restocking fee if the cell phone return meets any of these criteria:

• Open box return after 30 days – Return timeframe expired
• Missing accessories – Didn‘t return all originally included parts
• Physical damage – You cracked the screen or chipped the casing
• Signs of heavy use – Scratches, scuffs, etc. indicating excessive wear

Pro Tip: Thoroughly inspect your phone and test all features promptly upon delivery. Contact Amazon customer support right away if you notice any damage or issues to avoid fees.

As you can see, Amazon is pretty fair when it comes to restocking fees. As long as you return your unused phone on time and in original condition, fees are rare.

How Will I Get My Refund for a Returned Phone?

Once Amazon gets your return back to the warehouse, they will process the refund within 2 weeks in most cases.

Refunds get issued back to the original payment source used to purchase the phone.

For example, if you paid with a Visa card, the refund will post back to that same Visa card. Or if you used Amazon store credit, it will return to your Amazon account balance.

Helpful Tips for Refunds:

• Check Order Summary for refund status updates
• If no refund after 2 weeks, contact Amazon customer service
• Partial refunds apply for bundled orders (just phone refund amount, not additional items)
• International refund methods vary based on country

Getting your money back with Amazon is reliable and fast. Expect to see that refund in your account within 2 weeks.

Does Amazon Charge for Return Shipping on Phones?

Amazon makes returns free and easy by providing prepaid shipping labels for cell phone returns.

In most cases, you won‘t pay any shipping fees to send your phone back to Amazon using their label.

They‘ll also refund the shipping costs if you‘re returning due to:

• Manufacturing defects
• Phone damaged in transit
• Wrong phone delivered
• Item not as described

However, return shipping fees may be deducted from your refund if you are past 30 days or the phone condition is unacceptable.

So be sure to return any defective or damaged phones promptly within the allowed timeframe. Avoid fees by following all packaging and shipping instructions.

Pro Tip: Get return tracking and insurance to cover the full phone value in case it gets lost or damaged during transit.

How Amazon‘s Policy Compares to Other Retailers

Amazon is right in line with top retailers when it comes to cell phone return policy:

As you can see, Amazon offers a more generous 30 day return window compared to 14-15 days at other major chains.

They also allow open box returns, which Apple and carriers like AT&T prohibit once a phone is activated.

When it comes to restocking fees for late or damaged returns, major retailers have similar policies, ranging from 15-20%.

So Amazon stacks up very competitively when compared to buying direct from phone brands or electronics stores.

Tips for a Smooth, Hassle-Free Phone Return

Now that you‘re a pro on Amazon‘s return policies, here are some final tips for making the process easy:

• Don‘t open special promotional bundles – Restocking fees if full bundle not returned

• Print the return label ASAP – Don‘t risk missing return window

• Check online order status – Shows when Amazon expects and processes your return

• Inspect phone before use – Document any issues immediately to avoid fees

• Keep all original packaging and accessories – Easier to re-pack and avoid missing item fees

• Back up your data before sending back – Perform factory reset if possible

• Insure return package – Provide full coverage in case of transit damage or loss

• Get return receipt from carrier – Proof package was shipped in timeframe

We Want Your Amazon Returns to be Easy

As a top seller ourselves, we totally understand wanting to return something that just didn‘t meet your needs or expectations. Amazon‘s policies are designed to make that hassle-free.

So don‘t feel bad about sending something back! Just be sure to follow our tips in this guide for a smooth return experience.

We hope this detailed overview gives you confidence when purchasing your next cell phone from Amazon. Now you can buy knowing that you can easily return it if needed.

If you have any other returns-related questions, feel free to reach out to our team of experts at Acme Deals anytime!