IKEA’s many options and low prices have made it a household name within the last decade. However, we think IKEA’s return policy makes it stand out most. Read on to learn why.
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Since IKEA introduced their simple “One Year!” full refund policy, other home furnishing stores have taken notice. Still, it’s important to read the fine print to ensure you take advantage of everything the policy has to offer.
In this article, we’ll explain the IKEA return policy, decode the fine print, and give you tips for maximizing the benefits. Read on for more info!
What Is the IKEA Return Policy?
It’s important to us that you’re happy with your IKEA purchase. If you’re not totally satisfied you can return it within 365 days.
Anybody who’s spent hours creating the perfect look for their home knows what it feels like selecting furnishings only to discover it’s not quite the same outside the store.
Maybe the bedroom accessories don’t match the paint as you expected. Maybe the entertainment center is too big. The sense of letdown is huge because you were excited about your new home furnishings.
IKEA has maintained its popularity with shoppers because those with second thoughts know they can head back to the store and make a return; this includes furniture, housewares, and anything that isn’t custom.
You can even return mattresses within 90 days in exchange for store credit! Similar to Costco, IKEA has a “no questions asked” policy.
No-Nonsense Returns
What’s not to like? For so many of us, our tastes change quickly and a return policy that accommodates this is helpful. It’s easy, which is why IKEA calls it the “No Nonsense” policy.
But all generous return policies have something in common: rules. Not knowing or following them means you could end up stuck with what you’ve got. And knowing the rules is the best way to avoid the nuisance of failing to meet the return policy.
Return Policy Changes
And keep in mind that in some countries, those rules are getting tighter. Last fall, IKEA modified its return policy in Germany, allowing customers to only return unused item in exchange for store credit.
Prior to that, customers in Germany were able to return IKEA products regardless of the condition and without a reason. According to Dennis Valslev, the German IKEA supervisor:
By restricting the right of return to only unused products, we also want to ensure that customers do not dispose of furniture and other home accessories, but rather appreciate the value of a product in terms of the resources that were necessary to produce it.
IKEA Return Policy Exceptions
In the United States, the policy allows shoppers to return an item up to 365 days from the purchase date. However, there are two notable exceptions:
- Gift Cards: You also can’t return gift cards to IKEA. The logic is that buying a gift card means you intend to spend it at the store.
- Mattresses: If you had purchased a mattress from IKEA and no longer want it, you won’t be able to return it for a full refund, but instead exchange it for another mattress. Shoppers can only do this once within a 365-day window.
Maximize the IKEA Return Policy
Although there are restrictions, knowing how to navigate the details will make your IKEA return process go smoothly.
IKEA Return Tips
- Present the IKEA customer service representative with your receipt (or proof of purchase) along with your ID. If lost, IKEA can find it using your debit card, credit card, or gift card number
- Refunds are given in the amount of the lowest selling price over the past calendar year
- The original packaging is not necessary, but it’s a good idea to keep it for your own sake
- You may return items marked clearance, bargain corner, or those sold “As-Is.” Unlike other home furnishing companies, IKEA will accept almost anything!
Tip: If something has been assembled or marked down, you’re not taking much of a risk by purchasing it.
The Fine Print of the IKEA Return Policy
You can’t cover a return policy without diving into the fine print. While we’ve covered some of it above, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, items must be unused, which means it must in a condition to be sold.
Used vs New
If you assemble a bookcase, home entertainment center, or shelf and put items on it, it’s technically used. However, IKEA is very liberal in their interpretation of the term.
Make sure it doesn’t show its wear, but don’t hesitate to call the store to ask about specific items.
After a Year
Unfortunately, you’re out of luck at this point, and might want to consider another option, such as a yard sale or selling it on eBay. You can always try to return the item, and a friendly service agent may give you the pass. But we make no promises!
Returns by Mail
If you’re returning something by mail, you’ve got 14 days after the online purchase for returns, otherwise you need to return online purchases to the IKEA warehouse.
This is a good example of why to keep the receipt or packing slip. And keep in mind that if you purchased something in the store, you can’t return it online or by mail. You need to take it back to your local IKEA store.
Subject to Change
As we saw earlier, IKEA Germany changed their policy, so there’s no guarantee the policy will remain in place forever. However, it’s helped them gain a foothold in the US market and we believe it’s here to stay, at least for the near-term
Payment Methods
The original payment method matters, as you’ll be given store credit if you cannot produce documentation that you purchased the item. If you originally paid with a card, you’ll receive credit on your card. The same goes for gift cards, cash, etc.
IKEA Buying Guide
IKEA aims to assist customers in other ways, including through their IKEA Buying Guide, which offers a wealth of useful information on color options, exact size, hardware, and so on.
More than a few shoppers have ended up changing their plans once they’ve read through it. The guide also allows you to find ways to customize the pieces and see exactly what’s available in terms of parts, sizes and colors for what you’re looking for.
This helps ensure you have what you need so you won’t require a return down the road.
So, What Is the IKEA Return Policy?
It’s no surprise that IKEA has gained such a foothold in the home furnishing market in Europe, America, and Canada. With an industry-leading 365 day return policy, the company will continue to take market share from competitors globally.
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