@zakiyahqueen1984 TikTok/gguy Adobe Stock
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Amazon customers have historically enjoyed fairly generous return policies. When one wants to return an item, they can simply request a refund or a replacement. Then, they will receive information on how the item can be shipped back to the company free of charge. Occasionally, the company will also offer “returnless refunds.” That means customers are able to get their money back for the item while still keeping it.
However, it seems that the days of effortless, free returns may be coming to an end. Since late 2024, some customers have reported that return agreements now include details about potential restocking fees or other additional fees laid out on the company’s website.
Seeing this, one may wonder why Amazon is choosing to change its return policy and implement additional fees. One Amazon worker has a theory.
Why Is Amazon Updating Its Return Policy?
In a video with over 1.7 million views, TikTok user @zakiyahqueen1984 shows why she says Amazon is changing its return policy.
To start, she brandishes a pair of children’s shoes.
“‘Lights died within a day,’” she says, reading the reason that the shoes were returned. After reading, she hits the shoes against the counter, which causes them to light up—demonstrating that the lights are not, in fact, dead.
“We ain’t gonna talk about how dirty the shoes is?” the TikToker adds. “You didn’t mention the child walked the desert. And now, you want a refund?”
As she turns the shoes over, one can see that there is substantial dirt that has accumulated across both shoes.
“This is why Amazon return policy has changed,” she concludes. “People just lie and want a refund. So sad.”
Can You Return Used Items To Amazon?
In her video, the TikToker seems to be implying that the person who returned the shoes was being deceptive in order to obtain a refund.
This is because, according to Amazon’s official return policy, “most items can be returned for a refund or replacement/exchange within 30 days of delivery as long as they are in original or unused condition.”
That said, if one is in the return window but has already used the item, it’s possible that they will be eligible for a partial refund. Per the company’s return policy, if one returns “an item that is damaged, missing parts, not in original condition, has tags removed or have obvious signs of use,” they may be subject to a “damage fee,” which can be up to 50% of the item’s original price.
Commenters Aren’t Sympathetic
In the comments section, users expressed their displeasure about Amazon’s return policy, with many sharing their own gripes about the online retailer.
“Are we supposed to feel bad for Amazon?” questioned a user.
“Amazon lies too, that’s why they’re a billion dollar company,” added another. “They’ll be alright.”
“Amazon lying too saying ‘used like new’ then you get this,” declared a third.
BroBible reached out to Amazon via email and @zakiyahqueen1984 via TikTok direct message and comment.
Content shared from brobible.com.