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Re-activateElectronics retailer Best Buy has announced that it will no longer charge restocking fees for nearly all returned items, reports our sister site, The Consumerist. The store previously charged 15 percent for most returns; it still charges 25 percent for returns of special orders, according to the return policy on its website. From an email The Consumerist obtained, which was sent from Best Buy headquarters to stores:
Effective Saturday, Dec. 18, the 15 percent restocking fee will no longer apply to computers (including notebooks, tablets and iPads), projectors, camcorders, digital cameras, radar detectors, GPS navigation, in-car video systems, DJ equipment and lighting, or Pro-Audio equipment. The 10 percent restocking fee will no longer apply to iPhones. Restocking fees shouldn't be charged for any returns of these products going forward.
Consumer Reports has called the practice of charging fees for returned items not in factory-sealed packages one of the five worst holiday gotchas. Here's some information on ways to avoid restocking charges.
Perhaps the policy change will put Best Buy on Consumer Reports' company "nice" list next year.
—Carol Mangis
—Carol Mangis
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