Stores add new fees, narrow windows for returns by mail

  • 40% of retailers charge for online returns
  • Stores have added fees and narrowed return windows
  • Amazon.com and Macy’s are among the retailers making changes

Returning a Christmas gift? Better read the fine print. This holiday shopping season, retailers like Amazon.com and Macy’s have made changes to their return policies. About 40% of retailers now charge for online returns, according to Narvar, a company that manages returns for businesses. Additionally, stores have added fees and narrowed the window for returning online purchases. Make sure to check the return policy before making any purchases this holiday season.

Public Companies: Amazon.com (AMZN), Macy’s (M)
Private Companies:
Key People:

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Factuality Level: 8
Justification: The article provides a specific statistic from Narvar, a company that manages returns for retailers, stating that about 40% of retailers charge for an online return. It also mentions that retailers like Amazon.com and Macy’s have added fees or shortened return windows for online purchases during the holiday season. The information provided is specific and sourced, making it more reliable. However, the article is short and lacks additional context or analysis, which could have further supported the claims made.

Noise Level: 3
Justification: The article provides a clear and concise statement about the percentage of retailers charging for online returns. It also mentions specific examples of retailers, such as Amazon.com and Macy’s, implementing fees or shorter return windows. However, the article lacks in-depth analysis, evidence, or solutions to address the issue of retailers charging for returns. It also does not explore the consequences of these decisions on consumers or hold powerful people accountable. Overall, the article provides some relevant information but lacks depth and actionable insights.

Financial Relevance: Yes
Financial Markets Impacted: Retail industry

Presence of Extreme Event: No
Nature of Extreme Event: No
Impact Rating of the Extreme Event: No
Justification: The article pertains to financial topics as it discusses the impact of fees and shortened return windows on online purchases during the holiday shopping season. However, there is no mention of an extreme event.

Reported publicly: www.wsj.com