Hassle-free merchandise returns

Check retailers' return policies before you shop. The information could save you time and money

To keep you out of the ranks of the dissatisfied, we've compiled a cheat sheet that details the return policies of some of the largest U.S. retailers of home products. The information could help you avoid a bad experience if you need to return an air conditioner that's the wrong size or a gallon of paint you don't need.

Costco, the warehouse-club giant, takes a more liberal approach to returns. The retailer claims that, with few exceptions, shoppers can return items at any time. The company even refunds shipping fees for items purchased online. Still other retailers, including Home Depot, Lowe's, and Target, either do not require receipts or they use systems that trace purchases made with checks or credit and debit cards.

How to avoid return hassles

Check the return policy

You'll typically find the return policy for each retailer on signs near the checkout registers, on receipts, and on its Web site. Note the number of days you have to return items, policy exceptions, and whether restocking fees apply. If you buy and return items online, be aware that many merchants do not refund the cost of shipping, and you'll probably have to pay the return postage. To avoid the inconvenience and cost of returning by mail, see if you can return your online purchases to a walk-in store. The chart below details this type of information.

Save the receipt

Not all retailers allow you to make returns without receipts. In some cases you'll receive store credit, which could be based on a selling price lower than what you paid. To facilitate returns, hang onto receipts until warranties expire or for seven years if you need receipts to support tax returns.

Open with care

You might not be able to return some items, such as electronics, if you've opened the box and the products are not defective or if they're not in their original packaging with all of the paperwork.