Guidelines for charging restocking fees

In some circumstances, you can charge a restocking fee when a buyer returns an item. These circumstances include when an item is returned outside of AlphaDiscounters return policy or in used, damaged, /defective, or materially different condition. Items returned in original condition and within policy cannot be charged a restocking fee. You are not required to accept returns beyond the return window. However, if you do, you can also charge a restocking fee.

A restocking fee is a percentage of the item’s price; depending on the type of item and its condition upon return (item price does not include shipping costs). Only returned items are eligible for a restocking fee. The refund workflow will help you calculate the restocking fee for eligible items, and deduct it from the refund you issue to your customer based on the guidelines outlined in the table below.

Return Request	Restocking Fee
The buyer changes their mind* about a purchase and returns an item in the original condition within the return window.	No restocking fee.
The buyer changes their mind* about a purchase and returns an item in the original condition outside of the return window	Yes. Up to 20% of item’s price.
The buyer refuses delivery due to visible damage incurred during shipping or caused by the carrier.	No restocking fee. The seller pays for return shipping, but can file a claim with the carrier or insurance company, if they purchased insurance.
The buyer receives a used or damaged item.	No restocking fee. The seller can file a claim with the carrier or insurance company, if they purchased insurance.
The buyer changes their mind* about a purchase and returns a non-media item within the return window but the seller receives the item damaged or materially different than how it was originally shipped to the buyer.	Yes. Up to 50% of item’s price.
The buyer returns a book within the return window with obvious signs of use.	Yes. Up to 50% of item’s price.
The buyer returns a CD, DVD, VHS tape, cassette tape, or vinyl record within the return window that has been opened (taken out of the plastic wrap).	Yes. Up to 50% of item’s price.
The buyer changes their mind* and returns open software or video games.	Yes. Up to 100% of item’s price
The buyer returns an item they received materially different from what they ordered.	No restocking fee.

The buyer changes their mind and returns the item for one of the following reasons:

• Accidental order
• Better price available
• No longer needed/wanted