Restocking Fees Explained: What Shoppers Need to Know in 2026

Restocking fees are charges retailers apply to returned items, typically 10-20% of the original purchase price, to cover processing, restocking, and lost resale value. These fees have seen rising adoption, with 72% of merchants charging them according to a 2025 NRF survey, up from 66% the previous year. In 2026, online shoppers face these costs more often, especially for electronics and apparel.

This guide breaks down restocking fees at major retailers like Amazon and Best Buy, highlights condition-based variations, and shares strategies to avoid or minimize them. By comparing policies upfront, consumers can spot low-fee options and make informed buys.

What Is a Restocking Fee and Why Do Retailers Charge It?

Restocking fees cover the costs retailers incur when handling returns, including processing the item, restocking it for resale, and accounting for diminished value. The Fashion Law explains that these charges help offset expenses from returns, which can reduce an item's resale potential if it's been opened or used briefly.

Fees generally range from 10-20% of the purchase price, though some reach as high as 50% depending on the product category and retailer, per ESMT Knowledge. Higher rates often apply to high-value items like electronics, where restocking involves specialized handling. Priceva notes that these fees protect retailers from return abuse while encouraging careful purchasing decisions.

Restocking Fee Amounts by Major Retailers

Major retailers set specific restocking fees, often varying by product and return method. Best Buy charges 15% on most electronics, a flat $45 on phones and tablets, and 15% on special orders, as detailed in 2026 policy updates from Familyhandyman.

For mail returns, fees are common flat rates: TJ Maxx at $11.99 per package, Macy's around $10, JCPenney $8, J.Crew $7.50, and Urban Outfitters $5, based on 2025 data from ABC7Chicago. This trend aligns with the NRF survey showing 72% of merchants adopting fees in 2025, up from 66%.

Amazon Restocking Fees: Condition-Based Charges

Amazon's restocking fees depend heavily on the item's condition upon return. Fees range from 20-100% of the item's price, scaling with damage or use. For change-of-mind returns on opened software or video games, fees typically hit 20-50%, while pristine unopened items may incur lower or no charges. Refusing delivery due to damage carries no fee, up to 20% in some cases, according to Gorilla ROI and Zonguru.

This condition-based structure incentivizes careful handling, with higher fees for items in poor resale shape. Shoppers should inspect returns closely to minimize charges.

FTC Rules and Disclosure Requirements for Restocking Fees

The FTC requires clear disclosure of restocking fees to protect consumers. In a 2015 complaint against AuraVie, the agency addressed inadequate notices for fees. The 2013-updated .Com Disclosures guidance mandates prominent, unavoidable placement of policy details, as outlined by The Fashion Law.

Retailers must reveal fees before purchase, often in checkout summaries or return policy pages. This US-focused guidance helps shoppers verify transparency across sites and supports pre-purchase policy checks.

How to Avoid or Minimize Restocking Fees

Consumers can sidestep restocking fees through targeted strategies. Opt for in-store returns, which often waive fees compared to mail returns costing $5-11.99. Joining loyalty programs frequently unlocks fee-free returns, and submitting items quickly--ideally within policy windows--preserves eligibility for full refunds.

ABC7Chicago, Familyhandyman, and CBS News highlight these tactics as effective in 2025-2026. Retailers play a role too, by disclosing fees clearly per FTC rules, aiding pre-purchase checks. Comparing in-store ($0 fee common) versus mail ($5-11.99) options, or percentage fees (10-20% general) against flats like Best Buy's $45, empowers smarter choices.

FAQ

What is a typical restocking fee percentage?

Typical restocking fees range from 10-20% of the purchase price, though some reach up to 50% for specific items.

Do all retailers charge restocking fees?

No, not all retailers charge restocking fees; adoption stands at 72% of merchants per the 2025 NRF survey.

How much are Amazon restocking fees?

Amazon restocking fees range from 20-100% based on item condition, such as 20-50% for opened change-of-mind returns on software or games.

What are Best Buy's restocking fees in 2026?

Best Buy charges 15% on most electronics and special orders, plus a $45 flat fee on phones and tablets.

How can I avoid paying restocking fees?

Return items in-store, join loyalty programs for waivers, or process returns quickly to meet full-refund conditions.

Are restocking fees regulated by the FTC?

The FTC requires clear disclosures for restocking fees, as in the 2015 AuraVie complaint and 2013 .Com Disclosures guidance.

Check retailer return policies before buying, and prioritize in-store options or loyalty perks to cut fees. Compare fees in the table above for your next purchase.