UsersRated!Stores That Charge Restocking Fees
Best Buy
15%Affected items: Opened phones, drones, DSLR cameras, electric bikes
Waived when: Total Tech members are exempt
Full policy →Samsung
15%Affected items: Opened TVs, phones, and appliances
Waived when: Defective items exempt
Full policy →Dell
15%Affected items: Opened computers and peripherals
Waived when: Defective items and business accounts
Full policy →Wayfair
VariesAffected items: Large furniture, mattresses (return shipping deducted)
Waived when: Defective or damaged items
Full policy →Pottery Barn
Up to $39 per itemAffected items: Quick Ship upholstery, non-defective returns
Waived when: Defective or incorrect items
Full policy →Newegg
15-30%Affected items: Opened items without original packaging
Waived when: Items with Newegg Premier badge
Full policy →GameStop
No formal feeAffected items: N/A — but used items get reduced refund
Waived when: N/A
Full policy →B&H Photo
15%Affected items: Opened cameras, drones, select electronics
Waived when: Defective products
Full policy →✓Stores With NO Restocking Fees
Costco
No restocking fees ever. Even on electronics.
Amazon
No restocking fees for most items. Some third-party sellers may charge up to 20%.
Target
No restocking fees on any product category.
Walmart
No restocking fees. Free return shipping for most items.
Apple
No restocking fees. 14-day window is short but no penalties.
Nordstrom
No restocking fees. One of the most return-friendly retailers.
Home Depot
No restocking fees. Special order items may have a 15% fee.
Lowe's
No restocking fees on most items.
Nike
No restocking fees. Returns accepted on worn shoes within 60 days.
REI
No restocking fees. 365-day return window.
Sephora
No restocking fees even on opened beauty products.
IKEA
No restocking fees. Assembly doesn't void the return.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a restocking fee?
A restocking fee is a charge (typically 15-50% of the item price) that some retailers deduct from your refund when you return an opened product. It's meant to cover the cost of inspecting, repackaging, and reselling the item.
Which stores charge restocking fees?
Best Buy (15% on phones/drones), Samsung (15%), Dell (15%), Newegg (15-30%), B&H Photo (15%), and Wayfair (shipping deduction on furniture) are the most common. Most major retailers like Costco, Amazon, Target, and Walmart do NOT charge restocking fees.
How can I avoid restocking fees?
Keep original packaging unopened until you're sure. Buy from stores with no-fee policies. Check if a membership (like Best Buy Total Tech) waives fees. Return defective items — restocking fees almost never apply to defective products.
Are restocking fees legal?
Yes, restocking fees are legal in all US states as long as the policy is disclosed before purchase. Some states require the fee to be clearly posted at the point of sale.