As the holiday season approaches, many consumers are preparing to shop for gifts, prompting retailers to provide competitive shipping and return policies. Numerous major retailers, including Amazon, Walmart, and Target, are offering favorable shipping options. For example, some businesses provide free two-day shipping or same-day delivery at an additional cost. Many retailers also extend their return policies, allowing customers the flexibility to return gifts if needed.
A compilation of current shipping and return policies from various retailers is available, detailing notable features. Amazon, for instance, does not offer same-day delivery on certain holidays but allows Prime members to receive free same-day delivery on eligible items within qualifying ZIP codes. Non-Prime members can view shipping options directly on product pages.
During the holiday period, Amazon’s return policy states that most items purchased between November 1 and December 31 can be returned until January 31, 2026. However, specific products such as Apple items need to be returned by January 15, 2026.
Apple has not released its holiday shipping policies for the current year but historically has provided free delivery on in-stock items ordered before a specific deadline. Typically, such orders have to arrive before Christmas if they are to be unengraved.
Target is also prominent in offering a comprehensive shipping policy, including free two-day shipping for orders over $35 or with a Target RedCard. The same-day delivery option is available under specific conditions.
Walmart has yet to finalize its holiday shipping policy but usually offers free two-day shipping and next-day delivery for orders over a set amount. Their returns window for items purchased during the holiday period generally extends until January 31, 2026, with exceptions for specific products like smartphones.
Retailers such as Best Buy, GameStop, and Costco similarly have established shipping and return policies to enhance customer experience during this shopping season. Each retailer’s policy may vary, and customers are encouraged to check individual companies’ websites for the most current information.
Source: https://www.theverge.com/21570161/holiday-shipping-return-policy-apple-google-microsoft-amazon