Just found an amazing deal but worried about buyer's remorse? Learn how Amazon's right to cancel works, what to do if the seller is a third party, and how to return a product without a hitch.
You've just spotted a deal that makes your eyes pop: Bluetooth headphones at -85% or a Champion hoodie for a steal. But the same doubt creeps in: "What if I don't like it? Can I send it back?"
Good question. Because with real deals – those with genuine discounts off the historical price – the rush to buy shouldn't turn into regret. The good news is that Amazon's right to cancel has your back. In this guide I'll walk you through everything, step by step, so you can shop online with the confidence of someone who knows the rules.
How does the right to cancel work on Amazon?
The right to cancel is a legal right: if you buy online (not in a physical shop), you have 14 calendar days to return a product without giving a reason. It's a gift from EU consumer protection law, and Amazon applies it to the letter – often going even further.
The 14 days start from the day you receive the parcel. If your order includes multiple items delivered separately, the clock starts when you receive the last item. You need to communicate your decision to cancel within those 14 days: just submit the return request in the "My Orders" section on Amazon – no need for a registered letter.
What you can return and what you can't
Almost everything, but there are exceptions. Here's the list of products excluded from the right to cancel:
- Sealed products for hygiene reasons: underwear, swimwear, ear and nose products.
- Software, video games and music with broken seals – if you've opened the wrapper, no return.
- Personalised or made-to-measure items.
- Gift cards and vouchers.
- Perishable goods: food, flowers, plants.
- High-value items delivered directly by the seller (e.g. works of art).
For the deals you find on Glitchoo, the vast majority (electronics, clothing, beauty, accessories) fall within the 14-day cooling-off period. Always check the product page on Amazon in the "Details" section for specific exceptions.
Who pays for the return postage?
This is the part that scares most deal hunters. Here's how it works:
- If the product is faulty, damaged or not as described: the return postage is free for you. Amazon provides a prepaid return label.
- If you change your mind (cancellation for simple regret): generally, return costs are your responsibility. However, Amazon often waives them for products sold by Amazon, especially within the EU. For third-party sellers, it depends on the seller's policy.
Difference between sold by Amazon and sold by third parties
| Feature | Sold by Amazon | Sold by third parties (Marketplace) |
|---|---|---|
| Return for defect | Free, Amazon label | Managed by seller, usually free |
| Return for change of mind | Often free (sometimes a small deduction) | Depends on seller: may be free or paid |
| Refund timing | Immediately after the return is picked up | After seller receives and checks the return (max 14 days) |
| Support | Amazon handles directly | Amazon mediates between you and the seller |
When you find an incredible deal on a product sold by a third party, always check the product page to see if the return is free. Sometimes the seller applies a deduction on returned items (e.g. for damaged packaging). Be careful.
How to return a product without a hitch: the checklist
Here are the steps to get it right:
- Log into your Amazon account and go to "My Orders".
- Select the order and click "Return or replace items".
- Choose the reason for the return: "Faulty" or "Changed my mind". If you pick the first, postage is free.
- Print the return label (or show the QR code to the courier if Amazon supports it).
- Pack the product with all parts, manuals and accessories. Use the original packaging if possible.
- Hand it to the courier indicated (usually Royal Mail, UPS, or drop off at a collection point).
- Keep the receipt of the return until you see the refund.
An extra tip from a seasoned deal hunter: take photos of the product before sending it back, especially if it's an expensive electronic. That way, if the seller disputes its condition, you have proof.
What to do if a third-party seller causes problems
It can happen. A third-party seller doesn't respond, denies the return, or refunds only partially. What to do?
First, contact the seller via Amazon's messaging system (from the order page). Often that sorts it out. If not, open a dispute with Amazon within 90 days of delivery. Go to "Claims Centre" and report the issue. Amazon steps in and, if the seller doesn't cooperate, refunds you directly (A-to-Z guarantee).
Remember: for products sold by Amazon, support is immediate. For third parties, Amazon mediates but doesn't always guarantee the return is covered. That's why, when you find a deal on a third-party seller, it's useful to check the Trust Score that Glitchoo assigns to each offer – the higher it is, the more reliable the seller.
Real examples of deals and returns
Take the highlighted deals below. For example, the Bluetooth headphones at -85% (sold by a third party): you have 14 days to return them, but check that the seller offers free returns. If the product is faulty, postage is the seller's responsibility. For the Black Panther mask at -92% (sold by Amazon), a change-of-mind return is likely free. Either way, always use Glitchoo's price history to be sure the discount is real – so if you decide to keep the product, you know you've made a genuine bargain.
Frequently asked questions
Can I return a product that's been opened?
Yes, you can return a product even if you've opened the packaging, provided it's not a sealed hygiene item (e.g. underwear, used cosmetics). For electronics, Amazon accepts the return but may deduct part of the refund if the product shows signs of excessive use.
How long does it take to get a refund?
Amazon refunds within 14 days of receiving the return, or, if you choose a replacement, from when the new item is shipped. For third-party sellers, the maximum time is always 14 days after the return is delivered to the seller.
Is the return free for all products?
No. For faulty or incorrect products, yes. For change of mind, it depends on the seller. Always check the return policy on the product page before buying.
What happens if the parcel gets lost during return?
If you handed the parcel to the courier with an Amazon label, responsibility lies with Amazon. Always keep the delivery receipt. If the return is managed by a third-party seller, follow their procedure and keep tracking.
Can I return a product bought with a coupon?
Yes, the right to cancel applies even if you used a coupon. The refund will be the amount you actually paid (minus the coupon value, unless it was an Amazon coupon valid for the entire basket).
Conclusion
Now you know: the right to cancel is your best friend when hunting deals. It lets you buy without fear and return if something isn't right. Just remember to check who sells the product, the return policy, and, for third parties, the seller's reliability.
So what are you waiting for? Check out today's verified deals – plenty of opportunities with real discounts and 90-day price histories. If you're not convinced, you can always return. But we're sure you'll find something you'll love.
Don't forget to take a look at the highlighted deals below: they could disappear within hours. Happy hunting!
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