Amazon Changes Return Policy for Numerous Products

Amazon has announced that it will abolish the voluntary 30-day return period for a variety of product categories. Starting September 1, 2026, customers will only be able to return these items within the statutory return period for online purchases. This affects both products sold directly by Amazon and those sold by third-party sellers. Affected product categories include, among others, baby products, garden items, drugstore and personal care products, beauty items, furniture, luggage, backpacks, pet supplies, food, as well as musical instruments and DJ equipment.

The complete list includes a total of 15 categories. The statutory return period stipulates that customers must request the return of a product within 14 days of receipt. After the request, they have an additional 14 days to actually return the item. Amazon will automatically display the applicable return period for each product, so customers should pay attention to whether it states 14 days or 30 days. The decision to eliminate the voluntary return period was communicated in an email to sellers, which was published in the Händlerbund.

However, sellers can still offer a longer return period to differentiate themselves from competitors. Amazon encourages sellers to update their return policies to enhance the shopping experience. To ensure a smooth transition for customers, the current 30-day return guarantee will continue to apply to items delivered by October 1, 2026. After this date, customers must adhere to the new return conditions.

The changes are part of a broader strategy by Amazon aimed at tightening its return policy and potentially reducing return rates. Returns represent a significant cost burden for many online retailers, and adjusting the return period could help minimize these costs. Reactions to the new regulation are mixed. Some customers express concerns that the shortened return period makes shopping less risk-free. Sellers, on the other hand, see the opportunity to gain a competitive advantage through longer return periods.

Amazon has previously made various changes to its return policy to adapt to changing market conditions and customer needs. The new regulation could also impact sales figures in the affected categories, as customers may be more cautious when purchasing products that cannot be easily returned. The adjustment of the return period will take effect on September 1, 2026. Customers should therefore inform themselves in advance about the new conditions to avoid potential inconveniences.