FAQs ▸ Core Returns
Quick answers to common questions about returning your core, core deposits, and deposit refunds on ShopEarl
How do I return my old core?
Go to your Orders page on ShopEarl, find the order, and select the option to return your core. The seller will provide a BOL (Bill of Lading) with freight pickup details. The freight company will pick up the core at the address listed on the BOL — you do not need to ship it yourself. Make sure your core is drained of all fluids, complete, undamaged, and matches the part you purchased. Once the seller receives and inspects the core, your deposit refund is processed.
Read more: How to Return Your Core
I missed my freight pickup for my core return — what do I do?
If you missed your scheduled pickup, you need to reschedule directly with the freight company. The freight company's contact information is on your BOL (Bill of Lading). The seller does not reschedule missed pickups. We recommend rescheduling promptly to avoid delays in getting your deposit refund back. When you reschedule, the freight driver will typically call again on the day of the new pickup to arrange timing — watch for that call so you don't miss it a second time.
Read more: How to Return Your Core
How long do I have to return my core?
Cores should be returned within 30 days of your new part being installed. However, most sellers will accept core returns for up to 1 year after your order.
Read more: How to Return Your Core
What condition does my core need to be in?
Your core must meet all of these conditions: it must be the correct matching core for the product you purchased, the same type as ordered, drained of all fluids, free of external damage, and complete and fully assembled. If your core does not meet these requirements, the seller may reject it and you may receive a partial refund or no deposit refund.
Read more: Preparing Your Core for Pickup
What happens if my core is rejected?
Core rejections are rare. If the seller determines your core is incorrect, damaged, or unusable, you may receive a partial refund or no core deposit refund at all. To avoid rejection, make sure your core is the correct matching core, drained of all fluids, undamaged, and complete. If you believe the rejection is unfair, contact our support team with your order number, and we will follow up with the seller.
Read more: Preparing Your Core for Pickup
What is a core?
A core is the old engine or transmission you are replacing. Remanufacturers need your old core back because they rebuild it into the next remanufactured engine or transmission to sell. That is why a core deposit is included in your order — it ensures the old part gets returned so the remanufacturing cycle can continue. When you return your old core, you get the deposit refunded.
Read more: Understanding Core Deposits and Refunds
What is a core deposit and how much does it cost?
A core deposit is a refundable charge included in the price of certain replacement parts — like engines and transmissions. You get it back when you return your old core. Core deposits on ShopEarl range from $150 to $3,000, depending on the part type and seller. The deposit amount is shown on your order details.
Read more: Understanding Core Deposits and Refunds
When will I get my core deposit refund?
Once the seller receives your core, it can take up to 10 business days for the refund to be processed. The seller inspects the core and then issues the refund. After the refund is issued, it may take up to 10 days for it to appear on your bank or credit card statement. If you haven't received your refund after that time, contact our support team with your order number.
Read more: Understanding Core Deposits and Refunds
Where is my core deposit refund? I returned my core but haven't received it yet.
Check your Orders page on ShopEarl for the latest refund status. After the seller receives your core, it can take up to 10 business days for the refund to be processed (the seller needs time to inspect the core). After the refund is issued, bank processing can take up to 10 days for it to appear on your statement. If both timelines have passed, contact us with your order number.
Read more: Understanding Core Deposits and Refunds