Return Shipping: Who Pays?
Whether the seller or buyer covers return shipping depends on the reason for the return.
Who pays for return shipping depends on why you're returning the part. There are no restocking fees on ShopEarl — a flat charge simply for returning an item is never permitted. However, if a part is returned in a different condition than it was sold — for example, if it shows signs of installation or alteration — the seller may issue a partial refund to account for the change in condition.
Seller pays return shipping (fault-based returns):
The seller covers return shipping when the issue is on their end:
- The part is different from what was listed (wrong part shipped)
- The part arrived damaged or defective
In these cases, the seller provides a prepaid return label at no cost to you, and you receive a full refund.
Buyer pays return shipping (standard returns):
You cover return shipping when the return is for a personal reason:
- You changed your mind
- You ordered the wrong part by mistake
- You no longer need the part
- Your package was returned to the seller because the shipping address was entered incorrectly
- Part doesn't fit
Return shipping can come in one of two ways:
- The seller provides a prepaid return label. You receive a full refund minus the label cost.
- The seller provides a return address for you to ship the part back yourself. You receive a full refund.
In either case, no restocking fees are charged. Note that restocking fees and partial refunds are different things — ShopEarl never permits a flat restocking fee, but a partial refund may apply if the part is returned in a condition different from how it was sold (see above).
Not sure which applies to you?
Contact our support team with your order number, and we'll help determine who covers return shipping for your situation.