Best Buy changing return policy to 30 days on all products?
That's the claim made by TUAW, which was sent a purported screen capture of a directive apparently scheduled to take effect March 4.
Best Buy has been criticized in the past for its short, 14-day return policy on major products like digital cameras, tablets, and computers. But the company might soon change that.
TUAW, an Apple enthusiast blog, reported last night that it received what is claimed to be a screen capture of a directive sent down by Best Buy headquarters to all of its stores. The alleged directive initiates a change in the retailer's return policy. Starting March 4, the screen capture reads, Best Buy will offer a 30-day return policy on all items.
Best Buy's current return policy is a little confusing. Computers, monitors, projectors, camcorders, digital cameras, iPads, tablets, and radar detectors come with 14-day returns. All of the other products it sells come with 30-day returns.
If Best Buy does, in fact, change its return policy, it might appeal to iPad buyers. Apple currently offers only 14-day returns on its iPads, giving Best Buy a slight edge for those who might simply want to try out the slate before making a final determination.
The move also puts Best Buy on an even playing field with its chief online competitor, Amazon. The online retailer offers a 30-day return on most products, including those sold through its electronics store.
One other note on Best Buy's returns: if a customer brings a product back, they won't need to pay a restocking fee unless it's a special order. The retailer discontinued its standard-purchase restocking fees in December 2010.
Best Buy did not immediately respond to CNET's request for comment on the TUAW report.