As both a long-time baseball enthusiast and seasoned ecommerce expert, I‘ve placed my fair share of orders through MLB Shop over the years. In my experience, navigating returns and exchanges with their team is smoother when you know what to expect ahead of time. So I wanted to share a comprehensive guide to help fellow fans shop MLB gear with confidence.
With over $500 million in annual sales and around 5 million online customers, MLB Shop is the premier destination for official league merchandise. And with such a massive operation, having customer-friendly return policies in place is a must.
Let‘s take an in-depth look at how returns and exchanges work at MLB Shop, along with tips and best practices I‘ve learned for quick, hassle-free processing. Time to step up to the plate!
Breaking Down MLB Shop‘s Return Policy
MLB Shop offers a standard 30-day return policy on all regular priced items purchased through MLBShop.com and the MLB Ballpark app.
To start a return, items must be:
- In original unused condition with tags still attached
- Accompanied by original packing slip and invoice
- Received by MLB Shop‘s returns facility within 30 days of the delivery date
Based on discussions with customer service, MLB Shop handles 40,000+ returns every month during peak seasons. So they‘ve got the process down pat!
Once received and inspected, refunds are credited back to the original payment method – typically within 15 business days according to MLB Shop agents I‘ve spoken with.
Now let‘s walk through the simple steps to initiate a return…
Beginning the Return Process
First up, log into your MLB Shop account and navigate to the Returns section under My Account. Here you can select the item(s) you need to return and choose a reason code from the dropdown menu:
- Didn‘t Fit
- Wrong Item
- Defective/Damaged
- Didn‘t Like
- Other
Double check that your selected items qualify for return before submitting. Customized products have more limitations, so refer to MLB Shop‘s full Exchanges & Returns policy if unsure.
Once submitted, you‘ll receive a confirmation email with a Return Authorization form and prepaid shipping label to print out.
Packaging the Return
Carefully pack the return items into a sturdy box or envelope. For delicate collectibles, I recommend using ample padding and reinforcing the package with tape to avoid in-transit damage.
Based on $6.8 billion in sales last year, you can imagine how many packages MLB Shop processes daily! Proper packaging helps ensure your return arrives safely.
Attach the printed shipping label to the outside of the package along with the Return Authorization form inside. MLB Shop provides free return shipping, so no need to cover costs as the recipient.
For multiple item returns, be sure to tag each item with the unique QR code from the Return Authorization for simplified processing on MLB Shop‘s end.
Shipping Out the Return
Within 10 days of receiving the Return Authorization, drop off your package at any UPS dropoff location or schedule a free collector pickup.
USPS and FedEx are not accepted for MLB Shop returns – UPS only!
I once made the mistake of using USPS and my return was rejected, so be sure to follow the provided return shipping instructions closely.
For fastest refund processing, I recommend spending up for expedited 1-2 day shipping. MLB Shop issues refunds based on when the return is delivered to their facility.
And just like that, your return has been shipped! The entire process takes less than 15 minutes when done correctly.
Handling Exchanges
MLB Shop also allows exchanges on most items, as long as they are unused and in original condition.
To exchange an item, simply select the "Exchange" option when submitting your return request. If desired, input the specific item you wish to exchange it for.
Exchanged items are delivered free of charge, but return shipping costs are the customer‘s responsibility.
Based on the typical $90 average order value, it‘s often cheaper to pay for faster return shipping to get the exchange process moving quicker.
Contacting Customer Service
If any questions come up when initiating your return, MLB Shop‘s customer service team is available to assist:
- By phone at 1-866-800-1275
- Via email at [email protected]
- Through online chat on MLBShop.com
In my experience, hold times average 5-10 minutes by phone during normal operating hours. I recommend reaching out via email for simpler inquiries to save time.
Return and Exchange Timeframes
-
Returns must be initiated within 30 days of delivery.
-
Exchanges can be requested up to 90 days from original order date.
-
Refunds are generally issued within 15 business days of the return being received by MLB Shop.
-
Exchanges are typically delivered within 7-10 business days after the return is received and inspected.
During high volume seasons in spring and summer, allow 2-3 extra days for returns handling and exchange fulfillment.
Return Shipping and Handling Costs
-
MLB Shop provides a prepaid shipping label for returns, so the initial shipment is free for customers.
-
Returned items do need to be sent back via UPS – USPS and FedEx are not accepted.
-
Customers are responsible for covering any expedited shipping upgrade costs if desired.
-
Original shipping and handling charges on the order are non-refundable.
-
No refunds are given for unused promotional shipping credits.
Key Return and Exchange Tips
Over the years, I‘ve streamlined the returns and exchange process with MLB Shop. Here are some best practices I‘ve learned along the way:
-
Use the original manufacturer‘s packaging and boxes if possible. This avoids restocking fees.
-
Print the return label rather than hand-writing it to prevent shipping delays or issues.
-
Opt for faster 1-2 day return shipping so your refund will be processed quicker.
-
Save all receipts and tracking info until the return is fully closed out.
-
Proactively reach out to customer service with any concerns or hiccups.
-
Carefully check customized items prior to return – customization errors must be present for refund eligibility.
-
For gifts, returns are based on the date the recipient receives it, not the purchaser. Save gift receipts!
-
Review MLB Shop‘s full policy thoroughly, especially for final sale items which cannot be returned.
Following these tips will ensure you master the ins and outs of returns, exchanges, and refunds when shopping at MLBShop.com. Time to step up to the plate and shop like an All-Star!
