ASOS Return Policy: The Full Guide
Shopping with ASOS has its perks—trendy clothes, global delivery, frequent sales—but it also pays to know how their return policy works, because there are plenty of rules, conditions and regional nuances. So let’s walk through the policy step‑by‑step: what you can return, how long you have, what exceptions apply, how to do it, and tips to avoid surprises.
✅ The Basic Return Window
For most items purchased from ASOS—whether you’re located in the U.S., U.K. or many other countries—the standard return window is: you have up to 28 days from the date your order is delivered (or made available for collection) to place your return and send it back. :contentReference[oaicite:0]{index=0}
Here’s how it works in practice:
- You place your order. It arrives or shows up in a locker or collection point. The clock starts from that delivery date. :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}
- You decide you don’t want an item (change of mind) and want a refund. As long as you initiate the return within the 28‑day window, you’re eligible under their unwanted‑item policy. :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}
Important to note: this 28‑day window is for unwanted items (i.e., you simply don’t want them). If the item is faulty, different rules apply (more on that later). Also, if you’re in certain countries or using a particular service, there might be small variations. :contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}
📦 How to Make the Return
Returning an item to ASOS doesn’t have to be difficult—but you’ll want to follow the steps carefully to avoid issues.
Placing your return
Here’s the usual process:
- Log into your ASOS account and go to “My Orders”. :contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4}
- Select the order and the specific item(s) you wish to return. You’ll also pick a reason for return (e.g., too large, changed mind). :contentReference[oaicite:5]{index=5}
- The system will generate a returns option: either a printable label or a QR code drop‑off option (depending on your country). :contentReference[oaicite:6]{index=6}
- Pack up your items securely (with tags/boxes as needed), attach the label or present the QR code at the drop‑off point. Make sure you keep proof of postage. :contentReference[oaicite:7]{index=7}
Returning by mail or drop‑off
For many countries, you’ll be able to drop the parcel at a specified logistics partner (UPS, courier etc) using the label/QR code. The items must reach ASOS’s warehouse in acceptable condition. :contentReference[oaicite:8]{index=8}
Note: If you combine items from multiple orders into one return parcel, some countries may allow it—but ASOS cautions that each country has its own rules. :contentReference[oaicite:9]{index=9}
🔍 Conditions & Eligibility Requirements
Even if you’re within the time limit, ASOS will expect you to meet certain conditions. If you don’t, the return may be rejected or you may receive store credit instead of a full refund.
- Original condition: The item must be unworn/unwashed (unless you only tried on), in re‑sellable condition, with all tags/labels/boxes still attached. For shoes: include the original shoe box. :contentReference[oaicite:10]{index=10}
- Final sale items: Items marked “Final Sale” on ASOS are considered heavily discounted and are typically not eligible for change‑of‑mind refunds or exchanges (unless faulty). :contentReference[oaicite:11]{index=11}
- Hygiene‑sealed products: Some items are hygiene‑sensitive (e.g., swimwear, underwear, beauty products, pierced jewellery). If the hygiene seal is broken or the item shows signs of wear, ASOS may refuse the return. :contentReference[oaicite:12]{index=12}
- Your responsibility until it reaches them: When you return the item by mail, the parcel remains your responsibility until ASOS receives it. You should get proof of postage. If the item is lost in transit or arrives damaged, that’s harder to resolve. :contentReference[oaicite:13]{index=13}
- Brand‑partner items: Some items sold by ASOS but fulfilled by brand partners may have slightly different return terms—check each listing. :contentReference[oaicite:14]{index=14}
💳 Refunds, Timing & What You’ll Get Back
Once ASOS receives and inspects your return, here’s what happens:
- They aim to refund within 14 days of receipt of your returned item (for U.S./many countries). :contentReference[oaicite:15]{index=15}
- For payment via credit/debit card: refund will be credited to the original card used—ASOS cannot refund to a different payment method. :contentReference[oaicite:16]{index=16}
- If you paid via an ASOS E‑Gift Card or used multiple payment methods: they will refund in order—first the non‑gift card payment, then remaining to your ASOS account if applicable. :contentReference[oaicite:17]{index=17}
- If you used promo codes, the refund may reflect the net price you paid after the discount. :contentReference[oaicite:18]{index=18}
- Return shipping costs: These are typically not refunded if you’re returning just because you changed your mind (not faulty). Delivery/handling charges originally paid are often non‑refundable. :contentReference[oaicite:19]{index=19}
🔄 Exchanges?
No direct exchanges are offered. If you want a different size or color, you’ll need to return your unwanted item then place a new order for the replacement. :contentReference[oaicite:20]{index=20}
Faulty or incorrect items
If the item you received is faulty, damaged, or not as described, ASOS treats it differently from a “change of mind” return. You’ll have rights to refund or replacement beyond the standard window—but you’ll need to contact their customer care and follow the faulty‑item process. :contentReference[oaicite:21]{index=21}
International/Regional Differences
Depending on your country, returns might vary slightly in terms of cost, timeframe or carrier. For example, some countries may require you to pay a return fee, or items must reach the warehouse within a certain number of days after initiating the return. :contentReference[oaicite:22]{index=22}
Fair Use Policy
ASOS has introduced a “Fair Use Policy” around returns designed to ensure their returns system remains sustainable. This policy means that customers who repeatedly return large volumes of items may face deductions from refunds or even account restrictions. :contentReference[oaicite:23]{index=23}
For example, ASOS may deduct a fee (e.g., $4.99 in U.S.) from your refund if you fall into a “high returns” category. They’ll notify you if the fee will apply. :contentReference[oaicite:24]{index=24}
🧠 Smart Tips for Easy, Smooth Returns at ASOS
Here are practical steps you can take to avoid issues:
- Order only what you’re likely to keep: Remember there’s no exchanges—so if you know size is tricky, try to narrow down your options.
- Try items on at home quickly: As soon as you receive the item, inspect it, try it on indoors, keep tags and packaging intact, and decide within a few days.
- Do not wash or wear extensively: If an item is worn a lot, stains or smells, ASOS may refuse the return. Return items in “like new” condition.
- Keep all original tags, labels and packaging: Especially shoes or brands that include special boxes—missing any of these may affect the return outcome. :contentReference[oaicite:25]{index=25}
- Be aware of final sale items: If the listing says “Final Sale” or deeply discounted, you might not be able to return simply because you changed your mind. Always check before purchase. :contentReference[oaicite:26]{index=26}
- Return early: Start your return as soon as you decide you don’t want the item—don’t wait until day 28. It gives you buffer.
- Keep proof of postage and tracking: When mailing your return, make sure you have a receipt/tracking number. That helps if there’s a dispute. :contentReference[oaicite:27]{index=27}
- Check the return fee policy in your region: Particularly for international returns, you may have to pay for shipping. Validate your region’s policy. :contentReference[oaicite:28]{index=28}
- If you suspect you’ll return many items often: Be mindful of the Fair Use Policy. Repeated high‑volume returns might trigger deductions or account restrictions. :contentReference[oaicite:29]{index=29}
📋 Summary of Key Points
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Standard return window | Up to 28 days from delivery for unwanted items |
| Condition required | Unworn/unwashed, tags/labels attached, in original packaging |
| Final Sale items | Usually not eligible for change of mind returns |
| No exchanges | Returns only; place new order for different size/colour |
| Return shipping/domestic costs | In many countries free for standard items; in some regions you may pay shipping or fixed fee |
| Refund timing | ASOS aims within ~14 days after warehouse receives return; depends on bank/payment method |
| Fair Use Policy | High‑volume returners may face deductions or restrictions |
🎯 Final Thoughts
In essence: ASOS’s return policy is fairly flexible for the majority of customers—28 days to decide, no exchanges, and returns handled online. But flexibility doesn’t mean unlimited free returns without any conditions. The key to making it work is: buy carefully, keep the tags and packaging, act quickly, and understand your region’s rules.
If you find yourself repeatedly ordering large volumes of items just to return most of them—or if you delay beyond 28 days or returns are in worn condition—you’ll risk being caught under ASOS’s Fair Use Policy. So while it’s tempting to “order everything and choose later,” this strategy carries more risk than it might appear.
Ultimately, if you shop thoughtfully, you’ll benefit from ASOS’s convenience and decent return terms. If you don’t keep those conditions in mind, you could run into setbacks like return shipping costs, rejected returns or deduction from your refund. With a little care, you’ll know exactly what to expect—and you’ll be in the clear.