returning new ipod to apple store with gift receipt

August 13, 2009 7:16 PM

If I have a gift receipt for an ipod I received I was wondering if the Apple store would take it back even if it was opened (but unused?) Do they take a close look and check to make sure everything's there?

According to the apple website:

Gift Receipt Return Policy
Gift items purchased at a retail Apple Store can be returned with an original Gift Receipt within fourteen (14) calendar days of the date of purchase. If the item is returned in the original box, unopened, with the original packaging, we will exchange it or offer you an Apple Gift Card equal to the purchase price of the gift, including tax and any other fees. All other standard purchase policies outlined above apply.

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So the official policy is that it must be unopened. But would I be able to get away with opening it and maybe taking the headphones or charging cord? (I already own a nano) Or just don't risk it and return it unopened?

If it helps I live in the long island area so if you have any experience with Apple stores around here that'd be great thanks! :)

posted by qvinx to Shopping (9 answers total)

Keeping the headphones or charging cord would be theft. But surely you realize that.

When I take an electronics item back to Walmart, they often send an employee from Electronics to come examine the box to make sure everything's there. I would imagine Apple would do the same thing, especially with one of their own products and even moreso if you're trying to return a clearly opened item.
posted by DMan at 7:18 PM on August 13, 2009 [4 favorites]

No, I don't think you'd get away with that.
posted by Solon and Thanks at 7:18 PM on August 13, 2009

Response by poster: Okay, so what if it's already opened but everything is there?

My brother also received one (a shuffle) and in his excitement already opened it. Surely some stores will take it back?
posted by qvinx at 7:23 PM on August 13, 2009

I think that they would make you pay for the restocking fee.
posted by QueenHawkeye at 7:35 PM on August 13, 2009

This previous ask suggests you can return it open, but will be charged a 10% restocking fee.
posted by Solon and Thanks at 7:46 PM on August 13, 2009

If its opened in any way you'll have to pay the restocking fee - unless there was some sort of purchase mistake on Apple's part (ie. wrong item).
posted by wongcorgi at 8:09 PM on August 13, 2009

As a side note, if you need headphones or a charge cable, can't you return the iPod (minus the restocking fee, apparently) and then turn around and use the money or gift card to buy said items?
posted by DMan at 8:14 PM on August 13, 2009

No, you can't do that. That would be stealing. I am very surprised that you would ask.
posted by SLC Mom at 8:11 AM on August 14, 2009 [1 favorite]

The sound quality of the headphones that ship with iPods isn't such that it'd be worth the risk. You can buy charging cables for $2. Again, not worth the risk. Also, it's just plain wrong.
posted by hootch at 3:51 PM on August 14, 2009