Understanding Temu's Return Policy
Shopping online always comes with questions: What if it doesn't fit? What if it's not what I expected? What if it arrives damaged? Understanding Temu's return policy before you shop gives you peace of mind and helps you know exactly what to expect if something goes wrong.
The good news: Temu offers a relatively generous return policy compared to many budget shopping platforms. This guide breaks down everything you need to know about returns, refunds, and the process for getting your money back.
Temu Return Policy at a Glance
The 90-Day Return Window Explained
Temu offers a 90-day return window from the date of delivery—significantly longer than many competitors. This means you have nearly three months to decide if you want to keep your purchase.
The 90-day window applies to most standard items, but there are some exceptions:
| Category | Return Window | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Standard Items | 90 days | Most products on Temu |
| Electronics | 90 days | Must be unused for full refund |
| Clothing & Shoes | 90 days | Tags must be attached |
| Jewelry | 90 days | Unworn condition required |
| Undergarments/Swimwear | Final sale | Non-returnable for hygiene |
| Personalized Items | Final sale | Custom products excluded |
Types of Return Resolutions
When you request a return on Temu, you may receive one of several resolutions depending on the item, reason, and value:
1. Refund Without Return
For low-value items (typically under $10-15), Temu often offers a refund without requiring you to return the item. This saves shipping costs and hassle. You keep the item and receive your money back.
2. Full Refund with Return
For higher-value items, you'll need to ship the item back to receive a refund. Temu provides one free return shipping label per order. Additional returns from the same order may require you to pay shipping.
3. Partial Refund
If an item is slightly different from the description but still usable, Temu may offer a partial refund. You can accept this or request a full refund with return.
4. Temu Credit
Sometimes Temu offers store credit instead of a cash refund. This often processes faster but can only be used for future purchases.
How to Return an Item to Temu: Step-by-Step
The return process is handled entirely through the Temu app or website. Here's exactly how to do it:
Open Your Orders
Go to "You" tab → "Your Orders" in the Temu app or website. Find the order containing the item you want to return.
Select "Return/Refund"
Tap on the specific item, then select "Return/Refund" or "Return Item" from the options.
Choose Your Reason
Select the reason for return from the dropdown menu. Common options include: wrong size, not as described, damaged, quality issue, or changed mind.
Upload Photos (If Applicable)
For quality issues or damage, upload clear photos showing the problem. This helps expedite approval and may result in refund-without-return.
Submit and Wait for Approval
Submit your request and wait for Temu's response, usually within 24-48 hours. You'll receive notification with next steps.
Ship Item Back (If Required)
If return is required, print the provided shipping label, pack the item securely in original packaging if possible, and drop at the designated carrier.
Receive Your Refund
Once Temu confirms the return (or approves refund-only), your refund processes within 5-14 business days to original payment method.
Return Reasons That Get Approved
Understanding which return reasons are most likely to be approved can help you submit successful requests:
Usually Approved
- Item not as described: Color, size, or features differ from listing
- Damaged or defective: Arrived broken or with manufacturing defects
- Wrong item sent: Received completely different product
- Missing parts: Item incomplete or accessories missing
- Quality issues: Clearly substandard materials or construction
May Be Approved
- Doesn't fit: Usually approved but may require return shipping
- Changed mind: Accepted within window but return shipping may not be free
- Not what expected: Depends on how item differs from description
Pro Tip: Take Photos Immediately
When your order arrives, photograph the package before opening and take photos of items right away. If there are any issues, having photos from delivery makes your return claim much stronger and often results in instant refund approval.
What About Exchanges?
Temu does not offer traditional exchanges. If you need a different size, color, or want a different product, you'll need to:
- Request a return/refund for the original item
- Place a new order for the item you want
This is less convenient than a direct exchange, but given Temu's low prices, the separate transaction process isn't usually a major financial burden.
Refund Timelines
How long will it take to get your money back? Here's the typical timeline:
| Stage | Timeframe |
|---|---|
| Return Request Review | 24-48 hours |
| Return Shipping (if required) | 5-10 days |
| Temu Processing | 1-3 days after receipt |
| Refund to Payment Method | 5-14 business days |
| Total (with return) | 2-4 weeks |
| Total (refund-only) | 1-2 weeks |
Refunds to credit cards typically take longer than refunds to PayPal or Temu credit.
Common Return Issues and Solutions
Return Request Denied
If your return is denied, you can appeal by contacting customer support through the app. Provide additional photos or explanation. Escalating often gets the decision reversed.
No Return Label Provided
Sometimes the system doesn't generate a label. Contact support to request one manually. You shouldn't have to pay for return shipping if it's Temu's error.
Refund Taking Too Long
If your refund hasn't arrived after 14 business days, contact support with your return tracking number. They can manually check status and expedite if needed.
Keep Your Packaging
If there's any chance you might return an item, keep all original packaging, tags, and accessories. Items must be returned in original condition for full refunds. Worn clothing or used items may be rejected.
Tips for Successful Returns
- Act quickly: Submit return requests within a few days of delivery
- Take clear photos: Document any issues immediately
- Be specific: Clearly explain the problem in your request
- Keep everything: Save packaging, tags, and accessories
- Be polite: Customer service responds better to respectful requests
- Escalate when needed: If denied unfairly, ask to escalate
- Track your return: Keep proof of shipping
Frequently Asked Questions
You have 90 days from the delivery date to initiate a return for most items. Some categories like undergarments are final sale. The 90-day window is more generous than many competitors.
Temu provides one free return shipping label per order. Additional returns from the same order may require you to cover shipping costs. For low-value items, Temu often issues refunds without requiring the physical return.
Once your return is approved (or for refund-only situations), expect 5-14 business days for the refund to appear in your original payment method. Temu credit refunds are often faster.
No, items must be returned in original, unworn condition with tags attached for clothing. Used or damaged items (beyond what was originally wrong) will likely be rejected for refund.
If tracking shows delivered but you didn't receive the package, contact Temu support within 90 days. They typically issue refunds for non-delivery after investigating. Having a secure delivery location helps.
Yes, you can return items you simply don't want, but return shipping may not be free. The item must be in original condition. It's best to select a reason that might qualify for free return shipping.
Bottom Line
Temu's return policy is actually quite reasonable compared to other budget shopping platforms. The 90-day return window gives you plenty of time to evaluate purchases, and the refund-without-return option for low-value items makes the process painless for most common issues.
The key to successful returns is documentation. Take photos when items arrive, keep your packaging, and submit return requests promptly with clear descriptions of any problems. Following these practices, most return requests get approved without hassle.