Holiday Shipping and Return Policies for Major Retailers in 2025
As the holiday season approaches, consumers are preparing to shop for gifts and seeking efficient delivery options. Many major retailers are responding with attractive shipping and return policies to ease the stress of holiday shopping. Below, we present a detailed overview of the current shipping and return options from prominent retail brands, ensuring you have all the information you need for a smooth holiday shopping experience.
Shipping Options from Leading Retailers
Amazon
Amazon continues to offer a range of shipping options for its customers. Prime members enjoy benefits such as same-day delivery on eligible orders within select ZIP codes, contingent on meeting a minimum spend threshold. Additionally, both Prime and non-Prime customers can access one-day and two-day delivery options without a minimum purchase requirement. It’s important to note that same-day delivery will not be available on Thanksgiving, Christmas, or New Year’s Day, with limited offerings on Black Friday.
Apple
While Apple has yet to finalize its holiday shipping details for the 2025 season, last year, it provided free shipping on in-stock items ordered by December 21st, provided they were not engraved. Free express shipping options are available from local stores for an added cost. Customers may also opt for in-store pickup at their nearest Apple store.
Target
Target offers free two-day shipping on purchases of $35 or more or for customers using a Target RedCard. Same-day delivery is also an option for an additional $9.99, but is included in the Target Circle 360 membership. Notably, electronics and entertainment items bought between November 1st and December 24th can be returned until January 24th, 2026.
Walmart
Walmart is known for providing free next-day and two-day shipping on eligible orders, typically requiring a minimum purchase of $35. Those with a Walmart Plus subscription benefit from expedited shipping without a minimum order requirement. Most items purchased during the holiday season can be returned until January 31st, 2026.
Best Buy
Best Buy offers free next-day and two-day shipping on qualifying orders for My Best Buy Plus and My Best Buy Total members. Non-members can receive free shipping on orders over $35. The return window varies, providing 15 days for most products, while members enjoy an extended period of up to 60 days for returns.
Costco
Costco typically provides free shipping on many items, though fees can vary. They offer various delivery options, including a “white glove” service for larger appliances. The return policy is generally lenient, though electronics have a 90-day return limit.
Overview of Return Policies
Amazon
For the holiday season, Amazon allows returns on most items purchased between November 1st and December 31st until January 31st, 2026, except for Apple products, which have a return deadline of January 15th, 2026.
Target
In addition to the extended return policy for electronics, most other items purchased may return under Target’s standard policy with a 90-day window.
GameStop
GameStop’s return policy allows for returns within 15 days of purchase, provided the items are unopened and customers hold the original receipt. Pro members enjoy an extended 30-day return window.
Microsoft Store
Microsoft offers free returns for most physical items purchased online until January 31, 2026, assuming the products remain in like-new condition and bear original packaging.
Newegg
Items bought between November 1st and December 31st can be returned until January 31st, 2026, ensuring customers have ample time for gift exchanges.
Conclusion
As the holiday shopping season kicks off, knowing the shipping and return policies of major retailers can significantly enhance your shopping experience. This guide consolidates critical information, helping you make informed decisions and alleviating some of the typical holiday stress associated with gift-giving.
For ongoing updates regarding shipping deadlines and return policies as they evolve for this holiday season, be sure to check back regularly. Happy shopping!
