Amazon UK returns: how to return unwanted Amazon UK Christmas gifts, duplicates or wrong-sized items - policy

• Amazon UK returns for unwanted Christmas gifts are easy, even after the big day
• Perhaps you received a duplicate present, an item of clothing in the wrong size... or just a bad gift that you don’t want
• Try to keep any unwanted items in their original condition and packaging if possible
• Returns can be done via ParcelShop, your local Amazon Locker, a courier, or by post
• Refunds or exchanges are usually processed quickly once Amazon receives the items

Every household’s Christmas Day present opening tradition is different, but if you’re reading this, it’s likely yours has already been and gone.

While you’ve still got the rest of Christmas Day (or the extended festive period if you’re reading this after December 2025) to look forward to, maybe you’re reading this with a nagging sense of unease.

A great deal of the gifts you’ve received are perfect. Huge numbers of them are ticketyboo. But others... maybe less so.

Perhaps you’ve received a duplicate gift, an item of clothing in the wrong size, or simply something that isn’t quite your style.

But panic not. If you’re in the UK and the present came from Amazon, returning unwanted presents is straightforward, even after the big day.

Understanding Amazon’s returns policy

Amazon has a generous returns policy, which is especially handy during the festive season. Most items sold on Amazon UK can be returned within 30 days of delivery, and during the Christmas period, this window is usually extended.

For example, items delivered between early November and Christmas Eve often have a return window that stretches into January, giving you plenty of time to send unwanted gifts back without stress.

Step 1: Check the item and packaging

Before initiating a return, check the item and its packaging. Items should generally be unused and in their original packaging to ensure a smooth return.

Keep any tags on clothing, and avoid writing on or removing stickers from other products.

Even if the gift has been used briefly, many items are still eligible for return if they’re in good condition, but it’s always safest to keep them as close to new as possible.

Step 2: Locate the gift receipt or order details

Ideally, you’ll have a gift receipt or an order confirmation from Amazon. If the gift giver purchased it using their own account, they can provide a gift receipt, which will usually include a QR code or link that lets you start the return yourself.

If you don’t have access to the original account, don’t worry; Amazon allows returns from gifts in certain situations.

You may need to use the “Return a Gift” feature in the app or online portal, which generates a unique return label without revealing the purchaser’s personal details.

Step 3: Choose your return method

Amazon UK offers several convenient ways to return items:

• Drop-off at a ParcelShop or Locker: Many high streets and supermarkets have Amazon collection points, including DPD, CollectPlus, and Amazon Lockers. Simply print the return label, attach it to your parcel, and drop it off.
• Courier collection: For larger items, Amazon can arrange for a courier to collect the return from your home.
• Post Office returns: Some items can also be returned via Royal Mail, particularly smaller parcels.

For clothing or items bought in the wrong size, make sure to select “wrong size” as the reason for the return. For duplicates or unwanted items, select “no longer needed.”

Step 4: Refund or exchange

Once Amazon receives the returned item, refunds are usually processed within a few days. The money is returned to the original payment method.

If you prefer, some items can also be exchanged for a different size, colour, or style, though this depends on the seller.

Extra tips

• Keep the tracking number until your return is confirmed.
• Use the Amazon app for quick processing; it often allows you to generate QR codes for easy drop-off without needing to print a label.
• Check if the seller has a separate return policy; some third-party sellers may have different rules.