When a furniture piece is assembled, the question of whether it can still be returned often arises, as the item is no longer in its original, flat-packed state. Returning a large item requires a different approach than simply bringing back a small, unused purchase. Understanding the retailer’s specific rules is important for a successful return, since policies for home goods differ from those for general merchandise. This guide details Target’s policies governing the return of furniture that has been taken out of its packaging or fully assembled.
Target’s Policy on Assembled and Opened Furniture
Target will generally accept assembled furniture returns, provided the item meets the standard of being in “like-new” or “resalable” condition. This condition is determined by a thorough assessment at the Guest Services desk, where a team member evaluates the item for any signs of excessive use or modification. The “like-new” standard means the item must be free from visible damage, significant wear, or stains that would prevent it from being sold to another customer.
An inspection will confirm that all original components, accessories, and instruction manuals are included with the return. Missing hardware or noticeable cosmetic damage, such as scratches, chips, or scuff marks, can lead to the return being rejected. The likelihood of a successful return increases if the item is presented in the best possible state.
It is highly recommended to disassemble the furniture piece as much as possible before returning it. Repackaging the components in the original box, if available, protects the item from further damage during transport. While the original packaging is not always a strict requirement, utilizing it makes the process smoother and reinforces the claim that the furniture is still in a resalable state.
Understanding the Standard Return Window
The eligibility for a furniture return is dictated by a clear time limit, which begins on the date the item was purchased or delivered. For most furniture items sold directly by Target, the standard return window extends for 90 days from the initial purchase date. This 90-day period allows customers ample time to decide if the furniture is suitable for their home.
Shoppers who utilize the Target RedCard, which includes the Target Circle Card, receive an additional benefit. Paying for the furniture with a RedCard extends the standard return window by an extra 30 days, resulting in a total of 120 days for the return. This extended duration provides a greater cushion of time, which is useful when dealing with the logistics of returning a large furniture item.
The Necessary Documentation and Return Methods
Successfully processing a return relies on providing acceptable proof of the original purchase to the store team. The most straightforward documentation is the physical receipt or the packing slip that accompanied the furniture. If the paper receipt is unavailable, Target can look up the transaction using the credit or debit card used for the purchase, or by scanning the Target app or Wallet used at checkout.
Furniture returns can typically be processed either in-store or by mail, depending on the item’s size and the original purchase method. Smaller furniture items are generally taken to the Guest Services desk for an in-person assessment and refund. For larger pieces that were shipped, a return by mail can be initiated, which often involves a prepaid return label provided by Target. If a customer attempts a return without eligible proof of purchase, they may be offered a refund in the form of a merchandise card, based on the item’s lowest selling price.
Special Considerations for Furniture Returns
Certain situations related to furniture purchases fall outside the standard return parameters. If the furniture arrived damaged, was missing parts, or proved to be defective upon assembly, it is often eligible for a full refund or exchange at any time, even if it has been assembled. This exception acknowledges that the fault lies with the product quality rather than a change of customer preference.
A different set of rules applies to items purchased through the Target Plus Partner program, which features third-party sellers on the Target website. While these returns can usually be brought back to a Target store, the return policy and window can vary from the standard 90 days, sometimes being as short as 30 days. Customers must check the specific terms and conditions listed on the product page to determine the correct policy for these partner items.
Some furniture items marked as “Final Sale” or clearance may be non-returnable. Large, heavy furniture pieces may qualify for a scheduled return pickup service, provided the item is disassembled and boxed for the carrier.