Refund and Returns Policy
Comprehensive Guidelines for Returns, Refunds, and Exchanges
Last updated: September 7, 2025
Introduction
Welcome to The Market Traders, we are committed to ensuring a positive shopping experience for all our customers. This Return and Refund Policy outline your rights and our obligations regarding returns, refunds, and exchanges for products purchased through our online platform. Please read this policy carefully before making a purchase.
The Market Traders specialises in a wide range of goods, including but not limited to electronics, arts and crafts, accessories, homeware, fashion, and more. Because of the wide variety of products offered, certain items may be subject to specific return conditions as detailed below.
General Return Policy
- Customers have the right to request a return for most products within 30 days of receiving their order.
- The item must be unused, in its original packaging, and in the same condition as received, with all original labels, accessories, and manuals included.
- To initiate a return, customers must contact our Customer Service team via the website or by email, providing their order number and a reason for the return.
- Once the return is approved, customers will receive instructions on how and where to send back the product.
Return and Refund Process
1. Initiating a Return
- Contact our Customer Service within 30 days of receipt of your goods.
- Provide your order number, the details of the item(s) you wish to return, and the reason for the return.
- Wait for approval and return shipping instructions from our team.
2. Shipping the Return
- Pack the item securely, including all original accessories and documents.
- Use the provided shipping instructions and address. Unauthorised returns or returns sent to the wrong address may not be processed.
- Customers are responsible for return shipping costs unless the product is defective, damaged, or incorrectly delivered.
- We recommend using a trackable shipping service. The Market Traders cannot be held responsible for items lost or damaged in return transit.
3. Inspection and Approval
- Once we receive your returned item, we will inspect it to ensure it meets our return conditions.
- We will notify you of approval or rejection of the refund or exchange within 7 business days of receiving the returned item.
4. Refunds
- If your return is approved, a refund will be processed to your original payment method within 7-10 working business days.
- Shipping costs (original and return) are non-refundable except in cases of damaged, defective, or incorrectly shipped items.
- If you haven’t received your refund within 14 days of approval, please contact our Customer Service team (info@themarkettraders.co.uk).
Non-Returnable Items
Certain items are not eligible for return due to hygiene, safety, or legal reasons, including but not limited to:
- Personal care items (e.g., grooming products, earrings, cosmetics) once opened
- Custom or personalised goods
- Digital products or downloadable software
- Gift cards
- Clearance or final sale items (as indicated on the product page)
- Perishable goods (e.g., food, flowers)
If an item is non-returnable, this will be clearly stated on the product description page.
Damaged, Defective, or Incorrect Items
- If you receive a damaged, defective, or incorrect item, please notify us within 7 days of delivery.
- Provide photographs of the item and packaging to help us process your claim quickly.
- We will arrange for a free return or replacement and cover all associated shipping costs.
- If a replacement is unavailable, you may choose a substitute item or a full refund.
Exchanges
- We offer exchanges for eligible goods, subject to stock availability.
- If you wish to exchange an item, please follow the return process and indicate your preferred replacement.
- Once the original item is received and inspected, we will ship the new item.
- Any price difference will be communicated and must be resolved before the new item is shipped.
Cancellations
- Orders may be cancelled free of charge if they have not yet been fulfilled and shipped.
- To cancel an order, contact us as soon as possible with your order details.
- If your order has already been fulfilled and shipped, you may return the item following the return process above after delivery.
Special Conditions for Specific Product Categories
Electronics
- All electronics must be returned in original, unopened packaging with all accessories, manuals, and warranty cards included.
- Returns for electronics may be subject to a restocking fee if opened or used.
- Malfunctioning electronics within the warranty period may be repaired or replaced according to the manufacturer’s warranty policy.
Arts and Crafts
- Unopened and unused arts and crafts items can be returned within the standard 30-day window.
- Custom or commissioned pieces are non-returnable unless defective or damaged upon arrival.
Accessories and Other Goods
- Accessories (e.g., jewellery, bags, watches) must be unworn, unused, and returned with all original packaging and labels.
- Special conditions may apply to certain product types; please refer to the product page for details.
Refunds for Promotional and Bundle Offers
- If you return an item purchased as part of a promotion or bundle, your refund will be adjusted to reflect any discount applied at the time of purchase.
- If a bundle is partially returned, the retained items will be charged at their full price, and your refund will be based on the difference.
International Returns
- International customers may return eligible items, but are responsible for return shipping, taxes, and duties unless the item is damaged, defective, or incorrect.
- Please contact Customer Service for detailed instructions specific to your location.
Customer Service Contact
If you have questions regarding returns, refunds, or exchanges, please contact our Customer Service team:
- Email: info@themarkettraders.co.uk
Policy Updates
The Market Traders may update this Return and Refund Policy from time to time. Changes will be posted on our website, and your continued use of our services indicates acceptance of the updated policy. We encourage you to review this page regularly.
Thank you for shopping with The Market Traders. Your satisfaction and trust are our top priorities.
