Farfetch Return Policy 2026: Returns, Refunds, and Exchanges
Shopping for luxury fashion online can be nerve-wracking, especially when you are spending hundreds or thousands of dollars on a single piece. If a designer item doesn't fit or simply isn't what you expected, knowing exactly how to send it back is crucial to avoiding lost money. The Farfetch return policy is unique because Farfetch operates as a global marketplace. Instead of shipping from one central warehouse, your items come directly from independent boutiques and brands located all over the world.
Because of this international network, returning an item involves strict deadlines, specific packaging rules, and customs considerations.
In this complete 2026 guide, we cover everything you need to know about navigating Farfetch returns. We will explain the critical "7-day transit rule," outline the strict Farfetch red security tag requirement, show you how to claim back your international custom duties, and provide a simple, step-by-step return checklist to ensure your refund is approved.
Overview of the Farfetch Return Policy
Farfetch offers free return pickups and a 14-day window for returns, but they enforce some of the strictest packaging and tagging requirements in the luxury retail space. Here is a quick breakdown of how their policy works:
| Topic | Details |
|---|---|
| Return Window | 14 days from delivery (Must arrive at the boutique by day 14). |
| The "7-Day Rule" | Book your pickup within 7 days to guarantee transit time. |
| Return Fee | 100% Free (when using the official Farfetch DHL/UPS courier). |
| Red Security Tag | Must remain fully attached; removal automatically voids your refund. |
| Refund Methods | Original payment method or Farfetch Store Credit. |
| Non-returnable Items | Final sale, custom items, opened beauty products, face masks. |
| Custom Duties Refund | Refunded automatically in US, UK, and EU. Manual claim required in Canada/others. |
Return Window & Eligibility
To successfully get a refund, you must follow Farfetch's specific timelines and item condition rules carefully.
The Strict 14-Day Return Window
Under the standard return window, you have exactly 14 days from the date your order is delivered for the item to arrive back at the Farfetch partner boutique.
The Crucial "7-Day Booking Rule"
This is the most common point of confusion for shoppers. Because international shipping takes time, Farfetch strongly recommends booking your free return collection (or dropping off your package) within 7 days of delivery.
If you wait until day 13 to ship your item, it will likely arrive at the boutique past the 14-day deadline, and the boutique has the right to reject your return.
Online vs In-Store Returns
Since Farfetch is an online marketplace, an in-store return is generally not possible. You cannot walk into a local boutique that partners with Farfetch to return an item you bought on the website. You must process an online return and mail the item back to the specific location it originated from.
Conditions for Accepted Returns
Luxury boutiques expect items to come back in pristine condition. Your item must be unworn, unwashed, undamaged, and free of makeup stains or perfume scents. In addition, you must meet these strict packaging rules:
- The Farfetch Red Security Tag: Every item arrives with a signature plastic red security tag attached. If this tag is cut, removed, or tampered with, your return will be instantly rejected. Do not remove this tag until you are 100% sure you are keeping the item.
- Designer Packaging: All original designer labels, tags, hangers, authenticity cards, and dust bags must be included.
- The Double-Boxing Rule for Shoes: Shoes must be returned inside their original, undamaged designer box. You must place this designer box inside an outer protective cardboard shipping box. If you stick a shipping label or tape directly onto a Gucci or Prada shoe box, the item is ruined, and your refund will be denied.
- Hygiene Seals: Swimwear, lingerie, and hosiery must be tried on over your own undergarments. The protective hygiene adhesive strip must be completely intact.
How to Return Items to Farfetch
Farfetch makes sending items back easy by offering a free courier pickup service right from your home.
How to Start an Online Return
Follow these steps to generate your return label and book your courier:
- Log in to your Farfetch account and open the Orders & Returns section.
- Select the order containing the items you wish to return.
- Choose the items and click Book Return Collection (for home pickup) or Drop-off (to leave it at a carrier location).
- If choosing pickup, schedule your preferred date, time, and pickup address.
- Download and print the pre-paid Return Label (Waybill) and the Return Note.
Preparing and Packing Your Return
Proper packing is essential for international luxury returns:
- Pack the Item: Place the unused item back into its original designer packaging with all dust bags and brand tags. Double-check that the Farfetch red tag is still attached.
- Double-Box: Place the designer packaging inside a protective outer shipping box.
- Include the Note: Put the printed Return Note inside the package.
- Attach the Label: Tape the pre-paid Return Label (Waybill) to the outside of the protective shipping box.
- Keep it Open for Customs: Do not seal the shipping box completely until the DHL or UPS courier has checked the items, as they often need to verify the contents for international customs paperwork.
If you are a frequent luxury shopper, you might also want to review the SSENSE return policy for comparison, as their international shipping rules share some similarities.
Refund Methods & Processing Time
Once your package makes its way back across the globe to the partner boutique, the refund process begins.
Refund Methods
Your approved refund will be issued back to your original refund method (such as your credit card, PayPal, or Apple Pay). Alternatively, you can request your refund as Farfetch Store Credit, which often processes faster.
Refund Timeline
Because items must travel internationally and undergo strict quality checks by the boutique, the processing time requires patience. Once the boutique receives and approves your return, Farfetch will issue the refund. It generally takes up to 14 business days for the funds to clear and appear on your bank or credit card statement.
Why a Refund Might Be Denied
To avoid losing your money, ensure you don't make these common mistakes. Farfetch will refuse a refund if:
- The red security tag is missing or cut.
- The designer shoe box was used as the shipping box and got covered in tape.
- The item shows signs of wear, washing, or damage.
- The package arrived at the boutique well past the strict 14-day limit.
Exchange Policy
Due to their unique marketplace model, Farfetch does not offer a direct exchange policy.
Because your item was purchased from a specific independent boutique, they cannot simply swap it for a different size from another boutique. If you need a different size or color, you must return your original item for a full refund and place a completely new order.
Since luxury items sell out fast, it is often best to purchase the new size immediately rather than waiting up to 14 days for your refund to process. If you frequently rely on exchanges to find the right fit, you may prefer shopping at retailers with more traditional stock systems; for example, check out the Revolve return policy to see how seamless domestic exchanges can be.
Non-returnable Items
Not everything bought on Farfetch can be sent back. The following non-returnable items are strictly excluded from refunds:
- Final Sale Items: Any merchandise clearly marked as "Final Sale" during clearance events.
- Custom Pieces: Made-to-order, personalized, bespoke, or custom-tailored clothing and jewelry.
- Opened Beauty Products: Skincare, cosmetics, haircare, and perfumes where the hygiene seal or plastic wrap has been broken.
- Face Masks: Unsealed face masks cannot be returned due to health and safety regulations.
- Incomplete Items: Anything returned without its original designer boxes, authenticity cards, or dust bags.
Fees, Deductions & Exceptions
Understanding what gets refunded-and what doesn't-is vital when shopping internationally.
Return Shipping Fees
Farfetch offers 100% free return shipping globally. They also do not charge any type of restocking fee. However, this is only free if you use the pre-printed labels provided in your Farfetch account and use their designated courier (DHL or UPS). If you ship it back yourself via the post office, Farfetch will not refund your shipping costs and is not liable if the package gets lost.
Original Shipping Costs
The original shipping fee you paid at checkout is non-refundable unless the item you received was faulty, damaged, or incorrect.
Custom Duties & Taxes (Crucial Info)
Since items ship globally, import duties can add up to a significant amount. How these are refunded depends on where you live:
- DDP Regions (US, UK, EU): Farfetch operates on a Delivery Duty Paid (DDP) basis here. This means customs duties and sales taxes are automatically included in your final refund from Farfetch.
- Non-DDP Regions (Canada, etc.): In certain countries, customs duties are collected directly by your local government, not Farfetch. These duties are non-refundable through Farfetch. You will need to manually apply for a refund directly from your local customs office using your return shipping paperwork.
Holiday & Extended Return Policies
If you are buying a luxury gift during the winter holidays, Farfetch provides a helpful buffer.
Under their extended holiday return policy, purchases made between late November and mid-December qualify for an extended return period. For the 2025/2026 holiday season, eligible items can usually be returned until mid-to-late January 2026. This gives gift recipients plenty of time to try on their items and book a courier pickup after the holidays are over.
Customer Support & Contact Information
If your item arrived damaged, or if you need help generating a return label, you should contact Farfetch customer support immediately. Note: If an item arrives damaged, you must report it within 48 hours of delivery to secure a refund.
- Phone (US): +1 646 791 3768
- Email Support: Use the contact form on the Farfetch "Contact Us" page.
- Live Chat: Available via the Farfetch website and mobile app.
- Support Hours: Monday–Friday (8:00 AM – 11:00 PM EST) and Saturday–Sunday (9:00 AM – 9:00 PM EST).
When reaching out, always have your order number, tracking number, and photos of the item ready to speed up the process.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I return an item to Farfetch if I removed the red plastic tag?
No. Farfetch has a strict policy regarding its signature circular red security tag. If this tag is cut, removed, or tampered with in any way, the return is considered void, and the boutique will reject your refund.
Are Farfetch returns free?
Yes, return shipping is completely free worldwide. However, you must use the pre-paid courier shipping label provided in your online account and schedule a pick-up using their designated courier (DHL or UPS).
What happens if I miss the 14-day return window?
Farfetch partners are under no obligation to accept late returns. If your package arrives at the boutique after 14 days, the return may be rejected and shipped back to you at your own expense.
Do I get my import duties refunded on a Farfetch return?
It depends on your country. In the US, UK, and EU, Farfetch includes customs duties and taxes in your refund. However, in countries like Canada, customs duties are non-refundable through Farfetch; you must manually file a claim directly with your local government customs office.
Can I return an item if I lost the original designer box?
No. Designer shoe boxes, dust bags, and brand packaging are considered part of the luxury product. Returns missing these original items will be immediately rejected.
How long does it take for a Farfetch refund to clear?
Once the partner boutique receives and approves your return, Farfetch issues the refund. It typically takes up to 14 business days for the funds to process and appear on your bank or credit card statement.
Can I drop off my Farfetch return at a local boutique?
No. Because Farfetch is an online marketplace connecting you to global sellers, you must mail your return back using their courier service. You cannot drop off returns at local brick-and-mortar partner stores.
What should I do if my luxury item arrives damaged?
You must contact Farfetch Customer Service within 48 hours of delivery. Take clear photos of the damage and the packaging to secure a free return and ensure you receive a full refund.
Disclaimer: Return policies may change at any time and can vary by location or local customs laws. Always confirm details on the official Farfetch website or directly with their customer service team. Information verified for 2026.
Found this helpful? Bookmark this page for the latest Farfetch return policy updates. If you love discovering the latest trends across different retailers, check out our guide on the That's So Fetch return policy and review our other fashion retailer guides before making your next big purchase!
