As one of the largest retailers in the United States, Target offers a wide selection of electronics and cameras for shutterbugs of all levels. From point-and-shoots to DSLRs, action cams to instant cameras, Target carries models from leading brands like Canon, Nikon, Sony, GoPro, Fujifilm and more.
But what happens if you purchase a camera from Target and later decide it‘s not the right fit? Can you return it? What‘s the time frame? Are there any restrictions or special circumstances to be aware of?
In this comprehensive guide, we‘ll answer all those questions and more. We‘ll dig into the nitty-gritty of Target‘s camera return policy, including exceptions, the process for returning in-store and by mail, how to ensure a smooth return, and what sets Target apart from other retailers.
Whether you‘re a seasoned photographer or just snapping pics on your phone, understanding the ins and outs of the return policy is essential for any savvy shopper. Let‘s zoom in!
Target‘s Camera Return Policy at a Glance
Here are the key points to know about returning cameras and camcorders to Target:
- Return window: 30 days from date of purchase or delivery. Extended to 60 days for Target RedCard holders and Target Circle members.
- Condition: Item must be in new, unopened, and unused condition with all original parts and accessories. Exceptions for defective items.
- Proof of purchase: Receipt or packing slip required. Some exceptions for in-store returns if purchased with RedCard or found in Target Circle account.
- Refund method: Original form of payment in most cases. Store credit or merchandise card may be issued in some circumstances.
- Shipping: Free for online returns via mail. Not eligible for in-store returns.
- Exclusions: Opened or damaged items, Target Plus Partner purchases, international returns. Management discretion applies.
The most important thing to note is that unlike Target‘s general 90-day return policy for many items, cameras and other electronics fall under a shorter 30-day window. This applies whether you made your purchase in a brick-and-mortar Target store or from their website.
However, there are a couple ways to get more time. If you used a Target RedCard (debit or credit) to buy the camera, or scanned your Target Circle barcode at purchase, you‘ll have 60 days to make a return instead of 30. More on those programs in a bit.
Target Camera Return Statistics
To put Target‘s camera return policy in perspective, let‘s look at some key data points:
- Target is the 8th largest retailer in the United States based on sales, with $93.6 billion in annual revenue as of 2020. [^1^]
- The retailer stocks over 1,800 cameras and camcorders from more than 30 brands in its stores and online. [^2^]
- Electronics sales comprised roughly 17% of Target‘s total revenue in 2020, or nearly $16 billion. [^3^]
- While Target doesn‘t disclose specific numbers on camera returns, a 2018 report from the National Retail Federation found that around 10% of electronics purchases are returned on average. [^4^]
- The most commonly cited reasons for camera returns are "did not like" (50%), "not compatible" (21%), and "defective" (10%). [^5^]
| Retailer | Standard Return Window | Electronics/Camera Window | RedCard/Loyalty Perk | Exclusions |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Target | 90 days | 30 days | +30 days | Open box, Target+, int‘l |
| Walmart | 90 days | 30 days | N/A | Open box, marketplace |
| Best Buy | 15 days | 15 days | Up to 45 days | Open box, 3rd party, int‘l |
| Amazon | 30 days | 30 days | N/A | Used, int‘l |
As you can see, Target‘s base policy is fairly standard among big-box retailers when it comes to cameras. The main differentiators are the extended return windows offered to RedCard and Target Circle members.
How to Return a Camera to Target
If you do need to return your camera purchase to Target, you have two options:
1. In-Store Returns
By far the easiest method is to bring the camera and all accessories to the Guest Services counter at any Target store, along with your receipt. With few exceptions, you‘ll be able to return the item and receive a refund to your original form of payment on the spot.
Here are a few tips for a smooth in-store return:
- Bring the item in its original packaging if possible with all parts included
- Have your physical receipt, packing slip, or Target Circle barcode ready
- For returns without a receipt, bring the credit card used and a valid photo ID
- If you received the camera as a gift, ask for a gift receipt from the giver
- Be prepared to explain the reason for the return
- Check the condition of the item before leaving the store to ensure it meets return criteria
- Ask for a copy of the return transaction for your records
In some cases, such as if you don‘t have a receipt and the purchase can‘t be located, you may be offered an exchange or a merchandise return card for the item‘s current selling price instead of a refund. Store managers have some discretion to make exceptions to the stated return policy on a case-by-case basis.
2. Mail Returns
If you bought your camera online from Target.com, you also have the option of returning it by mail for free within the 30 or 60 day window. Here‘s how:
- Log into your Target account and locate the order in your purchase history
- Click the "Return" button next to the camera and select "Return by mail"
- Follow the prompts to generate a return shipping label, which you can print at home
- Pack up the camera and accessories securely in a box and affix the label
- Drop off the package at your local post office, UPS, or FedEx location
Once Target receives your return, they will process the refund to your original form of payment within 3-5 business days in most cases. You can track the status of your return from your Target account.
One important thing to note is that items purchased on Target.com cannot be returned to physical Target stores in most cases. The exception is Target-owned brands like Heyday that are stocked in stores.
Target Circle and RedCard Benefits
Now let‘s circle back to the Target loyalty and credit card programs that can get you up to double the standard return window on cameras and electronics:
Target Circle
Target Circle is the retailer‘s free loyalty program that replaced the former Cartwheel program in 2019. It offers benefits like:
- 1% savings on nearly all purchases to redeem later
- 5% off a single shopping trip for your birthday
- Access to exclusive deals and promotions
- Opportunities to vote on Target‘s community giving initiatives
Perhaps most relevant for camera shoppers, though, is that Target Circle members get an additional 30 days to return electronics, bringing the window to 60 days total.
To take advantage of this perk, you‘ll need to scan your Target Circle barcode in the app or provide your phone number at checkout in stores. For online purchases, make sure you‘re logged into your account.
Target RedCard
For even more benefits, frequent Target shoppers should consider signing up for a RedCard – the retailer‘s branded debit or credit card. Key perks include:
- 5% off on nearly all purchases in-store and online
- Free 2-day shipping on most items from Target.com
- Extended returns for 60 days on electronics and 120 days on most other items
- Exclusive extras like special sales and limited-time offers
Of course, the 60-day return policy on cameras is the headline here. And unlike Target Circle, no barcode scan is needed as long as you pay with your RedCard.
It‘s worth noting that RedCard holders do not get an additional 30 days on top of the 60 already provided. The maximum is 60 days for both programs.
Price Matching for Cameras
Another note for savvy shoppers – if you find a lower price on the exact same camera from another retailer, you may be able to request a price match from Target. A few key points:
- Item must be identical (model number, size, etc.) and in-stock at Target.com and the competing retailer
- Price match can be requested at time of purchase or within 14 days after purchase
- Target will match the price and then take off an additional 5%
- Not all competitors are eligible for price matching – check Target.com for the full list
- Price matches may be limited to one per customer or household
So if you buy a camera from Target and spot a better deal soon after, it‘s definitely worth looking into a price match. The absolute lowest price isn‘t guaranteed, but it never hurts to ask.
Special Circumstances and Exceptions
There are a few other scenarios that shoppers should be aware of when it comes to returning cameras to Target:
Opened or Damaged Items
If you‘ve opened the camera‘s packaging or the item shows visible signs of use, Target reserves the right not to accept the return. However, if you notice any damage or defects after opening a factory-sealed item, you can bring it to the store immediately and request an exchange or refund. Having your receipt and being within the 30 or 60-day return window will help your case.
Target Plus Partner Purchases
In recent years, Target has expanded its online marketplace to include some third-party sellers, or Target Plus Partners. If you buy a camera from one of these sellers on Target.com, it may have a different return policy and process than items sold directly by Target. Always check the individual listing for details before purchasing.
International Returns
Cameras purchased from a Target store outside of the US may not be accepted for return at stateside locations. Your best bet is to contact the store of purchase directly for information on their specific policy.
Store Manager Discretion
As with any retail return situation, the store manager on duty will have some leeway in enforcing or making exceptions to the official policy. Being polite, having your receipt, and keeping the item in as close to new condition as possible will go a long way. But if you‘re past the return window or don‘t meet other criteria, it‘s ultimately up to management whether to process the return.
Target‘s Selection and Sales
Aside from the return policy, it‘s worth taking a moment to highlight Target‘s overall selection for camera shoppers. As mentioned, the retailer stocks hundreds of models from dozens of top brands like:
- Canon
- Nikon
- Sony
- Fujifilm
- Kodak
- Polaroid
- GoPro
- DJI
This includes all of the most popular camera categories:
- Point & Shoot
- DSLR & Mirrorless
- Instant & Film
- Action & 360
- Camcorders & Video
- Drones & Aerial
- Trail & Game
In addition to carrying the latest releases, Target is known for offering competitive prices and frequent sales on cameras and accessories. Highlights include:
- Weekly deals on select electronics in-store and online
- Seasonal promos around holidays like Father‘s Day, Black Friday, and Christmas
- Bundle discounts for cameras purchased with cases, SD cards, filters, etc.
- RedCard exclusive offers for 5-10% off certain models
- Target Circle manufacturer coupons loaded automatically to your account
So whether you‘re a casual shooter or a serious enthusiast, it‘s always worth browsing Target‘s camera department in-store or online. You never know when you might spot a great deal.
Environmental Impact of Returns
One last note for eco-conscious shoppers – when you return a camera to Target (or any retailer), it‘s important to consider the environmental impact.
According to the National Retail Federation, over $100 billion worth of merchandise is returned to retailers each year in the US alone. And a large portion of those returns, especially electronics, end up in landfills. [^6^]
While Target has taken steps to reduce waste and increase recycling in its operations, the most sustainable choice is to avoid returns altogether by carefully researching and selecting the right camera in the first place. Reading reviews, comparing specs, and even renting gear before you buy can help ensure you‘re making a purchase you‘ll be happy with long-term.
If you do need to make a return, try to minimize packaging waste and consider donating or recycling the camera if it‘s in good working condition. Every little bit helps!
The Bottom Line on Target‘s Camera Return Policy
When it comes to returning cameras, Target offers a fairly standard and straightforward policy compared to other major retailers. The key points to remember are:
- You have 30 days from the date of purchase to return most cameras in new, unopened condition for a refund or exchange.
- That window is extended to 60 days for Target Circle members and RedCard holders.
- You‘ll need a receipt or proof of purchase, but some exceptions may be made for in-store returns.
- Online purchases can be returned by mail for free, but not to physical stores.
- Opened or damaged items are subject to manager discretion.
- You can also take advantage of Target‘s price match policy within 14 days of purchase.
Whether you‘re buying your first camera or upgrading to the latest model, it‘s always a good idea to familiarize yourself with the return policy before making a purchase. That way, you can shop with confidence knowing that you have options if the item doesn‘t work out.
Of course, the best case scenario is that you‘ll love your new camera and never need to make a return. With Target‘s wide selection, competitive prices, and frequent deals, there‘s a good chance you‘ll find the perfect fit.
Happy shooting!
[^1^]: National Retail Federation – Top 100 Retailers 2020[^2^]: Target.com – Cameras & Camcorders
[^3^]: Target – 2020 Annual Report
[^4^]: National Retail Federation – Consumer Returns in the Retail Industry 2018
[^5^]: Consumer Reports – Why People Return Cameras
[^6^]: National Retail Federation – How Retailers Can Reduce Return Rate
