B&H Photo Return Policy
B&H Photo Video offers a 30-day return window on new and used items from the delivery or purchase date. Items must be in original condition with all accessories and packaging. Return shipping is the customer’s responsibility. A 15% restocking fee may apply if conditions aren’t met. Refunds process within 5–10 business days depending on payment method.
What Is B&H Photo’s Return Policy for New Items?
B&H Photo Video allows customers to return most new, unused items within 30 days of the delivery date for a full refund of the original purchase price. Returns can be initiated online, by phone, or via Live Chat.
To qualify for a full refund, all of the following conditions must be met:
- The item must be in new, unused condition
- It must be in its original, unaltered box
- All packing materials, manuals, blank warranty cards, and accessories must be included
- Any free items bundled with the purchase must also be returned
If free items are missing from the return, B&H will deduct their retail value from your refund. Shipping fees are nonrefundable in all cases.
| Detail | Policy |
| Return window | 30 days from delivery date |
| Condition required | New, unused, original packaging |
| Shipping fees | Nonrefundable |
| Restocking fee | Up to 15% if conditions not met |
| Initiation methods | Online, phone, or Live Chat |
Which Items Are Non-Returnable at B&H Photo?
B&H Photo Video does not accept returns on certain product categories, especially once packaging has been opened or unsealed. This is one of the most commonly misunderstood parts of the policy and one of the biggest gaps competitors’ guides fail to address clearly.
Cannot be returned if opened or unsealed:
- TVs and monitors 37″ and larger
- Computers and computer software
- Consumable items (film, tapes, paper, bulbs, CDs, DVDs, ink cartridges, etc.)
- Educational tapes and books
Cannot be returned under any circumstances
- Computers built or modified by B&H to customer specifications
- Underwater equipment that has been submerged
- Special-order merchandise marked as nonreturnable on the product page
- Electronic software downloads
Important note for laptop buyers: Because computers fall under the non-returnable-if-opened category, B&H Photo Video will generally only accept a computer return as an even exchange if the original unit is confirmed defective not simply because you changed your mind after opening it. If you’re buying a laptop, verify your decision carefully before opening the box.
How Do You Initiate a Return at B&H Photo Video?
Initiating a return at B&H Photo is a straightforward three-step process. You can do it online without needing to call anyone.
Step 1 Locate your order
Log in to your B&H account and go to My Account > My Orders. Filter by “Eligible for Return” and select Start a Return next to your item. If you checked out as a guest, use the Guest Order Lookup tool with your order number.
Step 2 Submit the RMA request
Complete the online Return Merchandise Authorization (RMA) Request. This authorizes your return and triggers B&H to generate your return label.
Step 3 Pack, label, and ship
Repack your item in its original box, including the invoice. B&H provides a prepaid FedEx return label if you use it, the shipping cost is deducted from your refund. Alternatively, you can purchase your own label from any carrier. Either way, B&H recommends insured ground shipping with a tracking number, as they are not responsible for lost, stolen, or damaged return packages.
Return shipping address:
Attn: Return Department
B&H Photo Video Inc.
290 Daniels Way
Burlington, NJ 08016-2141
Prefer to return in person? Drop off your item at B&H’s Returns Department, located on 34th Street at the NYC SuperStore, around the corner from the main entrance.
Real-world tip: The prepaid label B&H provides is specifically for FedEx. One customer documented scheduling a USPS pickup only to discover the label wasn’t compatible causing a significant delay. Always confirm the carrier before scheduling a pickup.
Does B&H Photo Charge a Restocking Fee?
B&H Photo Video may charge a minimum 15% restocking fee if any of the return eligibility conditions are not met. The fee is not automatically applied to every return.
In practice, customers who return items in original condition with all packaging and accessories typically do not encounter a restocking fee. According to B&H staff on DPReview forums, the fee is “infrequently applied” and is designed primarily to discourage misuse such as using gear and returning it as if new.
When you’re likely to see a 15% fee
- Item returned in non-original or damaged packaging
- Accessories, manuals, or warranty cards are missing
- Item shows signs of use beyond normal inspection
How to avoid the restocking fee
- Keep all original packaging intact until you’re certain you’re keeping the item
- Return all accessories and free items included in the order
- Initiate your return within the 30-day window
- If you’re unsure, contact customer service at cs@bhphoto.com with your order number before initiating
What Is B&H Photo’s Return Policy for Used Equipment?
B&H Photo Video’s used equipment return policy mirrors the new item policy in several ways but with one key difference in how the return window is calculated.
Used items must be returned within 30 days of the purchase date (not the delivery date). The item must be returned in the same condition as sold, with all included accessories.
| Detail | Used Item Policy |
| Return window | 30 days from purchase date |
| RMA required | Yes call 800.221.5743 or use Live Chat |
| Restocking fee | 15% if condition differs |
| Warranty | 90-day parts and labor |
| Credit card refund | Allow 7–10 days |
| Check refund | No sooner than 10 business days |
Every used item sold by B&H carries a 90-day limited parts and labor warranty, which covers operational defects from normal use. It does not cover damage from drops, spills, sand, or tampering.
To return a used item
- Call 800.221.5743 or open a Live Chat to obtain an RMA number
- Pack the item in its original shipping carton with the invoice and reason for return
- Affix the return label and ship via insured ground service with tracking
- In-person returns: 366 West 34th Street (between 8th and 9th Avenues), New York, NY 10001
How Are Refunds Processed at B&H Photo Video?
Once B&H receives and inspects your returned item, they issue the refund to the same payment method used for the original purchase.
| Payment Method | Refund Timeline |
| Credit / debit card (new items) | 5–7 business days after receipt |
| Credit card (used items) | 7–10 business days after receipt |
| Check | No sooner than 10 business days after purchase date |
B&H can only refund the original purchase price. Shipping and handling fees are never refunded, regardless of the reason for return.
What Happens If Your B&H Order Arrives Defective or Damaged?
B&H Photo Video handles defective and damaged items separately from standard returns. If your item arrives defective, B&H may repair it, exchange it for the same model (or manufacturer’s equivalent), or issue a refund at their discretion.
For items damaged in transit or with missing contents, you must report the issue within two business days of receiving the package. This is a strict deadline. Waiting longer than 48 hours could result in your claim being denied.
For verified defective or damaged items, B&H reimburses return shipping costs one of the
Tips for a Smooth B&H Photo Return Experience
Most return problems at B&H are avoidable. Here’s what experienced buyers recommend:
- Read the product page carefully before purchasing. Some items are marked nonreturnable directly on the listing.
- Keep all packaging until you’re 100% sure you’re keeping the item. Once packaging is damaged or discarded, you may face a restocking fee or a refused return.
- Photograph the item and packaging upon arrival. This protects you if a dispute arises about the condition of the return.
- Use insured shipping with a tracking number. B&H takes no responsibility for packages lost during return transit.
- Contact customer service before giving up. If you’re facing a restocking fee or denied return, call 800.221.5743 or email cs@bhphoto.com. Agents have discretion to assist.
- Don’t ship via a carrier that doesn’t match your prepaid label. B&H’s prepaid return labels are issued for FedEx specifically.
Know the Policy Before You Buy
B&H Photo Video’s return policy is more generous than many specialty retailers but it does have firm boundaries around opened computers, consumables, and special-order items. Understanding those limits before you click “add to cart” is the best way to shop confidently.
For most purchases cameras, lenses, lighting equipment, audio gear the 30-day window and hassle-free process make B&H a reliable choice. Use the contact options available (phone, live chat, email) early in the process if anything goes sideways.
Customer Service: 800.221.5743
Sales & Expert Advice: 800.606.6969
Email: cs@bhphoto.com
Live Chat: Available at bhphotovideo.com
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do I have to return an item to B&H Photo?
You have 30 days from the delivery date for new items, and 30 days from the purchase date for used items. Returns initiated after this window will not be accepted.
Does B&H Photo offer free returns?
No. Return shipping is the customer’s responsibility in most cases. B&H provides a prepaid FedEx label, but its cost is deducted from your refund. The only exception is for verified defective or damaged items, where return shipping is reimbursed.
Can I return an opened laptop or computer to B&H?
Generally, no. Computers and computer software cannot be returned once opened or unsealed. An exception may be made for an even exchange if the original unit is confirmed defective not for a change of mind.
How long does a B&H Photo refund take to appear?
Credit card refunds on new items take 5–7 business days after B&H receives the return. For used items, allow 7–10 business days. Check refunds are issued no sooner than 10 business days after the date of purchase.
What is B&H’s restocking fee and how do I avoid it?
B&H may charge a minimum 15% restocking fee if return conditions aren’t met. To avoid it, return the item in its original unaltered packaging with all accessories, manuals, and any included free items within the 30-day window.
Can I return a used item bought from B&H Photo?
Yes. Used items can be returned within 30 days of the purchase date in the same condition as sold, with all included accessories. A 15% restocking fee applies if the condition has changed.
Does B&H Photo accept in-person returns?
Yes. New item returns can be made at the Returns Department of the B&H NYC SuperStore on 34th Street. Used item in-person returns go to 366 West 34th Street (between 8th and 9th Avenues), New York, NY 10001.
What should I do if my B&H order arrived damaged or with missing items?
Report the issue within two business days of receiving the package by contacting B&H customer service. Claims submitted after this window may not be honored. For verified damage, B&H will cover return shipping.
Do I need to reset my phone or tablet before returning it to B&H?
Yes. Any electronics containing user profile data must be factory reset or password unlocked before being sent back. B&H is not responsible for personal data left in returned merchandise.
Can I exchange an item instead of returning it for a refund?
Yes. B&H allows exchanges within the same return window. For mail-in exchanges, allow 3–5 business days for processing once B&H receives the item.
