Lowe’s is the US’ most loved DIY and hardware store boasting a massive $100 billion annual revenue.
They stock a wide range of power and conventional tools from all of the main brands such as:
- Dewalt
- Bosch
- Kobalt
- Metabo
- Skil and
- Craftsman
If you’ve purchased tools from Lowe’s but perhaps they’re not quite up to scratch and you want to source a refund, then you need to act quickly as they have a limited returns policy like most companies.
To assist you there, we’ve examined Lowe’s tool return policy and will bring you up to speed with how long the return window is, how to make a return, when to expect a refund, and much more.
Let’s take a look…
What is Lowe’s Tool Return Policy? In Short
In short, Lowe’s general return policy is that you can return tools to them within 90 days of the original purchase date.
However, this is reduced to 30 days for “outdoor power equipment” which is stated as:
- Mowers
- Chainsaws
- Generators
- Pressure washers
- Trimmers
- Blowers
- Snow throwers
- Log splitters
- Wood chippers
- Hedge trimmers
- Edgers
- Tillers
- Earth augers and
- Brush cutters
These must be returned within 30 days of receiving the product and must be unused and in original, unopened, undamaged, factory-sealed packaging. They do provide an exception for this category of tool made by Craftsman or Black and Decker where the policy is extended to 90 days for these brands.
If you purchased tools with your Lowe’s Commercial Account, Lowe’s Business Advantage, Lowe’s Advantage Card, or Lowe’s Business Rewards then the return window is extended to 365 from the date of purchase unless the product is noted in the exceptions (see the outdoor power equipment above).
You can generally return goods to Lowe’s for any number of reasons such as:
- It being the wrong item
- If you’ve changed your mind
- If the tool is no longer required
- Unwanted gifts
Lowe’s will generally ask that the tools are in new and unused condition.
Related Reading:
Lowe’s Appliance Return Policy
Can You Return Defective Tools to Lowe’s?
If your tools arrive defective or develop a fault soon after receipt, then Lowe’s asks you reach out to them at 1-800-445-6937 within 3 days of receipt and they will arrange for a repair under the manufacturer’s warranty at no cost to you.
You should also be able to request a replacement item under the returns window detailed above.
Lowe’s has a special warranty and lifetime guarantee for Kobalt tools set out here.
How to Return Tools to Lowe’s?
It’s super easy to make a return at Lowe’s.
You can return items using the online return process (mail-in) or by dropping the tools at any of Lowe’s stores.
The easiest way is to simply return the tools back to your local store.
You will need to:
- Bring the item to any of Lowe’s stores
- Head to the customer service desk
- Present the item with proof of purchase and a valid ID
You can also get a return barcode to speed things up.
You can also start a return online.
You will then need to:
- Box the item up
- Print the two returns labels provided when starting your online return (see link above)
- Seal and ship your tools
Does Lowe’s Provide Free Returns on Tools?
You can return items to Lowe’s for free as they provide prepaid returns labels when you make your return.
However, they do not refund the initial delivery charges unless the item was sent due to Lowe’s error.
A bonus is that they do not charge a re-stocking fee as some stores do.
How Long Does it Take to get a Refund?
If you return the tools in-store, you can expect your refund to be processed there and then and to receive the funds back in your account within a few days depending on your bank or card issuer.
If you return the items using the mail-in process, then allow up to 14 days.
What’s Lowe’s No Receipt Return Policy on Tools?
In most instances, Lowe’s will be able to trace your order using the credit card you made the purchase with, with your My Lowe’s card, or just using your phone number.
If you’re unable to provide any of those then Lowe’s may offer a refund in in-store credit for you to use in-store.
Without a receipt, Lowe’s will require a valid Government issued ID which you’ll need to present to them.
What to Do Outside the Return Window?
If the return window has already expired then you still have a few options:
- If the product is defective we would advise reaching out to Lowe’s as they should be able to secure a refund or repair for you under the warranty. Most branded tools come with a guarantee of at least one year;
- Speak to a manager and see if they can extend the window. There may be some flexibility if the window has only just expired or you’re Lowe’s member;
- In the case of tools where a defect has developed outside the warranty or if the item has been accidentally damaged, check your insurance policies. Many home insurance policies come with cover in these circumstances;
- Another option is to simply sell your tools on Facebook Marketplace, eBay, or online forums. Power tools tend to have good resale value.
How Does Lowe’s Tool Return Policy Compare to Others?
We’ve had a look at some other stores to see how their tool returns policy holds up.
Here’s what we found:
| Store | Return Window |
| Kohl’s | 180 days |
| Walmart | 90 days |
| Costco | Return any time |
| Home Depot | 90 days |
Final Thoughts
Lowe’s offers a fairly average 90-day returns policy on its tools which is made more complicated by the fact that it’s reduced to 30 days on certain outdoor power tools.
However, it offers a great selection of tools at reasonable prices and the returns window is extended to a year if you purchased with a Lowe’s Commercial Account, Lowe’s Business Advantage, Lowe’s Advantage Card, or Lowe’s Business Rewards.
Moreover, they offer free returns and no re-stocking fee.
