Walmart Return Hours in 2024: Everything You Need to Know

Returning an item to Walmart is effortless when you understand the retailer‘s return policies and store hours. With over 4,700 Walmart locations in the U.S., there are ample opportunities to process returns and exchanges. However, Walmart return hours vary by store, and rules differ across product categories.

Follow this 2023 guide to master Walmart returns and get quick refunds with no hassle.

Key Stats and Facts on Walmart Returns

• Walmart processes over $30 billion in returns annually, with 10-15% of purchases brought back to stores.

• Top return categories include apparel, electronics, home goods, and toys.

• Per Walmart‘s 2021 fiscal report, the company averaged over 1 million customer returns processed per day.

• Survey data shows 75% of Walmart shoppers check return policies prior to purchasing.

When Are Walmart Return Hours?

Walmart standardizes return hours across all store locations:

Exact hours can vary – be sure to call ahead to your specific store for their desk hours. Returns are not allowed before or after posted hours.

Best and Worst Times to Make Walmart Returns

Based on consumer surveys and employee reports, the optimal times for quick, seamless Walmart returns are:

• Early weekday mornings – Right after opening, between 7-10am on Monday through Friday.

• Weekday evenings – During the hour before closing, after 9pm.

The most hectic, crowded times with long wait times tend to be:

• Lunch hours – 11am to 2pm on weekdays.

• Weekends – Mid-morning to mid-afternoon on Saturdays and Sundays.

Can You Return Items Outside of Return Hours?

Walmart highly discourages returns outside of posted customer service desk hours. Some locations may allow returns at checkout registers when the desk is closed. However, policies vary, and associates cannot guarantee after-hours returns.

Your best bet is sticking to regular return hours. Come back another day rather than trying to make a return at closing time. This avoids hassling employees as they shut down registers.

Expert Tips for Seamless Walmart Returns

Follow this advice from Walmart insiders to process returns smoothly:

• Bring your receipt – Having the original receipt speeds up the return verification process. You can also look up receipts if you used a Walmart account or credit card.

• Keep original packaging – Returns with original boxes, tags, and accessories have higher approval rates. Certain products like electronics often require factory boxes.

• Review return limits – Be aware of time restrictions (typically 90 days) and restocking fees on some items. Know the return policy before purchasing.

• Return to original store – For online orders, returns are fastest at the Walmart location used for fulfillment. Returns via shipping take 1-2 weeks to process.

• Visit Customer Service – The Customer Service desk has dedicated staff for handling returns. Avoid inconveniencing cashiers with returns at checkout.

• Check for recalls – If returning a recalled product, bring the notice from Walmart or the manufacturer. Recalls typically have expanded return options.

The Bottom Line

Understanding the nuances of Walmart‘s return system enables fast refunds and exchanges. With adjustable hours and policies between locations, do research ahead of time. Follow the tips here to breeze through Walmart returns and avoid headaches.