Refund and Returns Policy
StampCollectShop LLC (“we,” “us,” or “our”) operates the online store at https://stampcollectshop.com (the “Site”). As the direct seller of record for all products listed—including authentic stamps, albums, supplies, and philatelic items—we are committed to customer satisfaction while preserving the integrity and value of collectibles. All payments are processed securely via direct credit/debit card gateways (Visa, Mastercard, American Express, Discover) under PCI DSS compliance, ensuring your transaction data is protected end-to-end.This Return & Refund Policy (“Policy”) outlines our procedures for returns, refunds, and exchanges. By purchasing from the Site, you agree to these terms. We reserve the right to update this Policy; changes will be posted here with the updated date. Continued use after changes constitutes acceptance.
Return Eligibility
Return eligibility applies to both defective (e.g., damaged in transit, counterfeit, or misdescribed) and non-defective products (e.g., change of mind, wrong order). We accept returns for eligible items provided they meet our strict condition standards, particularly for mint postage stamps and graded items where philatelic value depends on pristine condition.Voluntary returns are offered based on this uniform policy across all listings. This Policy does not limit your statutory rights under applicable consumer protection laws (e.g., FTC guidelines in the US). For high-value items authenticated by PSE, APEX, or Philatelic Foundation, eligibility requires preserving certification seals and original packaging.
Return Window
Customers may request a return, exchange, or refund for eligible purchases within 30 days from the delivery date, as confirmed by our shipping records. This 30-day period applies uniformly to defective and non-defective products, aligning with standard philatelic industry practices and our commitment to prompt resolution.Some product listings may reference promotional terms (e.g., “mint condition guarantee”), but this Policy governs all transactions. Requests after 30 days are considered on a case-by-case basis at our discretion, typically denied unless extraordinary circumstances apply (e.g., proven shipping delays). Extensions may be granted for international orders subject to customs delays, provided notification within the window.
How to Initiate a Return
Returns must be initiated by contacting us directly via email to obtain return merchandise authorization (RMA) and detailed mailing instructions. Our return terms are displayed on product listings, order confirmation pages, and account dashboards for transparency.
Step 1: Email support@stampcollectshop.com with your order number, item details, reason for return, and clear photos/videos of the issue/condition. Include proof of purchase if not in our system.
Step 2: We review and respond within 1-2 business days, issuing an RMA number if approved. We’ll provide a prepaid label for defective items or instructions for customer-paid returns.
Step 3: Pack securely (original packaging preferred; use protective mounts for stamps), label with RMA, and ship via trackable/insured carrier (USPS/UPS/FedEx recommended). Share tracking immediately.
If unresolved amicably, customers may pursue chargeback via their card issuer, subject to our evidence submission. All approved returns are processed via mail per our instructions. Non-compliance (e.g., unapproved shipping) may void eligibility.
Return Shipping Costs
Customers are responsible for return shipping costs unless the return is due to our error (defective, incorrect item/quantity, or damage verifiable by carrier claim). In such cases, we provide a prepaid/fully reimbursed label. No restocking fees are charged for any eligible return.For non-defective returns, use economical insured service; we reimburse up to $10 USD for standard domestic if pre-approved. International returns: Customer bears all costs, including duties. Refused packages or unclaimed shipments incur full charges.
Condition of Returned Items
Returned items must be in the exact mint or as-received condition—no fingerprints, bends, creases, exposure to moisture/humidity, or removal from protective sleeves/mounts/albums. This is critical for stamps, covers, and supplies to maintain collectible value and resale integrity.We specify condition standards per category (e.g., graded slabs unopened). Items failing inspection (e.g., postmarks added, toning from mishandling) are returned at customer expense or denied refund. Our philatelic experts (PSE/APEX certified) perform inspections within 3 business days of receipt.
Refund Process
Upon receipt and inspection confirming eligibility, we issue refunds via the original payment method (credit/debit card). Refunds cover purchase price + tax; original shipping deducted unless our fault. Once processed, card refunds appear in 3-10 business days, per issuer timelines.StampCollectShop LLC handles all refunds directly—no third-party processors involved beyond secure gateways. We do not hold/remarkets returns; items are inspected, repackaged (if mint), and restocked or donated as appropriate. Partial refunds may apply for partial returns/shipping damage claims.
Refund Timing
Refunds are initiated within 5 business days of approval/inspection. Actual crediting varies: 1-5 days for debit cards, 3-10 for credit. International: Up to 30 days due to networks. Track status via support ticket; delays from banks/carriers are beyond our control.
Buyer Protection Guarantee
As Official USPS Authorized Sales Representative, eligible purchases include our 30-Day Buyer Protection Guarantee, covering items not received, significantly not as described, or defective. We resolve claims internally; unresolved cases escalate to card issuer disputes.File via support email within 30 days. We investigate (photos, tracking, expert grading if needed). Decisions final but appealable with new evidence. This complements—not replaces—card issuer protections and statutory rights.
Exchanges
Exchanges offered for size/color/variant errors or defects, subject to stock availability and mint condition. Process mirrors returns: Email request, approval, ship back, new item shipped (free if our error). Multiple exchanges limited to 2 per order.
Platform & Policy Limitations
Exclusions: Custom/engraved items, digital downloads, opened authentication certificates, clearance “as-is,” perishable supplies (e.g., adhesives past expiry), or items damaged by misuse/improper storage. All sales final thereon. We do not accept walk-ins/drop-offs. Bulk/wholesale returns per separate agreement. Fraudulent claims void all protections. Violations may result in account suspension. Policy governed by California/US law; disputes via arbitration.