20% fee just for logging in on a phone before returning… anyone else?

I’m in the UK and bought the S24U last Thursday, got it on Friday. I decided I want to return it, so I contacted live chat yesterday. They told me that since I logged into the phone (to test the camera and download the camera assistant app), they would deduct 20% from the refund plus £5.99 for shipping.

I get the shipping part, but this login excuse feels over the top. I know it’s their policy, but it still feels harsh. Is there any way to avoid this fee? Thanks!

I had the same issue. I argued that UK consumer law doesn’t allow this kind of deduction, and they refunded me in full. Just stay firm.

Hollis said:
I had the same issue. I argued that UK consumer law doesn’t allow this kind of deduction, and they refunded me in full. Just stay firm.

That’s awesome! Quick question—will it be okay if I’m missing the original screen protector? Also, did you get any confirmation from the live chat before sending it back? I need to be ready for tomorrow.

@Blake
I always leave the screen protector on until I’m sure I won’t return something.

Teal said:
@Blake
I always leave the screen protector on until I’m sure I won’t return something.

I found it, but it’s ripped into two pieces. Hopefully, that’s not an issue!

Why are you returning it? Just curious.

Lane said:
Why are you returning it? Just curious.

I upgraded from an iPhone 14 Pro Max. The S24U is amazing, but this was kind of an impulse buy. I think I should’ve waited a few more years before upgrading.

@Blake
Got it. Hope you can get a full refund!

Lane said:
@Blake
Got it. Hope you can get a full refund!

Thanks! Fingers crossed.

@Blake
How’s the camera compared to the iPhone 14 Pro Max?

Keaton said:
@Blake
How’s the camera compared to the iPhone 14 Pro Max?

I like the iPhone’s camera more. The photos feel more natural, and the videos are way better, in my opinion. Night mode is also much better on the iPhone. The S24U is good, but it’s a bit hit-or-miss sometimes.

@Blake
I agree. I’ve had the S20, S21, and S24. The iPhone’s camera has a more consistent look. Samsung’s camera is good, but sometimes it feels off.

Their policy says downloading apps leads to a 20% fee, but testing functionality like in a store should be fine. If it’s worth it, you could consider small claims court.

UK distance selling laws give you a 14-day cooling-off period. They have to accept the return without deductions. I returned a used phone with no problems and even got a £50 voucher as compensation. Try calling or chatting with someone else. Be polite—it helps!

They charge a restocking fee because the phone is now considered used and can’t be sold as new. Most retailers do this, and it’s a standard practice for electronics.

Jaden said:
They charge a restocking fee because the phone is now considered used and can’t be sold as new. Most retailers do this, and it’s a standard practice for electronics.

Pretty sure UK consumer laws say that returns within 14 days must be free, even if the product is used. This might have changed post-Brexit, but in the EU, this fee would be illegal.

@Phoenix
Yeah, EU laws are different. In the US, restocking fees are common for opened electronics.

Vance said:
@Zadie
Really? I thought there wasn’t a restocking fee in the US.

It depends on the state. Most carriers I’ve seen charge restocking fees unless there’s a problem with the phone.

@Devi
This 100%. Make a single video showing everything from sealing the box to putting on the label.

Is this only in the UK? I thought trying out the phone would still mean you get a full refund.