Are you looking to return a TV, PC, computer, or electronic to Walmart?
Wondering how this process works — and if they really check the product you’re returning?
Below, we answer all your questions.
Does Walmart Check Returned Electronics?
Walmart does check all returned electronics. Employees will scan the item’s barcode and serial number to ensure that it is the correct item being returned. If it is not — and if it does not match what is on your receipt — they could deny the return.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
- Walmart scans electronic items’ barcodes and serial numbers to ensure the correct item is being returned.
- Walmart will not accept items that clearly have a different serial number than what is on your receipt.
- If you consistently partake in return fraud, you could be arrested.
There’s a lot you should know about how Walmart checks returned electronics.
Below, we tell you everything you should know.
How Does Walmart Check Returned Electronics?
Walmart does check returned electronics by scanning both the item’s barcode and serial number. If you have a receipt attached to your return, both of these must match what is on the receipt.
If the barcode or serial number doesn’t match, Walmart will deny your return.
What Happens if You Return a Walmart Item With a Different Serial Number?
If you try to return a Walmart item that has a different serial number than the one you bought, Walmart will quickly find this out during the return process. They scan both the barcode and the serial number — and they will learn that this is different than what is on your receipt.
As a result, Walmart will not accept your return, as it’s not the right item.
Walmart keeps a close eye on the serial numbers and barcodes of all its products. They have an extensive computer system that does all of this work for them.
So, they’ll know if what you’re returning doesn’t match what’s on your receipt!
Does Walmart Ban You for Returning Items With a Different Serial Number?
If Walmart suspects you of consistently partaking in fraudulent returns, they could decide to ban you from returning items — or ban you from Walmart.
Obviously, they don’t want the wrong items being returned and put back up for sale. Electronics are also often stolen, something they are trying to stop.
Many people try to steal electronics from Walmart, then sell them — even though they don’t have a receipt. However, they don’t normally get away with this, as Walmart will see that the item that was stolen was never actually checked out.
Walmart is very strict on theft and fraudulent returns. So, if they suspect that you are partaking in these activities, they could choose to ban you from the store. Or, they could call the police to let them know what is going on!
Is It Illegal to Return Fake Items to Walmart?
Returning fake items — also called fraudulent returns — can be illegal if Walmart chooses to contact local police or press charges. Fraud includes returning fake items to Walmart or other stores — and fraud is a crime.
If you consistently try to do this at your local Walmart, they may choose to call the police!
Conclusion
Walmart always checks returned electronics to ensure they are the correct items. The item you’re returning must match the item on your receipt.
Walmart scans both the barcode and the serial number of the returned item. If these numbers do not match what is on the receipt, they will deny the return service.
If you consistently partake in fraudulent returns, Walmart could begin to call the police on you!