MHIC NASCLA Contractors Practice Exam

When a customer cancels a transaction and agrees to ship back the purchased item, who typically pays for the shipping?

1. The buyer

2. The seller

3. Shared equally by both

4. The marketplace

The correct answer is: The seller

In the context of a transaction where a customer cancels and agrees to ship back the purchased item, it is typically the seller who pays for the shipping costs involved with the return. This is often guided by the policies established by the seller or the marketplace they operate within. When customers make purchases, especially online, many sellers offer a return policy that includes free return shipping as a means to enhance customer satisfaction and encourage purchases. The cost is absorbed by the seller as a part of doing business. This practice helps to build trust with customers, as it reduces the perceived risk of making a purchase. In some instances, while sellers may choose to cover return shipping, there are also situations where they may have specific conditions or exceptions outlined in their return policy. However, the general expectation and standard practice leans towards the seller absorbing these costs in order to maintain a positive customer experience.