Return policy comparison · 2026
boohoo vs Zara
Policy data verified July 21, 2026 (boohoo) and April 17, 2026 (Zara)
boohoo
C
2.1 / 5.0 · Mediocre
Winner
Zara
B+
3.4 / 5.0 · Good
The verdict
Zara has the more generous return policy in 2026, grading B+ (3.4/5.0) against boohoo's C (2.1/5.0). It wins 3 of 5 scoring axes; the biggest gap is the return shipping: free in-store; mail may cost versus customer pays return shipping.
Score breakdown
Five axes, 5.0 points total — the same deterministic grader behind every Thrifle policy page.
boohooZara
Return window · worth 2.0
Restocking fee · worth 1.0
Return shipping · worth 1.0
Holiday window · worth 0.5
Transparency · worth 0.5
Key terms side-by-side
| boohoo | Zara | |
|---|---|---|
| Return window | 28 days (unworn, unwashed, tags attached) | ✓ 30 days |
| Free returns | No - fee deducted | ✓ Yes (in-store) |
| Restocking fee | — | None |
| Return shipping | $6.00 per parcel deducted from refund for boohoo items; $1.99 for concession brand items | $4.95 per item for mail |
| Holiday extension | — | ✓ Not specifically extended |
| Non-returnable | Fashion face masks, cosmetics/beauty products, pierced jewelry, swimwear or lingerie with broken seals, perishable goods, unwrapped software, custom/personalized items, vitamins with broken seals, in-store purchases | Underwear/swimwear without hygiene seal, pierced jewelry, opened cosmetics/perfume |
| Watch-out items | — | Sale items: same 30 days but clearance may be stricter |
boohoo tip
Opting for store credit instead of a refund to original payment gets a 20% bonus on the refund value, but there is no direct exchange option - you must return the item and place a new order separately.
Zara tip
Return in-store for free — mail returns cost $4.95 PER ITEM which adds up fast on hauls.
Frequently asked questions
Who has the better return policy, boohoo or Zara?
Zara has the more generous return policy in 2026, grading B+ (3.4/5.0) against boohoo's C (2.1/5.0). It wins 3 of 5 scoring axes; the biggest gap is the return shipping: free in-store; mail may cost versus customer pays return shipping.
What is boohoo's return window?
boohoo's return window is 28 days (unworn, unwashed, tags attached).
What is Zara's return window?
Zara's return window is 30 days.
Does boohoo or Zara offer free returns?
boohoo: No - fee deducted. Zara: Yes (in-store).