Return policy comparison · 2026
Common Good vs Lowe's
Policy data verified July 24, 2026 (Common Good) and April 17, 2026 (Lowe's)
Common Good
C+
2.4 / 5.0 · Fair
Winner
Lowe's
A
4.5 / 5.0 · Excellent
The verdict
Lowe's has the more generous return policy in 2026, grading A (4.5/5.0) against Common Good's C+ (2.4/5.0). It wins 3 of 5 scoring axes; the biggest gap is the return shipping: free returns (incl. by mail) versus customer pays return shipping.
Score breakdown
Five axes, 5.0 points total — the same deterministic grader behind every Thrifle policy page.
Common GoodLowe's
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
| Common Good | Lowe's | |
|---|---|---|
| Return window | 30 days (unopened/unused, original packaging) | ✓ 90 days (365 with Lowe's Advantage Card) |
| Free returns | No - fee deducted | ✓ Yes |
| Restocking fee | None published | None generally |
| Return shipping | Customer pays return shipping; original shipping costs are non-refundable | Free mail returns |
| Holiday extension | None published | ✓ Not specifically extended |
| Non-returnable | Sale items, opened/used items, items not in original packaging | Custom cuts, Lowe's Outlet items (ALL final sale), safety equipment used, liquid propane |
| Watch-out items | — | Major appliances 48 hours after delivery, outdoor power equipment 30 days |
Lowe's tip
1-year plant guarantee — bring back dead plants for a full refund. Outlet items are ALL final sale.
Frequently asked questions
Who has the better return policy, Common Good or Lowe's?
Lowe's has the more generous return policy in 2026, grading A (4.5/5.0) against Common Good's C+ (2.4/5.0). It wins 3 of 5 scoring axes; the biggest gap is the return shipping: free returns (incl. by mail) versus customer pays return shipping.
What is Common Good's return window?
Common Good's return window is 30 days (unopened/unused, original packaging).
What is Lowe's's return window?
Lowe's's return window is 90 days (365 with Lowe's Advantage Card).
Does Common Good or Lowe's offer free returns?
Common Good: No - fee deducted. Lowe's: Yes.