Return policy comparison · 2026
The Dessy Group vs Zappos
Policy data verified July 24, 2026 (The Dessy Group) and April 17, 2026 (Zappos)
The Dessy Group
C-
1.4 / 5.0 · Below Average
Winner
Zappos
A+
5.0 / 5.0 · Exceptional
The verdict
Zappos has the more generous return policy in 2026, grading A+ (5.0/5.0) against The Dessy Group's C- (1.4/5.0). It wins 4 of 5 scoring axes; the biggest gap is the return window: 365-day window (industry-leading) versus 30-day window (industry standard).
Score breakdown
Five axes, 5.0 points total — the same deterministic grader behind every Thrifle policy page.
The Dessy GroupZappos
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
| The Dessy Group | Zappos | |
|---|---|---|
| Return window | 30 days (ready-to-ship free of restocking fee; special order 25% fee) | ✓ 365 days |
| Free returns | No - $12.95 shipping fee | ✓ Yes |
| Restocking fee | 25% on special order (made-to-order) items; none on ready-to-ship items | ✓ None |
| Return shipping | $12.95 flat return shipping fee deducted from refund; original shipping fees are non-refundable | Free both ways |
| Holiday extension | None published | ✓ Not specifically extended (already 365) |
| Non-returnable | Fabric yardage and swatches, face masks, edible gifts and skincare gifts (all final sale) | Final sale items, hazardous materials |
| Watch-out items | — | All items follow 365-day window |
The Dessy Group tip
Dessy doesn't do exchanges — if the color or size is wrong, you return the original and place a brand-new order rather than swap directly.
Zappos tip
Best return policy in footwear — 365 days, free shipping both ways, gently worn OK.
Frequently asked questions
Who has the better return policy, The Dessy Group or Zappos?
Zappos has the more generous return policy in 2026, grading A+ (5.0/5.0) against The Dessy Group's C- (1.4/5.0). It wins 4 of 5 scoring axes; the biggest gap is the return window: 365-day window (industry-leading) versus 30-day window (industry standard).
What is The Dessy Group's return window?
The Dessy Group's return window is 30 days (ready-to-ship free of restocking fee; special order 25% fee).
What is Zappos's return window?
Zappos's return window is 365 days.
Does The Dessy Group or Zappos offer free returns?
The Dessy Group: No - $12.95 shipping fee. Zappos: Yes.