Return policy comparison · 2026
ModCloth vs Zappos
Policy data verified July 24, 2026 (ModCloth) and April 17, 2026 (Zappos)
ModCloth
B+
3.4 / 5.0 · Good
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 ModCloth's B+ (3.4/5.0). It wins 2 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.
ModClothZappos
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
| ModCloth | Zappos | |
|---|---|---|
| Return window | 30 days (from delivery, opened via Loop portal) | ✓ 365 days |
| Free returns | Yes (with Checkout+) | Yes |
| Restocking fee | None beyond the $12 processing fee for non-Checkout+ orders | None |
| Return shipping | Domestic returns get a prepaid label through the Loop portal; a $12 processing fee is deducted unless you purchased Checkout+ at checkout, which waives it. International orders in Australia, Canada, and the UK have carrier shipping fees deducted from the refund, and other international customers pay their own shipping and must email tracking within 5 business days. | Free both ways |
| Holiday extension | None published | ✓ Not specifically extended (already 365) |
| Non-returnable | Final sale items (store credit only via ModCloset program), gift cards, items missing original tags or the original plastic bag with barcode, worn or washed merchandise, shoes without their original box, swimwear with the hygienic liner removed | Final sale items, hazardous materials |
| Watch-out items | — | All items follow 365-day window |
ModCloth tip
Any discount code or coupon you used gets forfeited once you return the item, so a heavily discounted order might not be worth returning piece by piece if you're trying to keep that code active.
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, ModCloth or Zappos?
Zappos has the more generous return policy in 2026, grading A+ (5.0/5.0) against ModCloth's B+ (3.4/5.0). It wins 2 of 5 scoring axes; the biggest gap is the return window: 365-day window (industry-leading) versus 30-day window (industry standard).
What is ModCloth's return window?
ModCloth's return window is 30 days (from delivery, opened via Loop portal).
What is Zappos's return window?
Zappos's return window is 365 days.
Does ModCloth or Zappos offer free returns?
ModCloth: Yes (with Checkout+). Zappos: Yes.