Return policy comparison · 2026
Staples vs Timbuk2
Policy data verified April 17, 2026 (Staples) and July 24, 2026 (Timbuk2)
Winner
Staples
B
3.3 / 5.0 · Good
Timbuk2
C+
2.4 / 5.0 · Fair
The verdict
Staples has the more generous return policy in 2026, grading B (3.3/5.0) against Timbuk2's C+ (2.4/5.0). It wins 2 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.
StaplesTimbuk2
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
| Staples | Timbuk2 | |
|---|---|---|
| Return window | 14 days (technology); 30 days (other) | ✓ 30 days (ready-made items only) |
| Free returns | ✓ Yes (in-store) | No - $9.00 fee (deducted from refund) |
| Restocking fee | None | None beyond the $9.00 return shipping fee |
| Return shipping | Free returns | $9.00 return shipping fee deducted from your refund or store credit on all eligible returns |
| Holiday extension | ✓ Yes (holiday extension) | None published |
| Non-returnable | Opened software, final sale, custom print jobs | Custom-made bags (all sales final, no returns or exchanges), items marked Final Sale |
| Watch-out items | Technology items only 14 days | — |
Staples tip
Short 14-day window on technology. Other items 30 days. Office furniture may be 30-day trial.
Timbuk2 tip
The custom bag builder is fun but locks you in completely - once you design and order a custom Timbuk2 bag, there's no returning or exchanging it no matter what.
Frequently asked questions
Who has the better return policy, Staples or Timbuk2?
Staples has the more generous return policy in 2026, grading B (3.3/5.0) against Timbuk2's C+ (2.4/5.0). It wins 2 of 5 scoring axes; the biggest gap is the return shipping: free returns (incl. by mail) versus customer pays return shipping.
What is Staples's return window?
Staples's return window is 14 days (technology); 30 days (other).
What is Timbuk2's return window?
Timbuk2's return window is 30 days (ready-made items only).
Does Staples or Timbuk2 offer free returns?
Staples: Yes (in-store). Timbuk2: No - $9.00 fee (deducted from refund).