Return policy comparison · 2026
Staples vs Vistaprint
Policy data verified April 17, 2026 (Staples) and July 24, 2026 (Vistaprint)
Winner
Staples
B
3.3 / 5.0 · Good
Vistaprint
B-
2.6 / 5.0 · Fair
The verdict
Staples has the more generous return policy in 2026, grading B (3.3/5.0) against Vistaprint's B- (2.6/5.0). It wins 2 of 5 scoring axes; the biggest gap is the holiday window: extended holiday window versus no holiday extension.
Score breakdown
Five axes, 5.0 points total — the same deterministic grader behind every Thrifle policy page.
StaplesVistaprint
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 | Vistaprint | |
|---|---|---|
| Return window | 14 days (technology); 30 days (other) | 14 days (defective/non-conforming products only) |
| Free returns | Yes (in-store) | Yes |
| Restocking fee | None | None published |
| Return shipping | Free returns | For defective/damaged/non-conforming products, Vistaprint refunds the purchase price plus an appropriate share of shipping costs, or reprints at no charge, once you contact Customer Care within 14 days of delivery. |
| Holiday extension | ✓ Yes (holiday extension) | None published |
| Non-returnable | Opened software, final sale, custom print jobs | Non-defective custom-printed products (no general buyer's-remorse returns since items are made to order); subsequent subscription charges after the initial 14-day cancellation window |
| Watch-out items | Technology items only 14 days | Subscription services: 14-day cancellation window from the date you subscribed, separate from the product defect window, and it applies only to the initial subscription charge |
Staples tip
Short 14-day window on technology. Other items 30 days. Office furniture may be 30-day trial.
Vistaprint tip
Because custom-printed goods can't be returned for a change of mind, inspect your order and photograph any defect immediately — you have only 14 days from delivery to report it or the warranty is voided.
Frequently asked questions
Who has the better return policy, Staples or Vistaprint?
Staples has the more generous return policy in 2026, grading B (3.3/5.0) against Vistaprint's B- (2.6/5.0). It wins 2 of 5 scoring axes; the biggest gap is the holiday window: extended holiday window versus no holiday extension.
What is Staples's return window?
Staples's return window is 14 days (technology); 30 days (other).
What is Vistaprint's return window?
Vistaprint's return window is 14 days (defective/non-conforming products only).
Does Staples or Vistaprint offer free returns?
Staples: Yes (in-store). Vistaprint: Yes.