Returns on Vinted work a little differently than traditional online shops. Since Vinted is a peer-to-peer marketplace — meaning you're buying directly from other users — there’s no standard return policy like you’d get from a retail store. That said, returns are possible, but only in certain situations and under specific conditions.
If the item you receive is damaged, not as described, or never arrives, you’re covered by Vinted’s Buyer Protection. But if you simply change your mind or it doesn’t fit quite right, you're generally not eligible for a return.
When Are Returns Allowed
Vinted allows returns if the item you receive is significantly different from the listing. This includes:
- The wrong size being sent
- Damage that wasn’t mentioned in the description
- A completely different item
- Missing parts or accessories
- Fakes or counterfeit products
In these cases, you can report the issue within two days of delivery. If approved, you’ll return the item to the seller, and your payment will be refunded once it’s confirmed returned.
The system is designed to protect honest buyers from misleading listings, while still safeguarding sellers from casual returns.
When You Can’t Return an Item
You can’t return something just because:
- You’ve changed your mind
- It doesn’t fit
- You don’t like the colour or style
- You found it cheaper elsewhere
Vinted’s model is based on secondhand sales between individuals, not shops. Because of this, all sales are considered final unless there’s a clear issue with the item’s condition or accuracy.
To avoid disappointment, it’s always best to double-check item sizes, read descriptions carefully, and message the seller with questions before buying.
How the Return Process Works
If you believe there’s a genuine problem with your order, you need to open a dispute within two days of receiving the item. You do this by going to your order, tapping “I have an issue,” and following the steps provided.
Vinted may ask for photos or evidence to back up your claim. If your case is approved, you’ll be given return instructions and the seller will be expected to cover return postage in most cases. Once the seller confirms receipt, or tracking shows the item was returned, your money is refunded.
If you miss the two-day window, the order is automatically marked as completed, and you lose the right to request a return — even if the item has issues.
Can Sellers Refuse Returns?
Sellers can’t block or refuse returns when Vinted rules in the buyer’s favour. If a return is approved by the platform, the seller must accept the return and complete the refund once they receive the item back. Refusing to do so can lead to warnings, account restrictions or removal from the platform.
If a seller disagrees with a return request, they can submit evidence to Vinted during the dispute process — but the final decision lies with the platform.
Does Vinted Mediate
Unlike regular retailers who might process a return just to keep you happy, Vinted takes a stricter, evidence-based approach. If you report an issue, you’ll need to prove it. That means clear photos, screenshots of the original listing, and a short explanation of what went wrong. If you can’t show that the item is damaged, fake or not as described, Vinted won’t approve the return — even if you’re genuinely disappointed.
What is Auto-Completion
If you don’t open a dispute within two days of the item being marked as delivered, the system will automatically complete the order and release the funds to the seller. After that point, you can’t start a return or complaint through the app — even if something’s wrong. This deadline catches a lot of people off guard, especially if they’re waiting to try something on or haven’t opened the parcel yet.
The safest thing to do is check and inspect your item the same day it arrives, just in case.
Return Postage
In many return cases, especially when Vinted decides the seller was at fault, the seller is expected to pay for return shipping. But the process can vary, depending on the issue and the region. Sometimes Vinted provides a return label, other times the buyer pays upfront and gets reimbursed. It’s not always clear-cut, which can frustrate both sides.
If you’re a buyer making a claim, save all receipts and tracking details — in case you need to upload them to get reimbursed.
Are Sellers Protected
Not all return attempts are genuine. Sometimes buyers try to send back a different item, claim something is fake without proof, or try to get a refund while keeping the goods. Vinted investigates both sides of a dispute before issuing a decision. If the seller can show they sent the correct item, in good condition, they won’t be penalised.
This balanced system gives sellers confidence that they won’t be taken advantage of — as long as they stick to the rules.
You Can’t Return Through the Post Office Yourself
Vinted only processes returns that go through their system. If you send an item back to the seller outside the app — for example, paying for postage yourself before Vinted approves the return — you might lose any chance of getting a refund. Always wait for the platform’s instructions, even if it slows things down.
Summary
You can return items on Vinted, but only when there’s a genuine problem like damage, a wrong item, or false advertising. Vinted doesn’t allow returns for fit issues or change-of-mind purchases, so it’s important to buy carefully. If there’s a problem, raise it within two days of delivery to stay protected. The process is designed to keep things fair and simple, while making sure buyers aren't left stuck with items that don’t match the listing.