Ace Hardware Return Policy: Simplified

Ace Hardware is one of the largest home improvement and hardware stores in the United States. They sell tools, paint, garden supplies, and home improvement products.

If you ever need to return something you bought from acehardware.com, this guide will help you understand the rules in simple language.

Ace Hardware Return Policy Overview

Return Window	30 days from the original purchase date
Return Method	Return to a nearby Ace retail store or contact Customer Care
Condition of Items	Must be unused, uninstalled, and in original packaging
Required Documents	Original receipt, packing slip, product instructions, photo ID
Refund Method	Original payment method or Ace gift card if the original method is not available
Shipping Charges Refund	Only if the item was damaged, defective, or incorrect item received
Restocking Fee (for certain items)	15%, minimum $20 for assembled items
Exceptions	Gift cards, clearance items, hazardous materials, and tinted paint
Contact for Returns	Customer Care: 888-827-4223

How to Return an Item

You can return most items within 30 days from the date of purchase.
Items must be unused and in like-new condition.
Keep the product in its original box or packaging.
Bring the original receipt, product instructions, all parts, and a valid photo ID.
You can return items to your nearest Ace retail store.
If there’s no store near you, call Customer Care at 888-827-4223 for help.

Refund Process

Refunds will be given in the original form of payment.
If you used Ace Rewards points for your purchase, those points are forfeited when you return the item.
If the original payment method is unavailable, you’ll get an Ace gift card.
Shipping costs will not be refunded unless the item was damaged or incorrect.
Assembly or delivery fees are not refunded.
Refunds can take 3–5 business days to process.

Items You Cannot Return

Gift cards (no returns for any reason).
Clearance items (final sale).
Hazardous materials or items with flammable liquids and gases.
Tinted paint (customized paint colors cannot be returned or exchanged).

Outdoor Power Equipment and Grills

These items can be returned within 30 days if unused and in original packaging.
If fuel or oil has been added, they cannot be returned.
In such cases, you will need to contact the manufacturer.
Check the owner’s manual or call 888-827-4223 to find service center information.

Special Return Cases

Buy One Get Another (BOGA) Items

If your receipt shows the return value for each item, you can return one or both.
If your receipt does not show the return value, you must return all items in the offer.
Partial returns will not be refunded.

Delivered, Assembled, or Customized Items

Return these items to the same local Ace store where they were assembled or delivered.
The store may charge a 15% restocking fee (minimum $20) if the item is not defective.
There might be a $15 pickup fee if the item was correct but you still want to return it.
Tinted paint orders from acehardware.com are final and cannot be returned.

Vendor-Specific Return Policies

STIHL Products

Must be returned to the original store where purchased.
Stores without STIHL products cannot accept returns for them.

Hanover Outdoor Products

Returns accepted within 30 days of receipt.
Do not return to an Ace Hardware store.
Contact Hanover customer service at 877-397-5144 or email contactus@hanoverproducts.com.

Little Giant Ladder Systems

Some ladders are fulfilled directly by the vendor.
Return within 30 days if unused and in new condition.
A restocking fee up to 35% may apply for returns after 30 days.
Return shipping is your responsibility.
Contact Little Giant at 800-453-1192 or customerservice@ladders.com.

MR COOL Products

Some products are fulfilled by MR COOL.
Return within 30 days in original packaging.
A 15% restocking fee and return shipping charges apply if the item is not damaged or defective.
Contact MR COOL at 270-366-0457 or email support@mrcool.com.

Important Tips for Easy Returns

Always keep your receipt and packing slip.
Do not open or use items if you think you might return them.
Check your item for defects before using it.
For large items like grills and power equipment, double-check product details before purchasing.
Call Customer Care if you are unsure about the return process.

If you have any more questions about the returns, you can visit the return policy on their website.

FAQs

Can I return an item purchased from Ace Hardware without a receipt?

No, you need your receipt or packing slip for returns. This document proves that you bought the item from Ace Hardware.
However, if you have lost your receipt, some Ace Hardware stores may still accept returns, especially for regular customers, by looking up the transaction through rewards programs or credit card statements.

How long do I have to return an item?

You have 30 days from the purchase date. It’s important to keep track of the purchase date to ensure you return the item within this time frame.

Can I return an online purchase to a local store?

Yes, you can return online purchases to any Ace Hardware store. This makes it convenient if you need to return something you bought online.

Who pays for shipping if I return an item by mail?

You pay for shipping unless the item was incorrect or defective. If Ace Hardware made a mistake with your order, they will cover the shipping costs.

How will I receive my refund?

Refunds are issued in the original form of payment or as a gift card if the original method is unavailable. This ensures you get your money back or credit to use at Ace Hardware.

What if my item is damaged or defective?

Contact Customer Care at 888-827-4223 or visit a local store for assistance. Ace Hardware will help you with the return process for damaged or defective items

Can I return a used outdoor power equipment item?

No, once fuel or oil is added, it cannot be returned. You’ll need to contact the manufacturer for any issues with the equipment.

What is the restocking fee for assembled items?

Up to 15%, with a minimum fee of $20, may apply for items that are assembled but not damaged or defective. This fee covers the cost of putting the item back into inventory.

How do I return a vendor-specific item?

Contact the specific vendor directly using the information provided in the policy. Each vendor has its own return process, which is separate from Ace Hardware’s general policy.

Final Thoughts

Ace Hardware return policy is clear and simple if you follow the rules. Always check your receipt, keep your items unused, and return them within 30 days. For any special items or vendor products, follow their specific guidelines. If in doubt, contact Customer Care at 888-827-4223 for help.

This guide will help make your shopping and returns at Ace Hardware simple and stress-free!