Guitar Center Return Policy: Simplified

Guitar Center is one of the biggest music stores in the USA, known for helping musicians find their perfect gear. They stand behind their products with a 45-Day Satisfaction Guarantee—if you’re not happy with your purchase, you can return most items within 45 days for a full refund.

There are a few exceptions and special rules, but the main idea is simple: Guitar Center wants you to love what you buy.

Lets look into their return policy

Guitar Center Return Policy Overview

Here’s a quick table to help you see the most important parts of the Guitar Center return policy at a glance:

How to Return Items to Guitar Center

You have two main ways to return something you bought from Guitar Center:

1. Return In-Store (Easiest Way)

• Bring your item to any Guitar Center store.
• You need your order confirmation email or the packing slip from your order.
• Credit is given right away.
• No need for a return authorization code.
• No return shipping charges.

Tip: If you live near a store, this is the fastest and cheapest way!

2. Return by Mail

• You must get a return authorization code first.
  • Call 1-866-498-7882 or email service@guitarcenter.com to get your code.
• Ship the item to:
  Guitar Center (Your RA #)
4005 N Norfleet
Kansas City, MO 64161-9231
• You may have to pay for shipping and handling.
• Your refund is processed after Guitar Center checks your item and confirms it meets the requirements.

Note: Always pack your item carefully and include your return authorization code!

Important Return Policy Exceptions

Not everything can be returned, and some items have special rules. Here’s what you need to know:

Items with Shorter Return Windows

• 14 Days:
  • Recording devices
  • DJ equipment
  • Workstation keyboards
  • Rack signal processors
  • Lighting/fog machines
• 3 Days:
  • Vintage instruments

Items You Cannot Return

• Clearance items
• Items marked as non-returnable
• Discontinued items
• Apple hardware
• Computers
• Opened software or electronic software downloads
• Books, CDs, videos, vinyl records
• Turntable cartridges, tubes
• Earbuds, earplugs, in-ear monitors
• Fog fluid, harmonicas, cleaning products
• Special or custom orders (including items not normally stocked)

Special Fees

• Apple hardware (open box): 10% restocking fee
  (Defective Apple hardware is handled by Apple’s warranty, not Guitar Center.)
• Woodwind/Brass instruments: $10 sanitization fee
• Bows: $4 restocking fee
• Mouthpieces:
  • Over $300: $8 sanitization fee
  • Under $300: $4 sanitization fee

Tip: If you’re buying any of these items, double-check if they can be returned before you buy!

Abuse of Return Privileges

Guitar Center wants to be fair, but they do watch for people who try to abuse the return policy. This includes:

• Returning too many items
• Returning items that aren’t in brand-new condition

If they think someone is abusing the policy, they can limit or suspend their return privileges.

International Returns

If you’re returning something from outside the USA:

• Check your packing list for instructions.
• If you need help, call customer service at 1-866-498-7882.

How to Contact Guitar Center for Help

If you have any questions or need help with a return, here’s how you can reach them:

1. By Phone:
   • Main Customer Service: 855-770-3373
   • For return authorization (mail returns): 1-866-498-7882
2. By Email:
   • service@guitarcenter.com
3. In-Store:
   • Visit any Guitar Center location.
   • Bring your receipt or order confirmation for faster service.

Common Questions

Pro Tips for Hassle-Free Returns

Here are a few expert tips (and a little humor!) to make your Guitar Center return smooth and stress-free:

1. Keep Your Packaging:
   Don’t toss the box or packing slip until you’re sure you’re keeping your gear. Returns are much easier with the original packaging.
2. Act Fast for Short-Window Items:
   If you bought a vintage instrument or DJ gear, set a reminder! Those return windows are short—3 or 14 days goes by fast.
3. Bring Proof:
   Always bring your order confirmation or packing slip to the store. No one wants to play “find the receipt” at the counter.
4. Don’t Try to Return Used Stuff:
   Items must be in original condition. If you’ve jammed out a little too hard, they might say no.
5. Call Before Mailing:
   Never ship a return without a return authorization code. It’s like mailing a letter with no address—your refund could get lost!

Final Thoughts

Guitar Center return policy is pretty fair and easy to follow, but there are some important exceptions and fees you should know about. As long as you keep your items in new condition and act within the right time frame, you shouldn’t have any trouble getting a refund. If you ever get stuck, their customer service team is ready to help.

Happy shopping—and if you ever need to return that ukulele you bought on a whim, now you know exactly what to do!

Please Note: Return policies can change over time. While this article aims to provide accurate information based on the policy at the time of writing, it’s always a good idea to double-check the return policy on official Guitar Center website for the most up-to-date return policy details. For any specific questions or situations not covered here, the official website or contacting Guitar Center Customer Service directly is the best resource.