Depop return policy: What sellers need to know (2026)

Depop’s return policy allows refunds only for incorrect, damaged, counterfeit, or erroneously sized items. Learn about all the policy details and how to avoid returns.

Matthieu Béteille

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Published:

February 6, 2026

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Over the past 5 years, I’ve helped dozens of resellers understand Depop’s return policy and resolve market disputes. Depop allows returns only for objective issues (damage, counterfeits, wrong items, undisclosed flaws), not subjective reasons (fit, wear, smells, remorse). Sellers decide on borderline claims.

Here’s my guide on claims, what qualifies for a return, and protecting your shop.

What is the Depop return policy?

Depop's return policy protects sellers from unreasonable return requests. It allows returns for clear, objective issues such as lost or damaged items, incorrect sizes or colors, counterfeit goods, incorrect or missing orders, and severe or undisclosed flaws.

When disputes arise, Depop steps in to mediate cases involving wrong sizes, severe damage, or missing bundle items. For cases not covered by Depop Protection, such as fit issues, minor wear, or smells, sellers control whether to accept the return. However, Depop makes the final decision on claims it covers.

What Depop does and doesn’t accept as a reasonable return

Here’s a glance at how Depop defines if an item qualifies for a return:

Claim type	Qualifies as a reasonable return	Doesn’t qualify as a reasonable return
Item condition	Damaged items (e.g., ripped/stained clothing)	Minor wear (e.g., light piling on a sweater)
Authenticity	Counterfeit goods (e.g., fake Essentials hoodie with faulty stitching)	Smells (e.g., perfume, sweat, smoke)
Accuracy of listing	Wrong size or color (e.g., listed as medium arrives as a small)	Fit issues (e.g., Buyer doesn’t like how the item fits)
Order issues	Incorrect or missing items (e.g., ordered pants but received a skirt)	Buyer’s remorse (e.g., Buyer changes their mind)
Hidden flaws	Flaws the seller didn’t mention (e.g., stain or hole not shown in photos)	Personal change of mind (e.g., buyer thinks it “looks different in person”)

How buyers return items on Depop

Buyers return items on Depop by opening a dispute in the app and submitting evidence for Depop to review. If Depop approves it, buyers follow the return instructions and receive a refund after the seller receives the item back.

Here’s the process buyers must follow after receiving an item they think merits a return:

Step 1: The buyer opens a dispute on Depop and chooses the reason

A buyer begins a dispute by opening the Depop app and going to their Purchases section. They select the order they want to report and view the full details. From there, they can choose the option to start a dispute, which begins Depop’s review process for issues that may qualify under Depop Protection.

Then, the buyer selects the reason that best matches the problem. Common reasons are damaged items, counterfeit goods, the wrong size or color, or missing pieces from a bundle. The reason they choose helps Depop decide whether the case falls under its protection rules.

Step 2: Add evidence

The buyer must upload clear photos or videos that show the issue. The evidence should clearly show how the item differs from the listing. Evidence can also include screenshots of the original listing and any message history with the seller, showing attempts to resolve or explain the issue.

Step 3: Submit the claim and wait for review

After adding all evidence, the buyer submits the claim for review. When Depop receives the claim, the platform notifies the seller of the issue and gives them a limited time to respond.

If the seller doesn’t respond or the problem isn't resolved, Depop can step in to review the case. Depop may refund the buyer and decide who covers shipping costs, based on its current policies and the outcome of the investigation.

Depop reviews information from both parties to determine whether the case meets its protection criteria. Response times vary based on case complexity and support volume. Buyers receive updates and any requests for more information through email and in-app notifications.

Step 4: Follow the return instructions

If Depop rules in the buyer’s favor, they receive instructions on whether to return the item and how to ship it back. Following these instructions correctly and on time is important because delays or mistakes can slow down the refund process.

Step 5: Check who pays shipping

Depop tells the buyer who must cover the return shipping cost. If the seller is at fault, Depop may cover or reimburse return shipping within policy limits. In other situations, the buyer may need to pay for their own return postage and is usually advised to use tracked shipping.

Step 6: Confirm delivery and refund

Once the buyer returns the item, they track the shipment to confirm delivery. When tracking shows the package has arrived, Depop can finalize the case. Any approved refund is then processed back to the buyer’s original payment method, with timing depending on their bank.

How to avoid Depop returns as a seller

Sellers avoid returns on Depop with detailed descriptions, accurate measurements, clear photos showing condition and flaws. Pre-ship checks, packing documentation, and tracking prevent disputes and false claims.

As a seller, you can follow these tips to prevent buyer returns and protect your margins:

Set buyer expectations with complete item descriptions: Include all measurements such as length, width, pit-to-pit, and inseam in your listing text. Document every flaw, like tears or signs of wear, with specific descriptions of location and severity. Mention the item's age, previous alterations, and overall condition.
Price based on comparables: Research recent Depop sales of similar items in comparable condition to set competitive prices.
Photograph the item from multiple angles: Capture the front, back, sides, and close-up detail shots that show texture and condition. Photograph any flaws, damage, or wear in well-lit conditions so buyers see exactly what they're purchasing. Include photos of the tags, labels, and hardware to verify authenticity and confirm size.
Create a pre-ship checklist: Develop a standard checklist that includes photographing packed items, verifying addresses, confirming tracking uploads, and double-checking item condition. Check your item one more time before shipping to make sure it matches your listing and that you didn’t miss any flaws
Record or photograph items as you pack them: By capturing photos or videos of the item’s condition while packing, you provide clear proof of its exact condition. This proof can substantiate your case against some buyer claims.
Always use tracked shipping: Select shipping methods that provide end-to-end tracking and delivery confirmation for every single order you send. Save tracking numbers and share them with buyers immediately.

What to do when a buyer claims an item is not as described

After receiving an “item is not as described” claim from a buyer, take a deep breath and remain calm. You can request evidence for not-as-described claims. If you missed a flaw, offer a return or refund. Otherwise, escalate to Depop with proof.

Here’s how to handle claims professionally and improve the chances that you don’t need to accept the return:

Request detailed photo evidence: Ask the buyer to send clear photos or videos showing the specific issue they are reporting with the item. Request multiple angles and close-ups of any damage, flaws, or differences they see compared with your listing.
Compare claim to listing: Pull up your original listing photos and description to review what you showed and described versus what the buyer received. Check whether you already reported the issue in the written description or if it’s clearly visible in your photos.
Handle undisclosed flaws honestly: If you genuinely failed to document a flaw or damage in your listing, acknowledge the oversight to the buyer directly. Apologize and accept the return if you missed a flaw. Immediately review your other listings to identify any overlooked defects.
Decide on refund amounts: You can offer a partial refund when you and the buyer agree that the item has an issue, but they still want to keep it at a reduced price.
Know when to escalate: If you and the buyer can’t agree on a solution, escalate to Depop’s support team. Provide all your listing and photo evidence, timestamps, and communication records. Cooperate with the platform’s review process to give yourself the best chance of a fair outcome.
Address shipping damage claims: If you believe that damage occurred during transit, gather your pre‑shipment photos to show the item’s condition when you sent it. File a claim with your shipping carrier, and share relevant details with the buyer.

Common Depop return scenarios and how to handle them

Here’s a look at some return situations that you might encounter on Depop, and whether or not you might be able to avoid refunding claims.

Scenario	How to respond	Chance of avoiding a refund*	Next steps
Item arrives damaged	Share listing and packing photos	Varies by damage and description	Follow Depop’s decision
Color looks different	Compare buyer and listing photos	Better if the photos match the item	Add clear color notes next time
Minor flaws	Point to disclosed wear details	Higher if flaws were disclosed	Offer a discount only if you choose
Return requested for fit	Confirm the size and measurements given	Higher if sizing was accurate	Explain that fit is not automatically covered
Shipping-related complications	Provide tracking and shipping details	Depends on tracking and policy	Contact the carrier and follow platform guidance

**Note that these scenarios are for reference only. Depop decides refunds on a case-by-case basis.

When to escalate a return issue to Depop

You should escalate to Depop when claims are unreasonable, contradict your listing, you have strong counter-evidence, or the item is high-value. Submit photos, messages, and shipping details for Depop’s review. Depop’s support can protect you from unfair claims and fraudulent buyer behavior.

Here are three common scenarios that necessitate escalation:

Scenario 1: Incorrect or unreasonable buyer claims

Get Depop involved if a buyer’s complaint clearly contradicts your accurate photos and description. When someone disputes the disclosed and documented wear and insists on a return for fit or preference, let Depop support review the case rather than wasting time on an argument.

Scenario 2: You need to submit counter-evidence

Ask Depop to review the dispute when you have evidence, such as packing photos, that proves the item matched your listing or was delivered correctly. Share your listing screenshots, pre‑shipment photos, in‑app messages, tracking, and measurements. Respond within any deadlines so your side is fully documented.

Scenario 3: Claims on high-value items

Escalate quickly when a dispute involves designer pieces, electronics, or a high‑value vintage with a higher fraud risk. For these items, detailed authentication photos, serial numbers, and condition shots help strengthen your case. And using signature-required delivery helps protect you if something goes wrong.

Tips to protect your Depop shop from disputes

Follow a consistent process that protects your shop before problems arise by following these pointers:

Create a repeatable photography process: Photograph every item with the same lighting, angles, and background for a consistent look. Capture front, back, sides, tags, and any flaws in clear, well-lit photos. Use professional photo-editing software to remove backgrounds and touch up photos.
Package items securely: Use sturdy boxes or mailers with bubble wrap and padding to protect items in transit. Seal packages well and photograph items and packing before sending. Don’t forget to record or photograph items as you pack them.
In-app communication only: Keep all order-related communication inside Depop messages so it’s tied to the transaction. Avoid texts, calls, emails, or social DMs that are hard to use in a review.
Upload tracking numbers immediately: Add tracking details as soon as you ship so buyers can follow delivery progress. Tracking shows dispatch and delivery dates for “item not received” situations. Quick updates also reassure buyers.
Set clear shop policies: Write concise policies for handling times, condition grading, and return acceptance. Place it in your bio or featured area so buyers see it before purchase. Clear terms set expectations, even though buyer protection still applies.

Manage Depop (and other marketplace) listings with Nifty

Now that you understand Depop's return policy, why not list your items on other marketplaces to expand your reach and increase the chances of making a sale? One of the best tools for selling across multiple platforms is Nifty. Our crosslisting and automation tool saves you time and reduces manual tasks.

Here's why Nifty's so helpful:

AI listing: Snap a pic and let Nifty's AI build detailed listings with accurate descriptions, measurements, and condition notes. Plus, it's cloud-based, mobile-friendly, and helps you document every flaw buyers need to know about.
Crosslist now: With a couple of clicks, post your items across Poshmark, eBay, Mercari, Depop, and Etsy. No copy-paste, no multi-tab, it's all in the background. (More marketplaces coming soon!)
Automatic delisting? Handled: When you make a sale, Nifty's sales-detection system automatically delists the item from every marketplace. Say goodbye to double-selling disasters and angry buyers opening “item not received” disputes.
Bulk tools = no busywork: Update descriptions, add measurements, or adjust policies across dozens of listings at once. Schedule updates to go live automatically while you sleep.
Analytics and profits are real: Track return rates, identify which listings generate disputes, and spot patterns in buyer complaints. Use data to improve your descriptions and reduce future claims.

See why over 10,000 sellers use Nifty and start a 7-day free trial.

FAQs

1. Who pays for return shipping on Depop?

Buyers and sellers on Depop do not follow a single, universal rule about who pays return shipping. Depop decides return-shipping responsibility on a case-by-case basis, following its policies and any applicable local rules. When Depop finds that an item is significantly not as described, the seller may need to cover return shipping or provide some shipping cost support.

2. How long do Depop refunds take?

Depop refunds typically take between 2 and 5 business days; however, it varies. Depop only processes refunds after it has reviewed the dispute and confirms delivery of any return. Once Depop issues a refund, the time it takes to reach your account depends on your original payment method and your bank or provider’s own processing speeds.

3. How do partial and full refunds work on Depop?

Partial and full refunds on Depop depend on the severity of the issue, the evidence provided, and whether the buyer and seller can agree on a resolution. Full refunds are often required when an item is treated as significantly not as described or confirmed to be counterfeit. Partial refunds can be issued when both parties agree that the buyer will keep the item but pay less.

4. What is Depop’s policy when the shipper damages items?

Depop’s handling of items damaged during shipping depends on the specific case and the evidence provided by both parties. Pre-shipment photos documenting the item’s condition and packing can help demonstrate that you sent it as described. If there’s no proof of the item’s condition before dispatch, Depop is more likely to treat the damage as part of a “not as described” outcome in the buyer’s favor.