Return on item with 'free delivery' - seller withholding delivery cost from refund?

[Hallamoo]

I bought an item with 'free delivery'. Unfortunately it was a duplicate gift so I wish to return for a refund (listing states returns accepted). I am happy to pay return postage as there is nothing wrong with the item, but the seller says they will refund me the cost of the item, minus what it cost to send it to me in the first place.

As the listing was 'free delivery' - can they do this?

TIA

[WeAreEternal]

No the can't. Open an official return request and it will be refunded automatically (you will need to send recorded delivery I believe)

[19lottie82]

WAE is correct, contractually they have to refund in full, inc the postage (whether it is incorporated as "free", or an additional charge. however, it's a bit crappy that the buyer is down the original postage cost just because you changed your mind (there is nothing wrong with the item). It isn't "free", the seller still had to pay it.

You are entitled to chase a refund of the original outgoing postage costs, but it's up to you whether you peruse it or not.