Refund Policy

Last Updated: January 25, 2025

At Ocean Friendly Living Japan, we are committed to your complete satisfaction with our sustainable products. This Refund Policy outlines our procedures for returns, exchanges, and refunds. We want you to shop with confidence, knowing that if something isn't right, we're here to help.

1. Return Period and Eligibility

1.1 Standard Return Window

You may return most products within 30 days from the date of delivery for a full refund or exchange. To be eligible for a return, products must meet the following conditions:

• Item is unused and in the same condition as received
• Item is in original packaging with all tags attached
• Proof of purchase (order confirmation email or receipt) is provided
• Item has not been washed, worn, or altered
• All accessories, manuals, and components are included

1.2 Extended Return Period

For purchases made during promotional periods or holiday seasons, we may offer extended return windows. Any extended return periods will be clearly communicated at the time of purchase.

1.3 Non-Returnable Items

For health, hygiene, and safety reasons, the following items cannot be returned unless defective or damaged:

• Swimwear and undergarments (unless unopened in original packaging)
• Personal care products (sunscreen, skincare items) once opened
• Earrings and other pierced jewelry
• Items marked as "final sale" or "non-returnable" at time of purchase
• Customized or personalized products
• Digital downloads or gift cards
• Products damaged due to misuse or improper care

2. Return Process

Step 1: Initiate Your Return

Step 2: Receive Return Authorization

Step 3: Package Your Return

Step 4: Ship Your Return

Step 5: Return Processing

3. Refund Methods and Timeline

3.1 Refund Processing

Once your return is approved, refunds will be processed using your original payment method:

Payment Method	Refund Timeline	Additional Notes
Credit Card	5-10 business days	Timing depends on your bank's processing time
Debit Card	5-10 business days	Refund appears as credit to your account
Digital Wallet	3-7 business days	Faster processing for most platforms
Bank Transfer	7-14 business days	Bank account details required

3.2 Refund Amount

Your refund will include:

• Full product purchase price
• Original shipping costs (if product was defective or we made an error)
• Any applicable taxes

Your refund will NOT include:

• Return shipping costs (unless product was defective or we made an error)
• Original shipping costs (for change-of-mind returns)
• Gift wrapping or special packaging fees

3.3 Partial Refunds

In certain situations, partial refunds may be granted:

• Item shows obvious signs of use
• Item is missing components or accessories
• Item is damaged but not due to our error
• Item is returned more than 30 days after delivery
• Packaging is significantly damaged

We will contact you before processing any partial refund to explain the deduction and offer alternatives.

4. Exchanges

4.1 Exchange Policy

We gladly exchange items for different sizes, colors, or alternative products of equal or lesser value. The exchange process follows the same steps as returns, with these additions:

• Indicate desired replacement item in your return request
• We will confirm availability of replacement item
• Replacement ships once we receive and approve your return
• No additional shipping charges for exchanges (within Japan)

4.2 Out of Stock Replacements

If your desired replacement item is out of stock:

• We'll offer similar alternative products
• You can choose a different item of equal value
• We can issue a store credit for future purchase
• You can opt for a full refund instead

5. Defective or Damaged Products

5.1 Reporting Defects or Damage

If you receive a defective or damaged product, please contact us immediately (within 7 days of delivery) with:

• Order number and product details
• Clear photos showing the defect or damage
• Description of the issue
• Photos of product packaging (if damaged in shipping)

5.2 Our Response to Defects/Damage

For defective or damaged products, we will:

Expedited Processing: Defective/damaged product claims receive priority handling with 24-48 hour response time.

6. Wrong Item Received

If you receive an incorrect item due to our error:

• Contact us within 7 days of delivery
• We will provide a prepaid return label immediately
• Correct item ships as soon as we process your notification
• You keep any small, low-value incorrect items (under ¥1,000) at our discretion
• We may expedite shipping of correct item before receiving incorrect item back

7. Late or Missing Refunds

If you haven't received your refund within the stated timeline:

1. Check your bank account or credit card statement again
2. Contact your credit card company (refunds may take time to post officially)
3. Contact your bank (processing times vary)
4. If you've completed these steps and still haven't received your refund, contact us at refunds@quietreadingarden.com

8. Sale and Clearance Items

8.1 Sale Items

Regular sale items (discounted but not marked "final sale") can be returned according to our standard policy. However:

• Refund is based on the price you paid (sale price), not original price
• Sale items may only be exchanged for same item in different size/color
• Store credit may be offered instead of refund at our discretion

8.2 Final Sale Items

Items marked "final sale" or "clearance - all sales final" are non-returnable except in cases of defect or damage. These items are clearly marked on product pages and at checkout.

9. Store Credit

9.1 Store Credit Option

Instead of a refund, you may choose to receive store credit, which offers:

• 10% Bonus: Receive 110% of your return value in store credit
• No Expiration: Store credit never expires
• Flexible Use: Apply to any future purchase
• Faster Processing: Credit issued within 1-2 business days of return approval

9.2 Using Store Credit

• Store credit is automatically added to your account
• Applied automatically at checkout
• Can be combined with promotional discounts (unless otherwise stated)
• Non-transferable to other accounts
• Cannot be redeemed for cash

10. International Returns

For international orders (if applicable):

• Same 30-day return policy applies
• Customer responsible for return shipping costs and any customs fees
• We recommend using trackable, insured shipping methods
• Refunds issued in original currency, exchange rate fluctuations may apply
• Processing time may be extended due to customs clearance

11. Special Circumstances

11.1 Lost or Stolen Packages

If your package is lost or stolen after delivery confirmation:

• We will work with the carrier to investigate
• File a claim with the shipping carrier
• May offer replacement or refund depending on circumstances
• We strongly recommend purchasing shipping insurance for valuable orders

11.2 Quality Issues After 30 Days

If quality issues arise after the 30-day return window:

• Contact us to report the issue
• Manufacturer warranties may still apply
• We'll work with you to find a fair solution
• May offer repair, replacement, or partial refund at our discretion

11.3 Gifts

For gifts purchased through our store:

• Gift recipients can return items following normal procedures
• Refunds issued as store credit to recipient by default
• Original purchaser can be refunded if recipient prefers
• Gift message and receipt excluded from returns

12. Sustainability and Returns

As an eco-friendly company, we're committed to minimizing the environmental impact of returns:

13. Contact Us for Returns

Our customer service team is here to help make your return experience smooth and hassle-free:

14. Policy Updates

We may update this Refund Policy from time to time to reflect changes in our practices or for legal reasons. Changes will be posted on this page with an updated "Last Updated" date. Significant changes will be communicated via email to registered customers.

15. Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How long does the return process take?

A: From the time you ship your return, the complete process typically takes 10-14 business days (inspection + refund processing + bank processing time).

Q: Can I return an item after washing it?

A: Unfortunately, no. Items must be unwashed and unworn to be eligible for return.

Q: What if I lost my receipt?

A: We can locate your order using your email address or account information. Having your order number helps expedite the process.

Q: Do you offer free return shipping?

A: We provide free return shipping for defective items, wrong items, or our errors. For change-of-mind returns, customers are responsible for return shipping costs.

Q: Can I exchange an item for something more expensive?

A: Yes! You can exchange for any item. If the new item costs more, you'll pay the difference. If it costs less, we'll refund the difference.

Thank you for choosing Ocean Friendly Living Japan. We appreciate your business and are committed to ensuring your complete satisfaction. If you have any questions about our Refund Policy or need assistance with a return, please don't hesitate to contact us.