So has this ever happened to you before, let's just say you ordered a Christmas gift from Amazon, and surprise, you received two of the same item, maybe in different shipping boxes and many times share the same tracking number and then one more thing, you were not charged for this extra double item, can you just keep them without returning them. Read on and find out if it happens to you, did you just get an extra, Mid-Western Illinois gift?

What to Do If You Receive a Double Order from an Online Purchase

In today’s online shopping era, it’s not uncommon for packages to arrive with unexpected surprises. One such surprise is receiving a double order of something you purchased. You might wonder: Can I keep it?

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Understanding Your Rights

Legally, if you receive unsolicited goods (items you did not order), the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) in the United States allows you to treat them as a free gift. This means you are under no obligation to return or pay for these items. However, this law applies specifically to items sent without your consent, not mistakes made in fulfilling your order.

Was It an Honest Mistake?

If the double shipment is due to a mistake by the seller, things get more nuanced. Many companies prefer honesty and may offer incentives, like discounts or store credit, for your cooperation. You might choose to notify the seller, and they’ll likely guide you on whether to return the extra item or keep it. Often, they may decide that retrieval isn’t worth the cost.

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The Ethical Angle

While the law might lean in your favor, keeping a double order without notifying the seller can feel ethically gray. Businesses—especially small ones—can suffer from losses due to such mistakes. A quick email or call to the company can clarify the situation and ensure fair play.

Practical Advice

  1. Check the order receipt to verify whether the double order was accidental or deliberate (e.g., part of a promotion).
  2. Contact customer service for guidance if you’re unsure.
  3. If they let you keep the extra item, consider it a win!

Navigating double shipments doesn’t have to be complicated. Balancing legal rights with ethical considerations ensures a fair and stress-free resolution for everyone involved.

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