Return & Exchange Policy
At SHINE , we are committed to your complete satisfaction with our handcrafted instruments. We understand that purchasing a handpan is an important investment in your musical journey. This Return & Exchange Policy outlines the terms and conditions for returns, exchanges, and refunds of our products.
1. Return & Exchange Time Frame
7-Day Return Window: You have seven (7) days from the date you receive your handpan to initiate a return or exchange request. This period begins when you or a designated recipient takes possession of the instrument.
Important: Return requests must be submitted within the 7-day window. Requests submitted after this period will not be eligible for return or exchange, except in cases of manufacturing defects covered under our warranty.
2. Eligible Items for Return
Standard Handpans
- All standard handpans from our regular collection
- Instruments in original, unplayed condition
- Items with all original packaging, accessories, and documentation
Conditions for Eligibility
- The handpan must be in its original condition with no signs of use, damage, or wear
- All original packaging materials must be intact and undamaged
- The instrument must not show any tuning alterations or modifications
- All included accessories (care instructions, protective cloth, case if applicable) must be returned
3. Non-Returnable Items
Custom and Bespoke Handpans
Custom-built handpans and bespoke designs are final sales and cannot be returned or exchanged. This includes:
- Custom scale configurations
- Personalized tunings
- Special material requests (specific steel types, finishes)
- Custom engravings or aesthetic modifications
- One-of-a-kind designs created to customer specifications
Damaged or Modified Items
- Handpans that show signs of use, damage, or alteration
- Instruments with tuning changes made by the customer
- Items with missing accessories or incomplete packaging
- Handpans damaged due to customer negligence or misuse
4. Return Process
Step 1: Contact Us
Before returning any item, you must contact our customer service team:
- Email: admin@handpanfactory.com
- Phone: +8613173444932
- Subject Line: “Return Request – Order #[Your Order Number]”
Step 2: Provide Required Information
Include the following details in your return request:
- Order number and purchase date
- Handpan model and specifications
- Reason for return
- Photos of the instrument and packaging (if damaged)
- Your preferred resolution (refund or exchange)
Step 3: Receive Return Authorization
Our team will review your request and provide:
- Return Merchandise Authorization (RMA) number
- Detailed return shipping instructions
- Prepaid return shipping label (for eligible returns)
- Packaging guidelines to ensure safe transport
Step 4: Ship the Item
- Package the handpan securely using original packaging
- Include the RMA number prominently on the package
- Use the provided return shipping label
- Obtain tracking information and retain your receipt
5. Return Shipping
Who Pays for Return Shipping?
We Pay:
- Manufacturing defects or quality issues
- Shipping damage (must be reported within 48 hours of delivery)
- Incorrect item sent by us
Customer Pays:
- Change of mind or buyer’s remorse
- Ordering the wrong scale or specifications
- All other non-defect related returns
International Returns
- International customers are responsible for return shipping costs in most cases
- Customs duties and taxes are the customer’s responsibility
- We recommend using insured, trackable shipping methods
- Additional processing time may apply for international returns
6. Inspection and Processing
Upon Receipt
- We inspect all returned handpans within 2-3 business days
- Items must pass our quality and condition assessment
- Digital photos may be taken for documentation
- You will be notified of the inspection results
Processing Timeline
- Approved Returns: 3-5 business days for refund processing
- Rejected Returns: Item will be returned to customer at their expense
- Exchanges: Additional 5-10 business days for new item preparation
7. Refunds
Refund Methods
- Refunds will be issued to the original payment method
- Credit card refunds may take 5-10 business days to appear
- PayPal refunds typically process within 24-48 hours
- Bank transfer refunds may take 3-7 business days
Refund Amounts
- Full Refund: Original purchase price minus return shipping (if applicable)
- Partial Refund: May apply if item condition doesn’t meet return standards
- No Refund: Items that fail inspection or are outside return window
Non-Refundable Costs
- Original shipping charges (unless we were at fault)
- Return shipping costs (unless we were at fault)
- Customs duties and international fees
- Payment processing fees (for certain payment methods)
8. Exchanges
Exchange Options
- Same model, different scale or tuning (subject to availability)
- Upgrade to higher-value model (customer pays difference)
- Equivalent model from our current collection
Exchange Process
- Follow the same return process outlined above
- Specify your desired replacement in your return request
- Exchanges are subject to current inventory availability
- Additional charges may apply for upgrades
Exchange Shipping
- We cover shipping for defective item exchanges
- Customer covers shipping for preference-based exchanges
- New item ships after we receive and approve the returned item
9. Manufacturing Defects & Warranty
Covered Defects
- Tuning instability within normal playing conditions
- Structural defects in steel or construction
- Finish irregularities that affect playability
- Premature wear under normal use conditions
Warranty Period
- Standard Warranty: 1 year from purchase date
- Extended Support: Ongoing guidance on care and maintenance
- Repair Services: Available for out-of-warranty items at customer expense
Warranty Claims
- Report issues immediately upon discovery
- Provide detailed description and photos
- Include order information and purchase date
- Professional assessment may be required
10. Damaged in Shipping
Immediate Action Required
- Inspect your handpan immediately upon delivery
- Report shipping damage within 48 hours of delivery
- Take photos of damaged packaging and instrument
- Contact us before the delivery carrier leaves
Documentation Needed
- Photos of external package damage
- Photos of internal packaging and instrument
- Delivery confirmation and tracking information
- Description of the damage and your concerns
11. Special Circumstances
Holiday and Sale Items
- Sale items follow standard return policy unless otherwise stated
- Holiday orders may have extended return windows (will be communicated)
- Limited edition items may have modified return terms
B-Stock or Discounted Items
- B-stock handpans may have modified return terms
- Discounted items due to minor cosmetic flaws are final sale
- Clearance items may be non-returnable (clearly marked)
12. Customer Responsibilities
Care During Return Period
- Handle the instrument with appropriate care
- Store in protective case or soft surface
- Avoid exposure to extreme temperatures or humidity
- Do not attempt repairs or modifications
Honest Assessment
- Accurately describe any issues or concerns
- Do not attempt to hide damage or modifications
- Provide truthful reasons for return requests
13. Contact Information
For all return and exchange inquiries, please contact us:
Return Department
Email: admin@handpanfactory.com
Phone: +86 13173444932
Urgent Issues:
For shipping damage or urgent concerns, call: [Insert Emergency Phone Number]
14. Policy Updates
We reserve the right to update this Return & Exchange Policy at any time. Changes will be effective immediately upon posting on our website. Continued use of our services after changes constitutes acceptance of the updated policy.
At SHINE, your satisfaction is our priority. We stand behind the quality of our handcrafted instruments and are committed to resolving any concerns you may have. Our goal is to ensure that every customer finds their perfect musical companion.