Direct answer: Canon’s U.S. Online Store requires a Return Merchandise Authorization, or RMA. Obtain the RMA within 14 calendar days after delivery, then return the merchandise within 14 calendar days after the RMA is issued. Standard eligibility centers on defective or unopened products, with important product and bundle exclusions.
Canon uses two separate 14-day deadlines
The first clock runs from delivery to the RMA request. The second runs from RMA issuance to the warehouse return. Requesting a number does not stop the process indefinitely. Record both dates, follow the written instructions and keep tracking.
| Step | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Request authorization | Within 14 calendar days of delivery |
| Send authorized merchandise | Within 14 calendar days after RMA issuance |
| Mark parcel | Write the RMA on the outside as instructed |
| Include contents | Original package, manuals, cables, items and invoice or packing slip |
| Shipping proof | Use a tracked and insured carrier |
Unopened and defective are different cases
An unopened preference return should remain factory-complete and saleable. A defective product may need troubleshooting or documentation before Canon confirms return authorization. Explain the actual issue. Do not claim a defect merely to avoid an unopened-condition rule.
If the parcel arrived damaged, photograph the outer carton, carrier label, seals and product before discarding anything. Original outbound shipping is not normally refunded unless Canon determines the merchandise is defective.
Build a complete Canon return package
- Find the Canon Online Store order, invoice and delivery date.
- Contact the Online Store within 14 calendar days and obtain the RMA.
- Keep the product in its original package with manuals, cables and every supplied component.
- Place the invoice or packing slip inside as directed.
- Write the RMA clearly on the outside of the shipping container.
- Use FedEx, UPS or another traceable, insured service and send within the second 14-day period.
Why serial numbers and accessories matter
Cameras, lenses, printers and imaging accessories can contain serialized parts. The warehouse must confirm that the returned unit corresponds to the order and that the package is complete. A missing battery, charger, cable, lens cap, software item or manual can delay review or prevent full credit.
Photograph the serial label and packed components before closing the box. Do not expose the serial publicly; keep the record for support if a mismatch occurs.
Build Your Bundle orders must stay together
If the purchase was a Canon Build Your Bundle offer, the official policy requires all products in the bundle to be returned together. A promotional total often depends on the entire group, so returning a single component is not treated like an independent full-price line.
Inventory every item against the packing slip. Include promotional accessories and the correct packaging for each unit. Ask support before shipping if one bundle component arrived defective while the others work.
Products that carry special limits
A product page can mark merchandise nonreturnable. Non-defective CD-ROMs and manuals are excluded. Canon also states that WG Series inkjet business printer sales are final, apart from applicable warranty, damage or defect routes. Read the exact product page and written policy rather than assuming all printers share one rule.
RMA details can determine acceptance
An unapproved parcel may not be identifiable as a valid return. The RMA connects the shipment to the order and reason. Put it where Canon instructs, but do not write directly on retail product packaging unless told to do so. Use an outer shipping carton to preserve the product box.
If the label is lost or the deadline is approaching, contact Canon before creating your own routing. Shipping to a general corporate address can delay or lose the return.
Refund amount and original shipping
The accepted merchandise amount is refunded under the original transaction rules. Original shipping charges are not refunded unless Canon determines that the product is defective. Return transport and insurance can also affect the customer’s net cost when the return is not caused by Canon.
Carrier delivery is followed by receiving and inspection. Keep the RMA, carrier receipt and payment statement. If the credit is missing, give support one complete timeline rather than opening several unrelated cases.
Data and consumables need attention
Before returning a camera or printer, remove memory cards, personal storage and items that were not part of the order. Back up settings or images you need, then follow Canon’s reset instructions where applicable. Do not ship used ink, loose batteries or another consumable unless the RMA specifically requests it. These items can leak, damage the product or trigger carrier restrictions.
If the defect involves an included battery or cartridge, describe it when requesting authorization. Canon can then specify whether that component belongs in the parcel and how it must be protected.
After the return window, use warranty support
A hardware problem reported after the RMA period belongs under the product’s Limited Warranty or service route, not a late preference return. Warranty terms vary by product and cover specified defects, not accidental damage or buyer’s remorse. Keep dated proof of purchase and the serial number.
Retailer purchase versus Canon Online Store
A camera bought from another authorized retailer follows that seller’s return policy. Canon may still provide manufacturer warranty service, but it does not reverse the retailer’s card transaction. For a consumer-electronics seller comparison, see the Best Buy return policy. Premium audio bought directly follows a different process described in the Bang & Olufsen return policy.
Before handing the parcel to a carrier
- Both 14-day deadlines remain satisfied
- RMA is valid and visible as instructed
- Serial-numbered unit matches the invoice
- Manuals, cables, accessories and packing slip are included
- Every Build Your Bundle component is present
- Outer carton is insured and tracked
Official Canon resources
Bottom line: secure the RMA within 14 calendar days of delivery and complete shipment within the next 14-calendar-day period. Return a complete, correctly identified package and use warranty support once the retail-return window has passed.