Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the challenges consumers face regarding the "7-day no-reason return policy" for certain products, particularly alcoholic beverages and investment gold bars, highlighting the differing interpretations and practices among merchants [2][3][4][5]. Group 1: Issues with Alcoholic Beverages - Many consumers report being unable to return unopened alcoholic beverages, with merchants claiming that such products fall under the category of "special items" not eligible for the return policy [3][4]. - Customer service representatives from various alcohol brands consistently state that alcohol is considered a perishable item, thus not eligible for returns [3][4]. - Merchants argue that the policy aims to prevent fraud, such as swapping genuine products with counterfeit ones, which increases operational costs for businesses [3][4]. Group 2: Challenges with Investment Gold Bars - Consumers attempting to cancel orders for investment gold bars often face significant cancellation fees, with one case reporting a deduction of over 300 yuan for a 5-gram gold bar [4]. - Merchants emphasize that the fluctuating nature of gold prices necessitates strict return policies to avoid financial losses [4]. - Legal practices generally support merchants charging fees for returns on investment gold bars, recognizing the unique market dynamics involved [4][5]. Group 3: Cross-Border and Special Sales Channels - Consumers purchasing items through "overseas purchase" channels often encounter difficulties returning products, even when the items are shipped from domestic warehouses [5][6]. - The legal framework generally supports merchants' return policies for cross-border items if clearly stated, but domestic shipments should allow for returns unless explicitly noted otherwise [6][7]. - The trend on platforms like Tmall shows a growing acceptance of the "7-day no-reason return" policy for items shipped from domestic bonded warehouses, contrasting with stricter policies on other e-commerce platforms [6][7]. Group 4: Legal Framework and Consumer Rights - The Consumer Rights Protection Law specifies certain categories of goods that are exempt from the "7-day no-reason return" policy, including customized items and perishable goods [7][8]. - Legal experts suggest that while certain products like alcohol and investment items may have valid reasons for restricted returns, merchants must ensure consumers are adequately informed and confirm their understanding of these policies [8]. - The emphasis is on maintaining transparency and ensuring that consumers are aware of the return policies at the point of sale [8].