REFUND AND RETURN POLICY

At SmallOutboardMotors.shop, we want you to be completely satisfied with your purchase. Due to the specialized nature of outboard motors and federal regulations regarding fuel and oil products, returns are subject to specific guidelines outlined below.

1. RETURN ELIGIBILITY & TIME FRAME

  • 30-Day Window: You may request a return within 30 days of receiving your shipment.
  • Condition: Items must be brand new, unused, unfueled, and unmounted, in their original manufacturer packaging, with all manuals, accessories, and documentation included.
  • Return Authorization Required: Every return must be pre-authorized by our support team. Packages returned without a valid Return Merchandise Authorization (RMA) number will be rejected and returned to sender at the customer’s expense.

2. NON-RETURNABLE ITEMS (HAZMAT & SAFETY RESTRICTIONS)

In accordance with U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) HazMat regulations and safety standards, we CANNOT accept returns on:

  • Any outboard motor that has been filled with gasoline or engine oil.
  • Any motor that has been started, operated, or placed in water.
  • Custom orders, special-order replacement parts, or electrical components.

Note: If an engine has been fueled or operated and encounters a mechanical issue, it must be serviced under the manufacturer’s warranty rather than returned. Contact us to assist you in finding an authorized service center.

3. RESTOCKING FEES & SHIPPING COSTS

  • Restocking Fee: All non-defective returns (e.g., buyer’s remorse, ordered incorrect engine size) are subject to a 15% restocking fee to cover handling, inspection, and repackaging.
  • Original Shipping Costs: Shipping charges incurred on the original order are non-refundable.
  • Return Freight Costs: The buyer is responsible for all return shipping and freight costs. For larger motors requiring LTL freight, return freight costs typically range between $150 and $300+.

4. DAMAGED OR DEFECTIVE SHIPMENTS

We take great care in crating and packaging our motors, but damage can occasionally occur during transit.

Upon Delivery:

  1. Inspect Before Signing: Inspect the outer box/crate thoroughly for tears, punctures, or crushed corners before signing the delivery receipt.
  2. Note Freight Damage: If damage is present, write “Damaged – Subject to Inspection” on the driver’s Bill of Lading (BOL) before signing, or reject the delivery if damage is severe.
  3. Report Within 48 Hours: Contact us within 48 hours of delivery at support@smalloutboardmotors.shop with detailed photos of the damaged box, the motor, and the shipping label.

If damage is properly documented upon delivery, we will assist in filing a carrier claim and arrange a replacement or full refund at no additional cost to you.

5. HOW TO INITIATE A RETURN

  1. Submit a Request: Email us at returns@smalloutboardmotors.shop with your order number, serial number, and reason for return.
  2. Receive RMA & Instructions: If approved, you will receive an RMA number along with specific packaging and carrier instructions.
  3. Package the Unit: Securely re-box or re-crate the item in its original packaging. Ensure all fluids remain completely drained.
  4. Ship the Item: Send the package using an insured trackable service (UPS/FedEx Ground or LTL Freight) to the warehouse address provided in your RMA instructions.

6. REFUND PROCESSING

  • Once your returned item arrives at our facility, it will undergo inspection (typically within 3 to 5 business days).
  • Upon verification that the motor is unused and undamaged, your refund will be processed back to your original payment method.
  • Please allow 5 to 10 business days for the credit to appear on your bank statement, depending on your card issuer.

7. CONTACT US

For return requests, RMA generation, or shipping damage reports: