If you’re staring at a Burga phone case you don’t want, you’re probably wondering one thing: can I send it back and get my money back? The Burga Return Policy is straightforward, but there’s a catch. Whether you get a full refund or just store credit depends entirely on one simple factor.
And that factor is not the same for every buyer.
According to manufacturer documentation, Burga allows returns within 30 days of delivery. As of 2026, the policy splits into two main branches: custom cases (with your personal photo or design) and non‑custom cases (pre‑made designs). Getting this right before you start a return saves you frustration and wasted time.
Quick Answer
Burga accepts returns within 30 days from delivery. Non‑custom cases get a full refund to your original payment method. Custom cases only get store credit.
Items must be unused and in original packaging. You pay return shipping for international orders. Start your return on the Burga website.
Image source: Wikimedia Commons / iaace (CC BY)
The One Question That Changes Everything: Custom or Not?
The very first thing you need to determine is whether your case is custom or non‑custom. This is the fork in the road that decides everything else. Burga defines a custom case as any phone case where you uploaded a personal photo, added text, or chose a personalized layout.
A non‑custom case is an in‑stock design that Burga already had on file. Something like a pre‑printed floral pattern or a licensed character.
Why does this matter so much? Custom items are made just for you. Burga can’t resell a case with your family photo on it.
So the refund differs significantly.
If you bought a non‑custom case: You are eligible for a full refund to your original payment method. That’s cash (or credit card money) back.
If you bought a custom case: You are eligible for store credit only. No cash back. That store credit is typically valid for 12 months.
A quick way to check: look at your order confirmation email. It usually says “Custom, please allow extra production time” if it’s a personalized item. If you’re still unsure, log in to your Burga account and view the order details.
The product page you ordered from will also label it clearly.
This distinction isn’t unique to Burga. The U.S. Federal Trade Commission’s Mail, Internet, or Telephone Order Merchandise Rule (ftc.gov) allows companies to set separate policies for personalized goods.
Burga’s practice is standard.
The 30-Day Clock: When Your Return Countdown Starts and Stops
Once you know what type of case you have, the next thing to understand is the deadline. Burga gives you exactly 30 calendar days from the date your package is delivered to initiate a return. That’s not 30 days from when you placed the order, and not 30 days from when it shipped.
It’s from delivery.
Image source: Wikimedia Commons / Dafne Cholet (CC BY)
If your order was left at your door or in your mailbox, that day counts. The clock starts ticking immediately. If you miss the 30-day window, Burga reserves the right to refuse the return entirely.
Important detail: If you ordered multiple cases and they arrived in separate packages, each package has its own 30-day countdown. Don’t assume all items share the same deadline based on your first delivery. Check each tracking number.
Also consider weekends and holidays. If day 30 falls on a Saturday or Sunday, you typically need to have started the return before that day ends. Burga’s system tracks the date you submit the return request, not the date you ship the item.
So submit your request no later than day 30.
Here’s a quick table to help you track:
| Scenario | Returns Allowed? | Deadline |
|---|---|---|
| Non‑custom, within 30 days | Yes, full refund | 30 days from delivery |
| Non‑custom, after 30 days | Likely refused | N/A |
| Custom, within 30 days | Yes, store credit | 30 days from delivery |
| Custom, after 30 days | Likely refused | N/A |
| Damaged or defective | Yes, replacement or refund | Contact within 30 days (see branch three) |
Branch One: Returning a Non‑Custom Burga Case – Full Refund Path
If you purchased a non‑custom case and you’re within the 30-day window, you’re on the easiest path.
Eligibility conditions:
- Case must be unused. No scratches, no installation marks, no smudges from trying it on.
- Original packaging must be intact. If you threw away the box, you’ll have trouble.
- All accessories (if any, like screen protector or camera lens cover) must be included.
What you get back:
- A full refund to your original payment method.
- The refund includes the price of the case (excluding any shipping charges you paid). Burga does not refund original shipping costs unless the return is due to their error (more on that in branch three).
- No restocking fee. Burga does not charge one for non‑custom returns.
Return shipping:
- For domestic returns (within the same country as Burga’s warehouse, typically the UK or US), Burga provides a free prepaid return label.
- For international returns, you pay for return shipping. Expect to cover the cost yourself and potentially deduct it from your refund.
Processing timeline:
- Once Burga receives your return, inspection takes 2 to 5 business days.
- After inspection, the refund is issued within 5 to 10 business days.
- Total turnaround from drop‑off to money in your account: typically 2 to 3 weeks.
How to start: Go to burga.com, log into your account, find the order, and select “Return”. Follow the prompts for a non‑custom case. You’ll get a prepaid label to print if eligible.
Branch Two: Returning a Custom Burga Case – Store Credit Only Path
Here’s where things differ significantly. If you personalized your case with a photo, name, or any design that isn’t a pre-existing Burga pattern, you fall into this branch. You still get to return the case, but the refund is not cash.
What you get back:
- Store credit equal to the purchase price of the custom case (excluding shipping).
- No refund to your credit card or PayPal account. Burga issues a store credit code that you can use on your next order.
- The credit is typically valid for 12 months from the date it’s issued.
Why store credit? Because Burga cannot resell a custom-made case. They have to eat the cost of producing it. Store credit keeps you as a customer while covering their manufacturing expense.
Eligibility conditions:
- Same as non‑custom: unused, original packaging, within 30 days.
- But note: if you opened the case and installed it on your phone, the return may still be accepted as long as the case is clean and undamaged. Burga’s policy doesn’t explicitly prohibit opening the packaging for custom cases, but it’s safer to keep everything pristine.
What about design errors? If you uploaded a blurry photo or the wrong text, that’s on you. Burga prints exactly what you submitted. Returns are still allowed, but only store credit.
If Burga made a printing error (wrong color, misaligned design), that’s a defect issue, see branch three.
How to start: Same process, log into your account, initiate return. The system will know it’s a custom item and automatically apply the store credit rule.
Branch Three: Your Case Arrived Damaged or Defective – What’s Different
This branch overrides everything. If your Burga case arrives damaged, broken, scratched, or with a manufacturing defect, the 30-day rule still applies, but the refund options expand.
Image source: Bing (Web, fair-use with source credit)
What qualifies as damaged or defective:
- Case cracked or chipped during shipping.
- Screen protector misaligned or with bubbles (if included in the bundle).
- Custom print smudged, miscolored, or missing parts.
- Non‑custom case with factory scratch.
- Any case that doesn’t fit your phone model despite correct order.
Your options:
- Full refund to original payment. Even for custom cases, if the fault is Burga’s, you get cash back. Not just store credit.
- Free replacement. Burga will send a new case at no charge, including shipping.
- Store credit if you prefer. But why would you, when cash or a replacement is on the table?
Process:
- Contact Burga customer service directly instead of using the standard return portal. Take photos of the damage and include them in your email or chat.
- You’ll receive a prepaid return label at no cost. Burga pays for return shipping on defective items.
- Once they receive the case and verify the defect, they ship a replacement or process the refund.
Tip: Keep the original packaging until you’re sure the case is in good condition. If the box is damaged during transit, photograph that too. That can help with the shipping carrier.
This branch aligns with your rights under the UK Consumer Rights Act 2015 for goods that are not of satisfactory quality. Even if you bought from a non‑UK warehouse, Burga’s own policy covers this. Check their Terms & Conditions for your specific region.
International Returns: Extra Costs and Extra Steps You Need to Know
If you live outside the UK or US, the return process changes. You still have 30 days, but you bear more responsibility.
Domestic vs. International: a quick comparison
| Factor | Domestic (UK/US) | International |
|---|---|---|
| Return label | Free, prepaid | You pay for shipping |
| Return shipping cost | $0 | Typically $10 – $25 depending on carrier |
| Customs fees | None | You may be responsible if the value triggers duties |
| Refund timeline | 2–3 weeks total | May take 3–5 weeks due to customs delays |
| Branch three (defective) | Free label + return shipping covered | Free label provided, but you may still pay import fees on return? |
Key steps for international customers:
- Start the return on the website as usual. The system will ask for your country.
- You’ll receive a return authorization but no free label. You’ll need to arrange your own shipping.
- Use a tracked service. If the package is lost in transit, you need proof.
- Clearly mark the parcel as “Returned Goods” to avoid customs fees.
- Expect to pay out of pocket. Burga does not reimburse international return shipping unless it’s a defect.
Warning: Some countries have import restrictions on returned electronics accessories. Check with your local customs office before shipping. You don’t want your package stuck and assessed fees.
Step-by-Step: How to Initiate a Return on Burga’s Website
The actual process takes about 10 minutes. Here’s exactly what you do.
Image source: Bing (Web, fair-use with source credit)
- Go to burga.com and log in. Use the email associated with your order.
- Click “My Account” then “My Orders.” Find the order containing the case you want to return.
- Click “Return” next to that item. If you don’t see a return button, you may be outside the 30-day window.
- Select the reason from the dropdown. Options include “Changed mind,” “Wrong size,” “Defective,” etc. Choose the one that best fits.
- For custom cases: The system will inform you that you’ll receive store credit. Confirm.
- For non‑custom cases: You’ll proceed to the label generation.
- Print the prepaid label (if eligible) or receive a return authorization number (for international).
- Pack the case in its original box. Use a poly mailer or outer box if possible.
- Attach the label, seal the package, and drop it off at the carrier location indicated on the label (usually UPS, USPS, or Royal Mail).
- Save the tracking number. You can use it to monitor progress.
That’s it. No phone call needed. Most of the process is automated.
After You Ship: How Long Until Your Money or Credit Shows Up
Once the package leaves your hands, a few things happen behind the scenes.
- Transit time: Typically 2 to 5 business days for domestic; 5 to 15 days for international.
- Receipt and inspection: Burga’s warehouse scans the return. They check the case condition. This takes 2 to 5 business days.
- Refund processing: Once approved, refunds go out within 5 to 10 business days. Store credits are emailed almost immediately after inspection.
- Your bank: After Burga issues the refund, your credit card company or PayPal may take 2 to 5 additional days to post it.
Total realistic timeline: 2 to 4 weeks from drop‑off to having money back in your account. Store credit usually arrives within 3 to 5 days after Burga receives the return.
What to do if it’s taking longer:
- Check the tracking number to confirm delivery.
- Contact Burga support with your order number and RMA number.
- Be patient but persistent. Wait at least 10 business days after delivery before escalating.
Common Return Mistakes That Cost You Time or Money
Knowing what trips people up helps you avoid the same pitfalls.
Mistake 1: Not checking the custom vs non‑custom distinction. The most common complaint in aggregate reviews is buyers who expected a full refund on a custom case. Store credit surprises them. Double‑check before you return.
Mistake 2: Trying to return after 30 days. The system may block the return. If you’re a day late, you might still get a courtesy credit if you contact support, but don’t count on it. Set a calendar reminder when you receive the package.
Mistake 3: Throwing away original packaging. Burga requires the case to be in original packaging. If you’ve already tossed the box, you might be stuck. Some reports indicate they accept returns without the box if the case is pristine, but it’s not guaranteed.
Mistake 4: Not photographing defects immediately. If you see damage, take clear photos before contacting Burga. Without evidence, proving it arrived damaged is harder. The return process for defects moves faster with visual proof.
Mistake 5: Using un tracked international shipping. If your return package gets lost, Burga won’t process the refund without proof. Pay the extra for tracking.
Mistake 6: Expecting free return shipping for international non‑defective returns. Burga does not cover that. Factor the cost into your decision to return versus keep the case.
Exchanges vs. Returns – When to Choose Each
Burga offers exchanges directly through the same return flow. Here’s when an exchange makes more sense than a refund.
| Situation | Recommended Option | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Wrong phone model (non‑custom) | Exchange | You get the right case, same price, no need to wait for refund |
| Wrong phone model (custom) | Return for store credit, then reorder | Burga can’t exchange a custom case to a different model; you must order a new one |
| Changed color preference (non‑custom) | Exchange | Fastest way to swap |
| Damaged or defective | Exchange | Free replacement, no payment needed |
| No longer want any Burga case | Return (refund if non‑custom, store credit if custom) | Best for clean break |
To request an exchange, simply select “Exchange” when you initiate the return on the website. Burga will send you a prepaid label and ship the replacement after they receive the return. Timing is similar to a refund, 2 to 3 weeks total.
Your Rights Beyond Burga’s Policy (UK/EU Cooling-Off Period)
If you’re in the UK or European Union, you have additional rights that can override parts of Burga’s policy.
UK Distance Selling Regulations (now the Consumer Contracts Regulations):
- You have 14 days from delivery to cancel any online purchase, no reason needed.
- For non‑custom items, you get a full refund including standard shipping.
- For custom items, there’s an exception. Personalized or made‑to‑order goods are exempt from the cooling-off period. So your rights match Burga’s policy: store credit only, not a full refund.
- For defective items, your rights extend up to 6 years (in the UK) to claim a repair or replacement.
EU consumer law:
- The 14-day cooling-off period applies the same way. Custom goods are exempt.
- You may be entitled to a full refund for non‑custom items, including shipping.
- For international orders from an EU warehouse, these rights apply. If you bought from Burga’s UK warehouse, UK law applies.
What this means for you: For non‑custom cases, you actually have 14 days from receipt to cancel for a full refund, even if Burga’s policy says 30 days. But Burga’s 30-day window is more generous, so you don’t need to worry about the shorter period. For custom cases, your rights align with Burga’s terms.
How to invoke your statutory rights: If Burga refuses a refund for a non‑custom case within the first 14 days, you can politely reference the Consumer Contracts Regulations. This is relevant if you accidentally ordered the wrong size and want a refund rather than exchange. Burga will likely honor it.
For more details, refer to the UK government’s guidance on online shopping rights (gov.uk/online-shopping).
Quick Decision Guide: Choose Your Situation, Get Your Next Step
Use this flow to decide your action in 30 seconds.
Start here:
Is the case damaged or defective?
→ Contact Burga support directly. Get free replacement or full refund.Is the case custom (your photo/design)?
→ You’re within 30 days? Initiate return on website. Get store credit only.Is the case non‑custom (pre‑made design)?
→ You’re within 30 days? Initiate return. Get full refund to your card.Are you outside the 30-day window?
→ Return likely refused. Try contacting support for a goodwill credit. Unlikely but worth a shot.Are you an international buyer?
→ Follow the same paths above, but budget for return shipping costs.Are you in the UK/EU and within 14 days?
→ You can cancel for full refund (non‑custom only). Use your statutory right.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I return a Burga case if I already opened the packaging?
Burga’s policy says items must be “unused.” If you opened the packaging but didn’t install the case, you are likely fine. If you installed it and placed it on your phone, expect the return to be rejected or to face a deduction.
How do I get a prepaid return label from Burga?
Log into your account, go to the order, and click “Return.” For domestic non‑custom returns, Burga provides a free prepaid label to print. For international or custom returns, you pay for shipping.
What happens if my Burga case is lost during return shipping?
If you used a tracking number and the carrier confirms delivery, but Burga hasn’t processed it, contact them with the proof. Without tracking, you have no recourse. Always pay for tracking on international returns.
Can I exchange a custom case for a different design?
No. Custom cases are made to order. Burga does not exchange personalized items.
Your only options are a return for store credit (then reorder) or a refund if defective.
How long does Burga store credit last?
Store credit is typically valid for 12 months from the date of issue. It is not extendable. Use it before it expires.
Does Burga charge a restocking fee?
No. Burga does not charge any restocking fee for returns, even on custom cases. The only cost you bear is shipping (if international) or the loss of original shipping charges.
I ordered a non‑custom case but received the wrong design. What do I do?
That is a mistake on Burga’s part. Treat it as a defect. Contact customer service directly.
They will provide a prepaid return label and ship the correct design or issue a full refund.
This guide covers every major scenario. If your situation doesn’t fit any of these branches, contact Burga’s customer service. Their response time is typically 24 to 48 hours.
Keep your order number and photos ready for the fastest resolution.