Store Policies
Clear policies prevent disputes, protect your business, and set customer expectations
Essential Policies to Establish
Returns & Exchanges
Firearms are typically final sale. If you accept returns, define conditions: unfired, original packaging, restocking fee. Put it in writing.
Layaway Terms
Define deposit amount, payment schedule, and what happens if customer defaults. Typical: 20% deposit, balance in 90 days, deposits non-refundable.
Consignment
Written agreement: commission rate (typically 15-25%), pricing authority, insurance responsibility, time limits, and what happens if item doesn’t sell.
Special Orders
Require deposits for special orders. Define: deposit amount, timeframe, and whether deposit is refundable if customer changes mind.
Transfer Fees
Post clearly: fee per firearm or per transaction, additional charges (NICS, storage), payment timing, and what happens if transfer denied.
Storage/Hold Policy
How long will you hold items? Typical: 7-14 days free, then daily/weekly fee. Define abandoned property procedures.
Put Policies in Writing
Post policies visibly in store and on receipts. Have customers sign acknowledgment for layaway, consignment, and special orders. Written policies prevent “he said, she said” disputes.
Sample Consignment Terms
Key Consignment Agreement Points
Commission: 20% of sale price
Listing period: 90 days
Price adjustments at 60 days
Dealer sets display price
Insurance: dealer covered
Payment within 7 days of sale
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