Skip to content

Customer support

Returns & Policies

Clear terms for returns, exchanges, warranty claims and orders.

We want you to get the right part the first time. If something is not right, here is how returns, refunds, warranty help and our order policies work at Excel Lighting & Electrical Supply Co.

Last updated October 5, 2026

Aisles and sales counter inside Excel’s Waterford Township branch
  • 30-day returns

    Unused stock items in original packaging can be returned within 30 days with proof of purchase.

    Return policy
  • Return in store

    Bring returns, including online orders, to the Warren or Waterford Township counter.

    How to return
  • Special orders

    Cut wire and special-order items are final sale unless the manufacturer accepts the return.

    Non-returnable items
  • Warranty help

    Products carry the manufacturer's warranty. We help you start and track the claim.

    Warranty claims

Return policy

Stock items can be returned within 30 days.

You may return stock items within 30 days of purchase or delivery for a refund, exchange or account credit when the item is:

  • Unused, uninstalled and never energized
  • In its original, undamaged and unmarked packaging, with all parts, hardware, manuals and accessories
  • In resalable condition
  • Returned with proof of purchase, such as a receipt, invoice or order number

Returns requested after 30 days are reviewed case by case. If accepted, they may be issued as account credit only.

Restocking fee. A restocking fee of up to 20% may apply to opened items, items returned without original packaging, and returns accepted outside the 30-day window. We will tell you the amount before the return is processed. There is no restocking fee when the return is the result of our error.

Items that cannot be returned

These items are final sale:

  • Wire, cable and cord cut to length, including custom cuts and paralleled sets
  • Special-order, non-stock and custom-configured items, unless the manufacturer accepts the return (see below)
  • Items that have been installed, wired, energized, modified or field-cut
  • Opened chemicals, adhesives, sealants, lubricants and other consumables
  • Personal protective equipment that has been opened or worn
  • Closeout and clearance items marked final sale

Special orders. When a manufacturer agrees to take back a special-order item, the return follows that manufacturer's terms. Their restocking fee and any freight charges are passed through to you.

Large equipment. Generators, transfer switches, transformers, panelboards and other large equipment can be returned only with prior approval, unused and in the original crate. Freight both ways and restocking fees apply.

Not sure an item is right? Ask our counter team before you buy. We are glad to check specs, part numbers and compatibility.

How to return an item

  1. Contact us first. Call your branch or send us a message with your order or invoice number, the item and quantity, and the reason for the return. For shipped returns we will issue a return authorization number. Shipped returns sent without authorization may be refused.
  2. Bring it in or ship it back. Bring in-store and online returns to either branch counter. For shipped returns, pack the item securely in its original packaging, write the authorization number on the box, and ship it prepaid with tracking to the address we give you.
  3. Inspection and credit. We inspect returned items, usually within 2 business days of receiving them, and then issue your refund or credit. Items that do not meet the return policy will be sent back to you or held for pickup.

Return shipping is your responsibility unless the item was damaged, defective or sent in error.

Refunds & credits

  • Refunds go back to the original payment method. Card refunds usually appear within 5–10 business days, depending on your bank.
  • Purchases charged to a trade account are credited to that account.
  • Purchases paid in cash are refunded in cash or as account credit.
  • Original shipping and delivery charges are not refundable unless the return is due to our error.
  • Any restocking fee is deducted from the refund or credit.

Exchanges

Need a different size, color temperature, finish or voltage? Bring the item and your proof of purchase to either branch within the return window. We will swap it for an in-stock item, and you pay or receive the price difference. Items that are not in stock can be ordered for you.

Damaged, defective or incorrect items

If an item arrives damaged or we sent the wrong item, contact us within 48 hours of delivery or pickup with your order number and photos. We will replace it or issue a credit at no cost to you, including return shipping.

For freight shipments, note any damage on the delivery receipt before you sign. See Receiving your order for details.

If a product fails after it has been installed, it is handled as a warranty claim.

Warranty claims

Manufacturer warranties, with help from our team.

Products sold by Excel are covered by their manufacturer's warranty. Coverage, length and claim steps vary by brand and product. Excel does not offer a separate warranty.

  • Contact us with your proof of purchase, the part number, a description of the problem and photos. We will help you start the claim with the manufacturer.
  • Some manufacturers handle claims directly, or require a licensed electrician to confirm the failure. We will tell you what the manufacturer needs.
  • The manufacturer decides whether to repair, replace or credit the product.
  • Labor, removal, reinstallation and related costs are not covered unless the manufacturer's warranty states otherwise.

Order changes & cancellations

  • Stock orders can be changed or canceled at no charge before they are picked, shipped or out for delivery. Call your branch as soon as possible.
  • Special orders cannot be canceled once they are placed with the manufacturer unless the manufacturer agrees. Cancellation or restocking fees may apply.
  • Wire cut to length cannot be canceled once it has been cut.

Pricing, payment & availability

  • Prices shown online are for online orders. In-store, trade account and project quote pricing may differ.
  • Copper, aluminum and steel products such as wire, cable and conduit change price often. Quotes on these items are valid for the period stated on the quote.
  • We work to keep prices and product details accurate. If a pricing or listing error affects your order, we will contact you before it ships and you may cancel for a full refund.
  • Stock shown online is updated regularly but can change. If an item becomes unavailable, we will contact you with options: wait for it, choose an equivalent, or cancel and refund.
  • We accept major credit cards at checkout. Trade account customers can also pay on account, by ACH or with a card on file.

Contractors and businesses can open a trade account for account pricing and payment terms.

Sales tax & tax exemption

Michigan sales tax is charged on taxable purchases unless a valid exemption certificate is on file. Tax-exempt customers, such as resellers, nonprofits and qualifying industrial buyers, should send a completed Michigan Sales and Use Tax Certificate of Exemption (Form 3372) before ordering so we can apply it to your account.

FAQ

Returns & policy questions

How long do I have to return an item?

Stock items can be returned within 30 days of purchase or delivery when they are unused, uninstalled and in their original packaging with proof of purchase.

Do I need a receipt?

Yes. Bring a receipt, invoice or order number. For trade account purchases, we can usually look up the invoice from your account.

Can I return an online order in store?

Yes. Bring the item and your order number to the Warren or Waterford Township counter.

Can I return wire that was cut to length?

No. Wire, cable and cord cut to length, including custom cuts and paralleled sets, are final sale. Double-check lengths and quantities before you order.

Is there a restocking fee?

A restocking fee of up to 20% may apply to opened items, items without original packaging, and returns accepted after 30 days. Special-order returns follow the manufacturer's fees. There is no fee when the return is due to our error.

How long does a refund take?

We usually inspect returns within 2 business days of receiving them. Card refunds then take 5–10 business days to appear, depending on your bank. Trade account credits post to your account.

Can I return a special-order item?

Only if the manufacturer agrees to take it back. Their restocking fees and freight charges are passed through to you.

What if a product fails after installation?

That is a warranty claim. Contact us with your proof of purchase, the part number and photos, and we will help you start the claim with the manufacturer.

Need help with a return?

Bring the item to either branch counter, or contact us with your order number and the reason for the return. We will tell you the fastest way to get it sorted.

  • Warren

    2667 E 8 Mile Rd, Warren, MI 48091

    (586) 693-3435

    Mon–Fri 6:30am–5:00pm
    Sat 8:00am–3:00pm · Sun closed

  • Waterford Township

    5053 Dixie Hwy, Waterford Township, MI 48329

    (248) 955-8888

    Mon–Fri 6:30am–5:00pm
    Sat 8:00am–3:00pm · Sun closed

Your cart

0 products 0 units

Your cart is empty.

Add products as you browse, then review them here.