Core Return FAQ
What is a core charge?
- A core charge is a form of deposit held for the return of the used part. Core charges are set by the manufacturer or supplier and are based on the value of the materials in the part or the reusability of the old part. The core charge is added to the price of a part to encourage the return of the old part. Returned cores must be complete and on a "like-for-like" basis, meaning that the returned core has the exact same fitment as the remanufactured component that was purchased.
Is there a core charge on both new parts and remanufactured parts?
- There may be core charges on remanufactured parts as well as new parts since the materials and the core part itself have value to the manufacturer regardless of whether the replacement part is new or remanufactured.
What if the old core part is damaged beyond repair?
- Many auto parts carry a core charge regardless of the usefulness or perceived value of the old part. For example, replacement injectors, turbo chargers, transmissions and engines often have a core charge added to the price even if the original part is damaged well beyond the possibility of rebuilding.
How do I return my core?
- Every vendor has their own core return process. Their required information must be provided to process core credit. The vendor may have a form that came with the part that must be filled out and returned with the core. Additionally, the APG core return form must also be completed. A copy needs to be returned with the core and a copy emailed to cores@apgteam.com. APG forms include instructions that are vendor specific on how to return the core. They can be downloaded from the dealer portal under “Vendor Core Policies” and select the vendor specific form for the part purchased. These forms are also emailed to the designated email address on file from our automated email system noreply@apgteam.com. ALL forms must be returned with the core and a copy emailed to cores@apgteam.com to initiate the core credit process.
Is return shipping provided?
- All shipping charges are the customers’ responsibility unless arranged at the time of sale or is an LTL shipment which round trip shipping should be charged at time of sale. You may request a return shipping label that will be billed to your account for the cost of 2025 freight. This can be requested by calling the cores department at 888-496-3666 ext. 6743 or email cores@apgteam.com.
Do I need an RMA for my core return?
- Please refer to the core return form for required information and instructions to return your core.
How long do I have to return my core?
- All core returns need to be returned within 30 days from the date of the invoice unless previously arranged with APG or based on the vendor return by date. Cores returned after the due date will be issued at the discretion of the vendor issuing credit and APG. Late cores will only be issued credit if approved and credit released from the vendor for the value they determine.
Can I stock an item with a core charge?
- The vendor return dates must be adhered to and returned within the date range supplied by the vendor. You MUST make prior arrangements with the vendor to stock these items. Proof of the agreement and all core requirements must be met for credit to be issued. Credit will only be issued once approved and credit released from the vendor.
How will my core credit be refunded?
- Credit will be issued in the order received and refunded to the customer based on the payment terms and back to the payment method used to purchase the product. Credit card refunds may take 3 – 5 business days to reflect on the account per the customers banking institution.
What is the Core Loan Program?
If you qualify for the Core Loan Program and purchase an item with a core fee, you will have 30 days from the date of the core invoice to have the core returned and core credit processed. The credit will then be applied to the Core Loan balance. After 30 days and the core is not returned the core fee is due and payment is owed. If payment is not processed or declined, you may lose eligibility to participate in the Core Loan Program. You MUST submit the APG core return form to have credit processed to avoid becoming delinquent. Please contact the Cores department for more information.
Note: We reserve the right to modify or extend the terms of this policy at any time and for any reason. If you have any questions or believe your circumstances require special consideration, please contact us.