Top tips for return policies

NEW YORK (CNN) - Can't wait to tear into your presents this year? Hold off for a sec. You could pay a price just for opening the box.

The Massachusetts Consumer Affairs office came out with a survey that shows more retailers are charging restocking fees. These fees that are imposed on returned goods -- typically electronics -- if they're opened or if they're not in a factory-sealed box. So, for example, if you bought a $300 product, and you were charged a 15 percent restocking fee, your refund would only be $255. Generally restocking fees range from 10-25%. To avoid restocking fees, don't open the package if you don't want what's inside.

There is good news though. Returns may be a bit easier this year according to a just-released survey by Consumer World.

This year, some stores have extended their return deadlines, and eased policies regarding the return of goods without receipts. Here are some new policies this year:

Target, for example won't require a receipt for returns -- but that's only if the amount of receiptless stuff you exchange is less than $70 a year.

Best Buy has lengthened it's holiday return period to January 31 -- except for computers.

And Wal-Mart has extended the holiday return period on computers and cameras.

Policies vary widely among different stores. But according to Consumer Reports, you'll find the best return policies at Bed Bath & Beyond, Bloomingdale's, Costco, Ikea and Kmart

As always, buyer beware. Keep your receipts and ask about the return policies.