What does "open box" mean? The Complete Guide for Canadian Shoppers

"Open box" means a product was purchased from a retailer and then returned—most often because the customer changed their mind, the outer packaging was damaged in shipping, or the item was used as a store display model. In nearly every case, the product inside the box is untouched or barely used. At Factory Brands Direct, every open-box product is inspected and tested before listing and backed by a 1-year warranty.

Why Do Products Become Open Box?

Understanding why a product becomes open-box helps clarify why open-box buying is so safe. The most common reasons include:

• Customer changed their mind—The most common reason. A customer bought the product, decided they wanted a different model or size, and returned it before opening or shortly after.
• Wrong size or model — A customer ordered a 65-inch TV but needed a 55-inch or received the wrong color. Returned without use.
• Packaging damage — The outer box was dented or crushed in transit, even though the product inside was completely unaffected. Retailers cannot sell these as new.
• Display model — Used in a retail showroom for demonstration. These units receive the most use of any open-box product but are still fully functional and tested.
• Duplicate gift — Received as a gift when one already existed. Returned unused and in perfect condition.

Open Box vs. Refurbished—What Is the Difference?

These two terms are frequently confused but describe very different products:

• Open box — A customer return inspected but not repaired or rebuilt. The product is functionally and cosmetically close to new. No known defect history.
• Refurbished — A product returned due to a defect or malfunction, then repaired and reconditioned. May have had parts replaced. More intervention than an open box.

At Factory Brands Direct, we sell open-box electronics only—not refurbished. Every item was returned in working condition and inspected by our team. We do not sell repaired or rebuilt units.

Common Myths About Open Box Products

• Myth: Open box means it has been used. Reality: Most open box products have never been powered on. The box was simply opened — or sometimes not even that.
• Myth: Open box means it is broken or defective. Reality: Products returned due to defects are classified separately. Open box returns are typically non-defect returns.
• Myth: Open box products do not come with accessories. Reality: Most open box units include all original accessories. Any missing items are clearly noted in the product listing.
• Myth: You cannot return open box products. Reality: Factory Brands Direct backs all open-box products with a 1-year warranty and handles warranty claims directly.

What to Expect from Our Open Box Products

• Inspected and tested — Every unit is powered on and tested for full functionality before listing.
• Quality guaranteed — Non-functional units are not sold. Any cosmetic notes (minor scuffs, missing accessories) are stated in the listing.
• 1-year warranty—every product. Extended 2-year coverage available at checkout.
• 25 to 50% savings—Compared to the same product bought new at retail.

Is Open Box Worth It?

For most buyers, yes—open-box is one of the smartest ways to buy electronics in Canada. The performance is identical to new. The savings are real. And when you buy from a seller who tests inventory and offers a warranty, the risk is minimal. The only difference between an open box TV and a new TV from Best Buy is the packaging and the price.

Pickup and Shipping

We are located at 5746 Finch Avenue East, Unit 9, Scarborough, Ontario M1B 5R2. Local pickup is available for all products. Shipping to Ontario, Alberta, and Quebec is available for the following:

• TVs under 50 inches
• Soundbars and speakers
• Tablets
• Smartwatches
• Mobile phones

TVs 50 inches and above are available for local pickup only.

Shop Open Box Electronics at Factory Brands Direct

Open Box TVs | Open Box Soundbars | Open Box Tablets | Open Box Smartwatches | Open Box Phones