Welcome Back to ModelTrainStuff

Welcome Back to ModelTrainStuff

Same ModelTrainStuff. Smoother Ride.

If things feel familiar, that’s no accident. We did our best to keep the look and feel of the old site you know and love, just built on a stronger foundation this time around.

The old system had reached the end of the line. It was slow, buggy, and hard to update. The new site makes it easier to shop, manage your orders, and track rewards without losing the ModelTrainStuff charm.

You might spot a few small hiccups while we get everything tuned up. Thanks for your patience and for sticking with us through the move.

What’s New and Improved

Faster checkout and smoother account tools

Improved order tracking

Rewards program preserved. All your points are safe

Better search and categories to help you find what you need

More stability and fewer site errors

If you notice anything off or have ideas to share, reach us anytime at customercare@modeltrainstuff.com.

Thanks for being part of this long ride with us. We’re proud to keep the trains running for modelers everywhere.

The ModelTrainStuff Team
Serving model railroaders since 1913

Effective October 1, 2025

You have 30 days from the date of purchase to request a return or exchange. For orders using Hold & Consolidate (H&C), refunds can be issued to the original payment method within 30 days of purchase; after 30 days, refunds are provided as store credit when eligible.

All items must be returned in the same new condition in which they were shipped, including the original packaging and all instructions, manuals, and accessories. Use a sturdy shipping box with proper cushioning. Do not return items in mailing envelopes; items received damaged due to insufficient packaging may not be eligible for refund or exchange.

Items modified in any way (for example: weathering, decals, paint, added/removed parts) are not eligible for return and will be sent back without refund, credit, or exchange.

Restocking Fees & Return Shipping (New)

  •  Defective or Wrong Item Shipped (Our Error): No restocking fee. We cover return shipping.
  •  Ordering Mistakes (wrong scale, color, size, duplicate order):  Store Credit: 10% restocking fee; Customer Pays For Return Shipping Refund to Original Payment: 15% restocking fee; Customer Pays For Return Shipping.
  •  Loose Track, Components, O Scale, and Special Orders: 15% restocking fee; Customer Pays For Return Shipping whether you choose store credit or refund.

Non-Returnable Items

All book, magazine, calendar, DVD, and Blu-ray sales are final. Gift cards and digital/downloadable products are not returnable.

Brands/Products Requiring Manufacturer Handling

The following are not covered by our in-house return/exchange policy and must be handled directly with the manufacturer for replacement/warranty service:

  • American Z Line
  • MTH
  • Digitrax
  • Wheels of Time
  • Twin Whistle
  • All DC / Sound / DCC Decoders & Accessories (except ESU LokSound products)
  • Opened ERC (Electric Railroad Company) upgrade kits and circuit boards, and MTH Proto-Sound 2 upgrade/electrification kits

How to Start a Return

United States customers: please contact us to begin the return process. International customers: contact our Customer Service Team or call 1.828.341.2295.

Include your order number and a brief note describing the reason for return (for defects, describe the issue; for damage, note the type and location).

If we ask you to return products to our store, please use the most economical tracked mail service available in your country. We will not reimburse return shipping costs for returns sent using express or expedited options.

Refunds & Processing Time

We’ll notify you when your return is received and inspected. Approved refunds or store credits are typically issued within 7–10 business days. Your bank or card issuer may require additional time to post funds.

After 30 Days

Orders more than 30 days past the original purchase date generally qualify for store credit only when eligible. Some brands require warranty service directly through the manufacturer; we’ll help you with contact details where applicable.