By Jennifer Hill Robenalt

The logic is simple. Shopping online probably saved you from a lot of hassle at the brick-and-mortar centers of mayhem (the malls, that is).

The numbers aren’t totaled yet, but one analysis group, comScore, Inc., projects a 20 percent increase in online holiday shopping. As of Dec. 19, they say sales were already up by 19 percent. Consumer Reports says that about 40 percent of Americans will return at least one gift after the holidays. At the same time, many retailers are tightening up their return policies, limiting the grace period during which an item may be returned.

Even though you saved time and effort shopping at home (or work), what if you or your loved ones want to return a gift? A look at some major online retailers reveals that holiday returns and exchanges can be a complex experience.

Here are some general tips to keep in mind when you are planning on returning an item that was purchased online:

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