There are many reasons why you may need to return a parcel. For example, the product might be damaged or might not be what you ordered, or it simply might not live up to your expectations. Whatever the reason, it’s important to prepare the parcel properly to ensure that it is returned safely and in good time to the sender. In this guide, you will find all the tips and tricks you need to help you prepare your parcels for return.

 

1. Check the returns policy

Before you return a parcel, check the returns policy of the seller or shipping provider. Make sure you have all the required information, e.g. whether you need an RMA number (return number), who is responsible for the shipping costs, and what are the applicable return periods.

 

2. Contact the seller or customer service

In many cases, you will need to contact the seller or customer service to register a return and obtain a return note or label. Provide information about the item and your reason for returning it.

 

3. Remove old labels and barcodes

Before packing up your parcel, remove any old labels and barcodes to avoid confusion. Old labels may cause the parcel to be sorted incorrectly and subsequently not received by the sender.

 

4. Use secure packaging

If possible, the product should be returned in its original packaging. The original packaging often provides the best form of protection for the product and can help prevent it from being damaged during shipping. If you no longer have the original packaging, use sturdy packaging and fill the remaining space in the parcel with suitable filler such as bubble wrap or packing paper. This will protect the product from shaking and impact. Make sure that all parts, accessories and documents are included.

 

5. Label the parcel as a return

To ensure that the parcel is identified as a return, it is important to mark it as such.  Apply the return label or note to the parcel. Make sure that the address is clearly legible and that all necessary information is included. If no return label was provided, write the return address on the parcel. This will ensure that the parcel is sorted correctly during shipping and will be received promptly by the sender.

 

6. Include all required documents

Make sure that all the necessary documents are included with the parcel, such as a copy of the invoice or delivery note. This will enable the sender to process the parcel more quickly and manage the return more efficiently.

 

7. Seal the parcel securely

Seal the parcel securely to protect the contents. Ideally, use adhesive tape to ensure that the parcel does not come open during shipping.

8. Choose a reliable shipping provider

Choose a reliable shipping provider to make sure that the parcel is received by the sender safely and in good time. Check the shipping options and costs to find the best offer. Make sure you get a tracking number so you can keep an eye on the status of your parcel during shipping.

 

9. Keep your receipt safe

Hold on to your receipt for sending returns. This will give you peace of mind as you will be able to prove that you returned your parcel in case it gets lost in transit.

 

10. Wait for confirmation and your refund

Once the parcel has been received by the seller, your return will be examined and a refund or exchange will be processed. This may take a few days. Look out for a confirmation email or update in your customer account.

 

11. Important: check for any shipping costs that may be due

Many people think that once they have returned their parcel, everything has been taken care of and no invoice needs to be paid. However, some merchants still charge for shipping regardless of whether you return your parcel. We therefore recommend that you check the shipping costs in order to avoid any possible overdue payment notices.

 

12. You receive your refund or exchange

Once the merchant has accepted your return, you will receive either a refund via your original payment method or an exchange, depending on the merchant’s return policy.

 

13. Check your account

Make sure that the refund has been properly received in your account or that the replacement items have been sent. If the case of any problems, contact the merchant’s customer service.

 

Conclusion

By following the tips above, you can ensure that your parcel will not be damaged during shipping and will be received promptly by the sender. In summary, it is important that you prepare your parcel properly to avoid unnecessary delays or problems with the return. If you have any further questions about returns, you can contact the sender or the shipping service provider at any time for more information.