Streamline Returns with Prepaid Labels

Making returns easy for your customers improves satisfaction and builds loyalty. PostageEasy makes it simple to create prepaid return labels.

Why Offer Prepaid Return Labels?

• Improves customer satisfaction and trust
• Reduces friction in the returns process
• You only pay when the label is used
• Track returns in real-time
• Professional appearance

Creating a Return Label

Method 1: Standard Return Label

1. Log in to PostageEasy
2. Click "Create Shipment"
3. Enter your business address as the recipient
4. Enter customer address as the sender
5. Select carrier and service level
6. Purchase the label
7. Email or include the label with the original shipment

Method 2: Scan-Based Return Label

With USPS, you can create a return label that is only charged when the customer drops it off:

1. Create label as described above
2. Do not activate immediately
3. Provide label to customer
4. You're only charged when USPS scans the package

Note: This feature is only available with USPS services.

Including Return Labels with Orders

Option 1: Print with Original Label

Create both outbound and return labels at the time of order. Include the return label in the package.

Pros: Customer has label ready for easy returns

Cons: You pay for unused return labels

Option 2: Email on Request

Create return labels only when customers request returns.

Pros: Only pay for actual returns

Cons: Slight delay in return process

Option 3: Return Portal

Set up a return portal where customers can generate their own return labels.

Pros: Fully automated, saves time

Cons: Requires API integration or custom development

Best Practices for Return Labels

1. Choose the Right Service Level

• USPS Priority Mail: Fast returns with tracking
• USPS First Class: Economical for lightweight returns
• USPS Parcel Select: Lowest cost for non-urgent returns

2. Include Clear Instructions

Provide customers with:

• Step-by-step return instructions
• Your return policy and timeframe
• Packaging guidelines
• Expected refund timeline

3. Track Your Returns

Monitor return labels through your PostageEasy dashboard:

• Filter shipments by "Returns"
• View tracking status
• Get alerts when returns are delivered
• Analyze return patterns and reasons

4. Communicate Proactively

• Send return label immediately upon request
• Confirm when return is received
• Process refunds promptly
• Follow up if tracking shows issues

Return Label Costs

You can choose to:

• Offer free returns: Absorb the shipping cost
• Deduct from refund: Subtract return shipping from the refund amount
• Charge upfront: Customer pays for return shipping separately

Managing Return Issues

Lost Return Packages

If a return package is lost in transit:

1. Check tracking for last known location
2. File a claim with the carrier if insured
3. Contact the customer to resolve

Damaged Returns

Document damage with photos and file a claim if insurance was purchased.

Return Fraud

Monitor for patterns:

• Multiple returns from same customer
• Returns of different items than shipped
• Empty packages

Automation Options

For high-volume sellers, consider automating returns with:

• PostageEasy API integration
• E-commerce platform integrations (Shopify, WooCommerce, etc.)
• Custom return portals
• RMA (Return Merchandise Authorization) systems