Returning Online Shopping Parcels
Many people using our parcels services are returning online shopping purchases, so we’ve included here a few guidelines to ensure that the parcel return goes as smoothly as possible;
- Firstly, make sure that you contact the retailer to inform them that you will be returning the item. Most online shops have a returns policy and instructions on their website, but if they don’t please check the address that the parcel is to be returned to, obtain details of the order/return reference number. Never simply return the item in a box without including information that will help the retailer identifying who the return is from and who the refund should be made to.
- If possible use the retailers original packaging, but ensure that the package is prepared to the same quality and standard as you received it. If plastic strapping was used, then simply stapling this back together isn’t sufficient.
- If you are using your own packaging, ensure that it is sufficiently strong and suitable. Plastic bags and sticky tape is not sufficient. Remember that when you received the parcel it would have had padding and packaging inside the box to stop the item rattling around. You need to include suitable alternatives.
- Ensure that you always send your online returns via a parcel service that provides online tracking, and a secure delivery. Remember that First Class, Second Class and recorded mail delivieres by the post office, and post office standard parcels are NOT guaranteed delivery services, the only Post Office delivery service which is a guaranteed deliverly is Special Delivery.
- Make sure that you have sufficient insurance. Until the parcel reaches the retailer it is your responsibility, so insure your item sufficiently to make sure that it covers any damage or loss. Remember that the standard insurance included by Interlink is £12 per kilo, and UPS is a limit of £60, so if you need additional insurance please take it.
Below we have included specific guidance on sending parcel returns for some of the most popular online retailers;
