How to Return a Parcel to the Sender for Free: A Comprehensive Guide

Whether you purchased an item on eBay, Amazon, or another online platform, returning a package can be a straightforward process if you follow the correct steps. This guide will help you understand your options and the steps involved in returning a package without incurring additional costs.

Requesting a Return on Your Online Purchase

Most online marketplaces, including eBay, provide an easy way to request a return. If the seller has enabled the 'free return shipping' option, you can simply follow the in-app instructions to request a return. However, if you ordered the item from a smaller seller without these options, the return process might be a bit more complicated.

Free Return Shipping on Major Marketplaces

On platforms like eBay, you can often request a return without incurring additional shipping costs. The seller has the option to cover the return shipping, but if they do not, you can usually pay for the return shipping and then be reimbursed by the seller after the item is received.

Returning Items from Large Companies

For items purchased from large companies or retailers, you can usually log into your account and find the return instructions. Each retailer has different return policies, so make sure to review them carefully.

Refusing a Parcel Upon Arrival

If you receive a parcel and are unsure about its contents or the sender, you have the right to refuse it. This is especially important if the package was sent with cash on delivery (COD). Never accept COD without knowing the sender.

Refusing COD Parcels

The US Postal Service (USPS), FedEx, and UPS do not require a postal employee to have a postal ID to deliver a COD parcel. However, the sender must provide proper mailing documentation and use postal materials to mail the parcel. You can refuse a COD parcel if it has not been opened. Once the parcel has been opened, you will need to cover the cost of return shipping.

How to Refuse a Parcel

To refuse a parcel, follow these steps:

For USPS or other delivery services, write "Return to Sender" or "RTS" on the package and drop it at a local post office. For other delivery methods like FedEx or UPS, ensure you have the correct return address and note the package as refused. If you have opened the package, you will need to pay for the return shipping.

Blackout Your Address and Return the Package

When returning a package, it's important to ensure your personal information is not exposed. Black out your address on the package and write "Return to Sender" or "RTS" near the return address. This will allow the delivery service to take the package back and likely store it in an unclaimed package warehouse.

Scams to Watch Out For

Be wary of any suspicious deliveries or requests to provide payment through unusual methods such as gift cards. A legitimate delivery person will not ask you to call a number or provide payment via electronic means. Instead, they will provide you with a regular landline number to call.

How to Avoid Scams

If a delivery person asks you to call a number, do not call it from your smartphone. Instead, dial the number of the police department or call from a landline. Always verify the information with a known, trusted source, such as the seller or the delivery service.