Make packing for return simpler

The customer wants to send back an item, however, the box is ripped and the packaging has been removed. The customer finds a new box, places the product into it, and hopes it will get returned safely. However, when it arrives in damaged condition, a simple return becomes a difficult situation for all involved parties.

You can make returns simpler by planning ahead with the shipping supplies you provide to your customers, allowing for better return packing. You do not necessarily have to provide an extra box with each order. Providing a solid outer package and easy-to-follow return-packing directions are generally good starting points.

Consider how your customers open your boxes. If they have to rip open your package to access the product, chances are high that the original packaging will no longer be suitable for a return. Select a package that can be opened without causing damage whenever possible. Also, try to position any tape on the box away from areas that could potentially come loose during shipping.

For many types of soft goods, providing a mailing bag with a second sealable tab or flap will make return packing easier. This allows the customer to open the first seal, use the unused tab to reseal the bag, and then ship the item back. Be sure that the bag is appropriately sized for the product and offers adequate protection for both shipments.

If your customers purchase packaged items, such as products enclosed within a box, let them know that they should retain the original box and packaging until they decide whether to keep the product. A brief explanation of this requirement adds minimal extra clutter. The original packaging serves two purposes: it enables customers to pack the product properly for a return and provides an effective guide for positioning the product during shipping.

Include concise, step-by-step instructions regarding proper return-packing practices. Direct your customers to wrap fragile components separately, keep loose items together, and fill empty spaces so that the product does not shift during shipment. Provide explicit directions for any necessary precautions when returning products that require special handling.

Let your customers know that damaged shipping supplies, such as wet boxes, ripped mailers, or crushed cartons, should be replaced before returning an item. Damaged shipping supplies do not adequately protect the product. Using the original packaging only works when it remains functional for its intended purpose.

Direct your customers to include sufficient documentation to help your staff identify the returned merchandise. A small insert placed inside the package can help if the exterior shipping label is damaged. Clearly outline what information customers should include and where they should place it.

In addition to explaining how to pack items properly for return, your written instructions should detail how to handle old shipping labels. Customers should either completely cover or remove the original shipping label and any old shipping barcodes before attaching a return shipping label. Ensure that a clean, flat, unobstructed surface is available for the new return shipping label.

Test the return procedure yourself by sending a sample order. Open the package as a customer would, then repack it according to your instructions. Take note of any missing instructions or shipping supplies that could make the process difficult.

When reviewing damaged returns, look for common patterns. If a particular component consistently breaks or customers frequently fail to include adequate padding, consider revising your instructions. Carefully selected shipping supplies, combined with practical packing instructions, can greatly simplify the return shipping process.

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