Dealing with a Return to Sender package is never any fun 😓
There are several reasons why USPS or UPS may return a package as undeliverable:
The address was incomplete or incorrect
The package information didn't match what was entered on the label, and the postage owed was not charged through the USPS APV System
The recipient declined the package
The package was awaiting pickup at the recipient's local Post Office or UPS Access Point, but the recipient never picked it up
The mail carrier or UPS worker had trouble accessing the address (locked gate, closed business, etc.), or the recipient was not known to live at the address on the label
To find out why a package may have been returned, the first place to check would be the USPS or UPS tracking pages 🔍 For USPS packages, oftentimes USPS will include an update explaining why the shipment was returned, like this:
For UPS, you will see a "Returned to Sender" graphic indicator when you enter the tracking number into the UPS tracking portal.
If you don't see an update like the above examples, your next option would be to wait for USPS or UPS to deliver the package back to you 👍 When they do, either carrier should include some notes (either paper, sticker, or handwritten) on your package indicating what the issue may have been.
Do I have to pay for a package marked Return to Sender?
In nearly all cases, you won't be forced to pay for packages that are returned to you. However, you will in the case of some USPS Ground Advantage packages under a certain weight.
USPS Ground Advantage packages under 1 lb (1 pound) that are marked Return to Sender don't have free returns. They will have postage due when USPS picks up the package or when it's dropped off at the Post Office to be returned
USPS Ground Advantage packages over 1 lb (1 pound) that are marked Return to Sender have free returns
Can I get a refund for a returned package?
Unfortunately, neither USPS nor UPS offers refunds for returned packages 😢 They consider the job done, since they transported the package all the way there AND back. However, our team is always happy to research your situation and help get things sailin' in the right direction!
NOTE: If you intercept a package and choose to have it returned back to you, USPS will charge you a $17.00 intercept fee plus the cost of any postage for the return. UPS will also impose a surcharge onto your Pirate Ship account, plus the cost of any additional postage. The UPS "Delivery Intercept" surcharge is $18.60 and will appear as an adjustment on your individual shipment page.
Any questions? Hit the blue chat button to get in touch with our Support Crew 😃