Dealing with a Return to Sender package is never any fun 😓
Packages can be returned to you for several reasons
Reasons for Returned Packages: There are several reasons why USPS or UPS may return a package as undeliverable. Some of them are:
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
Check the USPS or UPS tracking pages to see the reason for a returned package
To find out why a package may have been returned, the first place to check would be the USPS or UPS tracking pages 🔍
Returned USPS Packages: Oftentimes, USPS will include an update explaining why the shipment was returned. Here's an example in this screenshot:
Returned UPS Packages: For a returned UPS package, you will see a "Returned to Sender" graphic indicator when you enter the tracking number into the UPS tracking portal.
What to do if UPS or USPS doesn't give a reason for the return
If you don't see an update like the above examples displaying the reason your box is coming back, your next option is to wait for USPS or UPS to deliver it back to you 👍
Look for Notes on Your Box: When they return your package, 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?
USPS Return to Sender Packages
You Won't Pay for Most USPS Returns: In nearly all cases for USPS, you won't be forced to pay for packages 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) 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) marked Return to Sender have free returns
USPS Charges for Intercepts: 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 Return to Sender Packages
UPS Surcharges Apply to Returned Packages: Unlike USPS, UPS applies surcharges when they return all packages to the original sender.
These surcharges will come as carrier adjustments applied to your label.
Examples of Surcharges: Here are some of the UPS surcharges applied to packages marked Return to Sender:
Delivery Intercept
The UPS "Delivery Intercept" surcharge is $18.60 and will appear as an adjustment on your shipment page.
Return to Sender - Phone Request
Return to Sender - Web Request
Undeliverable Return
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!
Chat with us if you need help
Do you have any questions or need a helping hook to get sailing? Hit the blue chat button to get in touch with our Support Crew 😃