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How to Generate Return Shipping Labels in Minutes
Establishing an online eCommerce business brings multiple benefits. However, there are a few considerations to which you should pay great attention. Generating shipping/return labels is one of them! If you are a newbie, it might look challenging to print multiple pieces of information on it! Whatever it is, for a hassle-free and effective shipment & return process, a shipping/return label plays an important role.
Shipping/return label printing became the industry's standard logistics industry. Each eCommerce business has its different mailing label samples that are beneficial for delivery & return process optimization. Let's delve deeper into this topic and try to understand return labels.
What Is A Return Label?
A return label is a document or label that is included with a product being returned to the manufacturer or the retailer. The return label typically contains information about the product being returned, such as the product's name, model number, and serial number, as well as the customer's name and contact information. The return label may also include information about the reason for the return, such as whether the product was defective or not up to par with the customer's expectations.
A return label comes from an adhesive sticker containing shipping barcodes, addresses, or other information. This information is helpful for the carrier to transfer the product to the right place! A label might sound like a minor part of the shipping procedure, but it plays a crucial role. Without proper labels, the business can maximize the chances of misplacing orders. An ideal return label example improves brand recognition & brand loyalty and enhances customer experience with high revenues.
This guide will help you grasp how to make return labels to transfer information.
Related: What is a Shipping Label, and How Does it Work?
How To Make Return Labels?
Return labels are created with the help of shipping software. These labels can be made anywhere at home, in commercial supply stores, or Post offices. No matter which software you will use here, we share some common steps you need to go through to create a return label.
- In the initial phase, select the mail class & shipping/return carrier. When you are producing your return label, you have to choose the shipping carrier option you want to go through. Select the suitable mail class under which your package falls.
- Enter the return address and ensure it is the same as where they agreed to receive the returned items, for example, the warehouse.
- Finally, you need to pay the amount so your customer won't have to pay anything!
Pros and Cons of Including Labels in Packages
Pros of Including Return Labeling
There are several benefits to including return labeling on products.
It can Help To Reduce Returns And The Costs Associated With Them
By including pre-paid return labels, customers can easily and quickly return products without worrying about paying for shipping. This makes the process easier and more convenient for customers, which could reduce returns overall.
It Gives Customers A Better Experience
Providing customers with an easy solution to returning items makes them feel more valued by your business. It also shows that you are committed to providing quality customer service. Customers will be more likely to purchase from your company again if they're provided with a positive experience when returning their purchases.
It Encourages Brand Loyalty
Including return labels on products can create a sense of trust between the customer and your company. When customers know they can easily make returns or exchanges, they're more likely to remain loyal and purchase from your business in the future.
It Reflects Positively On Your Brand
Return labels make it easier for customers to return items, which is a great way to show that you care about customer satisfaction. This could result in increased positive reviews, greater Word of mouth marketing, and potential customer growth.
Related: Why Custom Packaging Is Vital for Your eCommerce Brand
Cons of Including Return Labeling
There are a few potential drawbacks to including return labels on products.
It Can Be More Expensive
You may need to pay for the cost of postage and any additional materials or shipping costs associated with sending out return labels. This can add up quickly if you have a high volume of returns.
It Could Lead To More Returns
Having a convenient return label process might encourage customers who wouldn't typically return items to do so. This could mean an increase in your overall returns rate and less profit for your business.
It Can Take Time To Process
Depending on how you handle the returned products, it could take extra time and effort to package and ship them back out again. It would help if you also considered that some products might not be suitable for resale, meaning they will have to be disposed of properly—which adds another layer of complexity.
May Encourage Abuse
Finally, you may find that some customers abuse the return label process by returning items they don't need or shouldn't have purchased in the first place. You should set out clear policies and guidelines to help mitigate this issue.
Related: Amazon FBA Packaging And Labeling Requirements- The Dos And Don’ts
Pros and Cons of Customers Printing Return Labels
Pros of Customers Printing Return Labels
There are a few advantages of customers printing their return shipping labels.
Can Save The Customer Time And Money
Customers can easily print their labels from the comfort of their homes or office, eliminating the need to wait in line at a shipping facility. This convenience saves them time and money as they don't have to pay for expensive courier services or postage.
Simple And Easy To Use
Using an online return shipping label maker is very user-friendly and straightforward. Customers enter the required information, such as an address, carrier, package dimensions, etc., and hit 'Print.' The customer can then affix their printed label onto their package and ship it out without hassle.
More Accurate Tracking
By printing a return shipping label from home, customers will have more accurate tracking capabilities than regular stamps or purchasing a postage label from an outside source. This gives customers the peace of mind that their package is being tracked and will reach its destination safely.
Related: How To Label A Box For Shipping
Cons Of Customers Printing Labeling
There are a few potential cons of customers printing their return labeling.
It Can Be Difficult To Ensure That The Labels Are Printed Correctly
If the customer makes a mistake on their label, such as entering an incorrect address, they may have to reprint if they realize the error before delivery.
Can Cause Delays
If the customer is unfamiliar with the process, they may take longer to generate a label than if an employee took care of it. This can be especially true if they need to make corrections and reprint labels.
Customer Service Concerns
Customers may need clarification or clarification when printing their return labels. With someone to help them, companies can efficiently address their concerns quickly and effectively.
Costs
Depending on the type of printer used, customers may incur costs associated with printing return labels; this cost may not be covered by the company offering returns. Additionally, companies must consider any additional fees associated with shipping that might arise from using third-party couriers.
It Takes Time To Monitor Print Volume
Companies may need more resources to monitor how often and for what purpose customers are printing labels, which can lead to inefficiencies. Keeping track of customer print behavior is essential to ensure proper return label usage.
Risk Of Fraud
With proper monitoring, companies could be protected from fraudulent returns if customers print multiple labels or duplicate orders without authorization. Companies must mitigate this risk by having strict policies before allowing customers to print their return labels.
Tips On Using Return Labels Correctly
Accurate information
When using the shipping return label correctly, follow a few instructions. You should put all the accurate information because labeling errors can cause delayed orders and misplace the orders. Put the recipient's name & address, including street number, name, and unit numbers.
Proper placement
The shipping level needs to be placed in a secure place. Secured placing helps for making seamless delivery options. It should be placed on the top of the product so that the barcode is shown correctly. Don't wrap the label with plastics and all.
Brand new label
Make sure the product has only one label and should be brand new! Each label comes with a unique barcode, so make sure the labeling is not damaged.
Include a slip for backup
The products should include a slip for a backup inside the packaging. This paper should contain all other information about the business and the products.
Examples Of Good And Bad Return Policies
Good Return Policy
- Clear-cut and straightforward return terms. The policy should outline all applicable rules, such as the return period, restocking fees, what is and isn't eligible for a return, and how a refund or credit will be issued.
- A hassle-free customer experience where customers can quickly initiate a return request online or over the phone.
- Generous return window that gives customers plenty of time to decide if they are satisfied with their purchase. For example, some stores offer 30-60 days to decide on their investment.
- Free shipping on returns when possible to make it easier for customers to return an item if needed.
Bad Return Policy
- Inconsistent terms and conditions change frequently. This makes it hard for customers to know what to expect when returning an item.
- The complicated process for initiating a return, such as requiring customers to create an account or fill out multiple forms before they can get a refund.
- Unclear return window with no set guidelines on how much time is allowed for returns. This can leave customers feeling uncertain about the return policy.
- Restocking fees that deter customers from making returns. These fees should be avoided whenever possible or limited to specific items only (such as electronics).
- No refunds for any reason can quickly alienate customers and make them feel like their money is not valued.
- The lack of contact information for customer service inquiries about returns makes it difficult for customers to answer their questions promptly.
- Free shipping on returns can be costly and inconvenient for customers who need to return an item.
Related: Should I Offer Free Return Shipping?
How Simpl Makes Processing Returns Easy?
Returns are a necessary part of running any business, and processing them correctly can be time-consuming and difficult. simpl fulfillment makes returns easier to manage with features such as automated return labels, tracking, and reporting. Automatic return labels allow customers to initiate the return process directly from the Simpl fulfillment dashboard. Tracking will enable businesses to monitor their returns in real-time to ensure that the refund is processed quickly and accurately. Finally, companies can access detailed reports about their returns which gives them insight into their customer service experience to improve it continually. This makes it simpler for businesses to stay on top of their returns while providing customers with an easy, fast way to get their money back. With Simpl Fulfillment, companies can save time, money, and hassle when processing returns.
Related: How To Return Amazon Items
Return Label FAQs
What is the return address on the return label?
The return address on a return label is the mailing address of the person who sent the package. This is usually either the sender's home or business address.
How do I print a return label?
You can print the label seamlessly by visiting the dashboard of Simpl. Select the item you want to return, and the label will be generated automatically.
How do I edit my return label?
To edit the return label, you must visit the dashboard, choose the edit label options, and make changes per the requirement.
How do I return an item without a return label?
If the item you received doesn't have a return label, you'll need to contact the seller to get one. Most sellers will be happy to provide one, but some may charge a fee. Once you have the return label, package up the item and send it back to the seller. Keep your tracking number if the package gets lost in transit.
Do I need to pay for a return label?
The payment for labeling depends on the type of paper and ink. You must pay the cost of shipping to build customer engagement.
How do I track my return?
There are a few different ways that you can track your returned item. The easiest way is to check the order status on the website. You can also call customer service, and they will be able to help you track the return. Finally, you can check the tracking number on the package to see where it is in transit.
How to create return address labels in Word?
There are many different ways to create return address labels in Word, but here is one relatively simple way:
1. Open a new document in Word.
2. Click on the "Mailings" tab and select "Labels."
3. In the "Type" field, select the label you use.
4. Type in your return address in the "Address" field.
5. Click on the "Options" button and select the label size you are using.
6. Click on the "Layout" tab and then select either "portrait" or "landscape ."
7. Click on the "Preview" button to see how your return address will look.
8. Once satisfied with the layout, click the "Print" button to print your return address labels.
9. After printing, trim and attach each label to your mail pieces.
Conclusion
Creating return shipping labels can be a simple process. With the right tools, you can generate return shipping labels quickly and easily. This will allow you to get your packages back to you faster and keep your customers happy. If you need help fulfilling eCommerce orders, Simpl is here to help. We offer order fulfillment services that are fast, reliable, and cost-effective. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you streamline your operations and improve customer satisfaction.
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