Postal Checklist for Returning Online Purchases

Kellin McCloskey, Head of Postal Services at the Consumer Council said “Many consumers will have bought Christmas gifts online, however we sometimes get one or two gifts that aren’t suitable. To protect your parcel returns we have compiled the below top tips:   

• If you decide to cancel an online purchase you must return the items within 14 days.
• If using the pre-paid postage label supplied by the retailer, it is important to retain a proof of posting.
• In some instances you may have to cover the cost of returning the goods to the retailer.  Always check the terms and conditions.
• If you have to pay for return postage, consider how you might save time and money by using the Consumer Council’s ‘Sending Letters and Parcels’ guide.
• If sending valuable or time-sensitive items, choose the right postal product and level of insurance cover to meet your needs
• Use the full address including a postcode and put a return address on the back in case of problems with the return delivery.
• Ensure parcels are suitably packaged and fragile items are clearly marked.
• Ask for a certificate of posting and tracking reference numbers and keep these safe until you're sure the item has been delivered.

Any consumer who has a postal enquiry or complaint can download the Consumer Council postal guides ‘Sending Letter and Parcels’ and ‘Making a Postal Complaint’ by visiting www.consumercouncil.org.uk or get in touch on 0800 121 6022.