No matter how carefully you choose gifts or package products, returns are simply part of the shipping world. Whether you’re a small business managing customer returns, or a family sending back an online purchase, return shipping costs can sneak up quickly if you’re not prepared. The good news is, with the right strategy, you can make returns affordable, efficient, and far less stressful.

Here’s how to manage returns smoothly while keeping your costs under control.

Offer Prepaid Return Labels

If you’re a seller, including a prepaid return label with your shipment simplifies the process for your customers and often secures better rates for you. Carriers typically allow you to generate return labels at the time of the original shipment, taking advantage of bulk or negotiated rates.

For individuals making occasional returns, check if the retailer provides prepaid labels. Many do, and it’s often cheaper than paying for return shipping yourself at the counter.

Before purchasing return labels, check cashback apps like Rakuten and Ibotta. Both platforms regularly feature deals on office supplies and postage purchases. While these apps may not apply directly to carrier fees, they often include cash back for supplies like tape, labels, and shipping envelopes — the tools that make returns faster and more affordable.

Use Return Drop-Off Locations to Save

Many carriers and retailers offer designated drop-off points for returns, saving you both time and money. These locations can reduce return shipping costs since they’re part of bulk carrier routes, and they often waive pickup fees.

For example, UPS Access Point® locations or FedEx® Authorized ShipCenters are convenient spots to drop off packages without additional service charges.

Take Advantage of Free In-Store Returns

Whenever possible, use free in-store return options provided by many major retailers. If you purchased from a brand with physical locations, returning in person eliminates shipping fees altogether and ensures immediate processing of your refund or exchange.

Some retailers have even partnered with third-party return services that let you drop off items without packaging or labels, streamlining the process further.

Consolidate Returns to Cut Costs

If you’re managing multiple returns at once — for instance, returning multiple items from a single online order — consolidate them into one package whenever possible. Carriers charge per shipment, not per item, so grouping items together can significantly lower your overall return costs.

Just make sure to confirm with the retailer that consolidated returns are acceptable, as some require individual packages for proper processing.

Monitor Carrier Promotions

While return shipping isn’t always the first place you think to look for discounts, carriers occasionally offer promotions for small businesses or volume shippers. If you run an online shop, ask your carrier rep about special pricing for returns. During off-peak seasons, they might extend attractive offers to encourage volume return shipments.

Pairing these promotions with cashback app deals on supplies gives you a smart, layered approach to savings.

Returns may be inevitable, but high costs don’t have to be. By planning ahead with prepaid labels, using cashback apps for supplies, and tapping into consolidated shipping strategies, you can manage returns efficiently and affordably.

Use informational resources like GoParcel to stay informed about the latest return shipping options. With a thoughtful approach, returns can become just another smooth step in your shipping routine — not a budget buster.