Online shopping returns – explained
To make returning an online purchase easier for you, we’ve outlined what you need to know about returns.
Returns aren’t one size fits all
Different retailers offer different returns options. We recommend you familiarize yourself with the return policy of the retailer prior to purchase to avoid frustration or disappointment.
Here are some ways you can return items shipped with Canada Post with ease and sustainability in mind:
Reuse the packaging for your return
We are committed to protecting the environment and encourage our customers to reuse product/shipping packaging for returns, whenever possible, to reduce waste. Reusing packaging to return a purchase you made online is often easier and more cost-effective for you.
Want to reuse your packaging to make a return? Here are a few tips to ensure your item will be processed quickly.
Bring the item or package to Canada Post for return
Many large retailers include a pre-printed Canada Post return shipping label right in the box – along with the item(s) you purchased. This way, if there is something that’s not quite right, you have a return shipping label in hand that you don’t have to pay for. Apply the label to the package and then drop it off at the post office or in a street letter box if it fits*. Use the tracking number that is directly on the return label, below the barcode, to track your return online.
If the retailer enables you to drop off your unpackaged item at Canada Post, simply bring your item to a participating post office and we’ll package and label your return.
Print a return label, then drop off your package
Some retailers offer you the option to request and print your own return label through their website. Apply the label to the package and drop it off in a street letter box* or at the post office. Use the tracking number that is directly on the return label, below the barcode, to track your return online.
Retailers that do not offer this may direct you to print your own return label via the Canada Post website. Follow the instructions to create the return label and you’ll receive an email that contains a link to print the return label, the tracking number and a QR code.
Apply the printed label to your package, then drop off your labelled package at a post office or street letter box*. You can then track it online. The tracking number can be found on the label below the barcode.
Don’t have a printer? Present the QR code at a participating Canada Post location so we can print the label for you!
Purchase your own label
If the retailer doesn’t pay postage for return shipping, you have two options to return the item yourself. Use a flat rate box or explore Canada Post’s sending solutions to determine the best method to return your item.
With ShipOnline, you can create, pay for and print your own label. Make sure that you indicate the retailer’s full address, as they provide it. This will ensure your package is delivered without delay. Apply the printed label to your package, then drop off your labelled package at a post office or in a street letter box.* You can then track it online. The tracking number can be found on the label below the barcode.
Don’t have a printer? Present the QR code at a participating Canada Post location so we can print the label for you! Or simply bring your package to a post office. Our agents can help you with sending options for your online purchase.
*The following package dimensions will fit in a street letter box: 28 cm x 21.5 cm x 14 cm or 36 cm x 19 cm x 11 cm