Labelless return shipments: Send return parcels without a printer

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Send labelless returns with carriers such as Bring, Budbee, dao, DB Schenker, DHL, GLS, Instabox and PostNord via QR code or numeric code.

Returns should be easy. That is why many customers often check the return procedure before they order something online. If it is not described or requires too much effort, it can keep customers from buying from your webshop.

For exactly this reason, it is important to consider the return process so that your customers feel safe and confident throughout the purchase journey.

There are several return options available, where most require customers to print something themselves. But if the customer does not have a printer, it can quickly become inconvenient. That is why you can stay ahead of your customers’ needs by offering labelless returns.

Some carriers, such as dao and Budbee, can handle labelless shipments that do not require a parcel label but instead use a special numeric code. The Swedish carrier Instabox can also handle paperless returns, as the customer simply has to write four digits on the return parcel.

Customers can also return via a QR code with, for example, Bring, DHL, GLS and PostNord, where the parcel label is only printed when the QR code is scanned at the drop-off point.

Labelless returns: sustainable and simple return shipments

In a time when more consumers expect both simplicity and responsible solutions, paperless return processes have become an important step towards more sustainable logistics. Many customers no longer have access to a printer at home, and the need to print return labels can therefore create unnecessary friction in the return flow.

With a labelless return process, your customers do not have to print anything at all. Instead, the return parcel is identified digitally via a code that can be written directly on the parcel or shown digitally at drop-off. This significantly reduces the consumption of paper and plastic and supports a more resource-efficient return setup without compromising tracking or operational reliability.

Through Shipmondo Return Portal, you can offer a paperless return process where customers book return shipping and receive the necessary information digitally. You decide which return methods and carriers should be available in your return flow. You can also customise the setup so that it matches both your sustainability goals and your customers’ expectations.

By making the return process labelless, you not only make it easier for your customers, you also reduce material consumption and minimise the need for packaging that would otherwise end up as waste. This provides a more streamlined, modern and environmentally conscious solution that strengthens the customer experience and supports a greener return flow.

Here are the carriers that offer labelless returns:

Returns via numeric codes

Make return handling simpler and more sustainable by letting your customers send return parcels without printing. With labelless returns, the parcel can be identified with a numeric code that the customer simply writes directly on the parcel with a waterproof marker. The numeric code contains all necessary information for the carrier and works as a digital replacement for the traditional shipping label.

By offering numeric code-based returns, you give your customers a paperless, intuitive solution that reduces waste and supports more resource-efficient return handling. This creates a modern and friction-free return experience without the need for labels, downloads or printouts.

QR codes for returns

QR codes make the return process even more intuitive by removing the need for both a printer and physical labels. When the customer creates a return in your Shipmondo Return Portal, a digital QR code is automatically generated, which can be shown directly from their phone at drop-off.

The QR code functions as the parcel’s digital identification. When scanned, all necessary information is retrieved automatically, so return parcels can be processed quickly and without risk of errors. This provides smooth drop-off in parcel shops and parcel lockers and eliminates the need to write or print anything at home.

In practice, this means that customers simply show up, scan the code and drop off the parcel. This reduces material consumption, minimises manual steps and makes the return flow more efficient for both you and your customers.

Simple and efficient returns with Shipmondo Return Portal

A good return process is about two things: efficient operations for you and a simple experience for your customers. With Shipmondo Return Portal, you can gather your entire return flow in one place and make return handling both more manageable and more customer-friendly.

Customers can easily register a return, choose a reason and select a carrier through a self-service solution, while you get a complete overview of the return flow in your Shipmondo account. This results in fewer manual tasks and faster processing times.

A return portal is not just a practical feature. It is a strategic part of your logistics setup that:

• Reduces administrative tasks related to returns.
• Improves the customer experience through a professional return process.
• Provides insight into return reasons, which can be used to optimise your product and delivery strategy.

Combine the return portal with Personalized Message and keep customers updated throughout the entire return process. You can automatically send customised SMS messages or emails with the status of the return, for example when the parcel has been returned. This provides your customers with reassurance and creates trust in the final part of the customer journey.

You can brand your return portal with your logo, and you can use your own custom domain for both the return portal and as the sender on emails sent via Shipmondo.

The solution is fully integrated into Shipmondo’s platform, which means that your return handling works seamlessly together with shipping booking, order management and analytics tools.