E-commerce shipping is an increasingly busy two-way street. In addition to its delivery strengths, the Postal Service is making sure USPS is the preferred shipper for packages traveling the returns lane as well.
This month the Postal Service launches a new suite of shipping choices under the umbrella of USPS Returns. The new options, including Web-based label printing, enhanced tracking and streamlined payment, will speed start-up and make it easier for online retailers to use the Postal Service for returns.
“With e-commerce sales expected to continue to grow 10 percent annually over the next few years, we’re offering online merchants an easier way to return,” says Paul Vogel, president and chief marketing/sales officer. “This is an exciting opportunity for the Postal Service to grow our package business. We’re building on the shipping products customers already are familiar with, and adding new features for increased ease and convenience for both consumers and merchants.”
The Postal Service will offer three returns options: Priority Mail Return Service, Ground Return Service and First-Class Package Return Service.
For e-commerce businesses, USPS is introducing a simple, easy-to-install label printing application that can be offered by e-tailers to their customers. This tool will enable label printing through a merchant’s website, or customers can call the merchant’s call center to request a returns label be emailed to them. The labels will include the Intelligent Mail package barcode. There will be enhancements at retail outlets and usps.com as well.
“We’re showing our customers that value in shipping with the Postal Service goes both ways,” says Vogel.
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