No matter how much you thought you'd love your newest Amazon purchase, there's occasionally a time when you'll need to make a return. Amazon now charges a $1 fee for returning some packages to UPS, so you may be wondering if there are other -- free -- methods to return your order. Luckily, the answer is yes.
The online retailer still offers plenty of ways to return items for free without a hassle, whether it's something small and compact or a larger item, such as a mattress. For the most part, the process is super simple, but there are some tips to keep in mind in order to make your return as seamless as possible.
How to return an Amazon package
To start a return, head to your recent orders and select the item that you want to return. Amazon will ask you why you want to return the item, then give you return options, including where to drop your package off.
Then, all you need to do is grab the Amazon products you want to send back and head to the nearest drop-off location. Don't fret if you don't have the box your items came in. You can still bring your items to one of the listed locations where it will be packed up and shipped for free.
If you have all the shipping supplies you need but want the convenience of having your package picked up, you can do that, too.
Here's everywhere where you can return your Amazon packages.
Return your package to Kohl's or Staples
If you live near a Kohl's or Staples store, Amazon returns are simple. When you start the return process with Amazon, select Kohl's Dropoff or Staples Dropoff as your preferred option. Amazon will send you a QR code that you'll need to bring when you head to the store (you can also show a picture of the QR code on your phone).
Once you give the Kohl's or Staples employee your return and show them the QR code, they'll pack, label and ship your items for free. Even better? Sometimes the store will give you coupons that you can use at a later date after you make your returns there.
Whole Foods Market also accepts Amazon returns
You can also select Whole Foods Market as the drop-off location for your Amazon return. But you should note that if your preferred store isn't listed, your item or location may not be eligible. Also, only select stores offer no-box returns.
Once you've made your selection, Amazon will email you a QR code for a Whole Foods employee to scan. Grab that and the items you need to return, and head to either the Whole Foods customer service desk or return kiosk. An employee will take it from there and send off your package. After the return code is scanned, you will receive an email to the account linked to your Amazon that will confirm the return.
Head to a Whole Foods Market to drop off your Amazon package.
Drop your items at The UPS Store
You can also take your returns to The UPS Store. When selecting the method for returning your Amazon purchase, choose The UPS Store Dropoff. You don't need to have your items boxed or labeled. Instead, The UPS Store will pack, label and ship your return for free. UPS will email you a return shipping code ahead of time that you'll need to show to an employee. Just note that Amazon may charge a $1 fee if you choose UPS but another drop-off location was closer.
Have UPS pick up your package
If your items are eligible for UPS pickup, you won't even have to leave your house to complete your return. When you start the return process on Amazon, follow the return prompts and select UPS Pick-up.
In this case, you'll need to package the items you're returning. However, UPS will provide the return label. UPS will pick up your package on the next business day, but you or another adult must be present. However, you should not that Amazon may charge you for this return option, so this is not a guaranteed free return option.
An adult needs to be present when UPS picks up your package.
Head to a physical Amazon store
If you live near an Amazon store -- Amazon Fresh or Amazon Go -- you can drop off your return there. (Amazon has closed some of its physical stores, so finding a location may be more challenging.) On Amazon, select Amazon Store Dropoff. If the item can't be returned to an Amazon store, you'll get other return options.
Amazon will send you a QR code to show to an employee at the Amazon store. You'll need to bring the items in their original manufacturer's packaging. And if you return items to Amazon Fresh Pickup or an Amazon Hub Locker location, you'll need to bring them in a box or box them up using the materials provided.
What about DoorDash?
DoorDash is testing a feature that will let you request a Dasher who can pick up your items and drop them off at a UPS, FedEx or USPS location. However, your items must already be packaged and sealed with the prepaid return label attached. The packages must be under 30 pounds each and worth less than $500. The company hasn't said when this option will be widely available; right now, it's only available in select areas.