Reply
Frequent Contributor
Posts: 77
Registered: ‎03-20-2011

Frustrated using a Smart Label for returns

The last time I used a Smart Label it took (according to tracking) 10-days before the package was picked up from the post office.  It usually takes 5-7 days which is too long also.

 

I asked the postal clerk how the people that pick up the packages are notified and she about bit off by head stating she would not answer any questions because it is not a USPS service and they have no affliation.

 

So, my question is: How is the service notified that a package is waiting or do they just pick them up on a random basis or on a set schedule.  However it is done the service Sucks!

Respected Contributor
Posts: 2,736
Registered: ‎03-09-2010

Re: Frustrated using a Smart Label for returns

The return takes forever when using the Q return prepaid label.  It is all a mystery as no one gives a straight answer.  When I use a post office in a nearby town the return seems to get picked up faster.  If I use my tiny local PO, it can sit there for a week.  

Respected Contributor
Posts: 2,496
Registered: ‎01-23-2019

Re: Frustrated using a Smart Label for returns

I’ve had it explained to me by the post office that a private company is hired to pick up the packages at the post office and it is not based on knowing the packages have been dropped off, rather, it is a periodic pick up that is done. So the package sits at the post office until the company comes and gets it, and then it takes a long time to get back. So returns take forever and it’s not the fault of the post office but rather the super slow cheap way QVC (and many other companies) choose to do the return shipping.  

Honored Contributor
Posts: 25,934
Registered: ‎03-16-2010

Re: Frustrated using a Smart Label for returns

@Grouchomarx 

 

I agree that QVC is not the only company using this return method.  I’ve noticed that a few other companies I order from are now using it too, and it does take longer to be picked up.  Although I have to say, most often my returns are picked up fairly quickly, if I use my post office to return.  It doesn’t seem to be so much the pickup time for me, but the travel and processing time that’s longer.

 

But in my experience, unless I have a very small package, it’s still cheaper to use the prepaid label.  It just takes longer to get a refund or exchange. 😕

Respected Contributor
Posts: 2,496
Registered: ‎01-23-2019

Re: Frustrated using a Smart Label for returns


@geezerette wrote:

@Grouchomarx 

 

I agree that QVC is not the only company using this return method.  I’ve noticed that a few other companies I order from are now using it too, and it does take longer to be picked up.  Although I have to say, most often my returns are picked up fairly quickly, if I use my post office to return.  It doesn’t seem to be so much the pickup time for me, but the travel and processing time that’s longer.

 

But in my experience, unless I have a very small package, it’s still cheaper to use the prepaid label.  It just takes longer to get a refund or exchange. 😕


Agreed, the label usually wins over paying your own postage. 

Super Contributor
Posts: 260
Registered: ‎09-05-2014

Re: Frustrated using a Smart Label for returns

I don't return a lot of stuff, but haven't had a problem.  If anything, I am usually surprised at how fast they arrive back to wherever.  I am in Manhattan where most post offices are crazy busy, which might have something to do with it.  

Honored Contributor
Posts: 16,678
Registered: ‎03-09-2010

Re: Frustrated using a Smart Label for returns

I have a FedEx account and use my own FedEx label for returns.  I usually save up a few items and return them in the same package.  I can see by tracking that the Q receives the return within a day or two.  I can also see when and who signed for it.  

 

Pricing is similar to the Q for me as I'm in PA.

Valued Contributor
Posts: 517
Registered: ‎08-28-2018

Re: Frustrated using a Smart Label for returns

[ Edited ]

Of course the longer a business can hold on to our refund returns money the more they can keep in combined interest from their banks.problematic items

 

Imagine all the customers who return for various reasons, defects, missing parts, non operational, burning odors, problematic items, etc.

 

That is a huge chunk of our money in interest these businesses get.

 

That is why I try not to buy electrical items if I can find it elsewhere, at a Business where I can return it and get an immediate  brand new in totally sealed  manufacturer's packaging fully operational replacement,  refund in cash, or refund back to my Visa card.

Honored Contributor
Posts: 16,201
Registered: ‎03-11-2010

Re: Frustrated using a Smart Label for returns

I think when you make a return those packages sit at your local post office until the sub-contractor (which is not an employee of the post office) has a full load to pick up. That's my guess as to what's happening with the packages. I doubt these sub-contractors are going to go by to pick up 1 package. That's probably why it can take up to a week for it to be picked up.

Yes Q's price for their return label beats making my own return label online with USPS. Which would you rather do? Pay a little more & use your own return label so you don't have to deal with the BS. I print my own label & Q receives my return faster & I receive my credit faster. I don't want a credit on my credit card nor do I want a check I have to take to the bank. I never go to the bank.

 

Esteemed Contributor
Posts: 7,112
Registered: ‎11-06-2011

Re: Frustrated using a Smart Label for returns

Aside from the slowness of the third-party pickup approach, the other drawback to using the Q Smart Label is that this class of service is the absolute lowest delivery tier available, so every other package in any system will be moved before these return packages. For example, I just initiated a Q return last week and it was picked up from the post office the very next day, which is great—but it has now taken nine days to travel exactly one state over. Sigh.