A returns label isn't functionally different from an outbound shipping label — same courier network, same scanning requirements — but the way it's generated and included with an order has a few UK-specific quirks worth knowing.
QR returns vs. printed returns
Royal Mail and most UK couriers now offer paperless QR-code returns alongside traditional printed labels — the customer shows a QR code at a Post Office or drop-off point rather than needing a printed label at all. For sellers, offering both options tends to reduce return-related support queries, since not every customer has easy access to a printer.
Setting up a returns portal
If you're using Royal Mail Click & Drop, returns can be configured within the same portal used for outbound labels — see our Click & Drop setup guide if you haven't set up an account yet. Configuring returns at the same time as outbound shipping, rather than as an afterthought, saves having to revisit account settings later.
Common formatting mistakes
Returns labels follow the same 100 × 150mm sizing as outbound labels (see our 4×6 guide), which means the same print driver settings apply. The most common mistake specific to returns is generating the label correctly but then not testing that its barcode scans cleanly — since a returns label typically isn't checked at the point of printing the way an outbound label might be spot-checked before dispatch.
Including returns labels in the original parcel
Pre-printing and including a returns label in the original outbound parcel is convenient for customers but means committing to a return rate assumption before you know if that specific order will be returned — wasted labels on orders that are never returned. Many sellers instead email a returns label on request, trading a small amount of customer friction for less wasted stock; which approach makes sense depends on your return rate and how price-sensitive your label costs are (see our guide on cutting label costs).
What happens if a returns label doesn't scan
Exactly the same process as an outbound label — manual keying at the depot, with the same potential for delay. Our guide to what happens if a barcode doesn't scan covers the process in more detail; it applies identically to returns as to outbound parcels.
Same reliable stock for returns and outbound
One roll spec handles both directions — no need to stock a separate label type for returns.
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