Return Label is a common logistics term in foreign trade and cross-border e-commerce. It refers to a prepaid or freight-collect shipping label provided by the seller or logistics provider to the buyer. The buyer affixes it to the returned package and sends the goods back to the designated address. Use cases include: buyers requesting returns due to quality issues, size mismatch, or wrong item shipped; platforms (such as Amazon, eBay) mandating sellers to provide return labels; or overseas warehouse return and relabeling services. Notes: 1) Return labels usually contain the return address, RMA number, and logistics barcode; information must be accurate, otherwise the package may be lost. 2) The party bearing the cost must be agreed in advance—commonly the seller, the buyer, or platform subsidies. 3) International return labels involve tariffs and customs clearance; mark 'Returned Goods' to avoid double taxation. 4) Unlike 'relabeling labels,' return labels are used for reverse logistics, while relabeling labels are used for FBA reshipment. Difference: Return labels emphasize return, while 'shipping labels' are used for forward delivery.
📝 Examples
1. Due to quality issues with the product, we have generated a prepaid return label for you. Please print it, affix it to the package, and send it back. (Note: The seller proactively provides the return label and bears the shipping cost.)
2. According to Amazon's return policy, buyers can download the return label from the backend and return the item to our U.S. overseas warehouse. (Note: The platform automatically generates the return label, and the buyer operates it themselves.)
💡 Foreign Trade Tips
Foreign trade terms are the foundation of international business communication
Trade practices may vary slightly by country; pay attention when using them
When using terms in contracts, specify the applicable version (e.g., Incoterms 2020)
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