Royal Mail is preparing for half a million gifts to be returned this week ahead of ‘Takeback Tuesday’ – the busiest day of the year for sending back online purchases following the Christmas season.
According to Royal Mail data, the number of returns is expected to rise by about 25%, with Tuesday set to be the peak day.
This year will be the first where customers will have access to Royal Mail’s new convenient drop-off options, including proof of postage at any of the 115,000 postboxes; 3,500 solar-powered ‘postboxes of the future’ allowing for the return of larger parcels; 8,000 convenience stores across the UK which have become Royal Mail Shop outlets; and 2,600 parcel lockers available in high‑footfall locations such as Sainsbury’s stores and other major retailers.
Customers can also continue to return parcels at any of the Post Office’s 11,500 branches, Royal Mail’s 1,200 Customer Service Points and 1,400 parcel postboxes – or choose to have their postie collect returns from home using Parcel Collect.
Ricky McAulay, UK operations director at Royal Mail, said, “We know customers want returns to be quick, simple and on their terms. Whether you prefer to hand it to your postie at your doorstep or drop it off while going to work or doing some shopping, Royal Mail is making returns more convenient than ever.”
In related news, Royal Mail rolls out first electric HGV fleet at parcel hubs