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How to Create a FedEx Return Shipping Label

FedEx return labels can be created via FedEx Ship Manager or through the FedEx Returns Portal. FedEx offers Email Return Label (sent directly to the customer's inbox), Print Return Label (you print it), and Print and Email (both). FedEx also supports label-free returns at FedEx Office and Walgreens locations — customers bring the package and the QR code, and FedEx prints and applies the label on-site. A FedEx account is required to generate return labels with account pricing.

Step-by-step

1
Log into FedEx Ship Manager
Go to fedex.com → Ship → Create a Shipment. In the 'Shipment Type' section, select 'Return Shipment' (or 'FedEx Returns' depending on the interface version).
2
Enter customer and return addresses
Ship From: the customer's address (return origin). Ship To: your return warehouse or address. FedEx also accepts return labels where the customer fills in their address at drop-off — useful for pre-positioned return programs.
3
Choose Email Return Label for best customer experience
FedEx emails the label PDF directly to the customer when the 'Email' option is selected. The customer prints at home or brings the email to a FedEx location for label-free drop-off.
4
Select FedEx Ground or Home Delivery for most returns
FedEx Ground (commercial addresses) or Home Delivery (residential) is the standard for retail returns. FedEx Express is available for urgent returns but is significantly more expensive. Ground/Home Delivery handles packages up to 150 lbs.
5
Send or include the return label
Email Return Label: FedEx sends automatically. Print Return Label: download PDF, email to the customer or include in the original shipment. For label-free returns: FedEx generates a QR code the customer can show at any FedEx Office, Walgreens, or participating Retail Connect location.

Good to know

•FedEx label-free returns (Print & Go) are available at FedEx Office and thousands of Walgreens locations — customers show a QR code on their phone, no printer needed.
•FedEx return labels expire — typically 30 days from generation unless you specify a longer validity period in Ship Manager settings.
•For e-commerce platforms with high return volume, FedEx has a Returns API and merchant-specific programs — contact FedEx sales for commercial return program pricing.

Frequently asked questions

Can a FedEx return label be used at Walgreens?

Yes — FedEx Retail Connect includes thousands of Walgreens locations as drop-off points. The customer drops off the return package there, FedEx picks it up daily.

Does FedEx charge for return labels at creation or on use?

Standard FedEx accounts charge at creation. FedEx's Print Return Label service (where the customer triggers the label) may have different billing terms — check with your FedEx sales representative.

What's the max weight for a FedEx return label?

FedEx Ground and Home Delivery handle up to 150 lbs per package, and packages up to 165 inches in length + girth. For items exceeding these, FedEx Freight is required — a different service with different label requirements.

How do customers return without a printer?

FedEx's Print & Go service generates a QR code. The customer brings the QR code (on their phone) to any FedEx Office or participating Walgreens. Staff scan it, print the label, and apply it to the package.