FedExPrint

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 printer-free returns, the customer can use a FedEx QR code instead: they show it at a FedEx location or participating retail location, and a team member prints the label there.

Good to know

•QR-code returns: fedex.com says a customer with a FedEx QR code can go to a FedEx or participating retail location, show the code, and a team member prints the label — the QR email lists nearby participating drop-off locations.
•FedEx doesn't publish one validity period for every return label. Tell customers when to ship by, and issue a new label if a return comes in very late.
•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 lists participating Walgreens stores as drop-off points for pre-labeled packages, and some can print a FedEx QR-code label. Check the FedEx location finder for the nearest one.

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

It depends on the return service and your account terms. Check the billing terms for the return option you use in your FedEx account, or ask your FedEx 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?

Send them a FedEx QR code. They show it on their phone at a FedEx or participating retail location (the email lists nearby ones), and a team member prints the label for them.