One of the major problems for online sellers when shipping parcels is lost packages being returned. In today's world, the growth of SMEs and e-commerce businesses relies heavily on shipping to ensure smooth operation. Even a slight shipping error can have a huge impact. SME SHIPPING is here to support you in ensuring smooth and trouble-free shipments, and we're ready to handle international shipping with you.

Why are my packages sent internationally returned to the recipient?

The possibility of goods or packages being returned can occur at any time during any shipment, whether it's due to a return at the destination, a void due to no recipient, or because the package is suspicious and cannot be delivered. Today, SME SHIPPING is ready to inform you of 5 possible causes.

 The shipping information is unclear; the name and address are incomplete.

One of the primary reasons packages are returned is unclear delivery addresses, incomplete house numbers, missing contact phone numbers, or even spelling errors.

Items that are prohibited from being imported into the country were found in the package.

Another issue can arise in the shipping of personal parcels. Once a parcel arrives at its destination and passes the X-ray inspection, if customs at the destination find the parcel or goods suspicious and unable to be imported, it may be returned, incurring additional costs. Therefore, before sending any parcel or goods, always check the import regulations of each country you intend to send it to. If unsure, it's recommended to consult your chosen shipping company to prevent the problem of your goods being returned.

The shipping company was unable to contact the recipient of the package.

If your package has successfully entered the country and the destination carrier begins delivery, but the carrier is unable to contact the recipient (e.g., incorrect phone number, outdated number), the package will be automatically returned. Therefore, please double-check all shipping details before sending.

 The recipient refused to accept the package.

This usually happens with packages sent internationally for warranty claims or repairs of certain types of products. For example, the originating branch might forget to notify the destination country that a package has been sent for warranty claim, and the destination country refuses to accept the package. The package will then be returned. What can be done is to clearly inform both parties involved to prevent the package from being returned.

Incomplete import documents.

This can happen. Sometimes we might miss something when filling out product details, or certain types of goods require accompanying licenses and other documents. When the package arrives at its destination, some documents needed for customs declaration to the destination country will be missing, resulting in the package being returned.

Prevent returned packages with our professional international shipping service.

The main way to prevent packages from being returned is to double-check that the delivery address is correct. If anything is missing, check with the recipient and correct it before delivery. Documentation is also crucial; ensure all necessary documents are present, including certain types of package confirmation documents and those submitted to customs, to guarantee smooth entry and delivery. Once the package arrives at its destination, notify the recipient to be ready to receive it. This is another important step. 

Therefore, choosing the right shipping service that meets all aspects of international shipping is crucial. SME SHIPPING provides international parcel delivery services and also handles all shipping documentation to ensure a worry-free and smooth shipping process. You can also track your parcel status 24/7. Choose SME SHIPPING.