UPS is piloting a new returns service, which allows consumers to return items shipped via the carrier by placing them in their own mailboxes for pickup by the U.S. Postal Service (USPS). Dubbed UPS Returns Flexible Access, the new offering relies on the USPS Parcel Return Service, combined with UPS's own delivery network. Consumers in the pilot program, which includes a handful of pre-selected retailers, receive special package labels which, allow them to leave a UPS Returns package in their mailboxes, or other locations for pick up by their postal carriers. They can also drop packages at their local post offices or in postal collection boxes. Once a returns package arrives at the local post office, a UPS driver picks it up and transports the package back to the retailer via the UPS ground network. The service combines USPS service with all traditional UPS access channels: The UPS Store, UPS drop boxes, UPS customer centers, third-party retailers such as Office Depot and Staples, and UPS drivers.
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