5 Things to Keep in Mind When Returning Containers

Shipping goods is a delicate matter that can sometimes end in the return of containers. There are different reasons a container may come back, and it is important to know them so you can meet the necessary requirements if one of them arises.

Things to consider when returning a container

There are several causes that justify returning a container and, depending on which one applies, certain essential factors must be taken into account to handle it properly. Five stand out:

• Cancelled purchase: the process of buying goods can be stopped at any time for countless reasons, which is possible as long as the deal has not been closed and the goods have not been dispatched. But if the products have already been shipped, the process is considered a return and you must comply with the policies set by the shipping company, which may include special compensation fees.
• Unwanted product: sometimes there is a change of mind about the product ordered, so the containers can be returned to exchange the goods. A container company applies various policies to process the return, which depend mainly on the number of days allowed to file the request. Generally, the costs of collection and redelivery of a new shipment are borne by the customer.
• Return under warranty: when goods arrive defective because of improper handling of the containers, the carrier is obliged to answer for the situation. The affected party only has to file the claim and return the containers so the problem can be resolved.
• Shipping error: sometimes the supplier makes a mistake and sends products other than those ordered. In that case, the container holding the goods must be returned with the corresponding note so the company responsible for the mix-up can send the correct products. In these situations the customer should not pay anything extra, because the error was the seller's, and the seller must cover all the costs of returning the container with the wrong goods and shipping the correct ones.
• Return of empty containers: another situation that, although uncommon, can happen, is that the containers arrive empty at their destination. This is a direct cause for return and must be dealt with immediately by notifying the shipper of the shortfall.

How to make a return

To return a container, just follow a few simple steps:

• Write a report specifying the reason for the return, with the corresponding order.
• Comply with the legal regulations that govern the storage of containers at shipping lines or airports.
• Pay the fees that apply in each case.
• Notify the shipper of the goods through every possible channel about the return procedure so they can make the necessary arrangements.

Returns are not always completed smoothly, for various reasons, as happened during the 2020 container crisis caused by the restrictions of the COVID-19 pandemic, which made it impossible to return these units for some time. Generally, however, the process flows quickly and diligently.

So if a circumstance arises that requires returning a container, review the points above and act according to each situation. With the support of the right company, everything can always be resolved in the best possible way.

Buying a container and want clear terms from the start? Talk to an Econtainers advisor.