How to create a return label or return QR code

Use our “Get a return label” online tool to create a return label or get a return QR code. Use your Return ID – or direct link from the merchant – to download and print your return label. Alternatively, you can use the return QR code that’s provided to you to complete your return at a post office.

What information do I need to provide?

We may collect the following information from you to create a return label and/or a return QR code:

  • Your Return ID numberYour Return ID number is provided to you by the merchant. It begins with PR and is followed by 6 digits.

    The Return ID is usually found in one of the following places:

    • On the packing slip
    • In a merchant’s email
    • On the merchant’s website

    Contact the merchant if:

    • You can’t find the Return ID
    • The Return ID is invalid

    You need this number, or a direct return link, to access the return label and/or return QR code.

  • Your Return Authorization (RA) number Some returns require a Return Authorization (RA) number. The merchant provides the RA number during the purchase or return process. Check your packing slip, email, or the merchant’s website to find it. Contact the merchant if the RA number can’t be verified.
  • Your “Return from” information The “Return from” information is the first name, last name and address that will appear on the return label. If you’re signed in with your Canada Post account, this information will be auto-populated when you use the “Get a return label” online tool.
  • Your package details If the merchant wants more information about your order, you may need to provide details about your package.

    You may be asked to provide your:

    • Invoice number
    • Order number
    • Part number
    • Product SKU
    • Reason for your return

    Providing this, or additional, information will help the merchant process your return.


    Other guidelines:

    • To determine your return options, we may ask if your return item is
      • Larger than 50 cm x 40 cm (20 inches x 16 inches)
      • Fragile (including fragile electronics)
      • Battery-operated with the battery included
      • Liquid
    • Your return package must be less than 30 kg (66 lbs.), or it won’t be accepted at the post office. Contact your merchant if your package exceeds this weight limit.
  • Your return option Based on the merchant’s return policy, you could be offered up to 3 return options.

    The options are:

    • Box-free label-free
    • Label-free
    • Print at home

    You may be asked to tell us your choice.

  • Your email notification You should have received return label instructions and a return QR code by email. We may ask to see the email. You can also opt in for email notifications to track your return shipment.

What happens after I’ve created a return label without a return QR code?

After you create a return label without a return QR code, you’ll see a success page with:

  • Return information (including the merchant’s contact information)
  • Return instructions
  • A link to download the return label (there’s also a download link in the confirmation email you’ll receive) which you can send to additional email addresses
    • Please note: You must download the return label within 30 days or the download link will expire. The return label itself doesn’t expire.
  • A link to find a nearby post office to drop off your return
  • A tracking number

You should have also received return label instructions in your email. We may ask to see this email. You can also opt in for email notifications about the return shipment.

What happens after I’ve created a return label with a return QR code?

After you create a return label with a return QR code, you’ll see a success page with:

  • Return information (including the merchant’s contact information)
  • Return instructions
  • A list of your nearest post offices to drop off your return
  • Your return QR code (you’ll also be able to send this return QR code to additional email addresses)
  • A tracking number

Please note:

  • In cases where we don't offer you the “print at home” option, you won't be able to view the return label until you bring your package to the post office and we scan the return QR code.
  • If you’re using box-free label-free returns: Bring the original product packaging with you to the post office (if possible)
  • If you’re not using box-free label-free returns: You’ll need to package your item before bringing it to the post office.

Frequently asked questions