It can be quite frustrating if you have received the “Tendered to Returns Agent” update for your package. It means your package is being returned to the sender by USPS as they cannot deliver it to the recipient’s address.
It usually happens when a package returns from the local post office as they didn’t succeed in delivering it to the correct recipient address due to some reasons. Now, the package is heading back to its shipper rather than being delivered to the recipient’s address.
I know it can be very disappointing for you if you are patiently waiting for your package to get delivered. Well, if you too are wondering what’s wrong with your package and why it has this status, then don’t worry there is nothing to worry about.
Here, in this article, we have tried to cover all the things regarding the Tendered Returns Agent status. So stick on to know more about it.
What’s the Meaning of “Tendered To Returns Agent”?
If you have received this ‘tendered to returns agent’ status then it means your package is now on its way to return to the shipper rather than being delivered to the recipient’s. The update indicates that the package has been handed over to the return agent for further processing. The return agent will take the necessary steps such as issuing and refund replacement as per the company return policy.
In simple words, if you have got this update then your package is not going to be delivered rather it’s being returned to the shipper for some reason.
Why does a USPS package return to the sender?
There can be a lot of reasons why a package is returned to the sender instead of getting delivered to the recipient’s address.
Incorrect Delivery Address: That is one of the most common reasons why a lot of packages get returned to the shipper. If the address provided by the sender is incomplete or incorrect then USPS might not be able to deliver your package and are left with only the option to return it back to the shipper.
Address Not Found: If the USPS is unable to locate your address then there is a fair chance that your package will be returned to the sender until you contact USPS customer care and provide them the correct delivery address.
Refused by Recipient: If the recipient is not available at the delivery address or rejects the package at the time of delivery then it will be returned to the sender. It mostly happens if the recipient has ordered something unintentionally and they have no interest in the package anymore.
Vacant Address: At the time of delivery if the USPS delivery person finds out that the person has shifted away from the property or the address is vacant then there is no choice left with USPS rather than returning the package to the sender.
Prohibited or restricted contents – If you’re trying to ship hazardous materials a restricted items through USPS in a designated country like us then your package might end up getting returned to the sender or you might have to take some legal actions from the authorities.
Damaged: If the package has been badly damaged during its transportation from the shipper to the recipients then USPS may decide to ship it back to the sender as the content of the package has already been damaged.
How long does it take to return a package to the sender?
If a package has failed to be delivered then it takes around 3 to 10 days to reach back to the sender after the return process has been done. Here is a brief overview of what really happens if a package is returned and how long it stays in the USPS facility before leaving for the sender’s address.
Initial Delivery Attempt: During the initial delivery attempt for the package if it fails due to any of the reasons like incorrect delivery address, recipient unavailable, address not found or a lot more, the shipping carrier will leave a notice for the recipient to let them know that their package has not been delivered.
Waiting Period: After a failed delivery attempt there is a waiting period for the packages during which the recipient can claim their package or arrange for redelivery. It’s a perfect option for those who have somehow missed the delivery of the package and want it redelivered to their address without waiting for weeks.
Return Process: Once USPS is confirmed that the package cannot be delivered successfully, the shipping carrier will initiate the return process. It’s a process where the package is returned to the sender’s address. If you have already paid for the package content then it will be refunded during this return process.
Transit Time: The transit time totally depends upon the distance between the delivery location and the sender address if it is a near one it can take a few days but if it is a far-off place then it can take a few weeks for the package to arrive at the sender’s address.
What to do if your package has stuck on the update as a recipient?
Contact the USPS: If your package has been stuck on this update then you can contact the USPS and ask them to redeliver it if the waiting period of the package has not been over. Ideally in most cases, the USPS redelivers the package but, if the return process has been initiated then you may have to reorder the item.
Review your Delivery Details: Make sure all the delivery details of your package are up to date and correct. It has been noticed that if your package has been stuck on a particular issue then it may mean that something is wrong with your package delivery details. Pay close attention to any typos or omissions that may have caused the issue.
Request For Redelivery: If you have noticed that you have somehow provided the wrong delivery address then you can contact the USPS and provide them with the updated delivery address so they can redeliver your package without any delay.
How can I avoid USPS returning my packages to the sender?
These are the following things that you can do to avoid USPS returning your package.
Ensure Accurate Addressing: Make sure you have provided the complete and correct delivery address to the sender so that your package can get delivered without facing any issues. Keep in mind to cross-verify your delivery address, before placing any order.
Provide Contact Information: Don’t forget to provide your phone number and email address with the shipping carrier so that they can contact you if there is any kind of issue with the delivery of your package.
Opt for Signature Confirmation: If you’re expecting valuable or sensitive items to get delivered through USPS then you need to opt for the signature confirmation option at the time of delivery. This option binds the USPS to deliver uppers the package to a person and have a signature as proof that the package was delivered to the intended recipient.
Provide Delivery Instructions: You can also provide the delivery instructions to your shipping carrier(UPS, USPS, or FedEx) to find a secure location if the recipient is not available or leaves the package with the neighbors.
Track Frequently: Keep an eye on the tracking information provided by the USPS to know where your package has reached and when it will be delivered to you. Sometimes the carrier may not update the tracking status rather then it provides an update on the time stamp indicating your package is moving within their system.
Arrange for Redelivery: If the initial USPS delivery attempt has failed then they will leave a notice on the residence address to let them know that they have attempted to deliver your package. If that’s the case with your package then you need to contact the USBS and request for another redelivery of your package.