I had to return an accessory for the new computer today because it didn’t work. Interestingly enough, Amazon recommended I put this QR code on a mobile device and take it down to my local UPS store and show it to them. I wouldn’t have to wrap the product or print out a label, UPS would do it for me.
It struck me as strange, because Amazon bans people if they have too many returns and are thus too costly. So why would they encourage people with defective products, and thus free returns, to use a more costly service? It didn’t make sense, so I printed out the label, wrapped the package, and dropped it off at our local shipping place.
When I was there I asked the gal how the QR code worked, and she said they aren’t a UPS store so they don’t do it, I would have to go to Santa Fe. I clearly made the right choice.
Has anyone else been encouraged to use the QR code?
November 2, 2019
I’ve never even sussed that code-thing…I see it sometimes at Art shows, where you will get more details. There are lots of things…that I don’t know about the capabilities of my phone š
I know you’re supposed to be able to get information from the codes and my MacMini doesn’t have a webcam, so I don’t think I could do it even if I wanted to. Here are the instructions if you’re curious: https://www.wikihow.com/Scan-a-QR-Code
Yes, I have. But I didn’t want to bother with the code-thing, so I instead printed it out (option in the return section; I was using my laptop, not a phone) and let UPS do it. They scanned the code, wrapped the package, etc. No charge…. at least not directly to me. Amazon aren’t idiots, tho,so we can be sure they’re making up for that “free” thing in another way.
You make a good point, in what way is this a benefit to Amazon?
Maybe if one makes too many returns, they no longer provide the code. But what else?
About using the code — I assume you did it in Seattle?
If people make too many returns they are dropped and no longer can have an account with Amazon. Apparently they aren’t warned ahead of time. It’s a mess when it happens.
I have a smart phone but I wouldn’t know how to put the code on it and I can’t put anymore apps on it, so I’d be out. I order a lot from Amazon but have only had two returns in years. I just printed out the labels and packed them back up in their original boxes and had them picked up at the house.
I think you are supposed to take a picture of the code with your camera and show it at the UPS store. Printing it out also works. But packaging it yourself and having it picked up is even easier.
The QR code is just a 2 dimensional code that can hold a lot mor information than a standard bar code.
UPS may not be more expensive for Amazon than other shipping options. Because of the ultra high volume of Amazon shipping, Iām sure the cost to them is heavily discounted. FedEx, I believe stopped shipping Amazon packages because of how little they made with it.
I read that another reason FedEx stopped shipping Amazon packages is because Amazon is starting to be their competitor. Things are changing fast and it’s hard to keep up.
I’m wondering what extra information is on their QR code. When I drop off a package to be returned Amazon knows about it right away and gives me my refund.
I’ve never had to return anything that I’ve purchased online so I’ve never even heard of doing this
I’m glad your purchases have worked so well.
We don’t use Amazon any more for several reasons – how they treat their workers, their tax avoidance, their putting me on Amazon Prime without my approval etc. We use alternative suppliers or go to Waterstones in the city centre.
They subscribed you to Prime without your approval? How did that happen and I assume you got your money back?
No, I have never did this…I have had only one or two returns…
This QR system is new, and I’m glad you’re had good luck with your purchases. Most of ours work but occasionally they don’t.