How is Scan-Based Return Label created using API?

One more useful feature that blue™ offers is the Scan-Based Return (SBR) labels. You can make an individualized USPS Scan-Based Return label using the blue™ API, and it will not be charged until you use it (until USPS scans it). This service is, by default, disabled on ePostage accounts but can be enabled upon the customer’s request.

SBR labels are available for: 

• Ground Advantage
• Priority Mail
• Priority Mail Express

                               

Rules to follow when creating a return label using the blue™ API:

1. In the list of existing services, a new one must be included:

 "usps" : { "shape" : "Parcel", "mail_class" : "ParcelSelect", "image_size" : "4x6", "services" :                  ["ReturnsBillOnScan"] }

In addition, it can be combined with signature confirmation, and/or insurance (above or below $500 in value).

2. The from_address object must be of the person returning the package with his/her first and last name. In other words, a generalized return label is not permitted – it must be defined for a specific individual at a specific address.
3. The to_address object must be the warehouse receiving the returns. This address must verify precisely with a ZIP+4 as the tracking barcode includes the ZIP+4.
4. The to_address object must include:
   • a company_name
   • a phone_number
   • an email        

Note*:These are requirements developed by the US Postal Inspection Service.

Scan-Based Return Label is the best solution for an “on-demand” returns environment as opposed to a blanket inclusion of a return label in every shipment. For instance, your call center can be equipped with the capability to instantly create a PDF image of the return label and have that emailed to your customer while they are still on the phone. The customer’s name and address can be extracted from your order database, and if you want to include an RMA number, you can specify that in a rubber stamp object or line1 of the to_address object.

 
Billing

USPS monitors the mail stream for SBR labels, and they have three methods to compute the postage rate based on:

• the mail class
• the induction ZIP code
• the destination (warehouse) ZIP code. 

The primary method is a measurement of the weight in the USPS operational environment by automated equipment. This is referred to as “census pricing” and in this case, the rate will accurately reflect the appropriate postage value. If no operational weight is captured, the weight will be taken from the electronic manifest. Given this, it will be wise to underestimate the weight of the package when calling the API.

The fallback method will be to charge an averaged postage based on other return labels processed through the International Bridge system.

When the USPS charges for a scan-based return label, a customer will be notified of the charge along with other particulars, and his/her account will be debited appropriately. If the label isn't scanned, a customer will not be charged.

For any questions or additional assistance please contact us via email, [e-mail].