One in three Canadians return or exchange holiday gifts each year
The holidays are the season of giving – and returning. A new survey from Amazon and Maru Public
Opinion shows that one-in-three (36%) Canadians return or exchange holiday gifts each year. Here are
some tips on how to make the process seamless, while getting a peek behind the curtain at how these
returned items get a second life at Amazon.
Why Do Gifts Get Returned?
Based on the Maru Public Opinion survey, for those Canadians who would return an unwanted holiday
gift, the primary reasons for doing so include ‘not finding it useful’ (75%), ‘already owning a similar item’
(60%), and ‘receiving the wrong size’ (60%).Canadians typically choose to exchange or return unwanted
gifts (31%) or pass them on to someone who might appreciate or use them (19%).
Gift Receipts Make Canadians Happy during the Holidays
Being a thoughtful gift giver involves more than just selecting the perfect present; it also means
including a gift receipt. This considerate gesture not only simplifies the return process but also ensures
that your loved ones have the option to choose something that truly delights them. In fact, nearly all
Canadians (90%) appreciate finding a gift receipt enclosed, especially when the gift isn’t quite right for
them.
Fun Fact:
Did you forget to give a gift receipt? No problem! Simply give the order number of your gift and
your loved one can initiate a hassle-free return.
Making Returns a Joyful Journey
Canadians often consider the time and effort involved when deciding whether to return or exchange an
unwanted gift. Key factors influencing their decision include concerns about return shipping fees
charged by stores (79%), the hassle of returning or exchanging a gift without a gift receipt (76%), the
inconvenience of a return location (71%), and the effort required to package and mail a return (64%).
However, Amazon offers hassle-free returns with no shipping fees and provides convenient and more
sustainable return options.
This guide aims to streamline the return process for a more effortless experience:
- Start Your Return: Visit https://www.amazon.ca/returns/gift
- Answer with Ease: Enter the order number on your gift receipt and answer a few quick
questions, pick a carrier that is convenient to you. - Go Label-Free or Traditional: At Amazon, customers can choose between eco-friendly, label-
free, box-free drop-offs for returns. Opt for a barcode with a box-free return, or stick with a
classic shipping label. - Final Stop – The Drop Off: Drop off your package at the carrier’s nearest location, then it’s up,
up, and away to an Amazon Return Center! You can also schedule a pick up for most items from
your home.
And here’s some holiday cheer: Amazon has extended the return window until January 31st, 2024, for
most items. No rush, just peace and joy!
Fun Facts:
Did you know Amazon’s bubble wrap envelopes can be resealed for returns? They’re a gift that
keeps on giving – perfect for recycling or reusing for your own return journey!
When using boxes, minimizing tape use keeps your returns eco-friendly, neat and tidy.
The Reverse Journey of Your Package
Upon arriving at one of Amazon’s hybrid return facilities, your returned package undergoes a meticulous
process where it is first scanned, inspected and all customer personal information is removed. Based on
its condition, the item may then take various paths: it could be donated, recycled, or re-sold.
Collaborating closely with local charities, Amazon Canada made a significant impact in 2022 by donating
millions of dollars’ worth of returned items to various charitable organizations across the country. This
process not only ensures the efficient use of returned goods but also contributes positively to local
communities.
Return Centers: Canada’s Unsung Heroes
Just in time for the holiday season, Amazon Canada has made a strategic investment of $8.1 million to
transform its 500k sq foot site in Mississauga, the company’s inaugural fulfilment centre in Canada
established in 2011, into the nation’s first facility exclusively dedicated to processing customer returns.
This revamped site now hosts 800 full-time employees who are engaged in various specialized tasks
that range from grading customer returns and assessing warehouse deals to managing the inbound and
outbound logistics. This development not only enhances Amazon’s return process efficiency but also
creates substantial employment opportunities in the region.
“Here at Amazon’s first dedicated Returns Centre in Mississauga, we’re thrilled to embark on this holiday
season with a renewed spirit of service and efficiency. Our team is fully committed to transforming the
return process into a seamless and positive experience for our customers,” said Marissa Smith,
Mississauga Site Leader. “This year, especially, we understand the importance of flexibility and choice in
holiday shopping and returns. We are excited to offer our customers the most efficient and more
sustainable return options available. It’s our goal to ensure that every customer who needs to make a
return feels supported and satisfied with their experience. So, as we gear up for the busiest time
