# Shipping labels vs. Return labels ### What’s the difference? Shipping labels and return labels serve the same shipping purpose, but are handled differently by carriers. These differences come from carrier systems and policies, not from the shipping distance or destination. ### Why are refunds handled differently? * **Shipping labels** that are unused and show no tracking activity can usually be refunded sooner. * **Return labels** may still be used by customers even after a refund. To avoid unexpected carrier charges, they are usually refunded only after they expire and can no longer be used, typically 90 days. Refund timing is determined by carrier rules. ### Need help? We are happy to help. If you have questions or need a quicker refund review for a specific label, please contact our live chat or support team email: **** --- # Agent Instructions This documentation is published with GitBook. GitBook is the documentation platform designed so that both humans and AI agents can read, navigate, and reason over technical content effectively. Learn more at gitbook.com. ## Querying This Documentation If you need additional information that is not directly available in this page, you can query the documentation dynamically by asking a question. Perform an HTTP GET request on the current page URL with the `ask` query parameter: ``` GET https://parcelwill-returns.gitbook.io/help-center/faqs/shipping-labels-vs.-return-labels.md?ask= ``` The question should be specific, self-contained, and written in natural language. The response will contain a direct answer to the question and relevant excerpts and sources from the documentation. Use this mechanism when the answer is not explicitly present in the current page, you need clarification or additional context, or you want to retrieve related documentation sections.