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Where Can I Return My Verizon Fios Equipment? Your Comprehensive Guide

So, you’re parting ways with Verizon Fios, or perhaps just upgrading your equipment. One critical task remains: returning your Verizon Fios equipment. Don’t fret, the process is straightforward, and Verizon offers several convenient options. You can return your equipment through The UPS Store, via a pre-paid shipping label, or schedule a Verizon technician pickup in certain circumstances. Let’s dive deeper into each option to ensure a smooth return.

Understanding the Verizon Fios Equipment Return Process

Returning your Verizon Fios equipment promptly is crucial to avoid hefty non-return fees. Verizon considers equipment like routers, set-top boxes, and remote controls their property and expects them back when you cancel your service or upgrade. Failure to return these items within a specified timeframe (typically 30 days) can result in significant charges on your final bill.

Your Return Options: A Detailed Breakdown

Option 1: The UPS Store – Your Go-To Solution

The most common and generally recommended method for returning Verizon Fios equipment is via The UPS Store. This method is convenient, readily accessible, and provides immediate proof of return.

Packaging Your Equipment: Pack all the equipment you’re returning (router, set-top box, remote, power cords, etc.) securely in a box. Ideally, use the original packaging if you still have it. If not, use a sturdy box with ample padding to prevent damage during shipping.
Locating a Participating UPS Store: Verizon has partnered with The UPS Store for easy returns. Not all UPS Stores participate, so it’s essential to confirm beforehand. Use the Verizon website or the My Fios app to locate a participating store near you.
No Label Required (Usually): In most cases, you don’t need a pre-printed shipping label. Simply bring your equipment to The UPS Store. They will scan your Verizon account information (usually your account number or address), generate a label, and ship the equipment back to Verizon.
Getting a Receipt: This is arguably the most critical step. Always, always, always get a receipt from The UPS Store as proof of return. This receipt serves as your protection against any potential discrepancies or claims of non-return. Keep it in a safe place until you receive your final Verizon bill and confirm everything is correct.

Option 2: Pre-Paid Shipping Label – Mailing it In

If you don’t have a UPS Store nearby or prefer to handle the shipping yourself, you can use a pre-paid shipping label provided by Verizon.

Obtaining the Label: Typically, Verizon will send you a pre-paid shipping label when you disconnect your service or upgrade your equipment. This label may arrive via email or regular mail. If you haven’t received one, contact Verizon customer support to request it.
Packaging and Shipping: Carefully package your equipment as described above. Affix the pre-paid shipping label securely to the box. Drop off the package at any authorized UPS location or schedule a pickup with UPS.
Tracking the Shipment: The pre-paid shipping label will include a tracking number. Use this number to monitor the progress of your shipment online through the UPS website. This allows you to confirm that Verizon has received the equipment.
Keeping Records: Retain a copy of the pre-paid shipping label and the UPS tracking information as proof of shipment.

Option 3: Verizon Technician Pickup – When Available

In rare circumstances, Verizon might offer to pick up the equipment directly through a technician. This option is less common and usually reserved for specific situations.

Eligibility: Verizon technician pickup is not a standard return method. It’s generally offered if you have a complex setup, are unable to transport the equipment yourself, or if Verizon deems it necessary.
Scheduling: If this option is available to you, Verizon will typically schedule the pickup when you disconnect your service. Make sure to confirm the pickup date and time with the technician.
Preparation: Ensure all the equipment is disconnected and ready for pickup on the scheduled date.
Documentation: Obtain some form of documentation from the technician acknowledging the equipment they’ve collected.

Key Tips for a Smooth Return

Act Promptly: Don’t delay returning your equipment. The sooner you return it, the lower the risk of incurring non-return fees.
Document Everything: Keep copies of all receipts, tracking numbers, and any other relevant communication with Verizon.
Inspect Equipment Before Returning: If possible, take pictures or videos of the equipment before packaging it. This can be helpful if Verizon later claims the equipment was damaged.
Confirm Receipt: After shipping, monitor the tracking information to confirm that Verizon has received the equipment.
Review Your Final Bill: Carefully review your final Verizon bill to ensure that you haven’t been charged for unreturned equipment. If you find any errors, contact Verizon customer support immediately.

FAQs: Your Burning Questions Answered

1. How long do I have to return my Verizon Fios equipment?

Typically, you have 30 days from the date your service is disconnected or from the date you received your new equipment to return the old equipment. Check your Verizon documentation for the specific timeframe applicable to your account.

2. What happens if I don’t return my Fios equipment?

If you fail to return your equipment within the allotted timeframe, Verizon will charge you a non-return fee. These fees can be quite substantial, often totaling hundreds of dollars, depending on the type of equipment.

3. Can I return my equipment to a Verizon store?

While Verizon stores used to accept equipment returns, most no longer do. It is best to check with your local store for the most up-to-date information or use one of the other options listed.

4. What if I lost the power cord for my Fios router?

You should still return the router even if you’ve lost the power cord. Verizon is primarily concerned with the return of the core equipment. However, if you know which kind of power cord it is you can often purchase a similar one.

5. What if my Fios equipment is damaged?

If your equipment is damaged, you should still return it. However, be prepared to potentially pay a damage fee. Contact Verizon customer support to discuss the situation and understand the potential charges.

6. Can I return my Fios equipment in person?

While some Verizon stores may accept returns, it’s best to rely on the UPS Store or pre-paid shipping label methods to guarantee a proper documented return. Confirm with your local store first.

7. How do I find a participating UPS Store?

Use the Verizon website or the My Fios app to locate a participating UPS Store near you. Not all UPS Stores participate in the Verizon equipment return program.

8. What information do I need to bring to The UPS Store?

You typically only need your Verizon account number or your service address. The UPS Store employee will use this information to look up your account and generate a shipping label.

9. What if I don’t have the original packaging for my Fios equipment?

That’s perfectly fine. Use a sturdy box with adequate padding to protect the equipment during shipping. Bubble wrap or packing peanuts work well.

10. How do I track my return if I use a pre-paid shipping label?

The pre-paid shipping label will have a tracking number. Enter this number on the UPS website to track the progress of your shipment.

11. What should I do if I’m charged for unreturned equipment after I’ve already returned it?

Contact Verizon customer support immediately. Provide them with your proof of return (receipt from The UPS Store or tracking information from UPS).

12. Is there a fee for returning Fios equipment?

No, there is no fee for returning the equipment itself, as long as you do so within the specified timeframe. However, you will be charged a non-return fee if you fail to return the equipment.