Where Do I Return Verizon Cable Boxes? A Comprehensive Guide

So, you’ve cut the cord, upgraded your equipment, or are simply moving on from Verizon’s cable services. One burning question likely dominates your thoughts: where do you return those Verizon cable boxes? The answer is multifaceted, and thankfully, Verizon provides several convenient options. You can return your equipment via shipping it back using a prepaid label, dropping it off at a designated Verizon store, or utilizing a participating FedEx Office location. Let’s delve into the specifics of each method to ensure a seamless return process.

Understanding Verizon’s Equipment Return Policy

Before diving into the “where,” let’s briefly touch upon the “why” and the “when.” Verizon requires the return of leased equipment, including cable boxes, remotes, power cords, and other accessories, when you discontinue service or upgrade to new equipment. Failure to return equipment within the specified timeframe (typically 30 days) can result in hefty unreturned equipment fees, which can quickly add up and put a serious dent in your wallet. So, timely returns are paramount.

Method 1: Shipping Back Your Equipment with a Prepaid Label

This is often the easiest and most convenient method for many customers, especially those who don’t live near a Verizon store or participating FedEx Office location.

How to Obtain Your Prepaid Shipping Label

Verizon typically sends a prepaid shipping label along with your cancellation confirmation or equipment upgrade information. However, if you can’t find it, don’t panic! You can easily obtain one by:

• Visiting Verizon’s website: Navigate to the support section and search for “equipment return label.” You’ll likely need your account number.
• Contacting Verizon Customer Support: Call Verizon’s customer service line and request a prepaid shipping label. They may email it to you or send it via regular mail.

Packaging Your Equipment Securely

Once you have the label, the next step is to package your equipment securely. Here’s how:

• Use the original box (if available): If you still have the original packaging, that’s your best bet. It’s designed to protect the equipment during transit.
• Use a sturdy cardboard box: If you don’t have the original box, use a sturdy cardboard box that’s slightly larger than the equipment.
• Wrap each item individually: Wrap each cable box, remote, and power cord in bubble wrap or packing peanuts to prevent damage during shipping.
• Fill any empty spaces: Fill any empty spaces in the box with packing peanuts or crumpled paper to keep the equipment from shifting around.
• Securely tape the box: Use packing tape to securely seal the box.
• Attach the prepaid shipping label: Affix the prepaid shipping label to the outside of the box, ensuring it’s clearly visible and properly attached.

Dropping Off Your Package

Once packaged and labeled, simply drop off the package at a designated shipping location, as indicated on your prepaid label. This is usually a UPS or FedEx location.

Method 2: Dropping Off at a Verizon Store

If you prefer a more hands-on approach or need to return your equipment urgently, dropping it off at a Verizon store is a viable option.

Finding a Participating Verizon Store

Not all Verizon stores accept equipment returns, so it’s crucial to locate a participating store beforehand. You can do this by:

• Using Verizon’s Store Locator: Visit Verizon’s website and use the store locator tool. Be sure to filter your search to show stores that accept equipment returns.
• Calling Verizon Customer Support: Call Verizon’s customer service line and ask them to identify participating stores near you.

What to Bring to the Store

When you visit the Verizon store, be sure to bring:

• Your equipment: This includes the cable box, remote, power cord, and any other accessories.
• Your account number: Having your account number readily available will expedite the return process.
• Photo identification: The store representative may ask for photo identification to verify your identity.

Obtaining a Receipt

Crucially, obtain a receipt as proof of your return. This receipt will serve as your documentation in case of any discrepancies or issues in the future.

Method 3: Using a Participating FedEx Office Location

Verizon has partnered with FedEx Office to provide an alternative drop-off location for equipment returns.

Finding a Participating FedEx Office

Similar to Verizon stores, not all FedEx Office locations participate in the equipment return program. You can find participating locations by:

• Using Verizon’s FedEx Locator: Verizon typically provides a specific tool or link on their website to find participating FedEx Office locations. Search for “Verizon FedEx return locations” on their support page.
• Calling Verizon Customer Support: As always, customer support can provide you with a list of participating locations near you.

The Return Process at FedEx Office

The process is straightforward:

• Bring your equipment: Bring all equipment you need to return.
• The FedEx Office will handle the packaging and labeling: Unlike shipping it yourself, the FedEx Office will package and label the equipment for you. This can save you time and effort.
• Obtain a receipt: Always get a receipt from the FedEx Office as proof of your return.

FAQs: Answering Your Burning Questions

Here are 12 frequently asked questions about returning Verizon cable boxes to provide further clarity and address common concerns:

1. What happens if I don’t return my Verizon cable box? Failure to return your equipment within the specified timeframe will result in unreturned equipment fees, which can be substantial and vary depending on the type of equipment.
2. How long do I have to return my Verizon cable box? Typically, Verizon gives you 30 days from the date of service disconnection or equipment upgrade to return your equipment. Check your cancellation confirmation for the exact timeframe.
3. Can I return my equipment to any Verizon store? No, not all Verizon stores accept equipment returns. You need to find a participating Verizon store using their store locator or by contacting customer support.
4. Do I need the original box to return my equipment? No, you don’t need the original box. However, it’s recommended to use a sturdy cardboard box and pack the equipment securely with bubble wrap or packing peanuts.
5. What if I lost my prepaid shipping label? You can obtain a new prepaid shipping label by visiting Verizon’s website and accessing the support section or by contacting Verizon Customer Support.
6. Do I need to return the remote control and power cord? Yes, you need to return all leased equipment, including the cable box, remote control, power cord, and any other accessories provided by Verizon.
7. How do I know if the FedEx Office location participates in the Verizon equipment return program? Use Verizon’s FedEx Locator on their website or contact Verizon Customer Support to confirm participating locations.
8. What should I do if I receive a bill for unreturned equipment after I’ve already returned it? Immediately contact Verizon Customer Support and provide them with proof of your return, such as the receipt from the Verizon store or FedEx Office, or the tracking information from the prepaid shipping label.
9. Can someone else return the equipment on my behalf? It’s generally recommended that the account holder return the equipment. If someone else needs to return it, they should have your account number and possibly a signed authorization letter. Contact Verizon customer support for specific instructions.
10. Is there a fee for returning the equipment? No, there is no fee for returning the equipment, as long as you return it within the specified timeframe and using the provided return methods (prepaid shipping label, Verizon store, or FedEx Office).
11. What happens if my equipment is damaged during shipping? If you packaged the equipment securely, you are generally not responsible for damage during shipping. However, keep a record of the tracking number and packaging process in case Verizon needs further information.
12. Can I schedule a pickup for my equipment? While rare, Verizon sometimes offers equipment pickup options, particularly for certain types of equipment or circumstances. Contact Verizon Customer Support to inquire about pickup options in your area.

By following these guidelines and utilizing the available return options, you can ensure a smooth and hassle-free return of your Verizon cable boxes and avoid any unwanted charges. Remember, documentation is key – always obtain and retain proof of your return for your records. Good luck!