The Ultimate Guide to Seamlessly Dropping Off Your Verizon Equipment: Avoid Fees and Hassle!
Have you recently upgraded your Verizon services, moved, or decided to switch providers? If so, you're likely staring down a piece of Verizon equipment, wondering what on earth to do with it. Don't worry, you're not alone! Many people find the process of returning old equipment a bit daunting, but it doesn't have to be. This comprehensive guide will walk you through every step, ensuring you return your equipment correctly and avoid those pesky unreturned equipment fees.
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| How To Drop Off Verizon Equipment |
Step 1: Identify Your Equipment and Why You're Returning It
Before you do anything, let's figure out what you're returning and why. This is crucial because the return process can differ slightly depending on the type of service (Fios, 5G Home Internet, mobile) and your reason for returning.
Are you returning Fios equipment (router, set-top box, extender)? This is common if you've disconnected Fios service, upgraded, or downgraded.
Is it 5G Home Internet or LTE Home Internet equipment (router, receiver, Wi-Fi extender)? This applies if you've cancelled wireless home internet or are exchanging devices.
Or is it a mobile device (phone, tablet, smartwatch) within the 30-day return window? This has a different process entirely, usually related to a new purchase or exchange.
Take a moment right now and gather all the Verizon equipment you intend to return. This includes the main device itself, power cords, Ethernet cables, remotes, and any other accessories that came with it. It's vital to return everything you received to avoid extra charges.
Step 2: Understand Verizon's Return Policies and Timeframes
Verizon has specific policies regarding equipment returns, and adhering to them is key to a smooth process.
For Fios and Home Internet Equipment: Generally, you have 30 days from the date your service is disconnected or new equipment is activated to return the old equipment. Failing to do so within this timeframe will likely result in an "unreturned equipment fee," which can be substantial (e.g., a Fios router can be $175-$200, and a set-top box can range from $90-$375). There might be a grace period, sometimes up to 60 days, but it's best not to rely on it.
For Mobile Devices: Wireless devices and accessories purchased directly from Verizon can usually be returned or exchanged within 30 days of purchase. A restocking fee of $50 (excluding Hawaii) may apply. If you purchased from an Authorized Retailer (like Best Buy), you must return it to that specific retailer according to their policy.
Crucially, returning your equipment DOES NOT automatically terminate your service. You must contact Verizon Customer Service to cancel your service separately.
QuickTip: Revisit posts more than once.
Step 3: Obtain Your Return Shipping Label or Instructions
This is where the actual "dropping off" process begins. Verizon typically offers a few ways to return equipment.
Sub-heading: Option A: Via Mail with a Prepaid Shipping Label
This is often the most common and convenient method.
Contact Verizon: You'll typically need to contact Verizon directly to initiate the return process and obtain a shipping label.
For Fios Equipment: Call Verizon at 1-800-VERIZON (1-800-837-4966). They will provide instructions on how to return your Fios equipment and will often direct you to a UPS Store.
For 5G Home Internet/LTE Home Internet: You can often find return information and print a label through your My Verizon account online or by contacting customer service. Some users report that Verizon will mail you a return kit, which includes a label.
For Mobile Devices:
Log into My Verizon (website or app).
Go to your Orders page and select "View details" next to the order you want to return.
Select "Return or exchange" and follow the prompts to print a shipping label.
If you can't print a label online, contact Verizon customer service.
Look for a Return Kit or Label: Verizon may send you a specific return kit, especially for home internet equipment, which includes a prepaid shipping label and sometimes a box. If not, they will provide a link or instructions to print a label yourself. Make sure it's a prepaid label!
Prepare Your Equipment:
Gather all components: Ensure you have every single piece of equipment that came with the device you're returning (power cords, remotes, Ethernet cables, etc.).
Factory Reset (for mobile devices): If returning a mobile device, it's absolutely critical to perform a factory reset and remove any personal data. Also, disable "Find My iPhone" or "Find My Device" features.
Pack Carefully: Place the equipment securely in a sturdy box. If you received a specific return box, use that. Otherwise, use a box that is appropriately sized and provides enough cushioning. You want to ensure the equipment isn't damaged in transit, as Verizon can charge you for damaged equipment.
Attach the Label: Securely attach the prepaid shipping label to the outside of your package. If you received a separate return packing slip, include it inside the box.
Drop Off: Take your packaged equipment to the designated shipping carrier. For most Verizon returns, this will be UPS.
Important: When dropping off at UPS, DO NOT just leave it. Go to the counter and get a receipt with tracking information. This receipt is your proof of return and is absolutely essential in case of any dispute about the equipment being received. Many UPS Stores can scan the equipment's serial numbers directly and provide a receipt without you even needing to box it (especially for Fios and Home Internet equipment), but always confirm this at the specific store.
Sub-heading: Option B: In-Person Drop-Off at a Verizon Store or UPS Store
This can be a convenient option if you have a store nearby.
For Fios and Home Internet Equipment:
You can often return rented Fios or Home Internet equipment directly to a UPS Store. You typically don't need to box it up beforehand, as the UPS Store can scan the serial numbers and handle the packaging for shipping back to Verizon. Always get a receipt with tracking information!
Some Verizon corporate stores (not authorized retailers) may accept Fios equipment, but this can be inconsistent. It's always best to call your local Verizon store first to confirm if they accept your specific type of equipment return. Many Verizon Wireless stores do not accept Fios equipment.
For Mobile Devices:
If you purchased your mobile device from a Verizon store, you can generally return it to any Verizon store.
If you bought it online or by phone, you can also return it at a Verizon store.
Remember the 30-day window and the potential restocking fee.
Step 4: Document Everything!
This step cannot be emphasized enough. Proof is your best friend when dealing with equipment returns.
QuickTip: Pause after each section to reflect.
Take Photos/Videos: Before you pack the equipment, take clear photos or a video of all the equipment, showing its condition and that all components are present. This can be invaluable if Verizon claims the equipment was damaged or incomplete.
Keep Your Receipt: Whether you mail it or drop it off in person, always get and keep a receipt. For mailed items, this means a tracking number. For in-person drop-offs, a receipt from the store confirming the return. This is your definitive proof that you returned the equipment.
Track Your Package: If you mailed the equipment, actively track the package using the provided tracking number until it shows as delivered to Verizon.
Step 5: Confirm the Return and Monitor Your Account
Once you've dropped off the equipment, the process isn't quite over.
Receive Confirmation: Verizon typically sends an email confirmation once they receive and process your returned equipment. Keep an eye out for this email.
Check Your Bill: Over the next 1-2 billing cycles, carefully review your Verizon bill to ensure that no unreturned equipment charges have been applied. If you see any, contact Verizon customer service immediately with your proof of return (receipt, tracking information).
Congratulations! By following these steps, you've successfully navigated the Verizon equipment return process like a pro.
10 Related FAQ Questions
How to check if my Verizon equipment needs to be returned?
You should receive specific instructions from Verizon when you cancel service or upgrade. It's best to contact Verizon customer service directly or check your My Verizon account online, as not all equipment needs to be returned (e.g., some older ONTs for Fios).
How to get a prepaid shipping label for Verizon equipment return?
Tip: Read slowly to catch the finer details.
You can typically obtain a prepaid shipping label by contacting Verizon Customer Service (1-800-VERIZON), or for mobile devices and some home internet equipment, through your My Verizon account online under your "Orders" section.
How to pack Verizon Fios equipment for return?
Gather all components (router, set-top box, power cords, remotes, Ethernet cables). Pack them securely in a sturdy box with adequate cushioning to prevent damage during transit. If you received a specific return kit or box, use that.
How to return Verizon 5G Home Internet equipment?
Contact Verizon Customer Service to initiate the return process. They will either send you a return kit with a prepaid label or provide instructions to print one. You'll then typically drop it off at a UPS location.
How to find the nearest UPS Store for Verizon equipment drop-off?
You can use the UPS Store locator tool on their website (
Tip: Reflect on what you just read.
How to get a receipt for Verizon equipment return at UPS?
When dropping off your Verizon equipment at a UPS Store, ensure you go to the counter and request a receipt. The UPS employee should scan the equipment's serial numbers (or the shipping label) and provide you with a printed receipt that includes a tracking number.
How to avoid unreturned equipment fees from Verizon?
Return all required equipment within the specified timeframe (usually 30 days from service disconnection or upgrade). Always get and keep a receipt with tracking information as proof of your return.
How to track my Verizon equipment return?
If you used a prepaid shipping label, use the tracking number provided on your receipt or label on the shipping carrier's (usually UPS) website to monitor the package's delivery status.
How to confirm Verizon received my returned equipment?
Verizon typically sends an email confirmation once they receive and process your returned equipment. You should also monitor your Verizon bill for the next 1-2 billing cycles to ensure no unreturned equipment charges appear.
How to handle a dispute if Verizon claims they didn't receive my equipment?
If Verizon charges you for unreturned equipment despite you returning it, immediately contact their customer service. Provide them with your return receipt, including the tracking number, and any photos or videos you took as proof of return. An FCC complaint can also be filed if the issue isn't resolved.
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