Return to Stock or Return to Vendor Labels?
Use Return to Stock and Return to Vendor labels to communicate different, already authorized destinations. Neither message simply means that goods have arrived as a return. Decide the disposition through the operation's process before marking its destination.
A single returned package can contain items that receive different decisions. In that case, keep the destination information with the appropriate item or group rather than relying on one message on the original outer carton.
Map the returned set before labeling it
In a hypothetical example, a returned kit contains a main item, an accessory and a separate component awaiting a decision. After the responsible team reviews them, the main item is designated for stock and the accessory for the vendor. The third component remains unresolved.
| Returned component | Recorded decision | Physical identification needed |
|---|---|---|
| Main item | Return to stock | Stock destination connected to this item |
| Accessory | Return to vendor | Vendor destination connected to this accessory |
| Separate component | Decision pending | The operation's pending-status identification |
Putting Return to Stock on the original carton would incorrectly describe the entire mixed set. Separate the groups as required by the process and make the decision for each group visible at the handoff.
Choose the printed destination
DL1151 Return To Stock labels are listed at 2 × 3 inches, fluorescent green, on paper, with 500 labels per roll. DL1268 Return To Vendor circle labels are listed as 2-inch fluorescent red circles on high-gloss paper, with 500 per roll.
The wording distinguishes the routes. Use the actual message as well as the team's color convention. A color alone does not identify a particular stock location, vendor or return reference.
Keep the supporting information available
Connect each labeled item or group with its identity, decision record and destination details. The preprinted destination label does not replace those fields. A vendor return may still need a specific reference and receiving destination supplied through the operation's normal process.
If several components stay together physically, verify that the same decision applies to every component in that group. If one component changes destination, revise the grouping and identification before the next handoff.
Resolve contradictory old labels
In the hypothetical kit, the original carton may already carry a previous message. Review which markings remain active after the set is divided. Follow the team's method for removing or retiring obsolete instructions so they do not conflict with the current destination.
Have the receiving colleague match the physical groups to the recorded destinations before treating the handoff as complete. Use the returns-processing packaging guide for the surrounding supplies. The label supports an authorized disposition; it does not make that decision or carry out an inventory transaction.