How does the returns inspection process work?
How does the returns inspection process work?
Your return goes to the brand's warehouse where they inspect it against four criteria: unused, tags attached, complete, and resalable. Takes 24-48 hours.
Step-by-step inspection process
1. You ship the return
Print your free return label at returns.droppe.com and drop the package at any carrier location.
2. Carrier delivers to brand warehouse
Returns go directly to the brand that originally fulfilled your order—not to Droppe. Brands manage their own returns inspection.
Typical transit: 2-5 business days within Europe
3. Brand receives and logs the return
When your package arrives:
- Scanned into their system
- You get an email: "Return received, inspection in progress"
- Inspection queue (usually same-day or next-day)
4. Visual inspection against four criteria
The brand checks:
✓ Unused condition
- No dirt, scuffs, wear marks
- Not worn outdoors or at work
- Looks and feels new
✓ Tags attached
- Brand labels intact
- Safety/CE tags present (critical for PPE)
- Hang tags if originally included
✓ Complete
- All accessories included
- Original packaging (if required for safety gear)
- Instruction manuals present
✓ Resalable
- Can be put back on shelf as new
- No odors, stains, or damage
- Packaging intact enough to protect product
5. Decision: Pass or Fail
If passed:
- Full refund processed within 1-2 business days
- Free return shipping (no deduction)
- Email confirmation sent
If failed:
- Photos taken of the issue
- Email sent with explanation + your 3 options
- 7 days to respond
Who does the inspection?
The brand's warehouse team—not Droppe staff. Why?
- Brands know their products best
- They're the ones reselling returned items
- They manage inventory and quality standards
Droppe's role: We set inspection criteria, mediate disputes, and handle refunds. But the actual inspection happens at the brand's warehouse.
What if I disagree with the result?
You can appeal:
- Reply to our email explaining why you disagree
- Provide evidence (photos you took before shipping)
- We review with the brand
- Final decision within 3-5 business days
We're fair. If there's genuine ambiguity, we give you the benefit of the doubt.
Can I track the inspection status?
Email updates:
- "Return received" when brand gets the package
- "Inspection complete" with pass/fail result
- "Refund processed" when money is sent
No real-time tracking of inspection status (yet). Most inspections complete within 24-48 hours of arrival, so you won't be waiting long.
What about customized items?
Different process: Customized products (logo printing) can't be returned unless defective. If you claim a defect, the brand inspects specifically for:
- Logo printing quality (correct logo, placement, colors)
- Product defects (material, stitching, functionality)
If confirmed defective, we coordinate repair or replacement—no return shipping charge.
Read more: Can I return items with logo printing?
Questions?
Want to know if your return will pass? Contact us BEFORE shipping. Send photos if you're unsure. Way easier than dealing with a failed inspection later.
Related articles:
- What condition must returned items be in?
- What if my return doesn't pass inspection?
- How long does the returns inspection take?
Updated on: 06/11/2025
Thank you!