E-commerce shipping is an increasingly busy two-way street. In addition to its delivery strengths, the U.S. Postal Service is making sure USPS is the preferred shipper for packages traveling the returns lane as well, says Debra Mitchell, a postal official.

The Postal Service has launched a new group of shipping choices under the umbrella of USPS Returns. The new options, including Web-based label printing, enhanced tracking and streamlined payment, will speed start-up and make it easier for online retailers to use the Postal Service for returns, Mitchell said.

With e-commerce sales expected to continue to grow 10 percent annually over the next few years, the postal service is offering online merchants an easier way to return. The Postal Service is building on the shipping products customers already are familiar with, and adding new features for increased ease and convenience for both consumers and merchants, Mitchell said.

The Postal Service will offer three returns options: Priority Mail Return Service, Ground Return Service and First-Class Package Return Service.

For e-commerce businesses, USPS is introducing a simple, easy-to-install label printing application that can be offered by e-tailers to their customers. This tool will enable label printing through a merchant’s website, or customers can call the merchant’s call center to request a returns label be emailed to them. The labels will include the Intelligent Mail package barcode. There will be enhancements at retail outlets and usps.com as well, Mitchell said.

For more information about purchasing stamps, stamps by mail, postal regulations, a free subscription to USA Philatelic magazine, Post Office events, the location of the nearest postal store or contract unit, or for answers to your specific Postal Service questions, contact USPS at 1-800-275-8777, or visit www.usps.com. To schedule a presentation on how to get the best postage rates for your holiday shipping call 239-573-9638.