> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://sendcloud.dev/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

# Return methods

## Shipping options

There are two ways to select the carrier method:

`shipping_option_code` - preferred approach. get the codes from the [shipping options endpoint](/api/v3/shipping-options/return-a-list-of-available-shipping-options) by setting the returns functionality to `true`. Pass it in the `ship_with` object with type set to `"shipping_option_code"`.

If you have multiple contracts for the same carrier you need to specify which contract id to use.

`shipping_product_code` - legacy method from v2. Requires the shipping product code plus a functionalities object to filter which variant of that product you want. Only use this if you're migrating existing v2 code.

## International returns

Crossing borders may mean customs. You need `parcel_items` with `hs_code` and `origin_country` for each item when shipping through customs. Customs won't clear it without proper classification.

<Warning>
  The `customs_invoice_nr` field must reference the original outbound invoice number. If you generate a new invoice number for the return, customs treats it as a fresh import and the customer gets hit with duties again so try to always match the outbound invoice exactly.
</Warning>

The `customs_information` object needs the same invoice number plus `export_reason` set to `"returned_goods"` and the `return_data` section with outbound tracking number, shipment date, carrier name, and return postal code. This proves it's actually a return of previously imported goods.