Articles on: Shipper Account

Get Credentials to Access UPS QR code Shipping API


Overview


AfterShip Shipping is a multi-carrier shipping software and API that enables you to automate shipping processes across USPS, UPS, FedEx, DHL, and over 100+ other carriers. With AfterShip Shipping, you can access the UPS QR code shipping API in just a few steps once you have the required credentials.


The current UPS QR code solution is provided by Happy Returns, a UPS company. All shipping charges and surcharges are still billed to your UPS account number.


With this solution:


  • Shoppers can use a QR code to drop off packages at UPS stores.
  • UPS staff will print the shipping labels and arrange the return shipment for you.


⚠️ This solution is available only for US domestic shipments.


Merchant Account Preparation


Before integrating the UPS QR code feature with AfterShip Shipping, follow these steps:


  1. Create or verify your UPS account



  1. Contact your UPS Account Manager


A. Inform your UPS account manager that you want to use the UPS Domestic QR Code Solution, and that AfterShip is your integration partner.


Your UPS representative will:


  • Clarify your use case.
  • Arrange your Happy Returns account.
  • Guide you through the required setup.


B. You’ll also need to decide your preferred drop-off method:


  • No label
  • No box, No label


C. Each method affects surcharges and AfterShip workflows differently.


  • Consult your UPS account manager for surcharge details.
  • See the relevant sections below for AfterShip flow details.


D. Regardless of your chosen method, shoppers follow the same process, show the QR code at a UPS store and drop off the package.


  1. Obtain Happy Returns credentials Once approved, you’ll receive your Happy Returns account credentials:



  1. Link UPS and Happy Returns accounts


Your UPS account manager will guide you through logging into the Happy Returns Portal and linking your UPS account.


Setting Up API Credentials in AfterShip


  1. In the AfterShip Shipping platform, enter your Retailer ID and Shipping Method ID (from Happy Returns).
  2. Select your preferred drop-off method, No label or No box, No label, as discussed with your UPS account manager.


No Label Flow


For Shipping API users, please note the following behaviors that differ from a standard shipping label API response:


  • The QR code file appears in files.qr_code.url, and no shipping label is generated under files.label.


Example:


"files": {
    "label": null,
    "qr_code": {
        "paper_size": "2x2",
        "url": "https://production-download.postmen.com/qr_code/2025-10-28/xxxxxxxxxxx.png",
        "file_type": "png"
    },
    "invoice": null,
    "customs_declaration": null,
    "manifest": null,
    "packing_slip": null
}


  • The Happy Returns RMA# appears as carrier_references.dropoff_number.


Example:


"carrier_references": [
    {
        "dropoff_number": "HRxxxxxx"
    }
]



No Box, No Label Flow


For Shipping API users, the behavior differs from a typical shipping label API response as follows:


  • The QR code file is available at files.qr_code.url, and no shipping label is generated under files.label.


Example:


"files": {
    "label": null,
    "qr_code": {
        "paper_size": "2x2",
        "url": "https://production-download.postmen.com/qr_code/2025-10-28/xxxxxxxxxxx.png",
        "file_type": "png"
    },
    "invoice": null,
    "customs_declaration": null,
    "manifest": null,
    "packing_slip": null
}


  • The Happy Returns RMA# is shown as carrier_references.dropoff_number.


Example:


"carrier_references": [
    {
        "dropoff_number": "HRxxxxxx"
    }
]


  • The tracking number is not generated immediately during QR code creation. The field tracking_numbers will be empty initially.


Example:


"tracking_numbers": []


The tracking number is added once the package is dropped off at a UPS store. AfterShip automatically updates this information and you can retrieve the updated tracking number using:


  • GET /Labels API, or
  • Webhook notifications.


FAQs


1. What is the UPS QR code shipping solution?


It’s a label-free return option that lets customers drop off packages using a QR code instead of printing a shipping label. UPS staff handle printing of the shipping label and shipping of the return shipment for you.


2. Who provides this QR code solution?


The solution is powered by Happy Returns, a UPS company.


3. Is the the UPS QR code solution available for international shipments?


Currently, the UPS QR code shipping solution is available only for US domestic shipments.


4. What’s the difference between the “No label” and “No box, No label” drop-methods?


  • No label: The customer brings a boxed package without a label.
  • No box, No label: The customer brings unpackaged items; UPS handles packaging and labeling.


Each method has different surcharges and processes.


5. Where do I find my Happy Returns credentials?


Your UPS account manager will provide you with the following credentials:


  • Login credentials for the Happy Returns portal
  • Retailer ID
  • Shipping Method ID


6. How do I get the tracking number?


The tracking number becomes available after the package is dropped off at a UPS store. AfterShip will update your shipment automatically.


7. Can I still use my UPS account for billing?


Yes. All charges and surcharges are billed directly to your existing UPS account.



If you need any further assistance, get in touch with our technical support team at support+shipping@aftership.com


Updated on: 30/10/2025