DoorDash launches return pickup service nationwide
DoorDash introduced its new returns service alongside fresh app updates and expanded retail partnerships during its annual Dash Forward conference in San Francisco on September 29. The delivery platform, which expanded to include Costco shipments in the U.S. and previously tested drone deliveries with Lowe’s and Wing, showcased its DoorDash Air drone at the event—though initial deployments will focus on food partners like Chipotle and Popeyes.
CEO and co-founder Tony Xu led the presentation, outlining the company’s latest initiatives alongside executives from Macy’s, Chipotle, and Popeyes. A key highlight was Dasher Returns, which launched in select markets with plans for a full U.S. rollout in November. Shanna Prevé, DoorDash’s chief revenue officer, described the service’s operation: “Starting today, we’re launching Dasher Returns,” she said. “For a flat fee, DoorDash will come to your home, pick up your return, and take it back to the store for you.”
Using a Gap purchase as an example, Prevé demonstrated how customers can initiate returns immediately or schedule pickups. Once accepted, Dashers collect items and return them to the retailer’s physical location. She emphasized the efficiency: “Because that inventory goes back on the shelves today, Gap has a chance to resell it to another mom, and I get my refund in days, not weeks.” Prevé praised the process as “the return experience I wish I always had,” noting the company aims to make 80% of retail orders eligible for Dasher Returns by 2026.
The company also expanded its in-app marketplace, where retailers’ products are searchable and frequently available for same-day delivery. Five new brands, Anthropologie, North Face, Timberland, Vans, and Macy‘s, will join the platform. Josh Janos, Macy’s vice president of marketplaces and digital partnerships, explained the retailer’s decision to integrate with DoorDash, following their 2020 partnership for white-label same-day and next-day fulfillment. He announced Macy’s catalog would now be accessible through DoorDash’s marketplace app. Additionally, DoorDash will participate in the 100th Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade on November 26 in New York City. Macy’s ranks No. 17 in Digital Commerce 360’s Top 2000 Database.
In addition to Dasher Returns, DoorDash detailed other new launches for customers and delivery workers on its platform. Those included: DoorDash MCP for corporate ordering, connecting AI agents to DoorDash’s system, Text DoorDash, a system for ordering from DoorDash through text messages, currently open to users through a waitlist, and DashBuddy, a text-based SMS chatbot for delivery workers, which it refers to as Dashers, using the platform. The company also confirmed DoorDash Air will begin supporting Chipotle and Popeyes deliveries.
