To finish a DirecTV equipment return, first cancel your service. Then get the return label, pack each device, and drop the box at the carrier named on the label. Keep your receipt until your account shows a zero balance.
What You Need Before You Start
- Your account number and the phone number or email on the account.
- A list of every device on your account, such as receivers and Genie clients.
- The return kit box, or a strong box of your own.
- The prepaid return label. You can print it or get it as a code on your phone.
- Packing tape, soft wrap and a pen.
Step-by-Step: Cancel and Return Your DirecTV Equipment
- Turn on each receiver. On the remote, go to "Menu > Settings > Info & Test".
- Write down the receiver ID shown on that screen.
- Write down the serial number from the sticker on the back or bottom of the device.
- Contact DirecTV and ask to cancel your service.
- Ask which devices you need to send back.
- Ask if they will mail you a return kit or email you a label.
- Write down the return deadline they give you.
- Unplug each device from the wall and the TV.
- Follow the packing list in your kit for cords and remotes.
- Wrap each receiver in bubble wrap or soft paper.
- Place the devices in the box and fill any empty space.
- Tape every seam of the box closed.
- Cover or remove any old labels and barcodes on the box.
- Stick the new prepaid label flat on the top of the box.
- Take the box to a location run by the carrier named on the label.
- Ask for a drop-off receipt with a tracking number.
- Check your account after tracking shows the box was delivered.
If a Step Fails
Most return problems are small. They are easy to fix if you act before the deadline.
- No kit or label arrived: Contact DirecTV again. Ask them to resend the label by email.
- The "Info & Test" screen won't load: Restart the receiver and try again. If it still fails, use the serial number sticker instead.
- The label won't scan at the store: Ask the clerk to type in the tracking number by hand.
- You lost a device: Tell DirecTV before you ship. Ask how they will handle the missing item.
- The account still shows equipment: Share your tracking number and drop-off receipt with support.
Labels: Getting and Using the Right One
The return label is the most important part of the return. It links your box to your account. Without it, your devices may not be matched to you.
Kit label or emailed label?
Some people get a full return kit in the mail. The kit usually has a box and a label inside. Others get a label by email that they print at home.
Either way, use only the label tied to your account. Do not borrow a label from a friend or a neighbor.
One label per box
If you have many devices, you may need more than one box. Ask for one label for each box. A single label on two boxes can cause one box to get lost.
Where to place the label
Put the label on the biggest flat side of the box. Do not wrap tape over the barcode. Shiny tape can make the barcode hard to scan.
Boxes: How to Pack Each Device Safely
A damaged device can lead to extra charges. Good packing protects you. It only takes a few minutes.
Using the kit box
The kit box is made to fit the equipment. Use the inserts that came with it. Close the flaps fully before you tape them.
Using your own box
A plain, strong box works if you have no kit. Pick a box that is a little bigger than the devices. Fill gaps with paper so nothing slides around.
- Do not use a box with old shipping labels still showing.
- Do not use a thin or torn box.
- Do not pack loose items next to the receivers.
Quick shake test
Once the box is sealed, shake it gently. If you hear things moving, open it and add more filler. Then seal it again.
Drop-Offs: Comparing Your Return Options
How you send the box back depends on your label and your schedule. The table below compares the common choices.
| Option | What you bring | Best for | Watch out for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Carrier store drop-off | Sealed box with label, or the label code on your phone | Getting a printed receipt right away | Store hours and lines near holidays |
| Carrier drop box | Sealed box with label already attached | Small boxes and busy days | No receipt in your hand; save a photo of the label |
| Scheduled pickup (if your carrier offers it) | Box left where the driver can reach it | People who can't leave home | Missed pickups if the box isn't visible |
| Changing your mind before shipping | Your account number and a call to DirecTV | People who decide to keep their service | Acting late, after the box is already scanned |
A carrier store is often the safest choice. You leave with proof that the box was handed over.
Can You Cancel the Return Itself?
Some people cancel, then change their mind. If you want to keep your service, contact DirecTV before you ship anything.
Ask them to stop the cancellation and close the return request. Do not mail the devices until you get a clear answer.
Once the carrier scans your box, it is hard to get it back. So make your decision first, then ship.
What to Watch After the Box Leaves
Your job is not done at the counter. Keep checking until the return shows on your account.
- Tracking: Check the tracking number every few days.
- Receipt: Keep the paper or phone receipt in a safe place.
- Final bill: Read your last bill for any equipment charges.
- Disputes: If you see a charge, share your tracking proof with support.
Unreturned equipment fees can apply if a device never arrives. Proof of drop-off is your best defense.
Setting Up Your Next Way to Watch TV
Many people return their dish equipment because they want to stream instead. Streaming means watching video over the internet, with no dish or receiver box.
If you want a deeper look at how TV habits keep changing, The New Yorker Tech covers the wider tech world. For buying advice on devices, Which? Technology has helpful guides.
What SubTV IP offers
SubTV IP is a paid premium streaming subscription. You can choose 1, 3 or 12 months. Your access starts as soon as you order.
- 99.9% uptime, which means the service is almost always online.
- An anti-freeze server cluster to help stop the picture from freezing.
- 4K streams at 60 fps (frames per second) using HEVC. HEVC is a format that keeps sharp video at a smaller size.
- Secure payment by PayPal or credit card.
- Support by WhatsApp.
Devices and player apps that work
You can use Fire TV Stick 4K Max, Samsung Smart TV (Tizen), LG webOS, Android TV Box, Xiaomi Mi Box S or Apple TV.
A player app is the program that plays the streams on your device. Supported players are TiviMate 5.x, IBO Player Pro, IPTV Smarters Pro, Kodi 21 and Flex IPTV.
Two settings for smoother playback
Some internet providers slow down video traffic. This is called throttling. Two small changes can help.
- On your device, go to "Settings > Network > DNS" and set the DNS to Cloudflare's 1.1.1.1.
- In your player app's settings, set the buffer or cache to 5,000 ms (5 seconds).
A buffer is a short store of video your player saves ahead of time. A bigger buffer gives you a cushion if your connection dips.
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