Having to return a package is something that very few people look forward to. Ideally, when a package is ordered, its contents should be suitable for the individual upon arrival.

However, when that's not the case, sometimes the only recourse is to return the package to its sender for a replacement or a refund. This can often be a tedious and annoying experience. Though the way we handle returning packages may soon be changing.

This week, rideshare giant Uber rolled out a unique service designed to help people easily return packages when the need arises.

A breakdown of how the service works

Using the Uber Connect feature, folks who need to send back packages can easily do so. It'll be as simple as ordering an Uber through the app.

Only instead of the driver arriving to take the customer to a certain destination, the driver will pick up the package for return and then drop it off at a USPS, UPS, FedEx, or other applicable shipment location.

This new Uber Connect service may come in handy for a decent amount of people. After all, the National Retail Federation (NRF) has already confirmed that more than 16% of retail sales end up having to be shipped back to the sender.

Uber's help with individuals returning packages does come with some stipulations. For starters, each package in question must weigh no more than 30 lbs and carry a valuation below $100. Likewise, customers can have as many as five packages returned at one time.

The fees for package returns come out to just $5.00. Although folks with Uber One subscriptions can look forward to $2 discounts on this rate.

Once the handoff to drivers happens, Uber customers can watch in real time as the returned item heads to the location for shipment, similarly to the real-time tracking of rides and food delivery.

Reactions from the public

On social media, reactions to this new Uber Connect service have been fairly positive. The rideshare giant received accolades for expanding its business model and potentially revolutionizing how Americans view convenience.

As people begin to take advantage of this service, it remains to be seen how customer reviews pan out.