Backpacker puts a Bear Vault Bear Canister into a ULA CDT Backpack

WE ALWAYS LOVE FAN MAIL! 

Preparing Your Pack For Repairs or Return

Oct 7, 2024 | Mixed Bag

When sending in a backpack for repairs, there are several important steps you should take to ensure the process goes smoothly. We offer a repair service to extend the life of your backpack, but proper preparation and communication are key.

1. Contact us for Repair Authorization

Before sending your backpack, contact us directly to discuss the repair you need. The best method to begin the repair process is to contact us via email with photos showing damages along with description. Please explain the nature of the damage or the specific repair request, whether it’s for a torn seam, broken buckle, worn-out straps, or something else. We can repair or replace virtually any and all components or will match materials as close as possible. This applies to packs older than 10 years that might use older versions of our fabrics.

  • Determine if this is a warranty claim or a tune-up: All Ultralight Adventure Equipment products are warranted, to the original owner, against defects in materials and workmanship. If a ULA product fails due to manufacturing defects, ULA Equipment will replace or repair the product free of charge at our discretion. Damages due to improper use, accidents, or general wear and tear, are considered repairs and are not covered by warranty. It’s important to wait for this confirmation before sending your backpack.

2. Clean the Backpack

You can refer to this article for a full breakdown on pack cleaning. Before sending your backpack for repairs, make sure it is clean. ULA requests that packs be cleaned to avoid handling dirty gear. If a pack is received and has not been washed, a $30 cleaning fee will be charged. Here’s how you can clean your backpack properly:

  • Empty the backpack: Remove all items from the pack, including any small debris or dirt from pockets.
  • Spot clean stains and dirt: Use a soft brush or cloth with warm water and mild soap to clean visible stains. Pay special attention to areas like the straps, back panel, and hip belt that may have absorbed sweat and grime.
  • Air dry: Let the backpack fully dry before sending it out.
A black bear sits in a meadow. Photo by Danika Perkinson on UnSplash.

“REPLACE ANYTHING THAT LOOKS WORN OUT”

A Grizzly Bear walks through the forest. Photo by Zdeněk Macháček on UnSplash

BEARS LOVE OUR PACKS TOO!

Backpacker reaches for his bear spray from the ULA Deploy Bear Canister Holder on his shoulder strap.

PLEASE LOOSEN ALL LOAD-LIFTERS WHEN SENDING IN PACKS!

3. Remove Any Accessories

If your  backpack has accessories such as extra pouches, hydration bladders, removable straps or accessories, remove these before shipping. We generally only need the core backpack to perform repairs, and sending unnecessary accessories can add weight to your shipping costs and clutter to your package. If you’ve only got a hip-belt that needs repairing, we recommend removing the hip-belt from the pack and only sending the hip-belt. We also recommend loosening all load-lifters and straps and removing your framing system if possible. Some packs like the Circuit have multiple framing components and if you don’t feel comfortable removing some of these items, that’s ok. If it’s just your backpack that needs to be repaired and not your hip-belt, you can exclude the hip-belt when sending the pack in.

4. Package the Backpack Securely

Once your backpack is clean and ready to ship, package it securely to prevent any further damage during transit. Here are a few tips:

  • Use a durable box or padded envelope: Depending on the size of the backpack, choose appropriate packaging that provides enough cushioning.
  • Protect fragile parts: If the backpack has delicate buckles or attachments, consider wrapping them in bubble wrap or soft material.
  • Seal the package well: Make sure the package is sealed securely with strong tape to avoid damage or loss during shipping.

5. Ship the Backpack to ULA

Ship your backpack using a reliable shipping service that offers tracking, so you can monitor its journey to our repair facility. Make sure the address provided by ULA is correct and clearly written on the package.

Backpacker sitting on a BearVault. The BearVault also makes an excellent chair.

NEW PACKS IN PROCESS…

A BearVault being opened by a hiker. The BearVault also keeps your snacks from getting crushed.

PLEASE WASH YOUR PACK BEFORE SENDING IT IN!

A Bear Vault Next to a ULA pack

NEW SIDE PANEL(RIGHT) VS OLD(LEFT)

6. Inspect Upon Return

Once your repaired backpack arrives back, inspect it to ensure the repair was done to your satisfaction. Test the zippers, straps, and any areas that were fixed to ensure everything functions properly.

Final Thoughts

By preparing your backpack properly for repair, you’ll ensure a smoother process and faster turnaround. Cleaning the backpack, securely packaging it, and providing clear details will help us efficiently repair your gear and get it back to you in top shape for your next adventure.

Steps to Prepare a New Backpack for Returns:

Return Process

  1. Contact ULA: Email ULA’s customer service to initiate a return.
  2.  Prepare the pack for shipping: Please loosen all straps including the load lifters, sternum straps, and hip-belt. And if possible use the original box to ship the pack in.
  3. Return Shipping: You are responsible for shipping the product back to ULA.
    • US Customers: Upon request, ULA can provide a return label for a flat-rate fee of $15.
  4. Refund: The purchase price will be refunded once the product has been received and processed.

Important: While ULA strives to help you get the correct model, size, or configuration, in the event of a return or exchange based on their recommendation, return shipping is the customer’s responsibility without exception.

ULA Return & Exchange Policy

Return Policy

We understand that purchasing a pack online can be challenging, especially when it comes to sizing and model selection. ULA prioritizes making your shopping experience as smooth as possible so you end up with a product you love.

  • Return Window: ULA products may be returned within 14 days of delivery.
  • Condition Requirements: Items must be in brand new condition—never used outdoors (including test hikes), clean, with no visible wear, dirt, pet hair, etc.
  • Processing Time: Refunds may take up to 3 business days to process once the item has been delivered to ULA’s warehouse. Seasonal rushes may cause delays in processing times.
  • Shipping Costs: You are responsible for the cost of returning the item to ULA.
    • US Purchases: Any initial shipping fees, including ROUTE shipping protection, are non-refundable.
    • International Purchases: All shipping fees and VAT are non-refundable.
  • Final Sale Items: The following are final sale and cannot be returned:
    • Custom Backpacks and Gear
    • Embroidered Backpacks and Gear
    • Deals & Specials

 

By preparing your backpack properly for repair, you’ll ensure a smoother process and faster turnaround. Cleaning the backpack, securely packaging it, and providing clear details will help us efficiently repair your gear and get it back to you in top shape for your next adventure.

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