DISH Network sends a shipping box with all the needed packing materials to customers who are replacing or returning equipment. The box contains a prepaid return shipping label, so there's no charge for returning the equipment. However, you are expected to uninstall and pack all your equipment yourself.
Disconnect and Gather Devices
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After you receive the box from DISH, gather your devices for shipping. Which devices you return depend on whether you're replacing equipment with newer versions or returning all your equipment to DISH as part of service cancellation. There are three main types of equipment on loan to DISH customers:
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- Set-top receiver boxes.
- The LNB module on the dish antenna.
- The switch that connects the antenna to your home.
For replacement, you only need to return the receiver. For a cancellation, return the receiver, LNB unit and switch unit.
Receiver
Step 1
Unplug your DISH receiver from the power outlet. This reduces the risk of electric shock while you disconnect other components.
Step 2
Disconnect the DISH receiver from your other devices. Don't pack any of the cables used to connect your devices. Only pack the receiver itself. Most disconnection is as simple as disconnecting plugs, but devices that use a screw-on coaxial connector may require pliers to remove.
LNB Unit
Step 1
Find your DISH antenna. It's on the outside of your house, likely on the roof or attached to the side of your home. The low-noise block unit is mounted on the end of the boom pointing back at the satellite dish.
Step 2
Locate the screws attaching the LNB unit to the boom and remove them with a Phillips screwdriver.
Step 3
Carefully detach the LNB unit from the boom and bring it inside for packing.
Switch Unit
Step 1
Locate the DISH Network switch box. It's on the outside of your home, likely near the DISH antenna. It should have coaxial cables attached leading both to the antenna and into your home.
Step 2
Open the switch box and disconnect the coaxial cables from the switch unit. You may need pliers to unscrew the connectors.
Step 3
Remove the screws that secure the switch to the box using a Phillips screwdriver. Close the switch box and take the switch inside for packing.
Pack the Devices
Pack the devices you gathered into the shipping box for transport. The packing materials you receive from DISH may vary, depending on what equipment is to be returned. DISH also includes a packing slip with instructions.
Step 1
Slip your receiver(s) into the provided plastic sleeves.
Step 2
Attach the foam inserts onto each end of the receiver.
If you're returning two receivers, you should have receiver inserts designed to hold two receivers. Lay one of these special inserts flat on a table as a base and insert the receivers vertically. Then attach the other insert.
Step 3
Carefully slide the receivers and foam inserts into the box.
Step 4
Pack the LNB and switch using their designated cardboard inserts.
Step 5
Pack the remote controls using the designated cardboard inserts.
Step 6
Close up the box and secure the flaps using packing tape.
Apply Shipping Label and Drop Off
Apply the included shipping label over the original shipping label. In some cases, the original return label can be peeled off, reversed and reapplied to the shipping box. Consult the packing slip that came with your box for details.
Take the box to the nearest FedEx or UPS drop-off location. Check the label to determine which carrier service to be use.