Tutorial: Return Azure Data Box

Choose shipping location

Americas Europe Asia Africa Australia

This tutorial describes how to return Azure Data Box and the data is erased once the device is received at the Azure data.

In this tutorial, you will learn about topics such as:

• Prerequisites
• Prepare to ship
• Ship Data Box to Microsoft
• Erasure of data from Data Box

Prerequisites

Before you begin, make sure:

• You've have completed the Tutorial: Copy data from Azure Data Box.
• Copy jobs are complete. Prepare to ship can't run if copy jobs are in progress.

Prepare to ship

Final step is to prepare the device to ship. In this step, all the device shares are taken offline. The shares cannot be accessed once you start this process. You can also choose to clean up device whereby the local data on the device is erased permanently. Once the step is complete, your e-ink display will show the return shipping label.

Important

• You can choose to erase the data on the device permanently in this step and clean up the device. The data in your Azure Storage account will stay and accrue charges. We recommend that you delete this data only after you have verified that data copy to an on-premises data server is complete.

1. Go to Prepare to ship and select Start preparation.

   

2. The prepare to ship starts and the device shares go offline. By default, the device clean up is performed and Data Box erases the data on its disks.

   

   You can opt out of the cleanup procedure by unchecking the combo box. In this case, the device data is erased later at the datacenter.

   

3. Once the Prepare to ship starts, you will see a progress notification with a progress bar.

   

4. After the prepare to ship and the device cleanup (if selected) is complete, the E-ink display on your device will also display the return the shipping label.

   You also see a completion reference number which is used for different things depending on the country/region in which you are located. You can also view the instructions for return shipment. Depending on the type of shipping you chose, Microsoft managed or self managed, the instructions will vary.

   

5. Shut down the device. Locate the power button on the front operating panel of the device. Turn off the device.

   

6. Remove the cables. The next step is to ship the device to Microsoft.

The next steps are determined by where you are returning the device.

Ship Data Box back

Based on the region where you're shipping the device, the procedure is different. In many countries/regions, you can use Microsoft managed shipping or self-managed shipping.

If using Microsoft managed shipping, follow these steps.

Shipping in Americas

US & Canada

Take the following steps if returning the device in US or Canada.

1. Make sure that the device is powered off and cables are removed.

2. Spool and securely place the power cord that was provided with device in the back of the device.

3. Ensure that the shipping label is displayed on the E-ink display and schedule a pickup with your carrier. If the label is damaged or lost or not displayed on the E-ink display, contact Microsoft Support. If the Support suggests, then you can go to Overview > Download shipping label in the Azure portal. Download the shipping label and affix on the device.

4. Schedule a pickup with UPS if returning the device. To schedule a pickup:

   • Call the local UPS (country/region-specific toll free number).
   • In your call, quote the reverse shipment tracking number as shown in the E-ink display or your printed label. If you don't quote the tracking number, UPS will require an additional charge during pickup.
   • If any issues come up while you're scheduling a pickup, or you're asked to pay additional fees, contact Azure Data Box Operations. Send email to adbops@microsoft.com.

   Instead of scheduling the pickup, you can also drop off the Data Box at the nearest drop-off location.

5. Once the Data Box is picked up and scanned by your carrier, the order status in the portal updates to Picked up. A tracking ID is also displayed.

If using Microsoft managed shipping, follow these steps.

Shipping in Europe

Take the following steps if you're returning the device in Europe.

1. Make sure that the device is powered off and cables are removed.

2. Spool and securely place the power cord that was provided with device in the back of the device.

3. Ensure that the shipping label is displayed on the E-ink display and schedule a pickup with your carrier. If the label is damaged or lost or not displayed on the E-ink display, contact Microsoft Support. If Support suggests, then you can go to Overview > Download shipping label in the Azure portal. Download the shipping label and affix on the device.

4. If you're shipping back to Azure datacenters in Germany or Switzerland, the Azure datacenter requires advance notice of all device returns:

   1. Email Azure Data Box Operations at adbops@microsoft.com to receive an Inbound ID. Send email to adbops@microsoft.com. Use the following template.

      To: adbops@microsoft.com
      Subject: Request for Azure Data Box Inbound ID: <orderName> 
      Body: 
      
      I am ready to return an Azure Data Box and would like to request an Inbound ID for the following order:
      
      Order Name: <orderName>
      Return Tracking Number: <returnTracking#>
      

   2. Write down the Inbound ID number provided by Azure Data Box Operations, and paste it onto the unit, where it is clearly visible, near the return label.

5. Schedule a pickup with UPS if returning the device. To schedule a pickup:

   • Call the local UPS (country/region-specific toll free number).
   • In your call, quote the reverse shipment tracking number as shown in the E-ink display or your printed label. If you don't quote the tracking number, UPS will require an additional charge during pickup.
   • If any issues come up while you're scheduling a pickup, or you're asked to pay additional fees, contact Azure Data Box Operations. Send email to adbops@microsoft.com.

   Instead of scheduling the pickup, you can also drop off the Data Box at the nearest drop-off location.

6. Once the Data Box is picked up and scanned by your carrier, the order status in the portal updates to Picked up. A tracking ID is also displayed.

If you're shipping back to Azure datacenters in Germany or Switzerland, you can also use self-managed shipping.

Take the following steps if you're returning the device in UK.

1. Make sure that the device is powered off and cables are removed.

2. Spool and securely place the power cord that was provided with device in the back of the device.

3. Ensure that the shipping label is displayed on the E-ink display and schedule a pickup with your carrier. If the label is damaged or lost or not displayed on the E-ink display, contact Microsoft Support. If Support suggests, then you can go to Overview > Download shipping label in the Azure portal. Download the shipping label and affix on the device.

4. Check the shipping label to see which datacenter the device was shipped from: Cardiff or London. The London datacenter requires advance notice of all device returns.

   If the device was shipped from London, do the following steps:

   1. Email Azure Data Box Operations at adbops@microsoft.com to receive an Inbound ID. Send email to adbops@microsoft.com. Use the following template.

      To: adbops@microsoft.com
      Subject: Request for Azure Data Box Inbound ID: <orderName> 
      Body: 
      
      I am ready to return an Azure Data Box and would like to request an Inbound ID for the following order:
      
      Order Name: <orderName>
      Return Tracking Number: <returnTracking#>
      

   2. Write down the Inbound ID number provided by Azure Data Box Operations, and paste it onto the unit, where it is clearly visible, near the return label.

5. Schedule a pickup with UPS if returning the device. To schedule a pickup:

   • Call the local UPS (country/region-specific toll free number).
   • In your call, quote the reverse shipment tracking number as shown in the E-ink display or your printed label. If you don't quote the tracking number, UPS will require an additional charge during pickup.
   • If any issues come up while you're scheduling a pickup, or you're asked to pay additional fees, contact Azure Data Box Operations. Send email to adbops@microsoft.com.

   Instead of scheduling the pickup, you can also drop off the Data Box at the nearest drop-off location.

Once the Data Box is picked up and scanned by your carrier, the order status in the portal updates to Picked up. A tracking ID is also displayed.

Take the following steps if you're returning the device in Norway.

1. Keep the original box used to ship the device for return shipment.

2. Power off the device and remove the cables.

3. Spool and securely place the power cord that was provided with the device in the back of the device. Pack the device for return shipment in the original box.

4. Note the tracking number (shown as reference number on the Prepare to Ship page of the Data Box local web UI). The tracking number is available after Prepare to ship completes successfully. Download the shipping label from this page, and paste it on the packing box.

5. Book a pickup with DHL using one of the following methods:

   • Book a pickup online by going to DHL Express Norway and selecting Schedule a Pickup.

     On the DHL website, select No to create a shipping label. Enter the DHL Waybill number generated when completing Prepare to ship process.

     

   • Send an email using the following template:

6. For any urgent pickup requests or assistance with DHL booking, email or call (+47) 21 00 22 00.

7. If you encounter any issues when scheduling a pickup, reach out to Azure Data Box Operations for assistance. Provide the order name and the issue encountered in the subject line.

Once the device is picked up and scanned by the carrier, the order status in the Azure portal is updated to Picked Up and a tracking ID is displayed.

If using Microsoft managed shipping, follow these steps.

Shipping in Asia

Take the following steps if you're returning the device in Japan.

1. Keep the original box used to ship the device for return shipment.

2. Power off the device and remove the cables.

3. Spool and securely place the power cord that was provided with the device in the back of the device.

4. Write your company name and address information on the consignment note as your sender information.

5. Email Quantium Solutions using the following email template.

   • If Japan Post Chakubarai consignment note wasn't included or is missing, note that in this email. Quantium Solutions Japan will request Japan Post to bring the consignment note upon pickup.
   • If you have multiple orders, email to ensure individual pickup.

   To: azure.qsjp@quantiumsolutions.com
   Subject: Pickup request for Azure Data Box｜Job name： 
   Body:
   - Japan Post Yu-Pack tracking number (reference number)：
   - Requested pickup date：mmdd (Select a requested time slot from below).
   a. 08：00-13：00 
   b. 13：00-15：00 
   c. 15：00-17：00 
   d. 17：00-19：00 
   

6. Receive an email confirmation from Quantium Solutions after you've booked a pickup. The email confirmation also includes information on the Chakubarai consignment note.

If needed, you can contact Quantium Solutions Support (Japanese language) at the following information:

• Email：azure.qsjp@quantiumsolutions.com
• Telephone：03-5755-0150

Take the following steps if you're returning the device in Singapore.

1. Keep the original box used to ship the device for return shipment.

2. Note down the tracking number (shown as reference number on the Prepare to Ship page of the Data Box local web UI). The tracking number is available after the Prepare to ship step completes successfully. Download the shipping label from this page and paste on the packing box.

3. Power off the device and remove the cables.

4. Spool and securely place the power cord that was provided with the device in the back of the device. 

5. Email SingPost Customer Service using the following email template with the tracking number.

   To: g-corpsgcs@singpost.com
   Subject: Microsoft Azure Pickup - OrderName 
   Body: 
       1. Requestor name  
       2. Requestor contact number
       3. Requestor collection address
       4. Preferred collection date
   

   Note

   For booking requests received on a business day:

   • Before 3 PM, pickup will be the next business day between 9 AM and 1 PM.
   • After 3 PM, pickup will be the next business day between 2 PM to 6 PM.

Take the following steps if returning the device in Hong Kong Special Administrative Region.

1. Pack the device for return shipment in the original box.

2. Spool and securely place the power cord that was provided with the device in the back of the device.

3. Call the Quantium Solutions hotline at (852) 2318 1213 during office hours (9am to 6pm, Monday to Friday).

4. Quote Microsoft Azure pickup and the reference number and tracking number (above barcode) on the return shipping label to arrange for a collection.

5. You'll get a verbal confirmation of the pickup schedule. If the courier doesn't arrive for collection, call the Quantium Solutions hotline for alternate arrangements.

6. Upon booking a pickup with Quantium Solutions, share the confirmation with Microsoft Data Box Operations Asia using the following template:

   Output

   To: adbo@microsoft.com
   Subject: Microsoft Data Box Job: [order name] has completed copy
   Body:
   We have confirmed the pickup details with Quantium Solutions.
   
      * Requestor name:
      * Requestor contact number:
      * Pickup Date:  
      * Pickup time:
   

If you come across any issues, email Data Box Operations Asia adbo@microsoft.com with details of the issue(s), and put the job name in the Subject: line.

Take the following steps if you're returning the device in Korea.

1. Note down the service request number (shown as reference number on the Prepare to Ship page of the Data Box local web UI).

2. Make sure the device is powered off and any cables are removed. Spool and securely place the power cord provided with the device in the back compartment.

3. Package the device using the original box that was used for shipping. Ensure that the return consignment note is included.

4. To schedule a pickup, call Quantium Solutions International hotline at 070-8231-1418 during office hours (10 AM to 5 PM, Monday to Friday). Quote Microsoft Azure pickup and the service request number to arrange for a collection.

   You may also send email to microsoft@rocketparcel.com to schedule a pickup. Use the following template:

   To: microsoft@rocketparcel.com
   Subject: Microsoft Azure Pickup | Service Request Number: <ReferenceNumber>
   Body:
   * Service Request Number (reference number): <ReferenceNumber>
   * Requested pickup date: yyyy/mm/dd;time:HH MM
   * <If the consignment note is missing, note that here along with the sender and receiver information. If the consignment note was included, please delete this section.>
   

5. If you come across any issues or are asked to pay additional fees when scheduling a pickup, email Azure Data Box Operations at adbops@microsoft.com for assistance. Please provide the order name and the issue encountered in the Subject line.

Once the device is picked up and scanned by the carrier, the order status in the Azure portal is updated to Picked up, and a tracking ID is displayed.

Take the following steps if returning the device in the United Arab Emirates.

1. Keep the original box used to ship the device for return shipment.
2. Make sure the data copy to device is complete, and the Prepare to ship step completed successfully.
3. Note the reference number on the Prepare to ship page of the device local web UI.
4. Power off the device, and remove the cables. Spool and securely place the power cord that was provided with the device in the back of the device.
5. Pack the device for return shipment in the original box.
6. Email Azure Data Box Operations to get an ID that will be used to identify the package when it arrives back at the datacenter.
7. Write down this ID on the printed shipping label, next to the return address so that it’s clearly visible.
8. Book a pickup online by going to DHL Express UAE > Schedule a Pickup.
   • Enter the reference number from the Prepare to ship page of the device local web UI in the waybill number field.
   • Bookings are accepted from 9:00 AM – 2:00 PM six days a week (excluding Fri and public holidays).
   • Pickup requests should be placed at least 90 minutes before customer closing time.
9. If you come across any issue with the DHL booking tool, you can contact DHL using any of these methods:
   • Call 04-2924545.
   • Email ecom.ae@dhl.com with details of the issue(s), and put the waybill number in the Subject: line.
   • Call DHL Customer Support at 600 567567.

If using Microsoft managed shipping, follow these steps.

Shipping in Australia

Australia

Azure datacenters in Australia have an additional security notification. All the inbound shipments must have an advanced notification. Take the following steps to ship in Australia.

1. Keep the original box used to ship the device for return shipment.

2. Make sure that the data copy to device is complete and Prepare to ship run is successful.

3. Power off the device and remove the cables.

4. Spool and securely place the power cord that was provided with the device in the back of the device.

5. Book a pickup online by going to DHL Express Australia and selecting Schedule a Pickup.

   • On the DHL website, select No to create a shipping label. Enter the DHL Waybill number generated when completing Prepare to ship process.

   

If using Microsoft managed shipping, follow these steps.

Shipping in Africa

S Africa

Take the following steps if you're returning the device in South Africa.

1. Pack the device for return shipment in the original box.

2. Spool and securely place the power cord that was provided with the device in the back of the device.

3. Note the tracking number (shown as reference number on the Prepare to Ship page of the Data Box local web UI). The tracking number is available after the "Prepare to ship" step completes successfully. Download the shipping label from this page, and paste it on the packing box.

4. Request a return code from Azure Data Box Operations. A return code is required for delivering the package back to the datacenter. Send email to adbops@microsoft.com. Note this code on the shipping label next to the return address, where it is clearly visible.

5. Book a pickup with DHL using one of the following methods:

   • Book a pickup online by going to DHL Express South Africa and selecting Schedule a Pickup.

     On the DHL website, select No to create a shipping label. Enter the DHL Waybill number generated when completing Prepare to ship process.

     

   • Send an email to Priority.Support@dhl.com using the following template:

     Output

     To: Priority.Support@dhl.com
     Subject: Pickup request for Microsoft Azure
     Body: Need pick up for the below shipment
       *  DHL tracking number: (reference number/waybill number)
       *  Requested pickup date: yyyy/mm/dd;time:HH MM
       *  Shipper contact: (company name)
       *  Contact person: 
       *  Phone number: 
       *  Full physical address: 
       *  Item to be collected: Azure Dt
     

   • Or drop off the package at the nearest DHL service point.

6. If you come across any issues, email Priority.Support@dhl.com with details of the issue(s), and put the waybill number in the Subject: line. You can also call +27(0)119213902.

Self-managed shipping

Self-managed shipping is only available in the following regions:

Region	Region	Region	Region	Region
US Government	United States	United Kingdom	Western Europe	Japan
Singapore	South Korea	India	South Africa	Australia
Brazil	Norway

If you selected self-managed shipping when you created your order, follow these instructions (except for Brazil).

1. Write down the Authorization code that's shown on the Prepare to Ship page of the local web UI for the Data Box after the step completes successfully.

2. Power off the device and remove the cables. Spool and securely place the power cord that was provided with the device at the back of the device.

3. When you're ready to return the device, send an email to the Azure Data Box Operations team using the template below.

   To: adbops@microsoft.com
   Subject: Request for Azure Data Box drop-off for order: 'orderName'
   Body:
       1. Order name  
       2. Authorization code available after Prepare to Ship has completed [Yes/No]  
       3. Contact name of the person dropping off. You will need to display a government-approved
       ID during the drop off.
   

Shipping in Brazil

To schedule a device return in Brazil, send an email to adbops@microsoft.com with the following information:

Subject: Request Azure Data Box Disk drop-off for order: <ordername>

- Order name
- Contact name of the person who will drop off the Data Box Disk (A government-issued photo ID will be required to validate the contact’s identity upon arrival.) 
- Inbound Nota Fiscal (A copy of the inbound Nota Fiscal will be required at drop-off.)   

Erasure of data from Data Box

Once the device reaches Azure datacenter, the Data Box erases the data on its disks as per the NIST SP 800-88 Revision 1 guidelines.

Next steps

In this tutorial, you learned about topics such as:

• Prerequisites
• Prepare to ship
• Ship Data Box to Microsoft
• Erasure of data from Data Box

Advance to the next article to learn how to manage your Data Box.

Manage Data Box via Azure portal