Foreword Online

Ideas, information and industry news for collegiate retailers



How to Simplify Rental Returns and Buyback Communication

Posted by Liz Schulte on 12/1/25 6:30 AM
Topics: buyback, rental, textbook industry trends

Getting students’ attention during buyback and rental return season can be tough. Clear communication and smart tools make the process simple for you and your students. How to Simplify Rental Returns and Buyback Communication

Streamline Returns With the MBS System

The MBS system was built to handle real-world challenges college stores face every term. One of its most convenient features? Rental textbooks can be returned directly at the buyback counter, saving time and adding efficiency.

Here’s how it works:

  • Rental books are flagged on the backend at the start of the term.
  • During buyback, buyers simply swipe the student’s ID to validate rentals for any scanned titles.

This seamless process ensures quick, accurate returns without extra steps.

Automated Reminders That Drive Engagement

The inSite platform makes it easy to remind students about buyback and rental returns through automated emails or text messages.

Buyback Reminder

  • Students who purchased books on your site automatically see current retail and wholesale values.
  • They can also add books purchased elsewhere and receive alerts for those titles.
  • After opting in by entering ISBNs, students get end-of-term notifications showing book values and quantities your store needs.

Rental Return Reminder

  • Choose from customizable templates for letters, emails, or texts.
  • Send reminders anytime during the term, including overdue notices.
  • Use mail merge tags to include details like due dates, book info, totals, and rental agreements.

These automated messages save time, improve transparency, and boost buyback participation.

Quick Buyback Reminder Setup for Maximum Impact

Activating these features is simple:

  1. Send your booklist to inSite from Arc.
  2. Set your buyback parameters.
  3. Create your buyback reminder page with search tools and a link to students’ alert lists.
  4. Customize messaging with return instructions.

Once set up, promote the feature via email or text—and even during rush when students are purchasing textbooks.

If you are a current system partner and have questions, contact your system representative today. Not an MBS Store Technology Solutions partner? Schedule a demo with your MBS System Sales Consultant to explore all the features and enhancements available.

 

Find out how MBS can help you reduce overhead, save students money and  streamline operations with a tailored retail management system. Learn More

 

Article comments

Subscribe for updates

Share your experience

Contact our editorial team to set up an interview or to contribute a guest post.

Most popular posts