FAQs

  1. How do I place an order?
  2. What is the average delivery time?
  3. What is the difference between the packing list and carton content slip?
  4. How do I check the status of my order?
  5. How will I receive a credit?
  6. How am I billed for orders?
  7. How do I return merchandise?
  8. Who do I contact for special orders?

1. How do I place an order?
Most items should be ordered online through the Staples' catalog in iBuyNU (accessible through the NU Portal). If you need to order special items, like stamps or furniture, you may fax or e-mail your order. See Order Office Supplies for more information.

2. What is the average delivery time?
Once Staples receives your order, it should be delivered in 24 to 48 hours. Staples makes daily deliveries to both campuses.

For next day deliveries, be sure to submit your order by the 3 p.m. cut-off time. For special deliveries, contact the Customer Care Team at 877-595-6404. A special delivery charge will be assessed.

3. What is the difference between the packing slip and the carton content slip?
Each shipment includes a packing slip, which lists all items on your order and is the only place where backorder information is located. The packing slip also shows pertinent order information:
  • PO number
  • Department name and address
  • Name of contact person
  • Quantities ordered, shipped, and backordered (if applicable)
  • Northwestern University and Staples item numbers
  • Item description
  • Staples release number
A carton content slip only lists the items in an individual carton or envelope.

4. How do I check the status of my order?
Contact Staples Customer Care Team at 877-595-6404. Be sure to have the PO number ready, which is found on the upper right hand corner of the order acknowledgment.

5. How will I receive a credit?
Credits for returned goods are issued upon receipt of the returned merchandise. Credit will be issued within the following month. If this does not occur, call the Staples Customer Care Team at 877-595-6404.

6. How am I billed for orders?
After the items have been delivered, an invoice is sent from Staples directly to Accounts Payable.

7. How do I return merchandise (including furniture and special orders)?
  1. Contact the Staples Customer Care Team at 877-595-6404 with your Purchase Order number handy. Request and schedule your return.
  2. Staples will issue a return authorization number, which should be written on the outside of the item/carton being returned.
  3. Staples will pick up the merchandise within five to seven business days. If they do not, contact the Staples Customer Care Team at 877-595-6404.

8. Who do I contact for special orders?
Our Account Executives at Staples are available to assist you in placing your order. Please contact Iya Goshchinsky (iya.goshchinsky@cexp.com) at 630-783-7164.