noun
return of a package to depot after failed delivery
Used in logistics and postal contexts when a delivery attempt fails and the item is brought back to the depot or post office.
不在で荷物が持ち戻りになった。
The package was returned to the depot because no one was home.
持ち戻りの場合は再配達を依頼してください。
If the package is returned to the depot, please request redelivery.
Compound of 持ち (mochi, 'carrying') + 戻り (modori, 'return'). The exact historical derivation is uncertain, but the term is a straightforward nominalization of the verb 持ち戻る (mochimodoru, 'to carry back').