After-Christmas sales and returned gifts are almost as much a holiday tradition as Black Friday and Thanksgiving Turkey.

Retailers are expecting more than 62 Billion (!) dollars in returned merchandise from the holidays, and you can expect to wait in some long lines to make your own returns, or to make some super-discounted purchases.

Here are some recommendations from the National Retail Federation to make your return go more smoothly:

Before you go to the store, check their website to find details on their return policy.

Bring a receipt. If you don't have a gift receipt, be sure the original tag is still on the item (even if the price is removed, the store can use the barcode to find the correct amount).

Be prepared to show identification.

Leave the item unopened; if it's already open, return it to the original packaging.

Anticipate long lines, and be prepared to wait. Allot enough time ...