Changing the Return Game as an Ecommerce Company

A lot of ecommerce companies have changed the way that people return items, in a manner that can change the way things go. 

Whether it’s the no-hassle pickups or convenient returning windows, a lot have made this task, which used to be dreaded, into something that a lot of people are okay with.

Here, we’ll go over some of the different ways that companies have changed the world of returns, so that they’re less of a dread and more of a lifesaver. 

The Product Return Rate 

The first thing to talk about is the return rate. 

First, the average return rate for ecommerce consumers is 16%, which is a little bit high. 

That means, for every $100 of product that’s there, a lot of retailers lose around $10.30 to return fraud. 

Over half of consumers do make purchases with the goal to return it.  however, about ninety-two percent of people will make another type of purchase if it was easy for them to return. 

If you offer free returns, it can boost the conversion rate of some items by up to 17%.  Over weighty percent of people who buy stuff believe that returns are really important. 

One problem though, is that only 22% of people say that returning is easy. 

You might wonder why people are interested in returning.  The thing is, a lot of times, it may be the wrong item, or not necessary. Sometimes, it may be a different size. Some people don’t’ return because they don’t’ get a label included, the returning is not free, refunds take far too long for issuance, and poor communication.

Companies that Changed the Game 

Now that we’ve talked about the problem with returns, let’s go onto a higher note and discuss the best companies that offer some unique ways to return items. 

Chewy 

First, let’s talk about Chewy, which is a pet supplies store.  They have a return policy window that’s huge—365 days huge! So, if there’s something that’s a problem down the line, they’ve got you covered. 

They also make sure that the return process is seamless, and they ensure that the shipping is exactly what people need. 

Zappos 

This is a unique shoe company because they have really good customer service. Just like Chewy, they offer a 365 return day period, but one thing that’s even cooler is the VIP program, which offers Rapid Returns for customers. 

They have some of the fastest returns out there, including immediate refunding once UPS gets their package.  They make sure that they have the best experience out there and thereby building the loyalty of customers. 

Casper Mattress 

This is another one that has a great return policy, so that customers can try and enjoy their products.  They offer a 100 night trial, which means customers can try their mattresses and see if they’re the right fit for them. 

They also give a nice return policy, which is where they donate these to charities rather than returning.  This is great, so customers don’t feel bad if they have to return this. 

How to Improve your Returns 

The best thing to do is to make sure that you have fast returns.  The last thing people want is to wait.

[utilizing technology that improves this is definitely one of the best things. Working with a 3PL or other software that tells you if there’s a return can offer a better means to track and manage orders. It also provides you with the benefit of automating everything early on, so that you’re ready if there is a return.