How to manage e-commerce returns efficiently

How to manage e-commerce returns efficiently

The rise of online shoppers has made the e-commerce industry one of the biggest revenue-earning sectors in the country. Today, many e-commerce players in the market compete to provide top-quality products and services to their customers. They offer various facilities, and a return policy sign is the most promising one. It ensures the customer that they can send the product back to the e-commerce company in case of dissatisfaction.

Plus points of having a return policy
If you own or manage an e-commerce business, you may know that handling returns are quite a complex and tedious task. Today, customers are quite aware and well-informed. They know that the gap between sellers who are intentional about returns and those who are not is widening. Having a clear and defined return policy sign has many advantages. Firstly, it gives potential customers the impression that you are a genuine e-commerce retailer. So, they shop from you without hesitation, boosting sales. Customers know what to expect from you and what products they can return. Lastly, a return policy helps to communicate your business’ operational policies internally so that everybody is on the same page.

Ways to handle your e-commerce returns smartly
How your organization handles returns impacts the experiences of customers. Moreover, it plays a pivotal role in determining your venture’s operations, sales, and profitability. Here are some tactics to follow.

  • Offer convenience to your customers
    The needs and preferences of people among different groups vary. Similarly, the reasons to make a return will differ. If you can adapt well to these differences, you can have an edge over your rivals. It is advisable that you make information easily accessible to your customers. Ensure that the content related to the return policy is readable and mobile-friendly.
  • Put a reasonable time restriction
    You can specify the time-frame limit of the return policy. You can consider keeping a limit of 30, 60, or 90 days from the date of purchase, as customers send products back within this duration. However, you may offer some flexibility to build goodwill. For instance, if you honor the return policy on day 32 in case of a 30-day return policy, there is a high chance of retaining loyal customers.
  • Be wise while offering complimentary return shipping
    One way to go about this is by providing free returns only if the order has reached a specified cart size. So, you can offer this facility if the customer’s order has surpassed USD 100.