Reduce Product Returns: Strategies To Eliminate Resource Waste For Good

Nowadays, almost everything we do in our daily lives is convenient. This is especially true regarding the shipping industry and other delivery services. The return process is equally easy. But as a business, learning how to reduce product returns is necessary.

Looking for that new phone that you’ve always wanted? You can get it online with a simple swipe of your finger. Hungry? Deliveries arrive at your doorstep in no time.

The E-commerce and shipping industry has been working in tandem over the past few years, and this has caused a skyrocket in popularity. Recent studies have shown that online shoppers usually spend billions of dollars in purchases in just one year alone. 

In the worldwide market, sales in e-commerce have surpassed around 3.5 trillion dollars (about $11,000 per person in the US) in revenue. This makes the E-commerce industry one of the most lucrative industries.  

Why is it Important For the E-commerce Site to Reduce Product Returns?

Even during the COVID-19 pandemic, the E-commerce industry has been doing well for itself. This is because many individuals will still have access to online mobile applications and delivery services despite a public health crisis that has led to lockdowns.  

However, there are still some “downsides” to buying products on digital platforms. One is that you won’t be able to physically see and interact with what you want to buy.

Many buyers must research the product and look up existing user reviews. At the same time, everybody is excited to receive that new smartphone, earbuds, or clothes from their favourite online site.

Sometimes, customers might not be “satisfied” with what they get when it’s delivered to their doorstep. The last thing on the seller’s list is seeing a product returning to their inventory. 

Since this means a waste of resources, money, and time in the process. Thus, you must know how to reduce product returns.   

According to some European studies, the figures are higher. Around 40% of UK customers return at least one product they’ve purchased online. In other European countries, these numbers are even higher.  

Of course, most E-retailers would say that this is an inevitable part of the E-commerce industry that people will expect. However, adjusting the business strategy to help effectively reduce product returns doesn’t hurt. Here’s what you’ll need to know.  

Showcase the Product In Detail:

First and foremost, you’ll need to invest in better ways of showcasing and marketing your products. Although pictures usually give customers an impression of the product, this doesn’t necessarily have the same three-dimensional effect as videos.  

One of the best ways to market your product is through videos that will successfully convince them. Most home shopping channels are successful since they give a lot of depth, function, and allure that photos can’t convey.  

This is especially effective for two products known for being sold in E-retail stores: fashionable apparel and gadgets. An attractive model that seamlessly wears your products can attract public attention. On the other hand, videos for gadgets can effectively showcase essential features and applications.  

Damage and Loss Mitigation

One crucial strategy to always keep in mind in the business world is that there will always be factors that will come into play that might cause you to lose money. In the E-commerce industry, returns are considered one of the main ways that an E-retailer might lose money. 

Business owners must consider many factors regarding why some customers might return products. Still, your primary concern should be cushioning the losses you’ll get from returns.  

Thankfully, some businesses specialize in improving customer experience and satisfaction. There is a reverse logistics solutions provider that can streamline the process and make it easier for E-retail sellers.  

Writing A Comprehensive Product Description

There are hundreds of businesses looking for ways to be the first listing on the search results page. Search Engine Optimization is the best way of getting your product on the first part of the search results page.  

But even though you might have the publicity you’re looking for; you’ll still need to deliver on your product’s “promise.”  

That said, one of the best ways of reducing the return rate is by having a detailed description that will stay true to what the product will do. Still, you’ll need to ensure the person writing about your product is correct. 

There are various ways to reduce the return of items for your business. It’s crucial to remember that there’s no one reason why customers return products. Still, adapting to an ever-changing target market is one of the best ways of reducing your business’s return rate. 

Analyze the Reason for Return

Analysis is one of the most important parts of running a business, it can help you with improvements in the future. Similarly, when reducing product returns, you’ll see that analysis has become your strongest suit.  

Collect the past few months’ data on product returns. Check if there is a recurring issue that the buyers are facing. This way, you will be able to fix the issue.  

This will help you reduce product returns in the future. For instance, if your products are returned due to delivery delays, you can contact another carrier to fix the delays.  

This is one of the most popular reasons why customers return products. If your products are returned for different reasons, try finding a solution.  

Improve Customer Communication and Tracking

Efficient communication that sends tracking updates to the customers will keep them in the loop. They’ll not feel like they’re waiting forever for their parcel – especially during holidays or special occasions.  

A well-informed customer is more likely to place more orders in the future. Avoid abruptly informing customers about a delay to ensure they keep coming back.  

And It’s A Wrap!

That’s all the ways to reduce product returns for your business. There are a lot of things that can still make the buyer return the product or cancel it midway. But your task as a business is to ensure it does not happen- or happens less.  

A few things you can take care of include analyzing the data on why your products are returned. This will help you make better investment choices for your business.  

Tell us the most popular reasons buyers have returned your products.

Additional Reading:

• 8 Marketing Tips To Turn Visitors Into Customers
• How Can CRM Help Predict Customer Behavior?
• The All-Inclusive Guide To Turn Your Invention Into A Successful Business