As you can imagine, managing returns can be one of the biggest challenges when running an e-commerce business. While returns are inevitable, a well-managed returns process helps reduce the impact on the bottom line. Keep reading to learn more about ecommerce returns and how Lesters Logistics can help manage your business operations.
Why Do Ecommerce Returns Happen?
- Incorrect product descriptions: Customers can order the wrong items with misleading or vague descriptions about the product, features, or sizing.
- Sizing issues: Customers might order the wrong size, especially with clothing companies. Without the ability to try before buying, sizing issues are one of the main reasons for returns.
- Poor product quality: If a product doesn’t meet the customer’s expectations or is the product is faulty, it usually gets returned.
- Change of mind: Sometimes customers decide they don’t want to keep the item.
- Shipping and packaging issues: Damaged packaging due to poor handling or shipping delays leads to returns, especially with fragile items.
How to Reduce Returns in Ecommerce
1. Improve Product Descriptions and Images
Providing clear, accurate product descriptions with high-quality images is essential in ecommerce. It’s important to include detailed information, including dimensions, material, and usage instructions, so customers know exactly what they are purchasing. Make sure the images that you use when listing a product are high quality and have a view from multiple angles, allowing customers to get a closer look at the product, and reducing the likelihood of misunderstandings or unmet expectations.
2. Offer Product Reviews and Social Proof
Customer reviews and ratings are powerful tools for reducing returns. Reviews provide insight into product quality, fit, and performance from real customers, which helps set expectations. Encourage customers to leave detailed reviews, particularly those who have experience with product variations (size, colour, etc.). User-generated content (UGC) like photos and testimonials can also help reduce uncertainty about the product.
3. Implement a Clear and Transparent Returns Policy
Make sure your returns policy is visible and easy to find on your website. Include information on the time frame for returns, any costs associated with returns (such as return shipping), and the condition in which items must be returned. With a clear policy, customers are less likely to return items due to confusion or unrealistic expectations.
4. Improve Packaging and Shipping
Always make sure that your products are securely packed to prevent damage during shipping. This reduces the chances of returns caused by damaged items. Additionally, make sure that your shipping timelines are accurate to avoid frustration with late deliveries, which can also lead to returns. By partnering with Lesters Logistics, we can help streamline your fulfilment process, including stock management, picking, packing, and shipping.
5. Use New Technology for Returns Management
Implementing an easy-to-use returns portal allows customers to initiate returns quickly and efficiently. Using a returns management system can help track returns, identify trends, and provide insights into why customers are returning products.
Simplify Your Operations with Lesters Logistics
By applying these strategies, you can experience less hassle, with fewer returns. If you need any advice simplifying your operations, Lesters can help, we work with a wide range of industries. Contact us today to learn more.
