Streamlining E-commerce Shipping Returns
Dealing with returned e-commerce shipments can be a hassle – and as a small or mid-sized business (SMB), you may not have the time to understand the what, when and why of return policy best practices. That's why Unishippers created an easy, one-stop-shop of information. Download our infographic – Streamlining Your e-Commerce Return Process, to learn how to make returns hassle-free for you and your customers.
Why are your customers making returns?
Before optimizing your return process, it's important to consider what areas in your e-commerce pipeline can be improved to lower the chance of returns. By determining why your customers are making returns, you can take steps to remedy the problem – protecting your profit margins, while keeping customers happy.
In our infographic, we review the most common reasons for returned e-commerce shipments, including:
- Damage
- Poor quality
- Item not as described
- And more!
Optimizing your return process
Once you understand why customers are returning e-commerce shipments, it's time to make changes to your return policy and processes to make improvements. Even when returns are unavoidable, by providing a positive experience for your customers, you can help ensure they shop with you again.
Consider some of the elements of a positive e-commerce return process:
- Product creation:Â Whether you make custom jewelry or sell premium candles (or anything in between!), take care to make each product of the highest quality. You should also ensure your products are described accurately on your website, including images to make sure your customer knows exactly what they'll receive.
- Packaging:Â Product damage is the most common reason for returns, making packaging one of the most critical parts of your e-commerce shipping process. Utilize packing fillers such as styrofoam peanuts, paper or air bags to help protect your shipment in transit.
- e-Commerce shipping:Â Once you've created and packaged your product, the rest is up to your shipping and delivery team! Throughout the shipping process, be sure to keep your customers informed with regular updates about the status of their order.
While we've listed just a few, there are many ways to optimize your e-commerce shipping strategy – and your overall return processes – for greater success. Download Unishippers' infographic and learn how to improve your return policy. Because while returns may sometimes be unavoidable, they don't have to be painful!
