Whitepapers & Guides
In today's evolving global economy, reverse logistics has emerged as a critical component of supply chain management, driven by the rapid growth of online shopping and shift in consumer behavior. With the convenience of purchasing products through just a few clicks, customers are increasingly buying multiple items with the intent of returning those that do not meet their expectations. Additionally, generous return policies and free return shipping have contributed to higher return rates.
Reverse logistics are no longer just an afterthought for merchants; it is becoming a strategic priority. ECommerce businesses are challenged to develop more efficient and cost-effective reverse logistics processes to manage the growing volume of returned goods. This is not only for maintaining profitability and customer satisfaction but to also uphold sustainability in the highly competitive online landscape.
The Return of the Goods: A Merchant’s Playbook for Winning at Reverse Logistics, commissioned by UPS Capital, examines challenges merchants face with increased returns amidst an eCommerce boom and explores innovative solutions to streamline reverse logistics processes and minimize costs. Topics covered in the report include:
- How businesses are budgeting for reverse logistics
- Merchant strategies for combating returns fraud
- Impact of returns on sustainability
- Consumer preferences and perceptions on returns methods and policies
- Unique challenges with international returns
The insights gleaned from the playbook will equip merchants with the ability to strike a balance between financial growth and consumer preferences. With a firm grasp of industry trends and tools, eCommerce merchants will be empowered to turn returns from a liability into a strategic advantage, thereby fostering brand loyalty and growth.
Unless otherwise noted, all statistics used herein are derived from or based on information contained in The Return of the Goods: A Merchant’s Playbook for Winning at Reverse Logistics, which is based on an independent study conducted by Dynata in June 2024 of 350 eCommerce merchants and 1,000 U.S. consumers.
Reverse Logistics Unlocked: Strategies to Streamline, Simplify and Save
Download the complete report for key insights and trends in reverse logistics and the central forces that can help merchants transform this growing challenge into a competitive advantage by:
- Leveraging tools and partnerships to streamline the return process
- Balancing the need to control costs while delivering a premium customer experience
- Managing the complexities of international returns
