Why Are Online Retailers Charging for Returns?

When you buy online, it’s usual to order the item in a couple of different sizes, colours or finishes. Then, when your parcel arrives, items can be compared and tried for size, with the best option selected. The rest is returned, quite often without charge. It seems straightforward for the customer, but the process is unsustainable. As a result, more online retailers are charging for returns.

What is the Problem with Free Returns?

The option of free returns does influence purchasing decisions. It means there is no harm in buying, as you get your money back on any unwanted items. So, if retailers want more customers and sales, what’s the problem?

Firstly, free returns do encourage excessive purchasing. Buyers fill shopping baskets with minimal consideration, yet we know there is an environmental impact to this. Many returns end up in landfill, as they aren’t sent back in suitable condition to be resold. Rather than encouraging people to buy, buy, buy, the retail industry needs to promote more conscious purchasing decisions.

Secondly, covering the delivery costs and the costs of processing returns is unsustainable. Managing the outward picking, packing and shipping process is one thing, but the reverse logistics are quite another. Around half of all online retailers are finding it a financial burden. If we want to avoid losing our favourite brands, we need to pay our fair share.

Expect Online Retailers to Charge for Returns

To address the issue, especially in the current economic conditions, a growing number of brands are charging for returns. Expect to see this become standard practice. As a compromise, some retailers continue to offer free returns to a physical store. However, many e-commerce brands are online only, so this won’t always be an option.

Returnable Deliveries

For online retailers that want to minimise financial and environmental costs, there is the option of reusable shipping boxes. With tear strips and adhesive layers, the same packaging can be used to send and return goods. For further information, speak to your local packaging supplier about e-commerce packaging.