Any e-commerce business owner can tell you that no matter how awesome your product is, you’re bound to deal with returns. It’s just the nature of the retail game. But they returns don’t have to cause you a major headache. As an online retailer, it’s important to have a strategy in place to best handle returns and return shipping.
Returns are going to happen. Now what?
Regardless of your product, niche, or quality, there is going to come a day where a customer gets your product in hand and decides it’s not right for them. No matter the circumstance, you’ll need to be prepared with a strategy on how to handle those returns. Return shipping can seem like an expensive monster from the outside looking in. But there are some approaches that can help you keep your customers and your bank account happy.
Return Shipping Options
There are a few standard options when it comes to return shipping that you can choose from. But only you can decide which one is the best approach for your business.
- The customer pays the full cost of return shipping.
- You pay the full cost of return shipping.
- You combine those two options.
Understandably, as you’re just getting started, absorbing the entire cost of a return can be a bit tricky. That’s why combining the first two options is a great method that allows you and the customer to both feel confident in the return policy.
The way to do this is to establish a flat rate for return shipping. This way, you’re managing expectations. The customer knows up front exactly how much a return will cost before they buy. Many times, when a customer clearly understands the return policy, they feel more encouraged to buy.
If the world of returns and return shipping still has you spooked, get in touch. We’re e-commerce and Shopify experts, and we’re prepared to help you get your store set up for success!