Reverse logistics are often expensive and challenging to oversee.

Numerous logistics partners, such as NavataSCS, may assist your company in automating and outsourcing the returns process with the goal of rerouting the products as efficiently and affordably as possible so that they can be placed back into inventory.

However, it’s crucial to comprehend the procedures involved in reverse logistics before you find the ideal logistics partner.

Customer receives item

Many factors depend on a package being delivered successfully, and if you can “wow” the consumer at this point, you can reduce the amount of reverse logistics work.

Your delivery should be made on schedule, undamaged, and packaged to prevent damage to the goods during transportation. It should, of course, also list the item or items that the consumer really chose.

Your chances of a return increase if any of these situations occur: the item is damaged, the package is opened, the item is the incorrect size or color, or the delivery is delayed. For this reason, during the whole delivery process, it’s critical to concentrate on delivering an amazing customer experience.

Customer initiates a return

Each brand will have a return policy of its own. With a clear return window for all products—aside from final-sale items and other specific categories—it should be simple for shoppers to grasp.

When a consumer wants to return an item that qualifies, they should be able to do so with ease via one of your sales channels (website, app, email, etc.), a customer service representative, or an automated solution.

With adaptable alternatives based on the customer’s preferences, your agent or solution should be able to offer a smooth process for returning the item to your warehouse.

Return Label Printed

Customers should have several alternatives when it comes to returning merchandise from your business.

If a return is necessary, you could provide them pre-printed return labels when they get their shipment, or you could give them printable return labels when they ask for a return.

If a consumer chooses not to repackage an item or if it needs certain tools or supplies, you should also offer the option for them to bring the unboxed item to a drop-off site so that someone else may securely package it.

Items are sent back to be returned

The customer securely packages the item using appropriate packaging (often the original packaging if available) to prevent damage during transit. They then affix the return label to the package, ensuring that it’s clearly visible for shipping.

Returned items are received & inspected

After the package is shipped back to the retailer or designated return center, it is received by staff responsible for handling returns. The returned items undergo a detailed inspection process:
Verification: The return is verified against the customer’s original order to confirm the item and its condition.
Physical Inspection: Staff visually inspect the returned item to assess its condition. They check for signs of use, damage, missing parts, and overall suitability for resale.
Functional Testing (if applicable): In some cases, especially for electronics or appliances, functional testing may be conducted to ensure the item is in working order.

Items are returned to inventory

Return to Inventory:

If the returned item meets the retailer’s criteria for resale (e.g., it’s in new condition, unused, with all original parts and packaging intact), it is processed back into the inventory. This involves updating the inventory management system to reflect the availability of the item for resale.

Disposition of Unsalvageable Items:

Items that are deemed unsuitable for resale (e.g., damaged, used, missing parts) are handled according to the retailer’s policies:
Refurbishing: Some items might be sent to refurbishing centers where they can be repaired or restored to a sellable condition.
Recycling: Materials that cannot be refurbished or resold may be recycled to recover valuable components.
Donation or Disposal: In certain cases, items may be donated to charitable organizations or disposed of responsibly, adhering to environmental regulations.

Also Read: 7 Steps to Choose the Best 3PL Provider for Your Business