- Properly describe your products
One of the key reasons for high product returns is because a customer purchased the wrong item. Although it could be a mistake by the customer in some cases, it is mostly because of the wrong description on the product pages. While there is little you can do to change your customers' behavior, you can make things easy by lowering the chances of them making mistakes. One of the things you must consider is having accurate and detailed product descriptions. Upload high-resolution photos of items, videos of the products, and a description of sizing where applicable. This ensures the customer understands the products well before purchasing.
- Create a comprehensive return policy
Regardless of the type of store you are running-be it an e-commerce or brick-and-mortar store- it is vital to have a comprehensive product return policy in place. According to eConsultancy, 56% of shoppers like hassle-free return policies, while 81% want easy and free product returns. On the other hand, Housecall Pro found that 67% of customers review the company’s return policy before making any purchase decision. This shows the importance of having the right return policy. Before launching your product sales business, clearly state what your return policy will be.
- Allow product returns, exchanges or both
Although returns are the main step allowed by most retailers, you can also allow exchanges or both. While returns can be easier from an operational standpoint because refunding is straightforward, it leads to the loss of a customer. Exchanges give you an opportunity to keep the customer and profits. However, you need to have the proper logistics to back it up.
- Set time limits
Most companies state the number of days after purchasing a product that a customer can make a return. Specifying this minimizes ambiguity. While doing so, take into account the type of product before setting up the time limits. If you sell a single product, one time limit is enough. However, if you sell multiple products, define categories and consider placing different time limits on different categories.
- Develop restrictions
Every product has unique features, and this should be factored in when creating a return policy. Perhaps one of the best things you can do is define the restrictions, such as the kind of products that will be accepted for a full refund and those that will only qualify for the exchange. If you want to have different policies for different products, state them clearly. However, do not make the restrictions complicated because doing so will adversely affect customer experience. Remember that a majority of customers want a hassle-free and seamless shopping experience and returns. Therefore, in whatever you do, put the customer in front and create customer-centered restrictions.
