Returns

[melsti-2179]

I don't have a question but rather would like to hear how everyone else handles their returns. As far as which way do you follow Option 1,2,3 etc etc. I sell womens clothing 99% brand new still in the original packaging and I sell them at  cheap cost however due to so many returns for does not fit reasons it seems as if I am not making much money. If I change to no returns I am afraid of losing sales. Just looking for input on how everyone has their returns set up. Thank you in advance. 

I have been so frustrated that I was entertaining the idea of going to a different platform. 

[stainlessenginecovers]

Give an example of % of returns. 

You sold 477 things in 90 days, so average 160 a month. 

If 16 are being returned, that is 10%. Not bad. 

Clothing is BY FAR one of the most returned categories. 

Think Kohls, Macy's etc. sell things 'online' and probably have a very high return rate (although very high still can mean less than 20%). 

[spreadlovelikefire]

I sell new underwear, women's and men's.  I offer free returns.  Yes, I get returns but almost all are for "doesn't fit" or "didn't like".  My return rate is 1.89% which isn't bad.  My sales went up when I changed to 30 day free returns.  Clothing is generally light to ship and doesn't cost a ton of money when they return it.  Clothing is the #1 returned item.  It took me  a while to get use the returns once I changed to free returns because my return rate did bump up but so did my sales.  It evened back out.  Most people are honest and will open the return honestly.  I think, especially with clothing, that people feel more comfortable buying online when they don't have to pay to return something that doesn't fit.  Your sales will probably go up if you offer 30 day free returns.  

[ryry-jj]

Returns on apparel are huge...as mentioned on line over 20% and even higher in physical stores.  Consumers buy clothing to try on, check fit and style with already owned shoes, belts, and other accessories.  Returns are part of the game, so account for it in your prices and make it as easy as possible.    

Free shipping and free returns are the easiest and often can lead to the most sales.  If priced correctly,  you can cover these costs, if not then add $2-3 handling fee only...btw, that handling fee does show up as shipping.  Mention you add a nominal shipping fee to shipping materials only in description 

I bet if you included a return mailer inside for any returns you would get repeat sales.  I wouldn't include the postage yet, that might have people who are on the fence return too easily, lol.   But know stuff is coming back, and when it is returned you want it back in new & sellable condition.

To me, clothing and apparel sellers have the most to gain by value added service