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Reverse Logistics is essentially the supply chain process of a product being returned back to the seller/manufacturer. Reverse logistics will start at the end customer and move back down the supply chain to the seller or manufacturer who sold or made the product. The process is also when items need to be recycled or disposed of and the end customer is responsible for doing this. Whether a customer is returning an item, or an item is at the end of its product life cycle, it is key your business offers returns to customers. Reverse logistics is a key process for your business, as you want the returns process to run as smoothly as possible, making customers want to shop again with you.

 

Types of reverse logistics

There are many types of reverse logistics, and the main ones include:

Returns management:

The most popular reverse logistics process is regular customer returns in which a customer can easily return an item they do not want or need anymore.

Return policy and procedure:

This is the policy your business sets in place for customers to return items. This can include the time frame they have to return in/ the condition of item for it to be accepted.

Repair and maintenance:

This is the process of items being returned in order to have repairs or warranty work performed. This usually happens with electronic items or items that have been had for years.

Packaging management:

Companies with packaging management processes will reuse packaging to save costs, reduce waste and help the environment.

Unsold products:

Items that do not perform well, may have manufacturing issues or delivery refusal may be sent back to manufacturers or fulfilment centres.

End of service life:

When items are at the end of their product life cycle they may be sent back to be disposed of in an environmentally friendly way.

Delivery failure:

Items that cannot be delivered may be delivered back to a manufacturer or fulfilment centre, but items may also be sorted by correcting the issue between the seller and the buyer.

 

Where does 3PL come in?

If you choose to partner up with a 3PL, you can leave the reverse logistics to them. 3PL providers are experts in logistic management and know how to handle your returns process in the most streamlined and effortless way for both you and your customers. 3PL companies can minimise delays and maximise recovery value, meaning your customers will be happier and likely to shop with you again.

Being able to offer free, fast returns to customers may be the difference between them purchasing from you compared to your competitors. 3PL partners can make the reverse logistics process so easy for your company, meaning you have more time to focus on other aspects of your business. At GNOC, we use our trusted integration platforms to ensure your returns are tracked easily. Our trusted couriers will return your stock to our warehouse, where it will be checked by our helpful warehouse staff. Your customers will be refunded and all stock that can be resold will be put straight back on your system.

 

Why you need reverse logistics

By optimising your reverse logistics, it can have so many benefits for your business, your customers and even the environment. The easier your reverse logistics is for your customer, the better experience they will have with you, and brand reputation should be a huge priority for your business. It can also reduce a lot of costs for your business, reduce waste and improve sustainability, as well as gaining better customer retention.

 

Choose GNOC

Here at GNOC, we want to prioritise your business, and ensure your reverse logistics process runs as smoothly as possible for you. If your business has any specific requirements, or return policies, you can discuss this with us, and we can work through to try and help you with the process as much as possible.

We have years of experience in reverse logistics and know how important it is to keep the supply chain running smoothly for your company. Contact us today, or fill out our short form explaining your company’s requirements and we will get back to you ASAP to discuss how we can help in any way…

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Post by Isobel Marriner
Jul 30, 2024 8:00:50 AM