20 Ways for eCommerce Businesses to Lower Customer Returns in 2025

20 Ways for eCommerce Businesses to Lower Customer Returns in 2025
April 30, 2025

Customer returns are a reality of eCommerce—especially when buyers can’t touch or try before they buy. In 2024, returns were projected to approach $890 billion, roughly 13% of total retail sales. While flexible return policies can build trust, high return rates cut into margins and disrupt operations.

The good news? In 2025, new tools and smarter strategies are helping Amazon sellers, DTC brands, and online retailers lower return rates without sacrificing customer experience. From AI-powered size tools to better product visuals and proactive customer education, there’s a lot you can do.

Here are 20 proven strategies to reduce returns—each with examples, tools, and tips to help your business thrive. Let’s dive in.

1. Optimize Product Descriptions for Clarity and Accuracy

One of the most common reasons for returns is the product not matching customer expectations. A reported 22% of returns occur because an item was “not as described”​. To combat this, ensure every product description on your site or Amazon listing is detailed and accurate. Include key specifics like dimensions, materials, features, and what’s included (or not included) in the box.

Avoid marketing fluff and focus on facts – if a shirt is slim-fit, state that clearly; if a gadget requires assembly or batteries, let customers know up front. For example, Amazon’s product pages often have a bulleted “About this item” section listing specifications and usage details, which helps set correct expectations. Many retailers are even using AI to auto-generate rich descriptions and size info, with nearly 47% of retailers in a recent survey using AI to enhance product content before purchase​. The goal is that the customer should have no surprises when they open the package. A clear, honest description can prevent the disappointment that leads to a return.

2. Use High-Quality Images and Videos

Pictures are a product’s first impression online. Using high-quality images from multiple angles (and even video) can drastically reduce returns by giving shoppers a realistic view of the item. Make sure images show scale and details: include context (e.g. a chair in a room setting, a model wearing the apparel) so customers can judge size and color accuracy. Blurry or few photos leave too much to the imagination – and that often results in the product “looking different than expected.” Many Amazon sellers succeed by uploading 8-10 images per product, including zoomable close-ups and 360° views, so buyers can inspect every inch. If applicable, add a short product demo video or a GIF of the product in use. User-generated photos (from reviewers or social media) can also be featured to show real-life usage (more on that later). The more your visuals tell the product’s story, the less likely customers will feel misled. As a bonus, detailed images build trust and can even boost conversion rates while they reduce returns​.

3. Provide Detailed Size Guides and Fit Tools

For apparel, footwear, and any product where fit is a factor, sizing issues are the #1 cause of returns. Surveys show 70% of online returns in clothing are due to size or fit problems​. Combat this by offering comprehensive size guides and interactive fit tools. At minimum, include a detailed size chart with measurements in relevant units (inches, cm) and instructions on how to measure oneself. Even better, use dynamic sizing solutions: for example, fashion retailers like ASOS use a Fit Assistant that asks customers for their height, weight, and fit preferences to recommend the best size​ .

Some brands leverage machine learning and purchase history – if a shopper consistently had to return shoes that “ran large,” an AI system can suggest a smaller size next time. In fact, 25% of retailers are now using software to help determine accurate clothing sizes for customers​. Consider tools like Virtusize or True Fit, or quizzes that generate a personalized size. By guiding customers to pick the right size from the start, you’ll prevent “bracketing” (ordering multiple sizes) and subsequent returns. Warby Parker’s home try-on program is a great example – they send you 5 frames to test, so you only purchase glasses that you know will fit well, drastically reducing returns on the final sale. Whether it’s apparel, furniture, or even parts, any aid that helps customers gauge fit or compatibility will pay off in fewer returns.

4. Offer Augmented Reality Previews and Virtual Try-Ons

Augmented reality try-on tools let online shoppers visualize products – from makeup to furniture – in their real context before buying, increasing confidence and reducing returns.

Taking sizing and visualization a step further, Augmented Reality (AR) has become an innovative ally in 2025 for lowering returns. AR apps and website features let customers virtually “try on” or preview products using their phone or computer camera. For instance, cosmetics giants like Sephora and L’Oréal enable AR makeup try-ons – a customer can see a lipstick or eyeshadow on their own face via their smartphone​ . This dramatically reduces the guesswork (and returns) for shade mismatches. Similarly, furniture retailers (IKEA, Wayfair, and even Amazon’s app) offer AR placement, allowing shoppers to project a 3D couch or lamp into their living room to check size and style before buying. Fashion and accessories brands are experimenting with AR fitting rooms for virtual clothing try-on, and eyewear companies like Warby Parker have in-app AR so you can see how glasses frames look on your face. These tools bridge the gap between online and in-person shopping. It’s no wonder 43% of smartphone users prefer brands that offer AR experiences​– it shows confidence that your product will meet their needs. By implementing AR or 3D product visualization, you empower customers to make informed choices. The result is fewer “I didn’t realize it would look like that” returns and more happy keepers of the products.

5. Leverage Product Reviews and User-Generated Content

Your existing customers can help your future customers avoid returns. Ratings, reviews, and user-generated content (UGC) like customer photos or videos build trust and provide peer insights on the product. They also directly reduce returns: in one study, two in three shoppers said they’d be less likely to return a product if they could see user reviews and Q&A beforehand​. Reviews highlight real-world use cases, sizing tips, or color impressions that aren’t in the official description.

Encourage buyers to leave honest reviews and to include images of the product in use. For example, many Amazon product pages show user photos (a dress on various body types, a couch in different homes) which help set realistic expectations for new buyers. User Q&A sections are equally powerful – they let potential buyers ask questions and get answers from owners (e.g. “Is the material see-through?” or “Will this charger work with iPhone 13?”). All this UGC acts as a form of customer-to-customer education, filling in details you might not have considered. Real-world example: The fashion brand GANT reduced its return rate by 5% after adding customer reviews to its site, significantly boosting revenue as a result​. The key is to highlight these reviews and images prominently on your product pages. By leveraging social proof and community content, you guide shoppers to buy the item that’s right for them – and they’ll be far less likely to send it back.

6. Include Customer Q&A and Live Support for Pre-Purchase Questions

Despite your best efforts with descriptions and photos, shoppers may still have specific questions before clicking “Buy.” If those questions go unresolved, the customer might take a risk on the purchase and later return it if it doesn’t meet their needs. To prevent this, make it easy for customers to get answers pre-purchase. Implement a Q&A section on product pages (Amazon does this by allowing anyone to ask a question that past buyers or the seller can answer). Often, a quick answer about how a garment fits (“It runs small, order one size up”) or a gadget’s compatibility can either reassure a customer or save them from buying the wrong item.

Additionally, consider offering live chat support or AI chatbots on your site to handle real-time queries. An AI chatbot can instantly answer common questions about product specs, shipping, or usage, helping customers make an informed decision at 11pm on a Sunday. If the question is complex, a live support agent can step in. The presence of an easy Q&A or chat feature can also increase conversion rates – customers feel supported, much like having a sales associate in a store. But importantly, it steers them toward the right product variant or model, reducing returns that stem from confusion or missing info. In summary: an informed customer is a satisfied customer who’s less likely to return their purchase.

7. Educate Customers with Pre-Purchase Guides and Content

Sometimes the best return prevention is educating your customer before they even buy. This is especially true for products that are technical, innovative, or not self-explanatory. Create and share buying guides, tutorials, and explainer content to help customers understand what they need and what they’re getting. For example, if you sell skincare, a guide titled “How to Choose the Right Serum for Your Skin Type” can ensure the customer picks the product best suited for them (so they don’t later return a wrong choice). If you’re a DTC electronics brand, produce short explainer videos demonstrating product features and setup – these can be on your site, YouTube, or linked in QR codes on packaging. Customer education can also mean transparently addressing who a product is not for.

A power tool store might have a comparison chart, steering a newbie DIY customer toward an entry-level drill instead of a heavy-duty professional model they’d end up returning. By investing in educational content (blog posts, videos, infographics, FAQ pages), you empower shoppers to choose correctly. This not only reduces returns, but it builds credibility for your brand as a helpful authority. Remember, a well-informed customer is much more likely to be a happy keeper of your product.

8. Set Realistic Expectations in Marketing and Sales Copy

In the quest to win customers, some brands inadvertently over-hype or over-promise in their marketing – which can backfire in returns. It’s important that your ads, marketing copy, and sales promises align with reality. For instance, avoid using overly edited images or misleading comparisons that make a product appear larger, faster, or more magical than it truly is. If a handbag is made of faux leather, don’t call it “luxurious leather-like” in a way that confuses the buyer. Be straightforward about what the product can and cannot do. Did you partner with influencers to showcase your product? Make sure their content accurately represents it (e.g., the color of a dress isn’t heavily filtered to a different shade). Honesty in marketing might lose you a few impulse sales, but it will save you many returns and build long-term trust. One notable example is how Apple markets its iPhones – the glamour shots are polished, but they always clearly state what’s in the box (or not in the box, like when they removed chargers) to prevent surprise returns. Similarly, many Amazon sellers have learned that clearly stating product limitations (in bullet points or even the title, like “[NO Battery Included]”) leads to more satisfied customers. In 2025’s competitive landscape, transparency is a competitive advantage. Set the right expectations from the first touchpoint, and customers won’t feel the need to return a product that “fell short” of an overblown promise.

9. Enforce Strict Quality Control and Accurate Fulfillment

Some returns are entirely preventable on the business’s side – namely those due to defective products or wrong items shipped. There’s nothing more frustrating to a customer than receiving a broken item or something different from what they ordered. To avoid this, implement rigorous quality control before products leave your warehouse. Test devices to ensure they work, inspect apparel for flaws, and package items securely (more on packaging next). Also, verify the order contents carefully: double-check that the SKU and size match the customer’s request.

Using barcode scanning or automated fulfillment systems can help eliminate human error where a blue medium shirt is sent instead of a black large. Some companies even go further, doing a quick functionality test or including a quality assurance card in the box signed by an inspector. For example, Zappos, known for customer service, has historically emphasized fast, accurate shipping – they know sending the wrong pair of shoes means not only a return, but possibly losing customer goodwill. By ensuring “get it right the first time” in your operations, you’ll avoid self-inflicted returns. It’s much cheaper to spend a bit more time on QC and correct picking than to process a return and reship a new item later. In summary: ship the right product, in perfect condition, as promised – and you’ll immediately cut down a chunk of returns.

10. Use Protective and Informative Packaging

Believe it or not, your packaging strategy can influence return rates. First, solid packaging prevents returns due to damage in transit. Use sturdy boxes, proper cushioning, and packaging materials tailored to the product’s needs (fragile items, for instance, might need foam inserts or double boxing). An order that arrives smashed or bent will likely be headed back to you, so invest in packaging that survives the journey.

As one guide notes, using the right packaging and even simulating rough shipping conditions are steps eCommerce businesses take to reduce damage-related returns​. Second, packaging can reinforce product expectations and satisfaction. Attractive, well-branded packaging can make a good first impression and align with what customers saw online. Include any product manuals or quick-start guides visibly so the customer immediately knows how to use the item (preventing returns from frustration or confusion). Some brands even print QR codes or URLs on the box that link to FAQ or setup videos.

If a product requires assembly, a clear instruction sheet (or link to an assembly app) in the box can mean the difference between a successful build or a returned item. In short, pack with care and clarity. The customer should feel, upon unboxing, that the product is exactly what they expected and that the company took care to deliver it safely. This unboxing satisfaction can drastically reduce the impulse to return.

11. Ensure On-Time and Accurate Delivery

Shipping and delivery issues can indirectly cause returns. If an item arrives late, the customer might have bought a replacement or no longer needs it (common around holidays or events). If it goes to the wrong address or gets lost and finally shows up weeks later, the customer may refuse it. While some of this is out of your direct control, you can mitigate it. Work with reliable carriers and offer realistic shipping timelines (don’t promise 2-day delivery if you routinely take a week). Provide tracking information and proactive updates – for instance, send an email or text when the item is out for delivery. Keeping customers informed can reduce anxiety and prevent them from preemptively ordering elsewhere (then returning your item when it shows up).

In cases of known delays, communicate promptly and offer options (e.g. a refund or alternate product) rather than surprising the customer. Also, make sure to verify addresses and let customers easily correct mistakes right after ordering; a mistyped address that causes a failed delivery could turn into a return or cancellation. Amazon and other marketplaces highly value on-time delivery metrics – they know a late or failed delivery often equals an unhappy customer. By prioritizing fulfillment efficiency and transparency, you build trust that the item will arrive when expected, reducing returns due to timing or logistics mishaps. It’s all about aligning delivery reality with the customer’s need-by date.

12. Offer Post-Purchase Follow-Up and Support

The sale doesn’t end at checkout – how you support a customer after purchase can determine if they keep the product. Implement a thoughtful post-purchase follow-up strategy. A few days after delivery, send a friendly email or message asking if everything is okay with the product, and provide resources for help. For example, share a link to a setup guide, a tutorial video, or tips for best use. This is especially crucial for complex or new-to-market products. If a customer is struggling to make something work, they might assume it’s faulty and initiate a return – but a quick troubleshooting tip from you could save the day (and the sale).

Many brands set up knowledge bases and support centers for this reason. Also consider including a support contact in the packaging (a small card that says “Need help? Contact us at … before considering a return”). By catching issues early, you can often resolve them: maybe the customer didn’t find the power button, or needs advice on sizing the product for their needs. A proactive phone call for high-ticket items (“How’s your new treadmill? Can we assist with setup?”) can wow the customer and prevent buyer’s remorse. In one case study, providing interactive 3D instructions reduced returns by up to 30% for a product, as customers could successfully assemble and use it​. The lesson is clear: when customers feel supported and educated post-purchase, they’re far more likely to keep and enjoy the product rather than send it back.

13. Encourage Exchanges and Store Credit Over Refunds

When a customer is unhappy with a purchase, a return for refund isn’t the only outcome. Often, the customer might have simply ordered the wrong size, color, or model, and would be perfectly satisfied with an exchange. By encouraging exchanges, you keep the sale (or at least keep the customer engaged) while getting them a product they’ll love. Make your return portal or customer service scripts offer an exchange option prominently: “Not the right fit? We can exchange for a different size or color at no cost.” Consider incentivizing exchanges by offering free return shipping or a small bonus for choosing an exchange or store credit instead of a refund. For instance, some apparel retailers give a $5 credit bonus if you opt for a refund in store credit, nudging the customer to stay with the brand rather than take cash and run. Automated return systems like Loop Returns specialize in presenting exchange alternatives, because they know it reduces refund rates (and thus real returns). Another tactic is to allow easy product swaps: if a customer didn’t like Item A, let them quickly pick Item B of equal value to try instead, all in one return shipment. This way the customer still ends up with something from you that they hopefully keep. By framing returns as “let us help you find what works” rather than a lost sale, you not only salvage revenue but also give customers a positive outcome – which boosts loyalty. Remember, an exchange is far better than a refund, so make it as seamless as possible.

14. Implement Return Fees or Restocking Fees (Carefully)

Many retailers are re-evaluating the era of unlimited free returns. Introducing a small return or restocking fee can dissuade frivolous returns and make customers think twice before over-ordering. In 2024, about 40% of retailers introduced return fees of $5–$10 to cope with rising return costs​. Big names like Zara, H&M, Abercrombie & Fitch, and Amazon have started charging fees for certain returns​.

Amazon now sometimes deducts a $1–$3 fee if you return to a UPS store when an Amazon drop-off was just as accessible – a subtle push to reduce return volumes. It’s important to implement these fees strategically. Be transparent in your policy so customers aren’t caught off guard (nothing kills loyalty like a surprise fee). Some brands only apply fees in specific cases: e.g., Asos in 2024 began charging a £3.95 fee for customers who excessively return items, essentially targeting serial returners while regular shoppers still enjoy free returns​. You might choose to waive the fee for exchanges or store credit as an incentive (so the fee only hits if they truly just want a refund)​.

Another approach is a restocking fee for large items or high-value electronics – this covers inspection and repackaging costs. While return fees can reduce returns, use them judiciously to avoid deterring purchases. The trend is clearly moving toward “free returns” being less universal as it once was. If the industry giants are doing it, customers will gradually accept modest fees as a norm. Just communicate clearly and consider loyalty when applying fees (e.g., waive them for your VIP customers). When done right, a small fee can filter out casual over-buying and make customers more deliberate with orders, leading to lower return rates.

15. Introduce “Keep Rewards” or Loyalty Incentives for Fewer Returns

On the flip side of fees, consider rewarding customers who keep their purchases. Positive reinforcement can go a long way. For example, subscription fashion box services like Stitch Fix offer a 25% discount if the customer keeps all items in their shipment​– this incentivizes working with a stylist to get items you’ll love, and maybe holding onto that extra item instead of returning it. While not every business can provide a keep-all discount, you can create smaller loyalty incentives. Perhaps award loyalty points for each purchase that isn’t returned, or offer a small bonus (like a $10 coupon) to customers who kept all their orders in the last quarter. The idea is to celebrate and encourage mindful purchasing. You could gamify it: “Keep 5 purchases in a row, get a special reward!” This must be balanced carefully – you don’t want customers feeling penalized for returns they truly needed to make. But many shoppers would be proud to earn a “bronze status” for low return rates or be part of a program that highlights sustainable shopping habits. Some retailers choose to recognize their most profitable customers (often those with lower return rates) with VIP perks or free shipping upgrades. This subtly encourages others to emulate that behavior. Another approach is at the order level: if a customer keeps an entire order with multiple items, send them a one-time coupon as a thanks. The message is “we appreciate that you found everything you wanted.” Loyalty incentives around returns are still emerging, but they can be an innovative way in 2025 to flip the script – making “no returns” a rewarding goal for customers, not just for your business.

16. Leverage AI and Data Analytics to Predict and Prevent Returns

Today’s advances in artificial intelligence offer powerful tools to tackle returns proactively. AI and machine learning can analyze mountains of purchase and return data to identify patterns that humans might miss. For example, AI can help predict which orders are at high risk of return by looking at factors like the customer’s past behaviors, the product type, even review sentiment. In a recent industry report, 36% of retailers said they analyze customers’ purchase and return history to predict return likelihood, and 39% analyze product-specific return rates to find problem items​. How can this help you? If you can predict a return, you might intervene – perhaps send a usage tip email, or double-check that order for accuracy. AI can also personalize size and product recommendations (as mentioned earlier with fit assistants). Walmart is on the cutting edge here: they leverage their huge data to create “trusted customer profiles” and tailor the shopping experience, which has helped reduce returns by guiding customers to better choices​.

Another use of AI is improving product content: nearly 47.4% of retailers are using AI to automatically enrich product descriptions and sizing info for shoppers​, ensuring more informed purchases. Even chatbots (AI-driven) can handle return-related queries and possibly deflect returns by solving issues (“Oh, the device isn’t turning on? Try this fix…”). Small businesses can tap into AI through SaaS tools or platforms that offer returns analytics dashboards. The bottom line: your own data is a goldmine of insight. By using AI to crunch that data, you can spot where returns are happening and why – and take action before the next return happens. It’s a tech-forward way to make smarter merchandising and customer service decisions that keep return rates down.

17. Analyze Return Reasons and Fix the Root Causes

Every return tells a story. Make sure you’re capturing return reasons (through return forms or customer feedback), and regularly analyze that information. Is there a particular product with an above-average return rate? Perhaps a certain garment is running smaller than standard – if you spot that trend, you can update the size chart or product pattern.

In fact, identifying products with high return rates and understanding why is something 39% of retailers are actively doing with data analytics​. Use that approach in your business: if “Item X” keeps coming back because “color not as expected,” you might need to take new photos or clarify the color name. If many customers cite “quality not as expected,” it could signal a manufacturing issue and prompt you to improve your supplier or materials. Additionally, pay attention to common return themes across your catalog – for example, if a lot of customers say “didn’t need it anymore,” maybe your delivery times or communication need improvement (so they don’t cancel and buy elsewhere). Or “item arrived damaged” could point to a packaging problem to fix (as discussed).

Some DTC brands treat returns data like an ongoing product development feedback loop, making tweaks to products or listings to address issues. For instance, a small homewares brand might learn that a lamp’s lampshade often cracks in transit, and then reinforce that part or adjust the shipping box. By closing the loop on return reasons, you demonstrate to customers that you listen and improve – which in turn can reduce future returns and increase customer satisfaction. In summary, don’t just process returns, study them. Then act on those insights to eliminate the root causes where possible.

18. Tailor Return Policies for Different Customer Segments

Not all customers are equal when it comes to returns. Some are highly profitable and rarely return items; others might abuse lenient policies. In 2025, we’re seeing more nuanced approaches to customer-specific return policies. For example, retailers are using data to identify “trusted” customers who have low return rates or only return for valid reasons, and giving them VIP treatment (like instant refunds or extended return windows)​. This keeps your best customers happy and loyal. On the flip side, if you notice a customer has an extremely high return frequency, you might implement stricter rules for them under a “fair use” clause. We saw this with Asos’s new policy targeting frequent returners – a small segment (about 6% of shoppers) was causing a huge hit to profits, so Asos now requires those individuals to keep a minimum amount of their order or else pay a fee​.

You can adopt a gentler version of this by politely warning chronic returners or suggesting alternative solutions (like personal styling help). Some eCommerce platforms allow flagging of serial returners; you could choose not to serve those customers free return shipping labels, for instance. The key is to maintain overall fairness: you’re not punishing the average customer, just managing the extremes. By tailoring your approach – leniency for the easy customers, and firmer guidelines for the abusers – you can reduce unnecessary returns while still providing great service. Always communicate any policy changes clearly and individually if possible (“We noticed you’ve had to return quite a few items; can we help you find a better fit, or let you know our policy has some limits?”). This segmentation in returns management helps protect your bottom line from outliers without alienating the majority of customers.

19. Combat Return Fraud and Wardrobing

Unfortunately, a portion of “customer returns” aren’t legit at all – things like wardrobing (buying an item to use once and return), returning items in used condition, or even fraudulently returning stolen goods. These fraudulent returns cost retailers billions. In fact, 13.7% of all returns in 2023 were estimated to involve fraud​ , and 60% of retailers reported incidents of wardrobing in a recent survey​. While this might not be the bulk of your returns, it’s worth implementing measures to curb it, as it directly lowers your net return rate. Strategies include: adding tamper-proof tags or markings on high-end apparel that prevent wearing and returning (some clothing retailers use large removable tags that stick out in a visible place – the customer can try on, but not wear out, unless they remove it and void the return). For electronics, record serial numbers and require that same serial number in any return to catch part-swapping scams. If you sell on Amazon, be aware that some buyers try to game the “defective” reason to get free return shipping – Amazon has started flagging this, and 19% of consumers admitted to falsely claiming an item was defective to get a free return​.

As a seller, you can take photos of items before shipment (proof of condition) or use services like Returnalyze or fraud-detection algorithms to identify suspicious return patterns. Also, tighten your policy wording: clearly state you do not accept obviously used items (unless they truly had a defect) and enforce restocking fees or refusals for such cases. While you should always assume good intent with customers, having checks in place for return fraud will discourage the bad actors. Reducing fraudulent returns improves your overall return stats and saves money – allowing you to better serve the honest customers.

20. Offer Try-Before-You-Buy or Sampling Programs

A more proactive way to reduce returns is to let customers try products before fully committing to the purchase. Try-Before-You-Buy programs have gained traction, especially in fashion and home goods. With this model, the customer can receive items (often multiple variations) with no upfront charge, try them out, and only pay for what they keep (returning the rest). This turns the typical return process into part of the buying journey without registering as a “return” in the traditional sense. For example, Amazon’s “Prime Try Before You Buy” (formerly Prime Wardrobe) allows customers to order several clothing items, try them on at home, and send back what they don’t want within 7 days – they are only billed for the keepers.

This approach acknowledges that customers like to compare and feel products, but it streamlines the process so that unwanted items go back into inventory quickly, and the ones kept are never counted as returns on a completed sale. Similarly, eyewear brand Warby Parker sends out home try-on kits for frames at no cost; customers then order the pair they want. This virtually eliminates returns on the final product because the customer already knows the fit and look.

If your business can support it logistically and financially, a try-before-buy option can drastically reduce post-purchase returns (since the trial happens pre-purchase). Even if not, consider sampling strategies: for instance, a perfume company might offer a small tester vial along with a full-size bottle – the customer is instructed to try the sample first, and if they don’t like it, they can return the unopened full bottle. This kind of program ensures the product the customer ends up using is one they’re satisfied with, thereby lowering returns. It shows you’re confident in your product’s appeal and willing to go the extra mile to get the right match in the customer’s hands.

Conclusion

Lower customer returns for eCommerce businesses in 2025 requires a multi-pronged approach – there is no single magic bullet, but rather a combination of accurate product representation, customer education, smart policies, and technology. As we’ve outlined, business owners and online sellers have more tools than ever to tackle returns: from AR fitting rooms and AI analytics to simply writing a more honest product description. Remember that customer returns aren’t just a cost center; they’re also an opportunity to learn about your customers and improve your offerings.

By implementing these 20 strategies, you can trim your return rate, boost your bottom line, and deliver a better experience for shoppers. And when returns do happen, don’t let them drain your business—consider working with customer returns buyers to recover value from unsold or opened products. Fewer returns + smarter returns management = a stronger, more resilient eCommerce brand in 2025.