Make Sure You Have a Returns Policy

Having a returns policy is critical to running a successful business. You can even have a zero return policy if you like, but the important step in this case is communicating that you don’t have one at all. Don’t leave shoppers in the dark. It doesn’t matter if it is the holiday season or not, shoppers want to know what they need to do in the case of returning a product, so it is imperative that you spend the time communicating your policy.

If you click on Edit profile in My Addoway and then click on Policies, you can add your shipping, payment, and return policies for shoppers to see. These will then be listed on your storefront for shoppers to read.

For the majority of us, if a client is unhappy all they have to do is let us know and we will handle it for them. This works in many cases, but it’s important that you communicate this professionally and that you communicate the time window. Most return policies are 30 days, while others can be up to 60 days, but whatever it is make sure you let them know. TIP: Read through other sellers return policies and see if all your questions are answered.

Standard Return Policies

If nothing is wrong with the product(s), the buyer should cover the return shipping, but if a buyer indicates that the product is damaged or different from what they initially ordered, the seller should cover the cost of the return shipping. (You can issue a refund to the buyer ahead of time, so they can pay for the shipping). On the other hand, sellers can also charge restocking fees (up to 20% of the cost of the item) for returning items that are not damaged or different. TIP: Whatever you decide, just communicate it!

Always keep your listings up to date. When you need to, use your Addoway tools to edit the listing descriptions, prices, and/or the shipping methods you offer. Up-to-date information means fewer potential problems and returns. The goal is to erase any hesitation in the buying cycle, so that when they see your listing and read your policies, they can be confident that they can buy from you and know that if they are not happy, you will handle it by following your policies that you have listed ahead of time.

Happy Selling!