Managing the return of a dropshipped product

You've just opened a dropshipping online store and everything seems to be going swimmingly. However, a customer asks you what to do in the event of a product return. Have you thought about setting up a returns management service? If you've ever wanted to know how to return a dropshipping product, follow this article. 

Know your supplier

Customer feedback is something that happens in a business. No one can escape them. However, you can avoid them or anticipate them. To do so, you just need to opt for certain methods. It is this upstream preparation that will help you to manage the returns of your dropshipping products. The first step is to know your supplier. Take the time to check the different terms and conditions of your suppliers and their policies. 

You should also take this opportunity to take a look at the various terms and conditions of sale. It's a good idea to ask your supplier if you have a withdrawal period after purchase. You should also try to find out more about the valid reasons for product returns in dropshipping. And most important of all, answer the question "who pays the shipping costs?  

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Create your return policy

Once you've studied your supplier's return policy, we recommend that you create your own. However, it must be based on your supplier's different return conditions. The aim is to avoid unpleasant surprises while protecting you. At this stage, take the time to check:

• The withdrawal period
• The return address
• Payment of return postage

To help you anticipate customer returns, always take a margin with regard to the withdrawal period. If your dropshipping supplier accepts a 20 day return period, post a 15 day return period in your policy. 

Do not forget to display the return address if you only work with one supplier. If you work with several suppliers, it would be best to ask your customer for the product in question and send him the exact address of the supplier. You should also think about payment of return costs. Also specify the cases in which you do not refund products. 

Testing the product 

In order to avoid disputes between you and your customer, it is best to test the product in question. This solution will help you anticipate product returns in dropshipping. We even recommend that you place several orders with your supplier. The best thing is to see for yourself the quality of the product, the quality of the packaging and the quality of the services. If you have any comments about the service or the product, do not hesitate to discuss them with your supplier. 

If the item is exactly what you want, you can sell it on your webshop. However, in order to avoid unpleasant surprises, it is important to describe the product according to your findings. For clothing products, specify the size, material and colours available. For hygienic products, organic products or cosmetics, do not forget to specify the components in order to avoid unpleasant surprises. Be aware that if the product does not correspond to the description, the customer will certainly return the product. Use videos to present your product well. 

Taking full responsibility 

As mentioned above, in dropshipping, product returns are not rare enough. If, despite all your preparations, you are faced with such a situation, start by apologising to your customer. This is regardless of the reason for the return. It is also advisable to take full responsibility. Avoid blaming your supplier, even if this was the case. The most important thing is to find a solution to satisfy your customer. 

So take the time to apologise and ask the reason for the return. For the sake of your dropshipping shop, you need to know the reason in order to avoid it the next time you order. You can also discuss these reasons with your supplier. If it is the supplier's fault, refund the customer and your supplier will then refund you. 

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Other cases to be considered 

If the customer does not want to replace the product, but demands a refund, always try to ask why. Also try to convince your customer to receive a new product instead of a refund. This solution is very profitable for you. For the sake of your drophipping business , taking care of the return of the product should be your responsibility. This is why we suggest that you put your address on the return address. 

Try to avoid returning a product to AliExpress dropshipping, or to another supplier. Unless you've gambled on a fairly expensive product. Shipping the product allows you to keep it for yourself and resell it to another customer. This could be beneficial to you. Don't forget to ask for a tracking number when returning dropshipped products, to avoid disputes. Once you have received the package, you can proceed to the refund. 

Conclusion

Managing dropshipping product returns requires a certain amount of know-how. In order to help you, we suggest you trust Minea. It is a practical, efficient and accessible tool. It allows you to learn more about the world of dropshipping.