Rich Returns & Exchanges: Advantages and Disadvantages

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Rich Returns & Exchanges is a Shopify app designed to automate returns and exchanges for merchants, with a special focus on integration with the Shop mobile app. In other words, it’s a commerce merchant’s tool to let customers initiate returns/refunds or exchanges smoothly on mobile and web. The app promises a “mobile-first experience” where customers can start returns right from the Shop App (Shopify’s shopping app) at checkout. Behind the scenes, Rich Returns provides an intuitive, self-service returns portal and label generation system, plus analytics to manage refund and exchange rules. In practice, many Shopify stores use it to centralize returns: it pulls order data directly from Shopify, simplifies refunds (even by issuing store credit), and tracks everything in a unified dashboard.

What Rich Returns Does Well

On the features side, Rich Returns covers the expected bases of a modern returns tool. It offers a custom-branded returns portal (hosted on the merchant’s site) where customers see their order, select items to return or exchange, and choose a refund method (original payment, store credit, etc.). The app automatically generates prepaid return labels from over 100 carriers worldwide; for example, FedEx, UPS, USPS, DHL, etc., so customers only need to print labels and drop off packages. Rich Returns even provides pre-filled return labels, eliminating the need for shoppers to enter address details, which users say “saves a lot of time and effort.” Email notifications are sent out at key milestones (return received, refund issued, etc.) to keep customers informed. A particularly unique advantage is the tight Shop App integration: merchants can let shoppers handle returns directly via Shopify’s mobile Shop app, creating a seamless, “mobile-first experience” in line with modern commerce. This means returns are visible to the customer just like any order, boosting transparency.

For merchants, Rich Returns provides automation rules and insights. You can set up conditional exchange suggestions (so if an item isn’t working, the system can prompt an exchange offer instead of a refund) to help “recapture lost revenue”. The app can automatically apply basic refund or exchange policies, and even offer discounted shipping labels if connected to certain apps (e.g., EasyPost). It supports data syncing with Shopify and common CRM tools (e.g., Intercom, Klaviyo) so that returns data and analytics flow into a merchant’s dashboard. According to app store details, the Standard plan ($19/mo) includes features like 10 free returns per month, a branded portal, and automated labels. Higher plans unlock multi-language support and advanced rules. Overall, many review snippets highlight responsive support and ongoing new features; one user said the team is “constantly improving and adding new features”. Rich Returns aims to improve customer satisfaction by making returns frictionless, ultimately helping brands build loyalty and scale up. In short, its strengths include a polished user interface, a built-for-Shopify architecture, and a clear focus on retaining revenue through exchanges and store credit.

Where Things Fall Apart

On the downside, a few limitations emerge. A prominent complaint is limited multi-language support. One Shopify reviewer gave low marks, saying: “App does not really support multi-language. Very poor implementation with limitations.” They noted some parts of the interface were not fully localized. In today’s global market, that can be a drawback for brands selling in multiple regions. Another issue is rich media: the same review mentioned that including photo (and video) uploads in the return form requires an extra paid add-on, and base support is lacking. In other words, if a customer needs to show a picture of a defect, Rich Returns’ basic plan doesn’t cover it; that feature must be purchased separately. A few merchants also found the app’s feature set “quite basic” for complex returns workflows: as one put it, it’s “not made as a platform, because every manual interaction has to be handled through another tool or Shopify.” This suggests that while core refund/exchange flows are covered, anything outside those (e.g., special RMA review processes) might require manual work or another system.

Some support issues have surfaced, too. Though many five-star reviews praise the team’s responsiveness, at least one user reported slow or “standard answers” that didn’t solve problems. This mirrors AfterShip’s feedback in a way: good support is not always guaranteed. Pricing can be another pain point for growing merchants. Only the Standard plan is very low cost; volume fees kick in after 10 returns per month. If a shop has hundreds of returns, the cost can climb, and some users express frustration at ongoing per-return charges. That said, Rich Returns is generally seen as affordable for what it offers.

Smaller Gaps and Missing Features

In terms of integrations, Rich Returns supports carriers through apps like EasyPost/Shippo (so effectively 100+ carriers) and connects to Shopify natively. It lacks dedicated Shopify Plus or alternative platform integrations, but it doesn’t need to since it’s Shopify-centric. We should note, however, that as a younger app (launched in 2019, with about 80 reviews), it does not have the decades-long pedigree of older systems. Some advanced features, like returns consolidation or very granular automation, are still evolving.

Verdict: Built for Shopify Simplicity, But Light on Power Features

Rich Returns is a solid choice for Shopify merchants who want a modern, mobile-friendly returns system deeply integrated with Shopify data and the Shop app. Its advantages include a responsive interface, exchange incentives to hold onto sales, and automated return label creation from many carriers. Support and user reviews are generally positive, which is notable given some apps’ history of ignoring merchants. However, the drawbacks, such as limited languages, the need to pay extra for media uploads, and basic (non-enterprise) workflows, mean it may not suit large global brands or very complex returns needs. In practice, Rich Returns tends to be praised for ease of setup and ongoing improvements, but critics warn about the absence of deeper customization.

For U.S. ecommerce operators weighing returns solutions, Rich Returns compares favorably to standard options (like AfterShip), but alternatives exist. For example, Cahoot’s peer-to-peer returns solution can dramatically reduce shipping costs by routing returns directly from the returning customer to the next purchasing customer. In any case, Rich Returns achieves its goal of “saving time” and boosting revenue via exchanges, yet it’s important to verify that its features (multi-language, integrations, any extra fees) align with your store’s scale and customer base before committing.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Rich Returns only for Shopify?

Yes. It’s built specifically for Shopify merchants, with deep native integration and support for the Shop App. It’s not compatible with other ecommerce platforms.

Does it support photo uploads for return claims?

Not by default. Media uploads like photos or videos require a paid add-on. If your returns workflow relies on image-based verification, you’ll need to factor that into your budget.

Can Rich Returns handle exchanges automatically?

Yes, to a point. It supports exchange flows and can automatically suggest alternate items or offer store credit, helpful for saving the sale rather than losing it to a refund.

Is there multi-language support for international customers?

Sort of. Higher-tier plans include limited multi-language support, but some merchants report that localization is incomplete or poorly implemented.

What sets Rich Returns apart from other returns apps?

Its biggest strength is simplicity, especially for Shopify users. It’s easy to install, mobile-friendly, and offers a polished UI. That said, it may not have the depth or flexibility needed by large, complex operations.

Written By:

Indy Pereira

Indy Pereira

Indy Pereira helps ecommerce brands optimize their shipping and fulfillment with Cahoot’s technology. With a background in both sales and people operations, she bridges customer needs with strategic solutions that drive growth. Indy works closely with merchants every day and brings real-world insight into what makes logistics efficient and scalable.

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AfterShip Returns Management Solution: Advantages and Disadvantages

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AfterShip’s Returns platform (often called AfterShip Returns Center) is a post-purchase tool that lets online retailers manage all customer returns and exchanges through a branded returns management portal that centralizes all return-related activities. In theory, it streamlines the entire returns process, from customer self-service returns to automated label generation, promising to “ensure a happy post-purchase experience”. The service integrates with major carriers (FedEx, USPS, Canada Post, etc.) to automatically generate return labels (prepaid shipping labels or merchant-paid labels) and track return shipments. In practice, many merchants praise its automation and analytics, but a significant number also report pain points with workflow and support. We’ll dig into the key features and then highlight the notable drawbacks, focusing especially on the latter.

What AfterShip Does Well

One of AfterShip’s selling points is a custom-branded returns portal. Merchants can publish a returns page on their domain (using store branding and colors) where customers see the store’s return policy and submit returns requests. Shoppers just enter an order number and email on this branded returns page and initiate a return “in just a few clicks”. This self-service approach avoids the email back-and-forth of traditional returns. Customers pick items and reasons for return on-screen, then AfterShip can automatically generate RMA numbers and prepaid return labels for them. The platform even offers discounted USPS label rates and supports printless QR-code drop-offs at 300K+ locations (including Canada Post and Happy Returns drop-off kiosks) to make return shipping easier. Customers can simply print the prepaid label and attach it to the box for return shipping, following the clear shipping instructions provided by AfterShip. In short, AfterShip’s returns page and label generation aim to create a seamless returns experience: customers can “return products and exchange products via a branded returns portal”, reducing hassle and improving customer satisfaction. The ease of use means customers can simply print their return labels at home.

Importantly, AfterShip advertises strong automation and analytics. Its dashboard centralizes all returns requests, RMA requests, and shipping status updates, which in trials has cut handling time in half (“50% reduction in returns processing time”). Merchants can set routing rules and eligibility rules (for example, auto-approve returns for certain items or dates) to speed up the returns approval process. The system can automate repetitive tasks in the returns process, reducing manual effort. The system can automatically create exchange orders or process refunds based on these rules, freeing merchants from manual steps. It also tracks every return shipment’s returns status and triggers email status updates to reassure customers. All this data feeds into an analytics dashboard to gain visibility on return rates, label costs, process time, and other key metrics. The idea is that AfterShip not only “saves processing time” and “reduces costs” by automating manual tasks, but also helps “recapture revenue with product exchanges” and increase brand loyalty by treating returns as marketing opportunities. AfterShip Returns helps build brand loyalty by providing a positive post-purchase experience.

In practice, many users find AfterShip’s interface and setup quite intuitive. Merchants say the returns page looks clean and integrates well with their store, and carriers like UPS, FedEx, USPS (and even Google Shopping integration via US Postal APIs) work without extra apps. The Shopify/BigCommerce app plug-ins make installation straightforward, and AfterShip’s pre-built integrations cover most common ecommerce platforms.

AfterShip provides detailed information about each step of the returns process, including setup, tracking, and support. On the positive side, support for analytics and exchange incentives means good customers can be offered store-credit refunds (instead of a full cash refund) to “turn returns into repurchases”. The platform allows merchants to efficiently track all returns requests in one place, and each returns request is logged and processed through the portal. Refunds can be issued directly to the original payment method. All these features work together to improve customer satisfaction.

Summary: What Makes AfterShip Stand Out (When It Does)

  • Branded returns pages with custom styling
  • Prepaid shipping labels with carrier integrations
  • Supports prepaid labels for easy customer returns
  • Rules-based automation (refund/exchange approval)
  • Real-time tracking and return shipment visibility
  • Basic analytics dashboard and reporting
  • Discounted USPS rates and printless QR return options
  • Seamless setup for Shopify, BigCommerce, and similar platforms
  • Happy Returns partnership for boxless returns

Where Things Fall Apart

However, numerous drawbacks have emerged in real-world use. A frequent theme is customer support issues. Several merchants on Shopify’s app store and review sites describe “terrible support” and generic, unhelpful responses. One store owner wrote that “the biggest issue is the customer service: it is terrible. Every agent is copying and pasting generic answers that have nothing to do with the issue… I would stay away from this app”. Others echo this, saying support tickets are closed without resolution and that agents lack product knowledge. A Canadian user complained, “Useless Customer Support cannot provide any help with the issue… We will switch to another tool”. These reports suggest merchants sometimes face long delays or poor communication when things go wrong.

On the feature side, AfterShip’s returns processes can be too rigid for some workflows. One merchant noted it’s not possible to skip intermediary steps (e.g., approve → refunded) without creating a “received” state first. Others have pointed out that the system’s canned email templates can have grammar errors and cannot be fully edited, which hurts the brand experience. Integration is another concern: while AfterShip works well with its own family of tools, many users say “most of its integrations only support other AfterShip products”, so if your store uses third-party warehousing or custom CRMs, you might find the returns center’s connectivity limited.

When AfterShip’s integrations fall short, merchants may face all the hassles of managing returns across multiple platforms, increasing complexity and manual work. In practice, some customers must manually upload prepaid labels if their preferred carrier isn’t supported, or use multiple platforms to process returns. In short, despite handling “all the returns requests” through one portal, a retailer may still end up juggling separate tools for complex returns flows.

Pricing and user policies have also disappointed some long-time users. AfterShip offers a free tier (a small number of returns per month) and several paid plans, but several reviews mention unexpected charges and changes. For example, one complaint said AfterShip abruptly changed to a per-user billing model and logged them out of the app without notice, calling the move “unethical and totally shameful”. Another user reported that after a recent update, “nothing is working like before”, the team couldn’t generate return labels and had to recreate accounts, effectively paying for access again. Others mention they can’t bundle all return shipping charges into a single monthly invoice, leading to confusion. These anecdotes suggest that policy changes can catch merchants off guard, adding hassles and potential “lost revenue” if returns are delayed.

Privacy concerns have even been raised: one merchant warned that AfterShip might store outdated customer emails in its database, which “violates US and EU laws”. While AfterShip responded that it respects privacy, such claims highlight merchant unease about data handling.

Finally, usability gaps remain. Some merchants find AfterShip’s portal lacking in multi-language support (despite international carrier integration) and in rich return options. A notable review said the app is “quite basic… every manual interaction has to be handled through another tool or Shopify”. Others wanted a built-in photo or video upload for returns (especially helpful for defect claims), but Rich Returns (not AfterShip) is mentioned for that. In AfterShip’s case, you can only upload photos in a limited way via the RMA management, which some users find inadequate.

Summary: Smaller Gaps and Missing Features

  • No peer-to-peer returns or next-generation solutions
  • No in-store returns workflows (omnichannel support is light)
  • No deep integration marketplace beyond core platforms
  • Photo/video documentation is not built in by default
  • Limited support for multi-language/localization
  • Email templates can’t be fully customized on all tiers
  • Returns policy customization and related workflow/routing rules are limited

Verdict: Feature-Packed and Familiar, But Support and Flexibility Fall Short

AfterShip Returns & Exchanges provides a robust automated returns solution with branded pages, multi-carrier label support, and flexible return rules, all aimed at “improving customer satisfaction” and “saving time”. When it works well, it does reduce the hassles of returns for both merchants and shoppers. However, many merchants report frustrations: particularly poor customer support, occasional system bugs (e.g., label generation failures), and unexpected pricing changes. Integration can also be a double-edged sword: the tight AfterShip ecosystem means great performance with built-in carriers, but limited options if you rely on other services.

In summary, AfterShip Returns Center is a mature, feature-rich portal for managing returns and exchanges in ecommerce. It excels at automating routine tasks (like label generation and status updates) and can truly “save processing time” and recover revenue through exchanges. Yet its disadvantages, chiefly support headaches and some workflow inflexibility, are significant for many merchants. If you value a wide integration network and 24/7 responsive service, be prepared for trade-offs. For U.S. brand operators looking at alternatives, consider that newer solutions like Cahoot’s peer-to-peer network promise to cut shipping costs by matching returned items to new buyers in-market. In short, AfterShip delivers many powerful returns features (including branded returns pages and automated carrier label generation), but its real-world cons, notably support and integration gaps, can leave customer satisfaction hanging in the balance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does AfterShip Returns work with all carriers?

Not all of them. AfterShip supports major carriers like USPS, FedEx, UPS, and Canada Post, but for anything beyond that, merchants may need to manually upload return labels or rely on third-party tools.

Can customers submit return requests directly from my website?

Yes! AfterShip lets you publish a branded returns page where shoppers can initiate returns “in just a few clicks” using their order number and email.

What kind of automation does AfterShip offer for returns?

AfterShip includes basic automation rules, like auto-approving returns or triggering refunds based on eligibility. It also handles label generation and sends email status updates to customers automatically.

Are there hidden fees or plan limitations I should be aware of?

Several merchants have reported unexpected billing model changes and confusion around per-user charges or return volume tiers. It’s a good idea to read the fine print and monitor invoices.

How does AfterShip handle support?

Support is a mixed bag. Some users have good experiences, but others report generic responses and unresolved tickets. If hands-on support is critical, this might be a weak spot.

Written By:

Indy Pereira

Indy Pereira

Indy Pereira helps ecommerce brands optimize their shipping and fulfillment with Cahoot’s technology. With a background in both sales and people operations, she bridges customer needs with strategic solutions that drive growth. Indy works closely with merchants every day and brings real-world insight into what makes logistics efficient and scalable.

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ZigZag Returns Management Solution: Advantages and Disadvantages

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A customer on your site just wants to click “Return Item” and be greeted by a sleek, branded portal that walks them through refunds, exchanges, and tracking. That’s the promise of ZigZag, a UK-born returns management platform now serving brands worldwide. ZigZag’s mission is to transform the ecommerce returns process for companies and consumers, aiming to improve customer experience and profitability for businesses of all sizes.

In practice, ZigZag offers a fully white-labeled returns portal with rules-driven workflows, multiple return options (exchanges, store credit, paid returns, or in-store drop-offs), and global carrier integrations. As an innovative SaaS platform, ZigZag Global creates tailored solutions for businesses and retailers to streamline their returns journey and enhance operational efficiency. ZigZag Global’s international presence is further strengthened by its partnership with Global Blue, providing a comprehensive logistics network for retailers and companies worldwide.

The tool’s global footprint (1,500+ carriers and multilingual/currency support) is a big plus for cross-border sellers. In fact, ZigZag touts connections to 220 warehouses and 1,500 carriers across 170+ countries, and its European Returns Hub handles item validation, grading, and customs clearance for international returns. Through the consolidation of shipments and the automation of processes, companies can save money and improve profitability. The system also emphasizes revenue retention: for example, it enables “live exchanges” in place of refunds and even paid-return fees to recoup costs.

ZigZag’s innovative solutions and investment in technology enhance the ecommerce returns experience for both businesses and consumers. In short, ZigZag’s software does a lot, making returns easy for customers and giving brands granular control of the process.

Customers and reviewers generally praise ZigZag’s ease of use and integration. Merchants report that the returns dashboard is intuitive and everything “needed is in one place,” tracking is straightforward, and reporting is “a breeze.” ZigZag assists businesses with analytics and reporting tools to optimize performance and maximize the value of their investment.

The Shopify app for ZigZag even advertises “one-click installation” and automatically handles orders, exchanges, and refunds within Shopify’s admin. Brands appreciate that the portal can be fully branded (on your own domain) and set to multiple languages and currencies, which is crucial for international shoppers.

Another plus is customer support: ZigZag insists on in-house support, assigning a dedicated account manager to your account. In practice, users say onboarding and help have been “stress-free” and responsive, a major advantage over solutions that outsource support. ZigZag’s focus on customer satisfaction and experience benefits both consumers and retailers.

What ZigZag Does Well

In our testing and research, ZigZag shines at automating the returns front end. It offers a rich rule engine so that returns can trigger various outcomes (refund, exchange, credit, donation, etc.) without manual work. ZigZag enables retailers to automate returns and exchange processes, improving the overall functionality and efficiency of their online store. It ties deeply into Shopify (and others via API), so inventory, order data, and even apps like email or CRM can all connect cleanly.

The platform is enterprise-grade: it can scale to thousands of returns a month, and it literally handles diverse cases, everything from faulty items to “just didn’t like it” exchanges. The reporting hub surfaces why people are returning items (and which products suffer the most returns), helping brands act on trends. Tracking processed returns and analyzing the returns journey helps companies make data-driven decisions to drive growth.

Importantly for U.S. e-tailers, ZigZag does support USPS shipping labels natively (along with UK/EU carriers like DPD, Evri, and Yodel), so domestic returns via USPS can be auto-generated. There are a variety of shipping options available to consumers, enhancing convenience and customer experience. All told, ZigZag’s core feature set is robust: conditional logic, branded portal, a range of return options, and detailed analytics. The platform enhances the returns and exchanges process, supporting business growth and customer satisfaction.

Where the Returns Journey Starts to Wobble

ZigZag’s software is polished, but it leans heavily on carriers and partners for logistics, and that’s where some cracks show, especially for U.S. brands. First, no one-stop logistics: ZigZag does not operate its own drop-off network or local warehouses outside Europe. Its “Returns Hub” (in Germany) handles EU returns with grading and customs, but there’s no equivalent U.S. hub. In practice, that means returns from U.S. customers often just go through USPS (or whichever carrier you pick) back to your warehouse or ZigZag’s foreign hub. This can lead to longer transit times or an inconsistent experience. Reviewers note that carrier performance varies: “Some of the carriers can be slower than others,” one user pointed out, hinting that having 1,500 options doesn’t eliminate slow shipping.

Another wobble is carrier support on the U.S. side. ZigZag’s Shopify app explicitly lists Evri, Yodel, DPD, and USPS as the supported labels. FedEx, UPS, and DHL (the big U.S. carriers) are notably absent from that list. The workaround is to “upload your own” label if you want another carrier, but that defeats the purpose of automation. In short, ZigZag leaves out FedEx/UPS integration, which many U.S. merchants need. This gap forces brands either to restrict returns to USPS or spend time bridging that hole themselves (or use a third-party connector).

Integration breadth is also a trade-off. Yes, ZigZag has connectors for Shopify, BigCommerce, Magento (and even mentions NetSuite, Amazon via partners). But actually hooking up a complex stack can be non-trivial. The company claims “1-hour” API integrations, but in reality, merchants tell us it often takes weeks of developer work to wire up multiple platforms or custom databases. If you’re on Shopify, you can be up and running quickly; if you’re on another system (Salesforce Commerce Cloud, a custom headless frontend, etc.), you’ll need engineers or a consulting partner. There isn’t a turnkey Zapier-like marketplace of Zap-ready connectors (beyond the prebuilt ones), so integration can stumble for non-technical teams.

User interface customization has its limits, too. Many like that the portal is simple, but a few UI snags emerged from reviews. For example, one review noted a lack of flexibility in label formats—“not much flex on the labels”—making warehouse operations slightly harder. Another mentioned the admin side: some “would prefer the admin portal to have more features” for self-service. In practice, you often have to go to ZigZag’s account team to tweak a portal detail or add a new condition. The design and functionality of the returns portal page are also important for a seamless user experience, especially when it comes to customizing fonts and the overall user interface. That’s fine once you’re live, but it can slow down the setup.

Finally, while we emphasize ZigZag’s global promise, be cautious with “international support.” It handles multi-currency and customs documentation (especially from the EU side), but for returns into the U.S., it doesn’t magically manage duties or taxes. If your U.S. shoppers are returning imports from China, ZigZag doesn’t issue refund claims for duties; you’d need to handle that yourself. In short, ZigZag is very strong as software, but it expects your logistics team to stitch together the actual flows. As one analogy from a similar review put it: “You’ll still need to stitch together parts of your reverse supply chain due to the absence of integrated services.”

What’s Missing

Beyond the issues above, several features you might expect in a modern returns solution are absent. Notably, no peer-to-peer or locker network: customers can’t drop returns at neighborhood lockers or UPS stores through ZigZag itself. That’s a capability rivals like Narvar or Happy Returns offer to speed up U.S. returns. (ZigZag would need you to ship the item to a specific address instead.) Likewise, there’s no in-app product scanning or proof of condition on return. The platform doesn’t natively capture photos of returned goods or scan product barcodes to confirm authenticity; it’s purely a front-end/label solution.

There’s also no built-in fraud prevention or advanced triage AI. Some new platforms claim to analyze returns reasons to flag possible abuse; ZigZag leaves that analysis up to you. While the portal has ample reporting, its lower-tier plans may lack some advanced analytics (as in other apps), so true “deep dive” data might require exporting to another BI tool. Additionally, there is no built-in functionality for managing discounts or syncing promotional codes within the returns process, which can be important for stores that need to track or apply discounts related to returned orders.

In terms of U.S. localization, besides the carrier gap, there’s minimal U.S.-centric UI. All official docs and case studies are Euro-focused (Selfridges, Zara, Sportsshoes UK, etc.), and the support team is Europe-based. So if you need 24/7 stateside help or Spanish-language guides (for a U.S. brand), you might find ZigZag somewhat light on localized resources. (It does offer a Castilian Spanish portal language.)

In short, ZigZag lacks the physical/logistics side of returns. You won’t find out-of-box local drop-off points, a product scanning network, or a domestic warehouse. Advanced features like same-day returns processing or plug-in 3PL fulfillment are not part of ZigZag’s offering. If you truly need an end-to-end solution, then ZigZag only covers the digital slice; everything else is up to you.

Verdict: Powerful Returns Tech, If You Bring the Logistics

ZigZag Returns is excellent software for brands that need a sophisticated digital returns portal. It earns high marks for usability, Shopify-friendly integration, and revenue-saving tactics (exchanges, store credit, paid returns). Its global reach is real, with 1,500+ carriers and multilingual, multi-currency support; it’s a solid choice for retailers shipping worldwide. The in-house support model and enterprise focus (Sportsshoes, ECCO, etc., are users) mean you get a team on your side to fine-tune workflows and handle complex rules.

But ZigZag’s Achilles’ heel is that it’s “software first, logistics second.” For U.S. brands in particular, that means think twice if you need a turn-key reverse-logistics network. If you need a peer-to-peer drop-off model, automated in-country returns hubs, or native FedEx/UPS support, ZigZag alone may not suffice. Alternatives like Cahoot are emerging to fill exactly that gap: Cahoot uses a peer-to-peer returns model with drop-off at UPS Stores and real-time product scanning, which can dramatically cut return shipping and restock time. In contrast, ZigZag leaves on-the-ground execution to your carriers or 3PLs.

Consider ZigZag if: You’re a midsize-to-large e-tail brand (especially on Shopify, BigCommerce, or Magento) that ships internationally and wants a rich, automated returns portal. Your team is comfortable managing carriers and fulfillment. You want granular control of return policies and the data that comes from returns. (Its prosperity comes from structure and software; it’s great at “tidying up” returns once they’re in the system.)

Look elsewhere if: You need a built-in U.S. network. If 90% of your returns are domestic and you want drop-off or product scanning, platforms like Cahoot or ones with carrier-partner networks might serve you better. Also, reconsider if you rely heavily on FedEx/UPS labels (ZigZag doesn’t natively generate those) or if you run on a non-mainstream ecommerce platform.

Bottom line: ZigZag Returns is a powerful returns software; it can streamline refunds, exchanges, and customer communications much better than doing it all manually. But it doesn’t deliver logistics services out of the box. In our view, it’s best for ambitious brands that want a unified digital portal and can handle the physical bits themselves. If you seek a more self-contained US-focused logistics solution, that’s when newer “peer-to-peer” tools (like Cahoot) come into play.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is ZigZag Returns a good fit for U.S.-based ecommerce brands?

It depends. ZigZag offers strong return automation software and a branded customer portal, but its logistics network is more Europe-focused. U.S. brands may find gaps in carrier options (limited FedEx/UPS support) and no domestic drop-off or product scanning infrastructure.

Does ZigZag provide its own return logistics services?

No. ZigZag is a returns management platform, not a logistics provider. It integrates with carriers and lets you upload prepaid return labels, but it doesn’t own a return hub or drop-off network in the U.S. Physical fulfillment and reverse logistics are handled separately.

How easy is it to integrate ZigZag with Shopify or BigCommerce?

For Shopify, it’s a smooth experience; ZigZag has a native app that’s easy to install. BigCommerce and Magento also have connectors, but custom platforms or complex tech stacks may require API work and developer involvement.

Can ZigZag help reduce returns or just process them?

ZigZag focuses more on managing returns than preventing them. It helps brands retain revenue via store credit or exchanges, but doesn’t include fraud prevention, return reason analysis, or pre-return nudges like some newer platforms do.

What are ZigZag’s key limitations for scaling brands?

Scalability isn’t the issue; it’s more about what the platform doesn’t cover. Lack of peer-to-peer returns, limited native U.S. carrier support, and no local return hubs can leave operational gaps for large or fast-growing American brands.

Written By:

Indy Pereira

Indy Pereira

Indy Pereira helps ecommerce brands optimize their shipping and fulfillment with Cahoot’s technology. With a background in both sales and people operations, she bridges customer needs with strategic solutions that drive growth. Indy works closely with merchants every day and brings real-world insight into what makes logistics efficient and scalable.

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Return Prime Returns Management Solution: Advantages and Disadvantages

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The Shopify app store is jam-packed with return tools promising smoother customer experiences and higher revenue retention. One of those players is Return Prime, a returns management platform that positions itself as simple, affordable, and merchant-friendly. Beyond just being listed in the app store, Return Prime is part of the broader Shopify ecosystem, a network of integrated platforms and services that enables merchants to leverage existing tools, expand internationally, and enhance their offerings. It’s got decent traction, a footprint in both Western and emerging markets, and a Shopify rating north of 4.9 stars. Sounds great, right?

But under the surface, things get a little more nuanced. While Return Prime checks a lot of boxes, it leans more toward a lightweight tool than a robust infrastructure partner.

Let’s break down where Return Prime delivers on its promise and where it leaves brands guessing.

What Return Prime Does Well

Return Prime is a growing returns management tool built for Shopify, WooCommerce, Magento, and other ecommerce platforms. Based in India, it’s gotten traction among DTC brands in fashion, electronics, and wellness, especially those looking for global-friendly returns tools at a budget-friendly price point. The company continues to grow and expand its reach, supporting more merchants and increasing its influence in the ecommerce ecosystem. This growth is reflected in its expanding product offerings and merchant base.

Return Prime promises to streamline return logistics and automate exchanges, refunds, and store credits, all through a branded, no-code portal. For brands operating internationally or with a physical + digital presence, it feels modern and flexible. Return Prime helps ecommerce businesses streamline their returns and exchanges, making operations more efficient.

1. Solid Shopify Integration

Return Prime was built from the ground up for Shopify and Shopify Plus, offering seamless integration with any Shopify store. Setup is quick, the portal lives on your domain, and it supports exchanges, refunds, and store credit, without needing to hop into multiple apps or dashboards. Return Prime is one of the better-behaved tools when it comes to not bloating your tech stack, and users consistently praise its lightweight UX and easy onboarding.

2. Exceptional Customer Support

If there’s one thing merchants rave about, it’s Return Prime’s customer service. The support team is known for its responsiveness and helpfulness, ensuring that merchants receive quick assistance whenever needed. Live chat, quick resolutions, and proactive outreach from the team, who are experts in their field and take a proactive approach to assisting merchants, are the norm, not the exception. Plenty of reviews mention the founder himself jumping in to help. This level of hands-on support is rare and earns the platform serious credibility with small to mid-sized brands.

3. Flexible Return Options

Return Prime lets customers request a refund, exchange, or store credit directly in the portal, and brands can customize return rules and exchange rules per product, policy, or region to streamline the returns and exchanges process. For example, you can exclude final sale items, control exchange eligibility, or configure automated store credit amounts. The portal also supports multi-language options, a plus for international brands.

4. Affordable for SMBs

Compared to big-name platforms like Loop or Happy Returns, Return Prime comes in cheaper. Paid plans start around $20/month, scaling with volume and features. That’s music to the ears of early-stage brands that need to offer a return solution without eating into margin. No fancy hardware. No add-on costs for scanning or item condition verification; these features are free for users. Just software.

5. Global Carrier Support

Return Prime plays nice with a number of shipping carriers, including Shippo, Shiprocket, EasyPost, and AfterShip. That makes it attractive for brands operating in India, APAC, Latin America, or Europe, where carrier diversity is essential and where Return Prime is expanding its international presence. Plus, Return Prime has started building a network of regional 3PL partners and offers localized RMA workflows.

Where It Gets Complicated

1. Limited Innovation in Reverse Logistics

While Return Prime is a clean solution for front-end return requests, it doesn’t offer reverse logistics infrastructure of its own. There’s no drop-off network, no inspection services, no fraud checks at handoff. It’s pure-play software, and merchants are responsible for shipping, warehousing, and product disposition, a manual process that can be time-consuming and complex. For brands scaling globally, this can quickly become a bottleneck.

2. Basic Automation

Yes, you can customize policies and auto-approve certain return types, but Return Prime lacks AI-driven routing or machine-learning decision trees that power more advanced tools. It’s smart, but not intelligent in the way some enterprise-grade competitors are. If you’re managing thousands of returns a month, you’re going to want more firepower. Advanced automation could significantly improve the efficiency and effectiveness of your returns management.

3. Exchange Limitations

Product exchanges in Return Prime work well, but variant-level suggestions, AI-driven upsell logic, or in-stock alternatives are mostly missing. Without these features, you miss the opportunity to boost revenue by converting more returns into exchanges. Return Prime is doing better than most at this price point, but it’s not a conversion engine. If your CX team’s goal is to save the sale, it might leave you short.

4. Not Built for Complex Brands

Return Prime was built with ease of use in mind, but that also means tradeoffs. Enterprise users or multi-warehouse brands might find the system lacks deep integration flexibility, especially if you’re using a custom OMS, ERP, or non-Shopify storefront. Some advanced API use cases will require workarounds or developer help, particularly when integrating order management systems for handling shipping, tracking, and processing returns within the overall order lifecycle.

5. Reliant on External Logistics Partners

Return Prime is increasingly partnering with 3PLs and shipping platforms, but these aren’t always native or tightly integrated. Merchants looking for a single, unified system may end up having to manage those integrations independently or via manual processes, which can complicate the overall returns process for merchants.

What’s Missing

Return Prime isn’t pretending to be everything. It’s not a 4PL. It’s not building locker networks or peer-to-peer returns. And it’s not leading the charge in AI, sustainability, or smart automation.

That’s not a dealbreaker, but it does highlight what’s missing: no built-in verification step, no way to consolidate international returns locally, and no embedded fraud prevention layer at the return source. Return Prime focuses mostly on the policy and software experience, not physical returns movement or logistics orchestration.

Other missing features include the automated generation and assignment of return labels, tracking when items are received and when customers receive refunds, determining which items are eligible for returns and exchanges, capturing detailed return reasons and reasons for returns, supporting seamless management of returns and exchanges, enabling shoppers to bring items to drop-off locations, outlining expected procedures and charges, providing performance insights for return management, offering a self-serve portal to serve shoppers, and highlighting how other platforms have helped merchants address these gaps.

Verdict: Simple, Friendly, but Not Full-Service

Return Prime is a smart choice for small and mid-sized Shopify brands looking for a clean, cost-effective way to manage returns, refunds, and exchanges. If you’re primarily selling in one region and your volume is manageable, you’ll love the speed, support, and simplicity, all of which contribute to a better customer experience.

But for brands with growing international footprints, complex reverse logistics needs, or fraud concerns, Return Prime may not go far enough. It’s not built to manage returns infrastructure, optimize cost per return, or route items dynamically across warehouses.

That’s why more advanced solutions like Cahoot’s peer-to-peer returns are stepping in to fill the gap with real-time item scanning and machine-led triage that helps brands manage returns at scale.

Return Prime is good software. But it’s not a full system.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is Return Prime designed for?

Return Prime is ideal for budget-conscious Shopify merchants, especially in India, Southeast Asia, and emerging markets. It’s built for ease of use and quick setup rather than enterprise-grade complexity.

Does Return Prime offer a returns logistics network?

No. Return Prime provides return management software but doesn’t own or operate a logistics network. Merchants are responsible for carrier integration, warehousing, and item restocking, or must set up third-party solutions themselves.

Can Return Prime handle product exchanges automatically?

Partially. It supports basic exchange workflows, but it lacks advanced features like AI-powered upsell suggestions, variant substitution, or real-time inventory checks for personalized exchanges.

What customer support options does Return Prime offer?

Return Prime has an excellent support reputation. Many merchants praise their 24/7 live chat and responsive service, which includes direct access to the founders in some cases. This is a strong differentiator in their favor.

How does Return Prime stack up against platforms like Cahoot?

Return Prime is software-only; it doesn’t handle physical logistics. Platforms like Cahoot integrate digital return tools with real-world logistics, including peer-to-peer item routing, scanning at return hubs, and faster resale/relist workflows. Merchants should choose the platform that best aligns with their return management and logistics requirements.

Written By:

Indy Pereira

Indy Pereira

Indy Pereira helps ecommerce brands optimize their shipping and fulfillment with Cahoot’s technology. With a background in both sales and people operations, she bridges customer needs with strategic solutions that drive growth. Indy works closely with merchants every day and brings real-world insight into what makes logistics efficient and scalable.

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ReturnGo Returns Management Solution: Advantages and Disadvantages

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Returns are the double-edged sword of ecommerce. They build trust with shoppers but crush margins if mismanaged. That’s where ReturnGo aims to help, as one of the leading solutions in the returns management market, offering a customizable returns portal that promises to reduce refund rates, improve customer retention, and save brands money. But does it actually deliver? And more importantly, is it the right fit for modern ecommerce operations?

We dug into ReturnGo’s features, customer feedback, integrations, and support model to give you the full picture, not just the marketing gloss. We also evaluate whether ReturnGo offers a better way to handle the returns process. Here’s what stands out, and where the cracks start to show.

What ReturnGo Does Well

Returns are messy. ReturnGo tries to tidy them up, mostly.

ReturnGo is a self-service returns and exchange platform built for Shopify brands, aiming to keep revenue in-house by turning returns into exchanges, store credit, or warranties. It helps businesses manage returns efficiently, making the process smoother for both merchants and customers. It’s affordable, customizable, and popular with scrappy DTC teams trying to stay lean without sacrificing customer experience.

Founded in 2020 and headquartered in Israel, ReturnGo has scaled quickly in the Shopify ecosystem with over 2,000 merchants and more than 1.5 million returns processed. Their hook? Automate the returns experience, cut refund losses, and give brands a little more wiggle room without needing a developer.

ReturnGo’s solutions are designed to fit into the broader returns process landscape, supporting brands with tools that streamline and automate post-purchase management. It’s smart, but it’s not built for every brand, especially if you’re scaling fast, handling international returns, or want deeper logistics integration.

1. Self-Service Returns with Smart Automation

ReturnGo’s flagship product is its AI-powered returns portal, which automates much of the return and exchange process. Customers can initiate returns on their own without needing to reach out to support, saving brands time and resources.

But it doesn’t stop at just sending items back. ReturnGo’s platform uses condition-based logic (called “return rules”) to determine if a refund, exchange, store credit, or even donation should be offered, often in real-time. Brands can create tiered workflows that change based on product type, reason for return, order value, or customer history. ReturnGo’s logic can be customized to handle any return scenario, allowing brands to automate and tailor their workflows for even the most complex situations.

This level of conditional control is a step up from the basic return portals offered by many competitors.

2. Revenue Retention via Exchanges and Store Credit

ReturnGo places a big emphasis on retaining revenue. The platform intelligently promotes store credit or exchanges as preferred outcomes, rather than immediate refunds. That might sound small, but it adds up.

With ReturnGo’s approach, brands can achieve significant improvements in revenue retention and customer satisfaction. According to ReturnGo, brands using its platform can recover up to 40% of potential lost revenue through exchange nudges and store credit incentives. One case study shows a 25% boost in store credit adoption after switching to ReturnGo from a traditional return system.

3. Built-In Shopify Integration

ReturnGo is built for Shopify, and it shows. Their app is plug-and-play with Shopify’s checkout, order data, and product inventory systems. It supports native multilingual portals and connects with apps like Gorgias (for support), Klaviyo (for email), and Recharge (for subscription orders). In addition, ReturnGo offers API-based integrations, allowing seamless connectivity with other ecommerce tools and services beyond the standard app integrations.

For Shopify brands that don’t have the time or budget to build custom flows, this is a huge plus. You can be up and running in a few hours, not weeks.

4. Environmental and Operational Flexibility

ReturnGo is one of the few platforms that promotes non-physical returns, letting customers opt to keep an item (in cases where reselling is inefficient) or donate it locally. Brands can assign zero-waste flows to low-cost items or cases where restocking would lose money. This also improves sustainability metrics, which matters for ESG-conscious brands. By reducing unnecessary shipments and waste, these practices have a positive impact on the environment.

5. Modular Features for Scaling Up

Beyond the returns portal, ReturnGo offers warranty handling, return reasons analytics, multiple warehouse logic, and international shipping support. While some of this requires deeper setup, it’s there for brands with more complex needs. For smaller merchants, the features can be toggled off in the platform’s settings to keep things lean.

Where It Starts To Wobble

1. It’s a Returns App, Not a Reverse Logistics Network

Let’s be clear: ReturnGo is not a logistics company. It doesn’t own or operate any warehouses, drop-off locations, or consolidation centers. It’s a returns software platform. ReturnGo also does not provide integrated shipment tracking or shipment management, so you won’t get order tracking notifications for each shipment as part of the post-purchase experience. So if your returns strategy involves in-person drop-off points, return-to-store flows, or localized processing, you’ll need to integrate a 3PL or handle that piece yourself.

That’s fine for some brands, but it means ReturnGo lacks the physical logistics layer that competitors like Happy Returns or ReturnBear offer out of the box.

2. Shopify-Only Limits Reach

ReturnGo is tightly tied to Shopify, and while that’s great for Shopify stores, it means non-Shopify brands are out of luck. As a post-purchase platform designed specifically for Shopify, it does not offer native support for Magento, WooCommerce, BigCommerce, or headless setups. If your ecommerce stack spans multiple platforms, ReturnGo probably won’t be your long-term solution.

3. UI/UX Customization Can Be Rigid

Multiple user reviews point out that while the portal is functional, it doesn’t offer extensive customization in terms of branding, CSS control, or layout flexibility, at least not without developer help. For DTC brands that obsess over every pixel of their post-purchase experience, this can be a limitation.

According to reviews on the Shopify App Store, some users found the interface “clunky” or “template-like,” especially when trying to match a high-end design aesthetic.

4. Some Learning Curve for Conditional Logic

While ReturnGo’s automation rules are powerful, they come with a learning curve. Setting up flows for refund eligibility, final sale exemptions, or per-product logic requires time, testing, and maintenance. It’s important to properly set automation rules to avoid confusion and ensure the system works as intended.

Smaller teams without a dedicated ops manager may find this overwhelming. As one merchant put it in a Capterra review: “You can build just about any logic, which is great, but you’ll need to document your flows or it gets confusing fast.”

5. Limited International Capabilities

Despite the platform’s flexible shipping rules and multi-currency support, ReturnGo doesn’t offer true global reverse logistics coverage. You can process international returns through the portal, but you’ll be relying on your own carriers or label providers. There are no built-in customs workflows, tax refunds, or return hubs abroad. Additionally, there is no built-in support for generating forward shipping labels alongside return labels for international shipments.

If you’re shipping heavily into Canada, the UK, or the EU, this might mean more manual coordination or third-party tools.

What’s Missing?

ReturnGo’s platform is solid, especially for DTC Shopify brands. But it doesn’t offer peer-to-peer returns, crowd-sourced drop points, or locker-based return models like Cahoot or ReturnBear. Nor does it offer advanced tracking integrations, physical item inspection, or bulk consolidation shipping. Unlike an open post-purchase platform, ReturnGo lacks the flexibility and extensibility that some competitors provide for sustainable and efficient returns management.

That means it’s a powerful digital solution, but not a fully integrated one. You’ll still need to stitch together parts of your reverse supply chain due to the absence of integrated services, or risk margin bleed in the gaps.

Additionally, ReturnGo has fewer recent updates and feature enhancements compared to some competitors, which may impact ongoing innovation and improvements.

Verdict: Smart Software, Meaningful Limitations

ReturnGo delivers where it counts for growing DTC brands: automated workflows, Shopify-native returns, and revenue recovery tools. The ReturnGo app is an excellent tool for companies seeking to streamline returns, improve customer support, and boost operational efficiency. If you want more control over how refunds, exchanges, and credits are handled, and you want it without building from scratch, it’s a great pick for companies aiming to enhance their sustainable ecommerce practices.

But it’s not a complete reverse logistics solution. No drop-off network. No fulfillment infrastructure. And no support beyond Shopify.

ReturnGo works best for digital-first, North American brands and companies focused on sustainable ecommerce that want to tame returns chaos with smart software, not overhaul their operations. If you’re looking to build a truly next-gen, logistics-backed, customer-first returns experience across borders or physical channels, you’ll need more than what ReturnGo offers out of the box.

Consider ReturnGo if:

  • You’re on Shopify and want automation fast
  • Your team can manage logic flows
  • You want to reduce refunds and increase exchanges

Look elsewhere if:

  • You need physical return infrastructure
  • You’re running on non-Shopify platforms
  • You want seamless global coverage

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of ecommerce brands is ReturnGo best suited for?

ReturnGo works best for small to mid-sized Shopify brands that want a customer-friendly return portal with basic automation and AI-powered exchange recommendations. If your returns workflow is straightforward, ReturnGo can save time without overcomplicating things.

Does ReturnGo handle reverse logistics or just the software side?

ReturnGo focuses on return automation and front-end workflows. It doesn’t operate a return network or manage the physical movement of goods. Brands are responsible for fulfillment and logistics unless they integrate with third-party providers.

Can ReturnGo help reduce returns or just process them?

To some degree. It offers exchange incentives and intelligent product recommendations to reduce refund rates, but it doesn’t include robust return prevention tools or dynamic triage like what you’d find in logistics-first platforms.

Is ReturnGo easy to integrate with Shopify?

Yes. Setup is relatively painless, and the platform is built to work natively with Shopify. Brands can get up and running quickly without a developer, though deeper customization may still require some technical know-how.

How does ReturnGo compare to peer-to-peer return solutions?

While ReturnGo focuses on digital workflows, peer-to-peer systems like Cahoot go further by using distributed return points, real-time item scanning, and cost optimization to reduce shipping and restocking costs. ReturnGo is simpler, but not as scalable.

Written By:

Indy Pereira

Indy Pereira

Indy Pereira helps ecommerce brands optimize their shipping and fulfillment with Cahoot’s technology. With a background in both sales and people operations, she bridges customer needs with strategic solutions that drive growth. Indy works closely with merchants every day and brings real-world insight into what makes logistics efficient and scalable.

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ReturnBear Reverse Logistics Solution: Advantages and Disadvantages

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Online shopping is booming globally. Great for sales. Painful for returns. Especially when those returns cross borders, rack up customs fees, and get lost in the mail. Enter ReturnBear, a clever reverse logistics player that has built its specialty on “sell globally, return locally.” ReturnBear, as a company offering ecommerce return management solutions, is making a significant impact in international markets by simplifying global ecommerce returns and reducing the friction for both retailers and customers. As an innovator shaping the future of reverse logistics and ecommerce returns, the company is leading the way in sustainable and efficient return processes. It’s a smart idea, and it mostly works. ReturnBear manages the full lifecycle of returns, from initiation and verification to resale or disposal, ensuring a seamless experience for international markets. Let’s unpack the good, the not-so-good, and where ReturnBear might leave you hanging.

What ReturnBear Does Well

Local Drop-Off, International Coverage

ReturnBear gives your customers real convenience by providing a local return experience. Shoppers in Canada, the U.S., the UK, Australia (and soon more) have access to local drop-off points, making it easy to return items in their own region. No awkward customs forms or high postage, they just drop off, scan, and go. The process is label-free, making returns easy and hassle-free for customers. ReturnBear also facilitates cross-border shipping and manages returns in both domestic and international markets, ensuring seamless coverage for brands expanding globally. That’s Amazon-level convenience, but global. The result? Return costs drop 30%–60%, and customers get quick refunds or credits without friction.

Built-In Return Verification

At drop-off, staff scan items to confirm condition before issuing an immediate refund or store credit. This verification step is a key part of the returns process and builds confidence for both brands and customers by ensuring secure and accurate refunds. That blocks a ton of fraud up front and helps brands avoid refund fraud or chasing merch later, while also enabling efficient processing of returned items for redistribution or restocking.

Fast Forward-Fulfillment

After verifying returns, ReturnBear inspects and preps items for resale locally or utilizes its reverse logistics services to ship them back in bulk to the brand. That means your returned hoodie might land on a rack in Canada or the U.K. fast, while avoiding global freight costs through optimized shipping and efficient reverse logistics services.

Smart Software & Analytics

Their platform is more than just a return portal; it’s a user-friendly dashboard with policy automation, RMA flows, drop-off tracking, and ever-useful return insights. The return portal simplifies customer return requests and enhances satisfaction with its easy-to-navigate interface. A Shopify integration helps automate credit issuance, triggers, and visibility.

The platform combines comprehensive returns software with specialized reverse logistics services, providing a seamless, local return experience for customers while reducing operational effort and costs for brands. This returns software with specialized reverse logistics features helps automate and optimize the entire returns process, making it ideal for both domestic and cross-border ecommerce scenarios.

Proof in Numbers

ReturnBear reports that adoption is strong: 63% usage at drop-off sites, and up to 65% of returned product value is regained through credit or exchange. Penny-wise savings and better customer experience don’t hurt either. The company says that clients consistently report that its solutions help them save on return costs and turn returns into a more profitable part of their business.

Where ReturnBear Trips Up

Limited Global Presence

ReturnBear currently operates in a limited number of countries: Canada, the U.S., the U.K., and Australia. If your brand is selling across borders and expanding into other international markets such as Germany, Latin America, or Asia, you’ll need additional solutions. The network in these international markets is still developing, so brands selling across borders may face challenges with local returns outside the supported countries. Their real drop-off network is still limited, and that breaks the “local return” promise.

Still Tough to Integrate

APIs are offered, but not necessarily for everything; custom portals or storefront returns still need workarounds. While ReturnBear aims to be a platform for brands selling internationally, integration may require additional development. Right now, expect to grit your teeth and dig in if you want full platform integration.

Tighter Control = Higher Premium

ReturnBear is a 4PL, all return steps outsourced, which means less control over business operations and often a complex pricing model. For businesses, this trade-off impacts operational decision-making and cost management.

Middlemen Risks

Between drop-off, scanning, inspections and the occasional international bind, delays can happen. While refunds are fast, final settlement and inventory updates might lag, which can be tricky for high-turnover products.

Still Building Everywhere

They’re growing fast, but being young and expanding, the team, network, and support model are still evolving. Reviews highlight the ReturnBear team as highly knowledgeable and responsive, but watch out for inconsistent SLA levels across markets.

What’s Missing

ReturnBear brilliantly tackles cross-border returns, but it doesn’t offer peer-to-peer solutions, local lockers, or crowd-sourced drop points. It also lacks specialized reverse logistics services tailored for specific industries, such as fashion brands, which often require more customized solutions for their unique return needs. It’s also missing machine-learning triage. While ReturnBear manages the basic drop-off + verification + consolidation flow (a traditional solution), there is room to further optimize the processing of returns, including more efficient handling, verification, and redistribution of returned products in-country.

Verdict: Localized Power, but Not Peace of Mind Everywhere

If your brand is active in North America, the U.K., or Australia, ReturnBear’s local model is a game-changer for ecommerce returns and returns management: faster returns, less international postage, and cleaner reverse logistics with upfront fraud checks. Merchants and brands selling internationally, like True Classic, have benefited from streamlined returns, improved customer experience, and cost savings.

Considerations:

  • Coverage Gaps: If you’re going global, you may outgrow it soon.
  • Integration Grit: It’s not plug-and-play everywhere; some development effort is required.
  • Service Premium: Customs-free convenience costs real money and control.
  • Network Growing: Support and speed may vary by region.

In short, ReturnBear is smarter reverse logistics for merchants and brands selling across specific borders who are serious about optimizing ecommerce returns and returns management, but don’t expect it to magically handle the whole planet or function seamlessly out-of-the-box. For the right use cases? It’s a powerful, slick solution. Just be clear on your roadmap, regions, and return volumes before committing.

Frequently Asked Questions

How does ReturnBear reduce return costs?

By consolidating and inspecting returns locally, ReturnBear helps brands save on logistics costs by slashing international shipping, duties, and restocking delays. In fact, brands can save up to 60% on return costs through reduced logistics costs and preferred cross-border shipping rates.

Where is ReturnBear available?

ReturnBear currently provides access to convenient return locations in Canada, the U.S., the U.K., and Australia, making it easy for merchants and consumers in each country to process returns locally. With a growing presence in international markets, ReturnBear continues to expand its network to support efficient, sustainable returns and logistics solutions across more countries.

Does ReturnBear support real-time refunds?

Yes. Items are verified at drop-off as part of an efficient processing and streamlined returns process, triggering instant refunds or store credit to enhance customer satisfaction.

Can ReturnBear be fully integrated into my store?

It offers APIs and Shopify integrations, making it a platform for brands selling internationally. With comprehensive returns software and returns software with specialized features, ReturnBear supports seamless integration for efficient returns management. However, complex workflows or storefront customizations may still require developer support.

What kind of brands benefit most from ReturnBear?

Fashion brands, brands selling across borders, and retail businesses benefit significantly from ReturnBear. The solution streamlines both domestic and international returns, helping brands reduce logistics costs, carbon emissions, and processing times. By offering a seamless return experience for consumers, ReturnBear supports the needs of modern retail and fashion brands, making it easier to meet customer expectations and foster loyalty.

Written By:

Indy Pereira

Indy Pereira

Indy Pereira helps ecommerce brands optimize their shipping and fulfillment with Cahoot’s technology. With a background in both sales and people operations, she bridges customer needs with strategic solutions that drive growth. Indy works closely with merchants every day and brings real-world insight into what makes logistics efficient and scalable.

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Happy Returns Management Solution: Advantages and Disadvantages

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Online retail keeps growing, so do returns. That’s where Happy Returns, a company specializing in reverse logistics, steps in, promising hassle-free, drop-off return experiences with its brick-and-mortar Return Bar® network and software-powered portals. But while they’ve mastered convenience, the devil’s in the details. Let’s unpack what they do well, where they stumble, and ultimately how they compare to the next-gen returns standard.

What Happy Returns Does Well

1. Drop-off Simplicity

No box? No label? No problem. Shoppers can find a convenient location for drop-off at any of the thousands of Return Bars, over 3,800 locations, including The UPS Store. Simply bring your item and the QR code you receive via email to the location; no packaging or labels are required. Be sure to check your email for the QR code before visiting. Shoppers choose this method for its convenience and speed, often leaving with an instant refund or exchange within a minute or two. Customers have a choice of drop-off locations or shipping, making the return process flexible and easy. Items are returned without the need for packaging, streamlining the experience. According to Saufter, it’s “box-free, label-free returns are ideal for customers in large metro areas.”

2. Fast Refunds, Instant Gratification

Refunds kick off right at drop-off, and customers typically receive their refund directly to their account within a few business days. This short time to receive refunds, compared to traditional returns, greatly improves customer satisfaction and loyalty. WeSupply Labs notes refunds are triggered immediately, with no waiting for mail to arrive. Over the past year, Happy Returns has further improved refund speed and customer satisfaction by reducing the time it takes for refunds to be processed and reflected in the customer’s account.

3. Streamlined Software Experience

Their online returns portal uses automation to streamline the refund and exchange process, suggesting exchanges based on inventory and reason codes, helping merchants keep revenue in-house. The software improves return operations for merchants by optimizing shipment consolidation, tracking, and refund management. Saufter mentions “customizable return policies” and “comprehensive analytics” as key perks, providing merchants with valuable information and insights to guide decision-making. Customers can easily change their return preferences or details through the portal, offering flexibility in the return process. Continuous work goes into maintaining and updating the software to ensure efficient and secure returns.

4. Carrier & Fraud Protections

By consolidating returns into bulk shipping via UPS and using in-person scanning, Happy Returns uses patent-pending item scanning technology to enhance fraud prevention at drop-off points and spot fraud before items are even shipped back.

5. Branded Integrations

It’s a Shopify Plus–certified app and supports BigCommerce, Magento, WooCommerce, and more through the API. Patchworks integration creates a seamless connection between Happy Returns and review systems as well as ERP/WMS platforms.

Where Happy Returns Trips Up

1. Uneven Coverage

That Return Bar network is awesome, until it isn’t. Rural or international shoppers aren’t always close to a drop-off point, meaning they default to slower mailing options. Access is “best in metro areas” and hard if you’re not nearby.

2. Pricey, and More Than It Seems

Users report pricing starts around $500/month plus per-item drop fees, higher than pure-play software options, which can lead to higher expenses for merchants. Some estimates: $0.33–$0.99 per item return, which stacks up fast if you’re processing thousands a month. While Happy Returns can help cut costs through shipment consolidation, the fees may offset these savings. As a result, some merchants look for ways of slashing expenses by considering alternative solutions.

3. In-store Hardware Overhead

Storefront returns require iPads for scanning. That might be a non-starter for smaller retailers without physical locations, or unwillingness to manage hardware costs and updates.

4. Pre-Refund Risk

Getting refunded before an item is back in your hands introduces fraud risk, even with scanning. Some merchants worry about returns that don’t match the item condition, weaponizing Happy’s fast refund system.

5. Limited Tracking Visibility

Once the item’s dropped off, merchants don’t get granular tracking until the shipment arrives at the warehouse. That means a period of radio silence, hard to reconcile with visibility expectations in logistics today.

6. Support & Setup May Lag

While generally supportive, merchants report upsides and downsides: onboarding can be heavy, and support may feel slow during peak or urgent times, especially for mid-market brands without enterprise SLAs.

What’s Next, and What’s Missing

Happy Returns has built a strong convenience engine, but hasn’t fully leapt into returns innovation. There are many ways retailers can enhance the returns process, such as offering distributed drop-off lockers or peer-to-peer models. While Happy Returns focuses on drop-off convenience, some customers still prefer to ship their returns, and providing multiple options can improve satisfaction.

Happy Returns is designed for retailers looking to improve customer experience and streamline returns. The company is actively working with partners to enhance its solutions and deliver seamless logistics.

Improved return processes not only benefit customers but also support revenue retention for retailers by reducing costs and increasing loyalty. Returns still loop back to central hubs, processed, and consolidated. It’s powerful. But it’s not radically different from traditional logistics; it just dresses it up with drop-off elegance.

Verdict: High Convenience, High Cost

Happy Returns is a standout for brands prioritizing drop-off convenience and instant refunds. For DTC or fashion brands with urban consumers, the experience can seriously boost NPS and customer loyalty by making the return process seamless and hassle-free.

The solution makes returns easier and more integrated into customers’ lives, enhancing convenience and overall satisfaction.

But that convenience comes with trade-offs:

  • Geographic limits: Not everywhere has a Return Bar.
  • Subscription and per-item fees: More expensive than DIY solutions.
  • Pre-refund vulnerability: Fraud mitigation happens later in the flow.
  • Tracking lag: Less transparency post-drop-off.
  • Hardware needs: iPads are required for store returns.

All in all, Happy Returns is great at what it does: fast, convenient returns for shoppers. But it’s not the flexible, all-encompassing solution needed for lean, global, or next-gen returns strategies. Brands should choose it if drop-off is a key driver. Otherwise, it might still feel like returning to a warehouse, even after it promises a destination-free experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Happy Returns unique?

Its nationwide network of Return Bars enables box-free, label-free returns, improving convenience and cutting costs.

Is Happy Returns available outside the U.S.?

No. The service is primarily U.S.-focused, with little support for international returns or global brands.

Does it require a specific ecommerce platform?

No. Happy Returns is platform-agnostic and works with Shopify, BigCommerce, Salesforce Commerce Cloud, and more.

Can shoppers still return items by mail?

Yes, but the experience is less emphasized and more limited than the in-person Return Bar option.

Does Happy Returns offer data insights or analytics?

Yes, it provides analytics dashboards for return trends, reasons, and customer behaviors, but customization may be limited.

Written By:

Indy Pereira

Indy Pereira

Indy Pereira helps ecommerce brands optimize their shipping and fulfillment with Cahoot’s technology. With a background in both sales and people operations, she bridges customer needs with strategic solutions that drive growth. Indy works closely with merchants every day and brings real-world insight into what makes logistics efficient and scalable.

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Loop Returns: Advantages and Disadvantages

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5 minutes

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Online retail marches on. Returns along with it. A seamless return experience can be a differentiator or a drain on margins, especially when it comes to aligning the return process with a brand’s identity. Enter Loop Returns, one of the buzziest post-purchase platforms, especially on Shopify. Loop Returns is helping to shape the future of ecommerce returns by providing innovative solutions that help brands deliver a return experience that supports their identity and customer loyalty. It promises sleek portals, instant exchanges, and tools to boost retention. But is it the magic fix?

Loop’s Strengths: What Its Return Portal Delivers

  • Seamless Shopify Integration

    Loop has nailed Shopify. Thousands of merchants install it via the Shopify App Store, where reviewers rave about easy label creation, smooth integration with WMS, and great UI flow. Users can easily find and connect Loop with other apps and partners to streamline logistics and enhance their return process.
  • Smart Automation through “Workflows”

    Want to batch process returns? Offer bonus credit? Route items differently based on SKU or order value? That’s Loop’s “Workflows” engine. One review highlights their ability to “get more granular with products,” especially specialty items. Users can automate steps and actions such as creating support tickets, editing return lists, and customizing workflows to save time and optimize post-purchase operations.

  • Offset Plan: Zero Software Costs

    Loop’s Offset plan includes free software, just pay for shipping labels. It’s a consumer-paid returns solution that allows shoppers to pay a small fee during checkout for free returns later. This helps merchants cover the rising costs of returns and reverse logistics by collecting fees from shoppers, rather than absorbing the costs themselves. For high-volume Shopify brands, that’s a major allure.
  • Data & Tracking via Wonderment

    Loop bought Wonderment in late 2024, bringing in actionable shipping visibility tools. More tracking means fewer surprise delays. Merchants benefit from improved order tracking and access to organized data inside the return portal, making it easier to manage returns and exchanges.
  • High Adoption & Positive Feedback

    Merchants report big wins: 98% satisfaction, an 80% cut in tickets, and streamlined operations. The platform’s button-driven UI and clickable links help users quickly initiate returns, edit information, and access support, saving time for both merchants and customers.

Loop’s Weak Spots: Where Return Costs Hit Snags

  • Shopify-Only Ecosystem

    Love Shopify? Fine. Use anything else? You’re out. Multi-platform sellers must build workarounds; Loop isn’t plug-and-play for WooCommerce, BigCommerce, or headless systems.
  • Tiered Tiers = Hidden Costs

    The Offset plan is free until you want multiple carrier options, in-store returns, or better reporting. Then you bump into $155–$340/mo tiers. That pricing works for mid-market, not solo brands.
  • Bugs in the Workflow World

    Some users report glitches, bugs in returning/exchanging scenarios, slow analytics dashboards, and incorrect refunds tied to promotions. Also, data exports are limited, an issue for growth-focused teams. In some cases, merchants have trouble managing returned items and need to check or verify the refund status; resolving these cases efficiently can lead to fewer refunds overall.
  • Can’t Do Multi-Label or Expedited Returns Easily

    Loop’s portal struggles with orders shipped in multiple boxes. Bulk returns require workarounds. And if you want to offer expedited replacements at checkout, Loop’s not built for that, yet.
  • Customer Support Can Lag

    While many merchants enjoy responsive CSMs, others say support can feel slow or inconsistent, especially when support teams need to handle trouble cases and verify information to resolve urgent issues.

Missing Innovation: What Loop Doesn’t (Yet) Offer

Loop has great tech and Shopify creds, but it sticks to the classic route-return-return flow (order is routed to the customer, sent back to the same warehouse, then returned to inventory to be resold). No radical solutions, such as peer-to-peer returns, that turn returns into a profit center. Sure, Loop helps retain revenue in many cases, but it doesn’t help to earn new revenue. That’s fine for 90% of brands. But for the growing class of brands eyeing hyper-innovations or that aren’t in the Shopify ecosystem, Loop hasn’t gained any traction yet.

Developers and brands are looking to create new return experiences and build deeper connections with customers both inside and outside the return portal. Learning from modern customer shopping behavior could help Loop innovate to retain more customers, increase customer lifetime value, and drive more revenue and sales. Future innovations could bring new life to the returns process, keeping customer needs and peace of mind at the center, while considering how merchants can minimize the impact of returns on the bottom line.

Verdict: Solid, but Shakeable

Loop is more than just another returns tool, it’s a polished, feature-rich platform that often feels enterprise-grade, without enterprise bureaucracy. For Shopify merchants who:

  • Want automated, branded returns,
  • Need instant exchanges and bonus credits,
  • Crave workflow-driven control, and
  • Operate at a volume that justifies paid tiers.

…Loop is remarkable. It’s a product that clearly bows to merchant needs.

That said, it is Shopify-dependent, tiered, and still evolving in analytics and global flexibility. If you’re small, platform-agnostic, or chasing the next frontier of returns innovation—think hyper-local returns or bundled expedited replacements—Loop may start to feel constrictive.

Put simply: Loop is powerful, but it’s classic. It delivers on today’s ecommerce returns playbook, but if tomorrow’s returns look different, you might start hitting friction. Choose it for its polish and efficiency. Just don’t expect Loop to break new ground; it’s built for clean, reliable returns in the Shopify universe, but not a smidge beyond it.

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of retailers is Loop best for?

Loop is ideal for DTC brands on Shopify looking for highly branded, customer-friendly return experiences.

Does Loop support exchanges or just refunds?

Yes, Loop emphasizes exchanges to retain revenue, offering dynamic options like variant swaps or store credit incentives.

Is Loop only for Shopify?

Mostly. Loop is tightly integrated with Shopify, making it less suitable for brands on other ecommerce platforms.

How customizable is Loop’s return portal?

The portal is very customizable visually, but deeper logic or rule changes may require developer help or plan upgrades.

Does Loop handle logistics or just the software side?

Loop focuses on the software layer. Merchants must coordinate their own 3PLs, carriers, and warehouse operations.

Written By:

Indy Pereira

Indy Pereira

Indy Pereira helps ecommerce brands optimize their shipping and fulfillment with Cahoot’s technology. With a background in both sales and people operations, she bridges customer needs with strategic solutions that drive growth. Indy works closely with merchants every day and brings real-world insight into what makes logistics efficient and scalable.

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Turn Returns Into New Revenue

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Walmart Officially Allows Amazon Multi-Channel Fulfillment (MCF)

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Big news for multichannel sellers: Walmart now officially allows Amazon Multi-Channel Fulfillment (MCF). Yes, you read that right. The retail giant has updated its policies, enabling sellers to use Amazon’s fulfillment network for Walmart orders, provided specific conditions are met.

What’s Changed?

Previously, Walmart prohibited the use of Amazon MCF for order fulfillment. However, as of May 15, 2025, Walmart’s updated Shipping & Fulfillment policy states:

“You may use Multi-Channel Fulfillment as long as you ship in neutral packaging using unbranded delivery vehicles, which means neither can display any logos, trademarks, or branding of the other retailer.”

This policy shift allows sellers to leverage Amazon’s robust fulfillment network to process Walmart orders, provided they adhere to the neutral packaging and carrier requirements (they don’t want Amazon logos on packaging, tape, trucks, driver uniforms, etc.).

Why Now?

Walmart’s decision reflects the evolving landscape of ecommerce, where flexibility and efficiency are paramount. By permitting Amazon MCF, Walmart acknowledges the need for sellers to streamline operations across multiple platforms. This move aligns with broader trends in retail logistics, emphasizing interoperability and seller convenience.

What It Means for Sellers

Pros:
  • Operational Efficiency: Sellers can consolidate inventory management by using Amazon’s fulfillment centers for both Amazon and Walmart orders.
  • Faster Fulfillment: Amazon’s extensive logistics network can expedite order delivery, enhancing customer satisfaction.
  • Cost Savings: Utilizing a single fulfillment service can reduce overhead costs associated with managing multiple logistics providers and additional inventory required to be staged across providers.
  • Cons:
  • Fulfillment Cost: Amazon MCF is substantially more expensive than FBA (2–3×, which can be cost-prohibitive in many low-margin categories).
  • Additional Fees: Blocking Amazon Logistics as a carrier incurs a 5% surcharge on MCF fees.
  • FBA Gets Priority: Amazon prioritizes FBA orders, so there’s a chance that MCF orders don’t ship on time or ship with a more expensive service to ensure on-time delivery.
  • Policy Compliance: Sellers must stay vigilant to adhere to both Walmart’s and Amazon’s fulfillment policies to avoid potential violations.
  • Pro Tips for Sellers

    1. Inventory Management: Maintain accurate inventory levels in Amazon’s fulfillment centers to prevent stockouts on Walmart orders.

    2. Carrier Settings: Configure your Amazon MCF settings to block Amazon Logistics for Walmart orders, complying with Walmart’s delivery requirements.

    3. Packaging Compliance: Ensure all shipments to Walmart customers are in neutral packaging, devoid of any Amazon branding.

    4. Cost Analysis: Regularly assess the cost-effectiveness of using Amazon MCF for Walmart orders, considering the additional surcharges and fees.

    5. Monitor Performance: Keep an eye on delivery times and customer feedback to ensure the fulfillment process meets Walmart’s standards.

    Final Thoughts

    Walmart’s policy update to allow Amazon MCF is a significant development for multichannel sellers. It offers an opportunity to streamline operations, reduce some overhead expenses, and enhance customer satisfaction with potentially faster delivery from distributed fulfillment. However, it’s crucial to navigate the associated requirements carefully to fully leverage the benefits of this new fulfillment option. And fulfillment costs will need to be monitored closely to make sure that it makes sense to use MCF. If not, it might make more sense to outsource Walmart fulfillment to another distributed fulfillment provider such as Cahoot.

    Written By:

    Indy Pereira

    Indy Pereira

    Indy Pereira helps ecommerce brands optimize their shipping and fulfillment with Cahoot’s technology. With a background in both sales and people operations, she bridges customer needs with strategic solutions that drive growth. Indy works closely with merchants every day and brings real-world insight into what makes logistics efficient and scalable.

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    New 2025 UPS Surcharges to Impact Large Bulky Packages, Fuel Fees, and More

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    Brace yourselves, ecommerce pros: UPS is rolling out a fresh batch of surcharges in 2025 that could make your shipping invoices feel like a game of financial Jenga. From fuel fees to oversized package penalties, here’s the lowdown on what’s changing and how you can navigate the storm without capsizing your margins.

    The Surcharge Symphony: What’s New?

    1. Fuel Surcharge Hike

    Starting May 26, 2025, UPS increased its fuel surcharge calculations for ground, air, and Ground Saver packages. This means that as fuel prices fluctuate, so will your shipping costs, adding a layer of unpredictability to your logistics budget. Supply Chain Dive

    2. Delivery Area Surcharge (DAS) Expansion

    Effective June 1, 2025, UPS updated the list of ZIP codes subject to Delivery Area Surcharges. If you’re shipping to newly added areas, expect additional fees per package. Supply Chain Dive

    3. Remote Area Surcharge for Ground Saver Deliveries

    From June 2, 2025, Ground Saver deliveries to ZIP codes deemed as remote areas in the contiguous U.S. will incur additional fees. Supply Chain Dive

    4. Additional Handling and Large Package Surcharges

    Also starting June 2, 2025, higher fees for shipments in Zone 7 and above have been implemented. If you’re shipping large or heavy items over long distances, these surcharges could significantly impact your costs. Supply Chain Dive

    5. Redefinition of Large Package and Additional Handling Charges

    Effective August 17, 2025, UPS is changing how it calculates these surcharges. Instead of using length plus girth, the new criteria are:

    • Large Package Surcharge: Applies to packages weighing over 110 pounds or with a size greater than 17,280 cubic inches.
    • Additional Handling Charge: Applies to packages with a size greater than 8,640 cubic inches.

    6. International Collect on Delivery (ICOD) Fee

    • As of June 2, 2025, a new $12 fee applies to U.S. consignees receiving international shipments where duties and taxes aren’t prepaid or billed to a UPS account. Pre-paying duties and taxes electronically before delivery can help you avoid this fee. Supply Chain Dive

    Real-World Impacts: What This Means for You

    Ecommerce Retailers

    If you’re selling bulky items like furniture or gym equipment, these changes could hit hard. The new dimensional thresholds mean that even if your package isn’t heavy, its size alone could trigger hefty surcharges.

    SMBs (Small and Medium-sized Businesses)

    With tighter margins, SMBs may feel the pinch more acutely. The expanded DAS and remote area surcharges could make shipping to certain customers less profitable, potentially forcing tough decisions about service areas.

    International Shippers

    The new ICOD fee adds another layer of cost to international shipments. Ensuring duties and taxes are prepaid or billed to a UPS account can help avoid this fee, but it requires diligent coordination.

    Strategies to Mitigate the Impact

    1. Optimize Packaging

    Review your packaging to ensure it’s as compact as possible without compromising product safety. Reducing package size can help you stay below the new dimensional thresholds and avoid additional surcharges.

    2. Audit Shipping Zones

    Analyze your shipping destinations to identify if the updated DAS and remote area surcharges affect your common delivery areas. Consider alternative carriers or fulfillment centers closer to these zones to reduce costs. Diversifying your shipping partners can provide more flexibility and cost savings.

    3. Distribute Inventory Strategically

    Consider spreading your inventory across multiple fulfillment centers or 3PLs closer to where your customers live. This approach isn’t just about faster delivery, it’s about shrinking the distance a package travels in the final mile, which mitigates the impact of several of these new surcharges. Plus, you’ll be better positioned to offer faster, cheaper shipping options to your customers: win-win!

    Compare rates with other carriers, especially for shipments that now incur higher UPS surcharges. Diversifying your shipping partners can provide more flexibility and cost savings.

    4. Prepay Duties and Taxes

    For international shipments, prepaying duties and taxes or billing them to a UPS account can help you avoid the $12 ICOD fee. Implement processes to ensure this is done consistently.

    5. Leverage Technology

    Use shipping software to automatically calculate the most cost-effective shipping options based on package size, weight, and destination. This can help you make informed decisions quickly.

    Looking Ahead

    UPS’s 2025 mid-year surcharge updates reflect the company’s response to rising operational costs and the need to manage delivery complexities. While these changes present challenges, proactive planning and strategic adjustments can help mitigate their impact. Stay informed, adapt your shipping strategies, and consider consulting with logistics experts to navigate this evolving landscape effectively.

    Note: For the most current information on UPS surcharges and fees, please refer to the official UPS website or consult with your UPS account representative.

    Written By:

    Indy Pereira

    Indy Pereira

    Indy Pereira helps ecommerce brands optimize their shipping and fulfillment with Cahoot’s technology. With a background in both sales and people operations, she bridges customer needs with strategic solutions that drive growth. Indy works closely with merchants every day and brings real-world insight into what makes logistics efficient and scalable.

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    Turn Returns Into New Revenue

    Convert returns into second-chance sales and new customers, right from your store