Navigating 'Returnuary' and The Power of Partnership in eCommerce
Hey all—hope your new year is off to a great start!
It’s Returnuary.
How are you managing the surge in returns?
If your "strategy" looks something like this:
?? We need to talk.
Okay, okay—but seriously, returns are spiraling out of control.
And I get it. Offering free shipping and returns feels like the right move to keep customers happy. But with the numbers we’re seeing, it’s time to rethink that strategy.
Total retail returns hit $743 billion?in 2023.
This year, returns are expected to reach $890 billion.
(that's nearly 17% of all merchandise sales)
OUCH.
And it’s not just profits taking a hit.
Returns are a sustainability disaster. Think carbon emissions, landfill waste… the list goes on.
So, what's the move?
Some brands are tightening their policies—shortening return windows or raising fees. Others are giving customers options like paying for return shipping upfront or opting out of returns altogether in exchange for cheaper shipping.
A few are rethinking the “take-back†entirely: refunding customers while letting them keep the product. And some are leaning into a more strategic approach—offering free returns to loyal customers while charging serial returners.
Returns don’t have to be the thing that drags your business down.
With the right approach, they can become your strongest play to protect profits and build trust with your customers.
What's your strategy?? ??
Partner Spotlight
Binary Anvil Inc. brings 15+ years of exclusive experience in Magento (Adobe Commerce), specializing in custom web development, ERP integrations, and tailored eCommerce solutions. With a team of 140+ Adobe-certified developers, they deliver high-performing websites and innovative features that drive measurable growth.
Guided by their consultative "Build it Right" philosophy, Binary Anvil ensures every solution is reliable, scalable, and tailored to meet each client’s unique business goals. As a service-disabled veteran-owned company, they embody a culture of integrity, ownership, and dedication, making them a trusted partner for long-term success.
YouTube Spotlight
What makes a great partnership in eCommerce?
In this short video, top industry leaders—including Hasan Elkomey (LIM), Graham Lubie (Wasserman Digital), Matt Parkinson (GENE), Tink Taylor (Dotdigital), and Ben Marks (Shopware)—share their perspectives on the values that drive successful collaboration.
From trust and communication to seamless integration, hear how strong partnerships are shaping the future of eCommerce.
Join Us at #MM25IN
We’re thrilled to return as a proud sponsor of Meet Magento India 2025!
This event brings the Magento community together to connect, share ideas, and explore the future of eCommerce. Representing ShipperHQ is Shlok Dave, MBA. If you’re attending, don’t miss the chance to connect! Drop Shlok a message—he’s ready to help optimize your Magento setup and talk smarter shipping strategies!
Ship'n Tell Fact of the Month
31% of companies plan to invest in AI in 2025, but evaluating the value and risks of generative AI tools has become 70% harder year-over-year.
Source: Capterra
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