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Free returns and “try before you buy” options have made online shopping easier and more convenient than ever, but the logistics of making returns isn’t without its downsides! While I’m glad I can usually return something that didn’t meet my expectations, those items often become a source of clutter until I can get them in the mail.
Many retailers only offer full refunds for returns for a limited time, so keeping your returns, packaging, and order information organized is important if you want to get that money back. In this post, we’ll look at a few simple rules for returns that can help us manage them more effectively and cut down on clutter.
Jillee’s Take:
4 Simple Rules That Make Returns Easier
1. Initiate Returns ASAP
For items you bought online, open the website or app and initiate the return process as soon as possible. Not only will this help you avoid missing the return window, but it can also generate a helpful sense of urgency and discourage further procrastination.
When you initiate a return, note any important details about return labels, packaging, and drop-off locations. For items that do need to be packaged for shipping, get those boxed or bagged ASAP to help streamline your returns.
2. Set Up A Returns Basket
It’s best to keep returns where you can see them so you don’t forget about them, but that doesn’t have to mean leaving them out on your desk or dining table. Store items you plan to return together in a large basket, then find a place for the basket that’s impossible to ignore (without being in the way).
3. Add It To Your Schedule
Keeping your returns organized won’t do you much good if you never get around to sending them back! One way to make this step easier is to work it into your weekly schedule (or monthly schedule, depending on your shopping habits).
I have some free time on Wednesday afternoons, so that’s when I’ll be handling my returns moving forward. (I doubt I’ll have items to return every week, but factoring returns into my schedule ensures I’ll have the time to complete them when I do!)
4. Adjust As Needed
The best systems are the ones that work for you, so be sure to review your returns process regularly and make changes to it as necessary. Reviewing how you handle returns is also a good time to evaluate your online shopping habits so you can spend your time and money more wisely!
2 Bonus Tips For Simpler Returns
- When buying from online retailers you don’t have an account with, save or flag the order confirmation emails in case you need to return something later. (Confirmation emails typically include any order numbers or confirmation codes you’ll need to initiate a return.)
- Before clicking or tapping that Checkout button — especially when buying something you’re not sure you’ll want to keep — pause and review that store’s return policy. Not every online retailer offers free returns, and shipping and restocking fees can be costly!
What’s your best tip for handling returns?
