.png)
Managing returns is a big part of running a Shopify store. Studies show that 30% of all products ordered online are returned, compared to just 8% in physical retail.
Changes in how people shop are making returns even more common. 58% of U.S. consumers admit to “bracketing” - buying multiple sizes or options knowing they’ll send some back. While this gives shoppers confidence, it adds extra strain on you as a merchant.
Returns are more than a logistical headache. They impact revenue, customer satisfaction, and operational efficiency. Without the right tools, they can drain time, money, and resources.
While Shopify has its own returns features, these may not meet your needs as a growing store.
A Shopify returns app can fix this. By making returns easier for both you and your customers, it turns a common eCommerce challenge into a chance to stand out.
If you’re using Shopify, you have some built in tools available for returns management. With these, you can create returns, manage shipping labels, and process refunds or exchanges.
There's also a basic self-service option. This allows customers to initiate returns on their own.
That said, Shopify’s native tools have some limitations. Especially when it comes to customization, automation, and data.
This can lead to inefficiencies and issues with your returns process:
Time Consuming Manual Tasks
Without automation, returns involve too many manual steps. For example, approving requests and updating inventory. These tasks take time, are prone to errors, and slow down your workflow.
Inconsistent Customer Experience
A basic returns process lacks the personalization needed to build trust. Generic portals and limited updates can frustrate customers and fail to reflect your brand.
Missed Opportunities for Retention
Returns don’t have to mean losing revenue. But without flexible options - like instant exchanges or store credit - you might miss the chance to turn a return into another sale.
Limited Data Insights
Returns provide valuable data, but standard tools don’t dig deep enough. This makes it hard to understand why products come back or how to improve your process.
A Shopify returns app is a tool designed to make returns easier for you and your customers alike.
These apps vary in what they offer. For example, some deal with basic returns management tasks, like label generation and refund processing. These are similar to Shopify’s native tools.
Others, like Rich Returns, provide more advanced features. For example, exchange management, store credit options, and customizable workflows. These all-in-one apps cover everything you need for a seamless post-purchase experience.
Book a demo with Rich Returns today to experience a detailed product walkthrough and see how we can streamline your returns process.
If you’re looking to improve efficiency, save time, and retain more customers, an all-in-one app is the best eCommerce return solution. Here’s why.
Returns can be overwhelming, especially in peak season. Manual handling means juggling spreadsheets, responding to emails, and coordinating shipping labels.
A Shopify returns app removes this hassle. It takes care of repetitive tasks for you, for example:
Approving returns: Set up rules to auto approve requests. These can be based on conditions like item category, return window, or order status.
Generating labels: Send pre-paid labels straight to your customers. No back and forth via email, and no delays.
Updating inventory: Sync returned items with your stock levels in real-time. This helps you stay on top of inventory management, and means you’ll never oversell.
With Rich Returns automation, you free up valuable resources and eliminate human error.
As a result, you spend less time managing returns and more time growing your business.
Your returns process can win or lose you business. If it’s clunky and complex, it deters customers from shopping with you in the future. However, 92% of consumers say they’d buy from a merchant again after an easy returns process.
With an app like Rich Returns, you can enhance the customer experience with:
Self-Service Portals: Let customers initiate returns on their own, at any time, without needing to contact support.
Brand Consistency: Customize your portal to match your store’s design. This makes it feel like part of your brand rather than a generic process.
Clear Updates: Keep customers informed with notifications about their return. Let them know if it’s approved, in transit, or refunded.
Mobile-First & Shop App Integration: Give customers a frictionless way to initiate and track returns directly from their smartphones, ensuring a seamless experience wherever they are.
A positive returns experience means more happy customers. And that means higher retention rates, repeat purchases, and stronger loyalty to your brand.
Not all returns need to result in a refund. A good Shopify returns app allows you to turn them into opportunities for retention and revenue.
With Rich Returns exchanges, you can offer customers a range of options.
This includes store credit and instant exchanges for size, colour and variant. They can even opt to swap for a different product. The rules are up to you.
Thanks to our Shop app integration, customers can manage these flexible return and exchange options right from their smartphones, ensuring a truly mobile-first experience.
You can also give customer incentives. For example, a 10% discount for choosing credit over a refund.
These can be set as a limited time offer, prompting a fast decision.
These options help you reduce losses and keep more sales in your store. They also improve customer satisfaction. Instead of delays and frustration, shoppers get a hassle-free solution that works for them.
Returns data can reveal key insights. Why are items being returned? Are certain products more likely to be sent back? How can you improve your listings to reduce return rates?
Apps like Rich Returns offer in-depth analytics to help you answer these questions. You can:
With this information, you can make effective changes. For example, you might notice a high volume of returns due to sizing. You can then update your PDPs with more accurate size charts or product reviews to help shoppers choose the right fit.
Detailed analytics help you make informed decisions to reduce returns in the long term.
Running an online store means managing many tools. From shipping software to payment processors. A good Shopify returns app integrates with these to create a smooth workflow.
Rich Returns, for instance, connects with popular tools like:
This means every part of your returns process works together. There's no unnecessary steps, and fewer headaches for your team.
There are plenty of return apps in the Shopify App Store, but not all will suit your business. To find the best fit, you need to think about what matters most to you and your customers.
Here’s how to choose the right one:
Think About Your Needs
What’s your biggest pain point? Are you dealing with international returns? Do you need the app to work with tools you already use? Do you need customizable exchange options?
Knowing your key requirements will help you find the best eCommerce return solution for you.
Look for the Right Features
Make sure the app has what you need, like:
Check Reviews and Pricing
Read reviews to see what other merchants think. Compare pricing to find a balance between features and cost that works for your budget.
Test the App and Support
Take advantage of free trials to see how the app performs. Make sure there’s solid customer support in case you need help.
Look Out for Extras
Be aware of hidden fees for additional features and check if the app can scale with your business as it grows.
The right app should make your life easier, not harder. With the right tools, you’ll save time, keep your customers happy, and protect your bottom line.
If you’re looking for a smarter way to handle returns, Rich Returns is built with Shopify merchants in mind. It offers everything you need to streamline returns and keep shoppers happy.
By choosing Rich Returns, you’ll:
Don’t let returns hold your Shopify store back. Make them a competitive advantage with Rich Returns. Book a demo today and see how.
