Return Types

One differentiates between four types of returns depending on the condition of the respective goods that are being returned.

B1
A-Return

In the case of A-returns, the returned goods are in their original new condition. This is also valid for their packaging.

Pros
  • PRO
  • The goods can be resold without any additional work steps.

  • The refunding of the purchasing amount to the customer is done immediately.

  • The costs incurred from the return are low.

  • The time until the next sale is restricted to a minimum.

  • The goods can be sold at the original price.

Cons
  • CONTRA
  • Costs are incurred in order to take back the goods.

  • Although they are flawless and undamaged, an inspection must always be conducted in order to determine whether this is actually an A-return.

B2
B-Return

In the case of B-returns, small-scale repairs of the goods or packaging are required. Thus, where applicable, the packaging must be replaced or the goods must be cleaned in a minor way. This is necessary so that the next customer will regard the product as being absolutely good as new.

Pros
  • PRO
  • The returned goods can be restored to a new condition with minimal expenditures.

  • The refunding of the purchasing amount to the customer is done immediately.

  • The goods can be sold at the original price.

Cons
  • CONTRA
  • Costs are incurred in order to take back the goods.

  • An inspection and categorization of the condition of the goods must be done.

  • For the processing of the goods, as required, they must be handed over to the manufacturer or an external service provider. Thus, additional costs and time delays are incurred.

B3
C-Return

C-returns have large-scale defects which make processing uneconomical. This is valid for goods which have already been worn, worn-out, substantially soiled or damaged by the initial buyer. In the case that they have been damaged, it must be clarified whether this damage was caused by the customer or the logistics specialist. Thus, it will be determined whether recourse must be sought against the carrier or the customer must be granted a refund.

Pros
  • PRO
  • Where applicable, the product may be sold at a discounted price.

  • Where applicable, the goods may be sold to a recycler or a reseller for returned goods.

  • Waste disposal is not required (sustainability).

  • The refunding of the purchasing amount is done only if the customer is not responsible for the damage.

Cons
  • CONTRA
  • A sale as new goods is not possible.

  • In addition to the take-back costs, there will also be the added costs for the price discount.

  • A refund that has not yet been made may damage the customer relationship.

B4
D-Return

D-returns have such extensive defects that the goods can no longer be processed and placed once again in the sales cycle. Depending on who has caused the defects, recourse may be taken against the carrier or the customer may be granted a refund.

Pros
  • PRO
  • The purchasing amount is not refunded.

Cons
  • CONTRA
  • The goods must be subjected to waste disposal.

  • Besides the take-back costs, there are also the added costs for the scrapping.

  • The return may have negative ecological consequences.

  • The refund that has not yet been made may damage the customer relationship.