Hidden costs of returns: Why sending items back overseas could break the bank
In the era of online shopping, the convenience of purchasing goods from the comfort of our homes has become an integral part of our lives. While this convenience is unmatched, it comes with its own set of challenges, especially when it comes to returns. While online shopping, we often forget the possibility that we might have to return the product we are buying because we have received the wrong product, it’s low quality or doesn’t perform as described, to name just a few reasons. In this blog, we'll explore the hidden costs associated with returning items abroad and what you can do to avoid them.
Shipping Costs
One of the most significant hidden costs of returning items overseas is the steep shipping fees. When you buy from an international seller, the return shipping costs can be exorbitant, often exceeding the value of the product itself. Most online sellers from Asia know that shipping costs from Australia are high and most buyers will not bother returning the product. So if the product failed to meet its online appearance, such as a mismatched colour compared to the online photo, subpar product quality upon arrival, or sizing discrepancies, as customers seek to rectify these issues, the unforeseen expenses associated with international returns become more apparent, in which case customers often forgo their losses and buy the same product again from a local seller.
Extended Delivery Times
When you send an item back overseas (assuming it was worth it), the return process often involves lengthy shipping times. This not only results in an extended waiting period for a refund or replacement but can also lead to frustration and inconvenience.
Communication Challenges
Dealing with an overseas seller may also pose communication challenges. Time zone differences, language barriers, and varying customer service standards can complicate the return process. All of these challenges add up to buyers spending a lot of time and effort in trying to return an item. Local vendors understand the Australian market, providing a more seamless customer service experience, including easier communication and quicker issue resolution, resulting in much less time and effort being wasted.
Environmental Impact
International shipping contributes to a significant carbon footprint due to the long distances travelled by the returned items. By choosing local vendors, consumers are choosing a more sustainable choice and are contributing to reducing their environmental impact.
In navigating the complex landscape of online shopping and mitigating the hidden costs associated with international returns, the solution lies in choosing local suppliers. Especially if you are buying technology type products that require technical information, such as laptop adapters or batteries. By choosing local online businesses like Laptop Plus, a 100% Australian-owned business located in South Australia, you gain access to a local team of experts. They're just a phone call or an email away, ready to offer assistance and address any concerns you may have. In the event that you need to return an item, a local team is on hand to assist you in organising the return, with the added assurance that the cost of shipping won't break the bank.
