September, a critical month for returns: how to prepare for the post-summer operating peak in eCommerce
September is not only a month for strategic planning: it also represents a intermediate peak of returns that many brands underestimate. After the summer, when logistics is not yet back to its usual pace, returns volumes increase and put additional pressure on operations.
Ignoring this moment can come at a high cost: impacting customer perception just before the Christmas campaign (Q4)The most critical time of the year for eCommerce.
In this article, we tell you why September is a complex month for the reverse logistics and how you can prepare to overcome it without compromising profitability or your customers' experience.
What makes September a complex month for returns?
The wave of returns after the summer sales
Orders placed in July and August arrive back in September, when customers decide to return items that do not meet expectations or that they no longer need after the holiday period.
Back-to-school campaigns that boost volumes
The increase in purchases linked to the return to school and work also generates an increase in returns, especially in categories such as textiles, footwear and school supplies.
An operation that is still being reactivated after the summer.
After several weeks of limited resources due to the holiday season, many logistics teams are still not back to full capacity in September, increasing the pressure on warehouses and customer services.
Impact of a poorly managed peak on operations
Overcrowded warehouses and slow refunds
Unexpected increases in returns can overwhelm distribution centres, delaying handling and customer refunds.
Increase in customer service enquiries and tickets
Delays create uncertainty and saturate support channels, adding operational pressure and reducing customer satisfaction just before the fourth quarter, when every conversion counts.
Loss of confidence at a key moment
Poor returns management in September compromises customer confidence just before Q4, when loyalty is essential to maximise sales.
Strategies for absorbing the intermediate peak without compromising the experience
H3: Strengthening the return network
Betting on PUDO networks, smart mailboxes residential or slogans enables a better distribution of the return flow and reduces dependence on traditional transport.
Automation of the return process
Digitising the journey from application to follow-up saves time, reduces errors and offers greater transparency to the customer.
Policy clarity and user-friendliness
Consumers should be able to initiate a return intuitively, without friction or cumbersome processes, so as not to damage brand perception or future purchases.
Optimisation of internal processes
Processes such as sorting, reconditioning and reintegration of stock must be prepared to absorb the increased volume without significant delays.
The role of technology and traceability in this process
How traceability improves times and reduces errors
A well-traced return enables real-time detection of incidents and streamlines operational decision making.
Operational visibility as a prevention tool
Having specific dashboards and KPIs helps to anticipate saturations before they impact on the customer.
Models label-free y package-free
Solutions that eliminate the need to print labels or provide your own packaging, reducing friction for the user and costs for the company.
How does Celeritas help manage the September peak?
Active and optimised network during summer and September
Celeritas keeps its network of convenience and transport points operational throughout the year, guaranteeing continuity at times of peak returns.
Automated models to speed up returns and refunds
Celeritas' technological integration facilitates the rapid returns managementwith weight and integrity control from the origin.
Success stories and lessons learned from previous years
Celeritas' experience in managing high seasonal volumes allows us to anticipate incidents and design solutions adapted to each eCommerce.
Conclusion: Anticipating September means protecting Q4
September is a critical month for eCommerce. Anticipate the intermediate peak of returns is essential in order not to lose efficiency and customer confidence just before the most important campaign of the year.
With the combination of technology, traceability and a strong logistics network such as the one of CeleritasIn this way, it is possible to absorb the extra volume and turn it into an opportunity to reinforce customer loyalty.
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