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How to run returns that don't destroy your margins
Modern returns handling is a competitive advantage. Here's what to demand from your 3PL — and what to build in-house.
10 min read · Updated January 2026
The three flavors of returns
Consumer returns for D2C, defective returns for warranty programs, and B2B returns for wholesale accounts each need different workflows. A great 3PL supports all three from a single system of record.
Metrics that matter
Time-to-restock, refurbishment yield, and secondary-sell-through rate are the three KPIs that separate strong returns programs from weak ones. Your 3PL should report on all three monthly.
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