Reverse Logistics Industry Overview

The global reverse logistics market size was estimated at USD 731.30 billion in 2022 and is projected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 9.4% from 2023 to 2030. The global expansion of e-commerce businesses and the increasing frequency of returns and replacements of products have propelled the demand for reverse logistics services. Increasing product recalls due to strict government rules and product quality standards is expected to boost market growth. A competent reverse logistics solution has become essential owing to the expansion of e-commerce businesses worldwide. The demand for returning goods in a simpler way is increasing as the e-commerce industry/business is significantly expanding.

Gather more insights about the market drivers, restrains and growth of the Reverse Logistics Market

The e-commerce service providers emphasize reverse logistics as certain customers prefer to initially analyze the ordered products physically and then decide whether to keep them. If the product is not worth buying, customers can return it with the help of reverse logistics. For instance, buyers can only test clothing after making a purchase decision, especially for online shopping.

The frequency of returns and replacement items, necessitating a reverse logistics service, has propelled owing to the expansion of e-commerce businesses worldwide. Returns are more prevalent when customers shop online, as adding products into a virtual shopping cart is simple, but the appearance or fit of the product can be only verified physically. According to National Retail Federation, in 2021 online sales were approximately 23% of the total USD 4.583 trillion retail sales in the U.S. In addition, unwanted purchases and return to retailers' storefronts and warehouses are causing businesses a headache, bearing the loss.

The increasing use of advanced technologies such as Automation, Robotics, and Augmented Reality (A.R.A.R.) has enabled e-commerce companies to excel in efficiency and reachability. An increasing number of consumers prefer online purchasing over in-store purchasing owing to benefits such as convenience, lead time, cost, and variety of choices. E-commerce businesses significantly depend on shipping and warehousing capabilities to transfer products from retailers or manufacturing units to end-users in a shorter lead time.

Automation can route customer return requests, create packaging and labeling materials, reduce wait times for returning items to physical stores, and offer customers the option to return orders by mail, among others. Companies can use robotic process automation to contact consumers once the return request is initiated or to complete the return process and audit all operations efficiently. Automation can provide transparency in the return process to ensure that customers remain updated on the process once they raise a request for a return, exchange, or submit a warranty claim. Moreover, it helps in preventing fraud in the returns process.

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Key Companies & Market Share Insights

The market is fragmented and is anticipated to witness competition due to the presence of several players. Major service providers are continuously upgrading their technologies to remain ahead of the competition while ensuring integrity, efficiency, and safety. The prominent players focus on partnerships, product upgrades, and collaborations to gain a competitive edge over their peers and capture a significant market share. In December 2023, FedEx Corporation unveiled the upcoming launch of FedEx Consolidated Returns in the U.S. This innovative solution provides merchants with a low-priced and hassle-free e-commerce returns option, which they can pass on to their customers. Set to be introduced in December 2023, this expanded service aims to enhance the overall returns experience for online shoppers. Some prominent players in the global reverse logistics market include:

Key Reverse Logistics Companies:

  • DB SCHENKER (Deutsche Bahn AG)
  • Deutsche Post AG
  • FedEx Corporation
  • Kintetsu World Express, Inc.
  • United Parcel Service, Inc.
  • Yusen Logistics Co., Ltd.
  • RLG Systems AG
  • Core Logistic Private Limited
  • Safexpress Pvt. Ltd.

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