Reverse logistics manages goods moving back from customers or downstream locations for return, repair, refurbishment, resale, recycling or disposal.
How it works in retail
It includes authorization, transport, inspection and decisions about the returned item. Retailers need a clear process for both the physical goods and the financial adjustment.
A retail example
A returned jacket is inspected, its refund processed and its condition assessed before it is put back into saleable inventory.
What to keep in mind
A received return is not automatically saleable stock. Condition, safety, completeness and resale policy affect the next step.
Examples are illustrative. Terminology and measurement conventions can vary by business and market.