Returns and Reverse Logistics Solutions
We are here to help you streamline your business operations with our tailored returns and reverse logistics solutions
Reverse logistics is the process of moving goods from their final destination back to the merchant or designated location for the purpose of return, repair, replacement, resale or recycling. This process is essential for optimizing your operations and boosting customer satisfaction.
At DHL, we offer both standard returns management and advanced reverse logistics solutions tailored to the unique needs of businesses. Our comprehensive offerings are designed for businesses of various sizes and industries. We focus on addressing the challenges that arise within the returns and reverse logistics process. With our extensive experience and commitment as a trusted partner, we are equipped to help you navigate these complexities.
Explore the four key challenges businesses face and discover how our tailored solutions can help you overcome them.
Solutions
We offer a comprehensive range of returns and reverse logistics solutions designed to fit diverse business needs. From parcel returns and label creation to repair, refurbishment, resale, and recycling, our services provide flexibility, transparency, and efficiency at every stage of the process. Here you will find an overview of our solutions, organized by key categories, to help you identify the right option for your business.
| Category | Parcel Return Connect | Returns and Circularity | DHL Fulfillment Network |
|---|---|---|---|
| Return Process | Harmonized returns across EU, 140,000 + drop off locations across Europe | Return management incl. processing, repair and refurbishment | Multiple drop-off options |
| Return Label Creation | Pre-printed or label-less QR codes across the EU | Depends on service | PrePrinted or on-demand labels |
| Weight/Size Limits | Up to 31.5 kg, 120 x 60 x 60 cm | Depends on service | Depends on service |
| IT/System Integration | eConnect platform for shipping & returns | Integrated IT solutions for transparency and control | API integration of track-and-trace system |
| Regional Coverage | 27 European countries (cross-border) | International, various regions and markets | International, various regions and markets |
| Additional Services | Full tracking, integration via eConnect platform, transport insurance (€500) | Inbound capabilities, processing and recovery, final disposition | Value maximization via refurbishing, resale, recycling, data-driven insights |
| Business Size | Small, medium, large | ||
| Business Type / Sector | Industries with frequent returns e.g. fashion and consumer goods. Ideal for manufacturers, retailers and e-commerce businesses | ||
Contact Our Experts
Get in touch with our knowledgeable experts for insights on our standard and advanced solutions. Let us show you how DHL can support your business and help you achieve your goals.
Additional DHL Expertise
Beyond our core returns management and reverse logistics solutions, we offer valuable expertise in other areas that can further support your business. Let us help you explore these additional resources to enhance your operations.
Sustainability
At DHL, we are committed to sustainability through our comprehensive portfolio, designed to help businesses reduce their environmental impact while optimizing logistics operations.
We provide solutions such as eco-friendly packaging, carbon-neutral shipping options, and responsible disposal methods for returned goods. By integrating these sustainable practices into your returns process, you can enhance your brand's reputation and meet the growing consumer demand for environmentally responsible practices. To learn more, explore our full range of sustainable offerings.
Our Expertise
Customs
Effective customs management is essential for ensuring compliance with local and international regulations, helping businesses avoid costly delays, fines, and potential legal issues.
At DHL, we offer a range of customs services tailored for business customers, ensuring efficient cross-border trade. Our offerings include:
- Customs Brokerage: We provide expert assistance in navigating complex regulations and documentation
- Tariff Classification: Our team ensures accurate classification of goods for compliance and optimal duty rates
- Duty Optimization: We develop strategies to minimize customs duties and taxes
- Real-Time Tracking: Enjoy enhanced visibility of shipments throughout the customs process
- Local Expertise: Benefit from our knowledge of regional regulations to facilitate smoother clearance
Software Partner Solutions
DHL's collaboration with software partners enhances returns management for retailers by delivering valuable consumer and logistics insights. Retailers, both domestic and internationally, can seamlessly integrate with our software partners, to provide a merchant-branded returns experience.
Whether you use a Webshop platform, an order management solution or shipping software, we partner with a variety of technology providers to ensure DHL integrates smoothly into your existing digital environment seamlessly. With numerous platforms available and our service offerings varying by country, the most efficient way to explore DHL integrations is through your platform's marketplace or app store. Just search for DHL on that marketplace.
Find the Right Partner
Sustainability
At DHL, we are committed to sustainability through our comprehensive portfolio, designed to help businesses reduce their environmental impact while optimizing logistics operations.
We provide solutions such as eco-friendly packaging, carbon-neutral shipping options, and responsible disposal methods for returned goods. By integrating these sustainable practices into your returns process, you can enhance your brand's reputation and meet the growing consumer demand for environmentally responsible practices. To learn more, explore our full range of sustainable offerings.
Our Expertise
Customs
Effective customs management is essential for ensuring compliance with local and international regulations, helping businesses avoid costly delays, fines, and potential legal issues.
At DHL, we offer a range of customs services tailored for business customers, ensuring efficient cross-border trade. Our offerings include:
- Customs Brokerage: We provide expert assistance in navigating complex regulations and documentation
- Tariff Classification: Our team ensures accurate classification of goods for compliance and optimal duty rates
- Duty Optimization: We develop strategies to minimize customs duties and taxes
- Real-Time Tracking: Enjoy enhanced visibility of shipments throughout the customs process
- Local Expertise: Benefit from our knowledge of regional regulations to facilitate smoother clearance
Software Partner Solutions
DHL's collaboration with software partners enhances returns management for retailers by delivering valuable consumer and logistics insights. Retailers, both domestic and internationally, can seamlessly integrate with our software partners, to provide a merchant-branded returns experience.
Whether you use a Webshop platform, an order management solution or shipping software, we partner with a variety of technology providers to ensure DHL integrates smoothly into your existing digital environment seamlessly. With numerous platforms available and our service offerings varying by country, the most efficient way to explore DHL integrations is through your platform's marketplace or app store. Just search for DHL on that marketplace.
Find the Right Partner
DHL as your Trusted Partner
DHL is a reliable partner committed to helping businesses navigate the complexities of returns management. With our extensive expertise and tailored solutions, we empower companies to streamline their reverse logistics processes. Trust DHL to optimize your reverse logistics journey and drive your success. To assist your business further, here are 5 steps to finding the right reverse logistics partner.
Success Stories
Discover how we have transformed reverse logistics for businesses through real-life success stories and case studies. These examples showcase our commitment to efficiency and customer satisfaction.
Frequently Asked Questions
-
Reverse Logistics is the process of moving goods from their final destination back to the manufacturer or distributor. It includes several stages; returns, repairs, replacements, reselling and recycling. It is essential for businesses to recover value from returned products, enhance customer satisfaction, and support sustainability efforts. Effective reverse logistics can lead to cost savings, improved inventory management, and increased operational efficiency. To learn more, visit the full reverse logistics article here.
-
To select the right reverse logistics solution for your business, start by assessing your specific needs and objectives, including returns volume and challenges. Evaluate the service offerings provided along with their coverage & scope. We recommend connecting with an expert to discuss your business challenges and develop a tailored approach that meets your unique requirements.
-
Partnering with a reverse logistics service provider like DHL can greatly benefit your business by streamlining the returns process, enhancing customer satisfaction, and improving operational efficiency. We offer comprehensive solutions ranging from standard to advanced, and our global reach ensures that your returns management is effective across various markets.
-
DHL has numerous examples of how we support businesses with reverse logistics solutions. These include streamlining returns processes, providing real-time tracking, enhancing inventory management, implementing sustainability initiatives, and offering industry-specific solutions along with data-driven insights. To learn more, please refer to our success stories.
-
Yes, DHL offers valuable consumer insights into returns management in the 2025 Delivery and Returns Report. This comprehensive resource provides insights into the evolving landscape of e-commerce logistics, serving as a valuable tool for businesses looking to enhance their delivery and returns strategies amid growing e-commerce demands. You can access the 2025 report here.