Reduce Return to Origin in Shopify

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. What is Return to Origin in Shopify Stores?
3. Reasons for Return to Origin
   • Cash on Delivery Orders with Incorrect Shipping Details
   • Incorrect Customer Contact Information
4. Resolving Return to Origin in Shopify
   • Verifying Phone Number during Order Placement
   • Using the COD Order Verification by OTP App
   • Other Apps for Order Verification
5. How the COD Order Verification by OTP App Works
   • Setting Up the App
   • Sending OTP via SMS or Whatsapp
   • Customizable Message Template
   • Cancelling Unverified Orders
   • Verification for Cash on Delivery and Prepaid Orders
   • Testing the Verification Process
6. Additional Tips to Reduce Return to Origin
   • Making Additional Call to Customers
   • Sending Reminder Messages for Verification
   • Converting COD Orders to Prepaid Orders
7. Conclusion

Reducing Return to Origin in Shopify Stores

Return to origin refers to the situation where goods ordered by customers are returned back to the fulfillment center because they could not be delivered. This can happen due to various reasons, such as incorrect shipping details or customer contact information. In this article, we will explore the reasons behind return to origin in Shopify stores and discuss effective strategies to reduce it.

1. Introduction

In this digital age, e-commerce has become increasingly popular, with Shopify being one of the leading platforms for setting up online stores. However, one challenge that online store owners often face is dealing with return to origin, where orders are returned to the fulfillment center instead of reaching the customers. This not only leads to logistical issues but also impacts customer satisfaction and overall business performance.

2. What is Return to Origin in Shopify Stores?

Return to origin occurs when goods that were supposed to be delivered to customers are returned back to the fulfillment center. This can happen for various reasons, including incorrect shipping details provided by customers or the inability to reach customers due to incorrect contact information. Return to origin can be a frustrating experience for both the store owners and customers, as it causes delays, additional shipping costs, and potential damage to the products.

3. Reasons for Return to Origin

There are several reasons why return to origin may happen in Shopify stores. Understanding these reasons is crucial in developing effective strategies to reduce this problem. Let's explore two common scenarios that lead to return to origin:

3.1 Cash on Delivery Orders with Incorrect Shipping Details Cash on delivery (COD) is a popular payment method in e-commerce, allowing customers to pay for their orders upon delivery. However, this also opens the door for fraudulent or bogus orders. Customers may intentionally provide incorrect shipping details, leading to unsuccessful delivery attempts and eventual return of the order to the store.

3.2 Incorrect Customer Contact Information Some orders may end up being returned to origin due to incorrect customer contact information, particularly phone numbers. If a customer accidentally enters an incorrect phone number during the order placement process, the delivery person will be unable to reach them. In such cases, the order is not delivered, and it is sent back to the fulfillment center.

4. Resolving Return to Origin in Shopify

To minimize return to origin issues in Shopify stores, it is essential to implement measures that ensure the accuracy of customer information and prevent fraudulent orders. One effective approach is to verify the phone number provided by customers during the order placement process. This verification process can be facilitated using various apps available on the Shopify App Store.

5. How the COD Order Verification by OTP App Works

One such app that can help in reducing return to origin is the COD Order Verification by OTP app. This app allows store owners to verify customers' phone numbers using a one-time password (OTP) sent via SMS or WhatsApp. Let's explore how this app works and how it can be beneficial:

5.1 Setting Up the App After installing the COD Order Verification by OTP app, the settings are easy to configure. Store owners can choose whether to send the OTP via SMS or WhatsApp. Additionally, there is a message template that can be customized according to the store's branding and communication style.

5.2 Sending OTP via SMS or Whatsapp Once the app is enabled, the thank you page of the Shopify store will display a widget where customers can enter the OTP received on their mobile phones. As soon as the order is placed, the OTP is sent simultaneously to the customer.

5.3 Customizable Message Template The COD Order Verification by OTP app provides the option to customize the message template sent to customers. This allows store owners to add their branding elements, instructions for OTP verification, and a call-to-action to confirm the order.

5.4 Cancelling Unverified Orders To maintain the integrity of the verification process, the app also offers the option to cancel orders that are not verified within a specified time frame. This ensures that only orders with verified phone numbers proceed for fulfillment.

5.5 Verification for Cash on Delivery and Prepaid Orders The COD Order Verification by OTP app can be used for both cash on delivery (COD) and prepaid orders. This enables store owners to minimize return to origin for all types of orders.

5.6 Testing the Verification Process To ensure the smooth functioning of the verification process, store owners can test it by placing orders themselves and going through the OTP verification. This will help identify any potential issues and make necessary adjustments.

6. Additional Tips to Reduce Return to Origin

In addition to using the COD Order Verification by OTP app, there are other strategies that can further reduce return to origin in Shopify stores. Consider implementing the following tips:

6.1 Making Additional Call to Customers To avoid return to origin caused by missed delivery attempts, stores can make an additional call to customers on the day of delivery. This preemptive communication helps ensure that customers are available to receive their orders and reduces the chances of unsuccessful delivery.

6.2 Sending Reminder Messages for Verification In some cases, customers may overlook the verification step on the thank you page. To tackle this issue, store owners can schedule automated reminder messages to be sent a few hours after the order placement. These reminders can prompt customers to verify their orders, reducing the risk of return to origin.

6.3 Converting COD Orders to Prepaid Orders Certain apps offer the functionality to convert cash on delivery orders to prepaid orders. Along with the reminder message, the app can send a payment gateway link for customers to prepay their orders. This demonstrates their seriousness in purchasing and helps prevent return to origin.

7. Conclusion

Return to origin is a common challenge faced by Shopify store owners, but it can be effectively reduced by implementing proper measures. Verifying customer phone numbers using apps like the COD Order Verification by OTP app can significantly improve the accuracy of order fulfillment and reduce the number of returned orders. Additionally, incorporating additional strategies like making extra calls and sending reminder messages can further minimize return to origin issues. By taking proactive steps to address this problem, Shopify store owners can enhance customer satisfaction, streamline operations, and improve overall business performance.