Sending It Back: Reverse Logistics and the U.S. Postal Service

Type: White Paper
Source: USPS Office of Inspector General
Access: External Resource

Summary

How reverse logistics expanded with ecommerce and how USPS positions in the returns ecosystem. Reverse logistics is more complex than forward (unpredictable volumes, condition, routing). USPS initiatives: label-less returns, QR kiosks, doorstep pickup.

Key Insight

Reverse logistics is not simply "forward logistics in reverse" - it requires triage, inspection, and routing decisions, making it significantly more complex and costly.

Stats / Facts

• 17.6% of online purchases in the U.S. are returned
• Ecommerce grew from 9.7% to ~14.5% of total retail sales during the pandemic

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This resource is provided for reference. All rights remain with the original publisher.