La logística inversa redefine el comercio electrónico y deja de ser un centro de costos

Periodista Portafolio23.01.2026 16:15 Actualizado: 23.01.2026 19:22

La logística inversa redefine el comercio electrónico y deja de ser un centro de costos

TL;DR

  • Reverse logistics is no longer a marginal cost but a structural component and competitive advantage in e-commerce.
  • Consumer behavior, driven by the ease of online shopping, now expects returns to be a natural part of the buying experience.
  • The fashion industry sees very high return rates, particularly due to practices like 'bracketing', necessitating new logistical models.
  • DHL is investing in sustainable infrastructure, including electric vehicles and a dense network of pickup/drop-off points, to manage returns efficiently.
  • Digital solutions like label-free returns using QR codes are simplifying the process and appealing to younger generations.
  • The economic value of returned products is significant, with potential revenue losses estimated in the billions when items are discarded instead of reintegrated into the supply chain.
  • Retailers are re-evaluating supply chain resilience due to the magnitude of returns, impacting profitability, logistics, and inventory management.
  • Customer expectation for clear, flexible, and easy return policies directly influences purchasing decisions and cart abandonment rates.
  • Discrepancies exist between company perceptions and consumer reasons for returns, highlighting the need for holistic approaches.
  • Returns are seen as an unavoidable expectation, driving demand for hybrid experiences and efficient, accessible return networks.