- Services
- Return Management
Returns management- a key to efficient logistics
Returns management is a critical part of modern logistics - not only to handle customer returns, but to create efficiency, sustainability and control throughout the entire supply chain. At Speed, we offer returns management as a complete logistics solution, tailored for companies with high demands on traceability, speed and quality.
We manage the entire returns flow, from receiving and sorting to restock, recycling or disposal. By integrating return management into your logistics operations, we help you reduce costs, improve the customer experience and free up internal resources. You get a solution that is scalable, sustainable and fully adapted to your needs. We take care of it so your business never loses speed.
What’s included in our returns management?
We offer an end to end solution for returns flows - whether B2B or B2C, high‑volume operations or specialised products.
Reception and registration
Incoming returns are registered in real time through our WMS, ensuring full traceability from the first scan.
Sorting and quality control
Products are inspected, classified and processed according to your instructions - for example resale, repair, recycling or disposal.
Returns to warehouse or supplier
Defect‑free products can quickly be returned to stock for resale or sent directly back to the manufacturer or supplier.
Environmentally sound recycling or disposal
Defective or worn products are handled in accordance with environmental regulations and fully documented for traceability.
Reporting and analysis
You receive detailed statistics, insights into return reasons and improvement suggestions directly in our system or via system integration.
Safe, traceable and sustainable
Returns are often complex, especially when they involve sensitive products, hazardous goods or high volumes. That’s why our processes are designed to give you full control:
- Real‑time traceability
- Integration with your business systems
- Safe handling of sensitive products
- Environmentally certified recycling and disposal procedures
- Flexible solutions for different industries and product categories
Returns management that strengthens your sustainability
A well-functioning returns management process is not only a logistical necessity - it is a strategic opportunity to reduce environmental impact, save resources and contribute to a more circular economy. By outsourcing your returns flow to Speed, you get a partner who actively works to make every return as sustainable as possible.
We help you to:
Reduce unnecessary transportation and restocking
By centralizing returns management and optimizing flows, we reduce the number of transports — leading to lower CO₂ emissions and less strain on the road network.
Extending the lifetime of products
Through careful sorting and quality control, many products can be resold, repaired or used as spare parts instead of being discarded.
Maximise recycling and minimise waste
We work with certified recycling partners and ensure that materials that cannot be reused are handled in an environmentally sound way, with full documentation.
Strengthen your sustainability reporting
You gain access to detailed statistics on return flows, recycling rates and environmental impact, valuable for internal targets as well as external reporting, such as under CSRD or GRI.
Contribute to a circular business model
By viewing returns as a resource rather than a cost, we help you build a more circular and future-proof logistics solution.
We see returns management as a natural part of a broader sustainability effort, where logistics is not only about moving goods but also about taking responsibility for the entire product life cycle.
Who is outsourced returns management suitable for?
Outsourced returns management is suitable for companies that want to streamline their logistics flows, reduce internal costs and improve the customer experience. By letting an external partner handle the returns flow, you free up time, resources and space, while gaining access to specialist expertise, traceability and scalability.
Our solution is particularly valuable for companies that:
- Have a high volume of returns in e commerce, fashion, electronics or retail
- Want to reduce lead times and the costs associated with returns management
- Need a partner that can handle both B2B and B2C returns
- Have complex products or specific requirements for sorting, return handling or disposal
- Are looking for a sustainable solution that supports the circular economy and reduces environmental impact
- Want to integrate the return flow with existing business or e commerce systems
Whether you are a fast‑growing online retailer, an established industrial supplier or a recycling operator, outsourced returns management can give you better control, lower costs and a stronger customer relationship.
Frequently asked questions about returns management - FAQ
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What is returns management in logistics?
Returns management means receiving, recording, sorting and handling products returned from customers or retailers. It can include returning to stock, repairing, recycling or destroying.
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What types of products can you handle in the return flow?
We handle everything from consumer products and electronics to industrial components and dangerous goods. Our solutions are tailored to the requirements of the product and your industry.
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Can you integrate with our business system?
Yes, we do. We offer integration with most business and e-commerce systems to automate the returns flow and give you full visibility in real time.
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How quickly can you handle a return?
We have efficient processes and can handle returns within 24 hours of receipt - depending on volume and complexity.
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Do you help with environmental documentation?
Yes, we do. We document all returns that go to recycling or destruction according to applicable environmental requirements and can provide reports for your sustainability reporting.
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What does return management as a service cost?
The price depends on the return volume, product type, handling requirements and any additional services. Contact us for a quote tailored to your needs.
Smart solutions for book publishers
With 40 years of experience in book logistics, we know what it takes for efficient flows. Learn more about our industry-specific logistics solutions.
Logistics solutions for retail and e-commerce
We know the challenges. With Speed as your 3PL partner, you get a solution built for quick turnarounds, promotions and returns.
Do you need help with returns management?
Whether you're facing a growing volume of returns, want to streamline your logistics, or are looking for a more sustainable solution - we'll help you find the right way forward.