How to Reduce Ecommerce Return Rates with Relevant Product Descriptions

How can we reduce the order return rate due to insufficient information?

Including the right information about products in your online store helps potential customers make informed decisions, increase your conversion and at the same time reduce returns.

Each category and type of merchandise have some critical information that product descriptions must include.

Below we review key attributes you should include in the product descriptions by 3 major product categories:

Online Fashion Stores

• Care instructions – how to care for the garment, including washing instructions
• Model size – if a model is used in the picture it is helpful to reference the size he/she wearing and their measurements
• Size guide – always include an easy link to a product guide that is mobile friendly
• Country of origin – where is the product made
• Material – what is the item made from, if made from more than 1 material, include all others as well
• Brand information – important information about the brand

Example of the product description from Asos

General Goods/Electronics

• Key Features – quick points about the product
• Dimensions – include the size of the box as well as of the actual product
• Manuals – should always be provided in PDF format
• Country of origin – where is the product made
• Assembly instructions – should be always referenced in PDF format
• Care Instructions – if special care is needed for the product, for example: “avoid damp places”
• Warranty – how long the warranty is for and if different parts are covered by different warranty include them all
• What is included – list all key components that are included with the product, including cables, etc.
• Finish – if the product has any paint or finishing material that needs specific attention
• Material – what materials is the product made

Example of the product description from Home Depot online store

Cosmetics/Skin Care

• What it does – a short description of the main purpose of the product
• Ingredients – What are the key ingredients in the product
• Country of origin – where is the product made
• Size – include the size of the product
• Fragrance – if applicable what does the product smell like
• Skin Type – what skin is the product best for
• Environmental concerns – for example: “not tested on animals”
• How to use – for example: “only used on clear skin”

Example of the product description from Sephora.com

Conclusions

Keeping comprehensive product descriptions in your online store helps improve conversions and reduce returns. Provide product descriptions that help your customers make an informed decision about the products they are purchasing and also how to use them after. Some upfront planning and investment in preparing quality product descriptions would save you unnecessary customer service costs, increase sales and reduce returns.