Retoure

Retoure is a term used in commerce to describe the process of returning goods purchased by a customer to the seller. It is commonly used in European retail contexts, including German-, Dutch-, and French-speaking markets, and functions similarly to the English term "return." Returns cover items sent back for reasons such as incorrect size, change of mind, defect, or shipment error, and are a core component of contemporary ecommerce and omnichannel retail.

Etymology and usage: The word traces to the French retour meaning “return.” In German and Dutch usage, Retoure or Retouren is common in policy language and logistics documentation, with variations across languages. The term appears in contracts, warranties, carrier communications, and internal compliance materials related to handling returned goods.

Process: A typical return starts when a customer requests authorization, often via an RMA (return merchandise authorization). The seller provides a return label, the customer ships the item back, and it is received and inspected upon arrival. The disposition follows policy: restock if eligible, refurbish for resale, repackage for open-box sales, recycle, or dispose of non-sellable items. The customer may receive a refund, exchange, or store credit according to the retailer’s rules.

Policy and rights: Return windows, eligibility, and exclusions vary by jurisdiction and retailer. Consumer protection laws in many regions require reasonable return options for online purchases, though some items (perishables, intimate goods, customized products) may be excluded or subject to restrictions.

Impact and technology: Returns affect margins and reverse logistics costs. Businesses monitor return rates and reasons to improve products and packaging. Supporting technologies include return merchandise authorization systems, reverse logistics networks, and analytics that drive process improvements.