Every ecommerce store dreads getting returns from customers. And if your store sells unique or customized products, you might have a hard time reselling them once they’re back in your warehouse.

Customers might be unhappy with the product once they see it in person. Consequently, it’s critical to set the most accurate expectations for what a product is like before a customer clicks to the purchase page. Keep reading to learn about six key tech moves that can help lower the number of returns your ecommerce business receives.

1. Use Augmented Reality and 3D Tools

You can paint a clearer picture of a product’s features, appearance, and functionality with better visuals. While static photos may look nice, they offer only a limited view of the product.

Instead, upgrade your product pages to include augmented reality (AR) and 3D tools. Customers can zoom in to see subtleties in a product’s texture, such as the stitching on a new jacket. And they can place furniture or other decorative items in their own home with the help of their phone.

Introducing 3D and AR tools can help encourage a customer to move toward a purchase. When they can confirm that a new loveseat meshes with their existing layout, for instance, they’ll feel more confident about a purchase. And that can lead to fewer returns.

2. Add Modern Sizing Tools

When someone purchases a shirt or ring, they want it to fit right when the product arrives on their doorstep. But sleeves that are too long or a ring that’s too tight can be a reason to send the item back.

With the help of digital sizing tools, it’s possible for customers to get a more perfect fit. The best tools gather data about the customer, including measurements using a smartphone camera. As a result, customers are able to access a more precise suggestion when it comes to sizing for jewelry or garments.

Ultimately, sizing tools are part of a larger effort to close a customer’s expectation gap. For customers buying rings, for example, customizing the setting, stone, and shape at diamondere.com can help customers arrive at a more perfect choice.

3. Help Customers Make Better Design Decisions

Not every customer has a great design sensibility. And sometimes, allowing customers to pick colors, shapes, materials, and sizes can result in a product that clashes or lacks structural integrity.

AI design validation tools can help. They can alert customers to designs that might be too fragile, like oversized diamonds for a ring setting. And they can suggest more durable fabrics for upholstered furniture, helping customers arrive at options that meet their needs.

4. Provide Clear Lead-Times

Customers don’t want to wait too long to receive orders. But for customized items, they won’t always understand how long it takes to produce a product. Plus, if your store is in demand, you could have a backlog of customers waiting for products.

Make sure to give customers clear estimates on production and shipping timelines. Let them know approximately when they should expect to receive their product. And if there are unexpected delays, let them know.

5. Offer Order Updates

Customers always appreciate clear communication and transparency. Ongoing updates reflect well on your company. And customers may just be more likely to recommend your business or be a repeat customer, and less likely to return or cancel an order.

Give customers proactive notifications once they place an order. Confirm the order, and let them know when it’s being created, packaged, and shipped.

Use text messages or emails to give your updates, and respond quickly to questions. You’ll earn their trust and help them set realistic expectations.

6. Provide Clear Care Instructions

Sometimes, customers feel like they’re in over their heads with product care. They may not know how to treat wood, polish jewelry, or clean upholstered furniture.

Give care instructions to your customers through emails and printed instructions that arrive with the product. Demo videos and other visuals can be a great resource, as well. You’ll help your customers feel more confident so they don’t return the product.

Create a More Predictable Buying Experience

Customers don’t like surprises, and they don’t like waiting. When a customer is unhappy, they will send your product back for a refund, which hurts your bottom line. It’s important to intervene with ongoing communication, the right tech tools on your product pages, and customization options.

When customers know that you prioritize their choices and satisfaction, they’ll make better product selections that they are more likely to keep.