Quick answer
The Return Cost Calculator shows what a customer return really costs once fees, shipping both ways, and damaged stock are counted. How it works: Cost per return = fees kept + shipping both ways + item cost × chance of loss; Per 100 orders = cost per return × return rate. For example, with order value of $50, fees the platform keeps on refund of $1.75, and original shipping you paid of $6, the cost per return is $18.35.
How to use the Return Cost Calculator
- Enter order value.
- Enter fees the platform keeps on refund. Payment processing is often not refunded.
- Enter original shipping you paid.
- Enter return shipping you pay.
- Enter item cost.
- Enter chance it can't be resold.
- Read cost per return and the breakdown. Use Share to send the exact numbers, or Print to save a PDF.
How it's calculated
- Cost per return = fees kept + shipping both ways + item cost × chance of loss
- Per 100 orders = cost per return × return rate
Worked example
With order value of $50, fees the platform keeps on refund of $1.75, original shipping you paid of $6, return shipping you pay of $7, item cost of $18, and chance it can't be resold of 20 %:
Cost per return: $18.35. Cost per 100 orders: $146.80.
Return Cost questions
How much does a return really cost a seller?
Usually more than the refund: return shipping, fees that aren't refunded, repackaging, and any item you can't resell. The calculator adds these up per return.
Are marketplace fees refunded on returns?
It varies. Etsy and eBay refund part of their fees on a full refund, but payment processing fees are usually kept. Check each platform's refund policy.
How do I cut return costs?
Write clear size and condition details, add more photos, set a fair return policy, and track the reasons customers give for returns.