Definition
The flow of goods travelling backwards through the supply chain: customer returns, warranty repairs, recalls, reusable packaging and end-of-life recycling. It has its own costs and processes — inspection, grading, refurbishment, restocking or disposal — and e-commerce growth has made it a major cost line. Cross-border returns from South Africa add a customs dimension, since re-exporting faulty goods or re-importing repaired ones needs the right SARS procedures to avoid paying duty twice.
Frequently asked questions
What is Reverse Logistics?
The flow of goods travelling backwards through the supply chain: customer returns, warranty repairs, recalls, reusable packaging and end-of-life recycling. It has its own costs and processes — inspection, grading, refurbishment, restocking or disposal — and e-commerce growth has made it a major cost line. Cross-border returns from South Africa add a customs dimension, since re-exporting faulty goods or re-importing repaired ones needs the right SARS procedures to avoid paying duty twice.
Which glossary terms are related to Reverse Logistics?
Reverse Logistics is a supply chain & warehousing term in the South African import/export industry. Related terms in the same area include 3PL (Third-Party Logistics), 4PL (Fourth-Party Logistics), ABC Analysis, Bonded Logistics, Bonded Warehouse (SOS/OS) — each has its own plain-English definition in the TradeCaravan glossary.