Reverse logistics can be a nightmare for many sellers in digital retail. Besides the cost of resend operations, the impact often extends to consumers' buying experience. According to E-bit/Nielsen, the return rate in e-commerce can reach up to 30%, a significant amount of merchandise!

Among the reasons for this high rate are logistic losses, problems that may involve damages to products throughout their journey to the consumer. In Latin America, we face a different challenge compared to Europe and the United States: packaging violations due to theft. In Brazil, approximately 10% of goods are lost, with causes including violation and theft, according to the Brazilian Institute of Retail Executives & Consumer Market (IBEVAR).

Having followed this market for over 15 years, I've noticed an increase in these issues and consequently, a growing demand for more resilient packaging that can provide evidence of tampering to address this scenario.

Facing this challenge, besides searching for more robust packaging materials, studies with packaging suppliers become necessary – studies involving tests that can develop and offer the best protection solutions based on each product's profile and its journey to the customer.

Looking at packaging, I propose three strategies to combat violations and damages:

1. Security Systems with Evidence of Tampering: Options that record attempted opening are available, providing security during the logistical journey. These systems can show various levels of evidence, such as identifying when an envelope was opened and subsequently sealed with heat sources. Some even break upon opening, preventing resealing.
2. More Resilient Materials: Whether plastic or paper, the robustness of packages is crucial for product security. For protective envelopes, using mailers with bubble cushioning and multi-layered film offers high resistance to punctures, tears, and moisture, potentially replacing cardboard boxes without compromising product safety, reducing volumetric weight.
3. Security in Packaging Design: Packaging is a powerful means of product or retailer communication with the consumer. However, for high-value items in the context of the social security challenges faced in Latin America, item protection should be prioritized. Thus, the packaging design can be simplified to avoid highlighting a specific brand.

These strategies can help combat package violations, reducing resend costs. Investing in secure packaging is crucial for more effective and sustainable operations, as resend processes increase the environmental impact of operations.