# Shipping and Returns: Online Store Costs | RevenueWorks

> How to include shipping and returns in your profit: return rate, cost per return and effect on margin.

Source: https://revenueworks.ai/guides/shipping-and-returns-costs
Language: en

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[RevenueWorks](https://revenueworks.ai/)/[Guides](https://revenueworks.ai/guides)/Shipping and returns: what they really cost

# Shipping and returns: what they really cost

**In short:** Returns cost more than return shipping. You lose the revenue, pay handling and sometimes goods become unsellable. Count return rate × cost per return as a fixed item per order.

Last updated: 2026-11-07

## What belongs in return costs

-   Return shipping, if you bear it.
-   Handling and inspection of goods.
-   Value loss if goods can no longer be sold as new.
-   Payment fees that are often not refunded.

## How to lower the rate

-   Accurate sizing and good photos.
-   Reviews with size feedback.
-   Analyse the most common return reasons.

## Effect on profit

At 10% returns and €6 per return that is €0.60 per order plus lost contribution margin. The returns calculator shows what that adds up to per month.

## Frequently asked questions

Do I have to pay for returns in online retail?

It depends on your terms and applicable law. Check with legal advice, this guide does not replace it.

## Work it out with your numbers

The matching calculator runs in your browser. No sign-up, nothing is saved.

[Returns Cost Calculator](https://revenueworks.ai/tools/retouren-rechner)

## Your Shopify store, fully set up

The Shopify Launch Bundle: design, tracking, automations and SEO from one source, with a written fixed price.

[See the Shopify Launch Bundle](https://revenueworks.ai/devforce-one/shopify-launch-bundle)

## Keep reading

[Returns Cost Calculator](https://revenueworks.ai/tools/retouren-rechner)[Margin or markup: what is the difference?](https://revenueworks.ai/guides/margin-vs-markup)[How to calculate break-even in an online store](https://revenueworks.ai/guides/break-even-online-store)[All guides](https://revenueworks.ai/guides)[Glossary](https://revenueworks.ai/glossary)

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