Reverse Logistics Statistics (Must Know in 2024)
Reverse logistics is all about handling returns and recycling goods in the supply chain. But just how important is this for businesses now?
With that in mind, we’ll cover key reserve logistics statistics on market growth, industries served, and how e-commerce is driving up product returns.
Reverse Logistics Statistics: Key Numbers
- The reverse logistics market size in 2023 was $700.17 billion, and it is projected to reach $954.5 billion by 2029.
- The reverse logistics market is expected to grow by 36.3% between 2023 and 2029.
- North America led the reverse logistics market in 2023 with 75.0%, followed by EMEA at 31.8%, Latin America at 22.7%, and Asia Pacific at 15.9%.
- E-commerce revenues are growing by 15% annually, and product returns are near 30%.
Sources: (Data Bridge Market Research, RLA, Deloitte)
Reverse Logistics Market Size
The reverse logistics market is rapidly expanding, with significant growth each year. Check out how its market size has changed and what’s coming up:
| Years | Market Size (in billions) | Market Growth Rate(%) |
|---|---|---|
| 2022 | $664.93 | N/A |
| 2023 | $700.17 | 5.29% |
| 2024* | $737.28 | 5.30% |
| 2025* | $776.36 | 5.30% |
| 2026* | $817.51 | 5.30% |
| 2027 | $860.83 | 5.29% |
| 2028 | $906.46 | 5.30% |
| 2029 | $954.5 | 5.29% |
Source: Data Bridge Market Research
Reserve Logistics Industries
Reverse logistics is all about handling returns and extra inventory in different sectors. Here’s a quick look at the main industries involved and their shares:
- Electronics: 68.2%
- Apparel: 31.8%
- Other: 29.5%
- Industry, Machinery & Parts: 18.2%
- Furniture: 15.9%
- Medical & Pharma: 13.6%
- Automotive: 9.1%
Source: RLA
Reverse Logistics Statistics by Regions
There are big differences in reverse logistics around the world, which shows some interesting trends and gaps. Here’s a breakdown by region:
- North America: 75.0%
- Europe, Middle East, Africa: 31.8%
- Latin America: 22.7%
- Asia Pacific: 15.9%
Source: RLA
Top Reasons for E-commerce Returns
E-commerce returns mostly happen because of product problems and unmet expectations. Here’s a look at why customers are sending things back:
- 30% of e-commerce returns are due to defective and damaged products.
- 27% of returns happen because customers’ expectations are not fulfilled.
- 27% of returns are caused by insufficient quality of products.
- 20% of returns occur because customers order too many products.
- 18% of e-commerce returns are due to delivery problems.
Sources: BYRD