---
title: German DTC returns report 2021
url: "https://parcellab.com/research/german-dtc-returns-report-2021/"
type: Research
date_published: "2021-11-18T18:14:00+00:00"
date_modified: "2025-03-18T13:36:33+00:00"
description: "Explore the 2021 German DTC Returns Report, highlighting key trends and strategies for optimizing the returns process in the direct-to-consumer market."
---

## Research summary

Returns are a critical aspect of the direct-to-consumer (DTC) experience, especially in the German market. Our 2021 report offers an in-depth analysis of returns management, providing insights into how leading brands handle returns to enhance customer satisfaction and loyalty.

### In this study, you’ll discover

- Key trends in German DTC returns management
- How effective returns processes can increase customer retention
- Strategies to minimize return rates while improving the customer experience
- Case studies of German DTC brands excelling in returns management

DTC brands have full control over the customer journey, yet many still fail to provide transparency and engagement after checkout—leaving customers in the dark when it matters most.

A poor returns experience can break customer trust, while a seamless process builds loyalty. Yet, many DTC brands still create unnecessary friction. Here’s where the biggest challenges—and opportunities—lie.

### Key stats that matter

 59  % 

Nearly six in ten DTC brands charge customers for returns

 65  % 

Two-thirds of brands do not inform customers how long refunds will take

 53  % 

More than half of DTC brands do not include a return label in the package

[Download the study](https://hs.parcellab.com/hubfs/parcelLab-DE-DTC-Returns-2021.pdf)