There isn’t an online experience without the fine print. As users of computers and applications we’ve agreed to countless legal terms and conditions. There’s even a movie about it.
That’s why e-commerce policies are an important aspect to an online store.
The best way to manage e-commerce policies are to make them visible, own it, and don’t trick anyone. Some key policy examples are restocking fees, returns on used goods, or time allowed to return product. For example, unless you make it clear, your craft brew taproom might be getting a lot of used lederhosen returned after Oktoberfest. If that’s not an appropriate condition, then make it clear in your stated policies.
Lowes, for example, wants to promote the DIY homeowner. Hence, their return policy is very liberal. They state 90 days, but personal experience has shown this is not widely enforced (shhhh, don’t tell). A good model for reasonable return policy example might be how Devils Backbone does it. Shopify has nifty tools, like this policy generator, too.
In the era of infinite data and endless hacking and digital marketing, privacy is another important element to your store. To keep it short, don’t share your customers’ info unless you inform them and they consent. Moreover, get SSL certificates and force difficult passwords for your internal teams who manage your site.
Lastly – terms and conditions. This is the law. A good e-commerce site will cover the basics, like use of site, disclaimer or liabilities, serviceability, and/or any applicable laws.
Take care of your e-commerce customers and your craft brewery by paying attention to the details of your policies. Tap into Good Soil Agency’s resources to ensure the fine print makes the grade.
