Top Strategies for Sealing Products to Reduce Returns
Do you sell FBA, my handmade friend?
Do you ever feel like customers are using your products for a one-time event and then maybe returning them like they never even touched them? Ew. Maybe you sell something that could be "borrowed" for a wedding, party, or photoshoot—only to show back up at the warehouse looking suspiciously not new. Also ew.
Or maybe you're dealing with buyers who use your item and then try to return it, claiming it was "defective" when really, they just didn’t need it anymore.
If this sounds familiar, I’ve got a simple solution for you to try: Sealing your products in a way that makes it clear when they’ve been opened or used. Will it work for you? Maybe the better question is : what have you got to lose?
Why a Seal Can Drastically Reduce Returns
When customers know that breaking a seal means they can’t return the item as "new," they think twice before trying to pull a fast one. And lets be real, they think they're pulling a fast one on Amazon, not on you. It also protects you from Amazon FBA marking an item as "unsellable" because it was returned in poor condition.
Best Sealing Strategies to Prevent Unwanted Returns
1. Use Tamper-Evident Stickers or Seals
A simple sticker that says "This product cannot be returned if seal is broken" can work wonders. These are perfect for items like:
* Jewelry or accessories that could be worn once
* Home decor that might be used for staging
* Personalized or limited-use items
If they break the seal, they own it—plain and simple.
2. Shrink Wrapping or Heat-Sealed Bags
For small products, shrink wrap is a great way to create a clear barrier. Once it's torn open, there's no way for someone to repackage it and claim it was never used.
This works well for:
- Beauty products
- Small accessories
- Handmade home goods like candles or coasters
3. Custom Packaging with Destruction Tape
Consider using packaging that is difficult to reseal. A good option is destruction tape—once peeled, it leaves behind a mark or cannot be re-stuck.
Great for:
- Boxes with high-value handmade goods
- Any product that needs a little extra security
4. Security Holograms or Void Labels
A holographic or "void if removed" sticker makes it impossible for someone to return an item looking untouched. Once removed, it leaves a mark, showing the item has been opened.
Perfect for:
- High-end handmade items
- Anything that needs to stay pristine
5. Clear Messaging in the Packaging
Make sure your customers know the policy upfront. A small card inside the package can state:
👉 "For the safety and quality of our products, this item cannot be returned if opened or used."
This sets the expectation from the start.
The Bottom Line
Will it work? Maybe, maybe not. I like to tell people : pretend an 18 year old is handling your Amazon stuff in the warehouse. They may still accept that return back as new. But we're working more towards deterring the customer than Amazon here in this play. Returns are a part of selling online, but that doesn’t mean you have to accept unfair ones.
A simple seal can protect your business, reduce losses, and discourage dishonest returns.
If customers know they can't just use and return your product like a rental service for their big day, they’ll be more likely to buy only if they actually want it, and then actually keep it (aka you keep your money!)
Try one of these sealing strategies and see how your return rates change!
Happy selling,
