Russian e-commerce platform Wildberries is quietly adjusting its operational strategies, with recent policy changes that will directly affect cross-border sellers, particularly newcomers to the marketplace. The platform has announced increased fees for uncollected returns and significantly raised deposit requirements for new sellers—moves that will force merchants to reassess their operational costs and risk management approaches.
Return Fee Adjustments: A Push for Operational Efficiency
Wildberries has raised return fees to 200 rubles for orders left uncollected at pickup points (OPPs) beyond 14 days. Additionally, buyers canceling orders before the deadline—when terms explicitly permit—will now pay 100 rubles. While the platform claims these changes affect less than 1% of total orders, the move signals Wildberries' determination to improve delivery efficiency and reduce unnecessary logistics costs.
For sellers, this emphasizes the need for accurate product descriptions, enhanced customer service, and optimized logistics to minimize returns. Reducing delivery times through better shipping solutions will be crucial to mitigating return risks.
Deposit Hike: Higher Entry Barriers to Combat Fraud
In another significant shift, Wildberries has tripled the deposit requirement for new sellers—from 10,000 to 30,000 rubles. Although the platform states these deposits will be returned as promotional credits, the increase creates substantial upfront financial pressure for smaller merchants.
Wildberries justifies the policy as a measure to verify seller legitimacy and filter out potential fraud. The change reflects stricter seller vetting to maintain marketplace integrity. Sellers must now ensure sufficient capital reserves to cover the higher deposit while adhering closely to platform rules to avoid penalties.
Seller Strategies: Precision and Adaptation Are Key
To navigate these changes, cross-border sellers should consider the following adjustments:
- Optimize product listings: Ensure detailed, accurate descriptions and high-quality images to minimize returns caused by misinformation.
- Enhance customer support: Promptly address buyer inquiries and provide post-purchase assistance to boost satisfaction.
- Streamline logistics: Partner with reliable shipping providers to shorten delivery times and control costs.
- Strengthen risk management: Monitor policy updates closely and adapt operations proactively.
- Plan finances carefully: Allocate resources to cover deposits and potential return fees.
Wildberries' policy revisions underscore its focus on operational refinement and service quality. For cross-border sellers, adapting to these changes with strategic precision will be essential for long-term success on the platform.