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Returns? Simple & affordable with SmartGate Flex

Your Swiss returns solution - a seamless process from A to B and back. Discover how SmartGate Flex (SGF) masters exports to Switzerland and returns.
Optimize returns
Reduction of return costs
High returns costs can be a considerable burden for your business. SmartGate Flex (SGF) automates and consolidates the returns of your shipments and thus reduces your costs. By using intelligent software solutions, SGF improves the entire returns management process. Since we use your customs data from the original export and clear customs 100% digitally, we reduce our efforts to a minimum and yours to zero.
Optimization of the customer experience
Negative returns experiences can put customers off and lead to bad reviews. SGF ensures that your customers enjoy a smooth national returns experience. They can simply hand the return over to the delivery person or a store as if it were a return from a local retailer. Just put the label on it and that's it. This should be reflected positively in your KPIs: Lower CS expenses, higher repurchase rate, and lower acquisition costs through positive reviews and recommendations. You can even proactively use the fact that you offer a local returns experience in your communication to increase the conversion rate.
Stress-free customs clearance

The cross-border returns process can be complicated and time-consuming due to customs clearance, which often leads to delays and increased costs. With SmartGate Flex (SGF), your returns solution is already integrated with onboarding for export right from the start and is therefore no longer a problem. We take care of the entire customs clearance process for you so that your returns can be processed quickly and without additional administrative effort. Thanks to our expertise and the use of modern technologies, we guarantee efficient and smooth handling of customs formalities. Rely on SGF to manage your cross-border returns effectively and efficiently so that you can concentrate fully on your core business.
No double customs duties
Worried about paying customs duties again? This concern is particularly justified if you don't have your data under control. Customs can strike again when goods are re-imported into the EU, resulting in additional costs and administrative challenges. With SGF, we ensure that customs correctly recognizesthe returns as returned goods, which means that no new duties and taxes are incurred. Through precise documentation and professional management of your shipments, SGF ensures that all returns are handled in accordance with customs regulations. Our specialized and 100% digitized processes, combined with our close cooperation with customs authorities, facilitate fast and hassle-free processing, so you can rely on a cost-efficient return of goods. Use SGF to simplify your international trade and avoid unnecessary financial burdens from customs procedures.
Simple data management with SGF
Worried about special processes or struggling with complex Excel spreadsheets? The SGF returns solution relieves you of these worries, because it comes virtually free of charge with our export solution. As soon as you are ready to export, you can also start with returns. We use the same interface and the same data for both exports and returns. This guarantees seamless integration and efficient handling of all processes. At SGF, everything is managed and offered from a single source, so you benefit from consistent and error-free administration. Our system minimizes the need for manual intervention and reduces the risk of errors. Rely on SGF to simplify your business processes and concentrate fully on growing your business.
Customized solutions for unique needs
With personal advice on the optimal shipping and logistics setup

At Swiss Post, we understand that every market has its own unique challenges. That's why we're here to help you export to or from Switzerland. With our extensive experience and customized approach, together we will find the optimal solution for your shipping and logistics setup.

Why book a consultation with us?

  • Customized solutions: We know that no two companies are the same. That's why we offer personalized advice to meet your exact needs.
  • Comprehensive expertise: Our experts have in-depth knowledge of all aspects of international shipping and logistics.
  • Simple process: We make exporting and importing as straightforward as possible so that you can concentrate on your core business.
  • Trusted partner: As Switzerland's national postal company, we stand for reliability, security and quality.

Ready to take the next step? Arrange your consultation now and find out how we can simplify the complexity of international shipping.

Book a consultation
Georg Pohl
Product Consultant International Affiliates & Partner

Everything you need to know about SmartGate Flex

What does SGF do differently when processing returns?

We offer a fully integrated solution that covers the entire returns process from the first mile to the last mile, including customs clearance. Everything from a single source to save you time and money.

How can I reduce my returns costs?

SGF optimizes the returns process through efficient logistics solutions and simplified customs clearance, which can significantly reduce the overall cost of your returns.

How does customs clearance work with SGF?
We take care of the entire customs clearance process for you. From preparing the necessary documents to customs clearance - we ensure that your returns pass through customs smoothly.
Can I track the status of my returns?

Yes, with our user-friendly dashboard you can view the status of your returns at any time. So you are always up to date.

What happens if an item is damaged when it is returned?
Simply inform us of the damage and we will take care of the process. We will work closely with you to find a satisfactory solution for you and your customers.
Does SGF offer a solution for international returns?

Absolutely, our service covers both national and international returns, including complex customs processing for cross-border returns.

Does SGF also support the returns process for large items?
We strive to process returns as quickly as possible. As a rule, they are processed within 2 days of being posted by the Swiss shopper.
How does SGF improve the customer experience for returns?
Yes, our service is designed to handle both standard parcels and bulky items efficiently. We have a solution for every product. With SGF Freight, you can even ship general cargo items to Switzerland and, of course, return them.
What should I do if I have a high number of returns?

Through the national domestic returns process and the provision of transparent information, we significantly improve the customer experience, which leads to higher customer satisfaction and positive reviews. In addition, the lower costs can be passed on to the shopper and thus improve the experience. As a retailer, you can also carry out refunds much faster based on our local collection of returned items. This means the shopper gets their money back at lightning speed.

How can I obtain my returns label?
There are several ways to do this:
  • Label in the Box: During the Pick & Pack process, we provide you with the Last Mile Label as well as the returns label, which you enclose with the order.
  • Label on demand: Do you operate a returns portal or would you like to provide your CH shoppers with a returns label only on request? No problem - our API can do that!
How can I integrate SGF into my online shop?

We offer various integration options, from plugins for common e-commerce platforms to customised solutions. Our technical team is happy to support you.

Does Swiss Post also offer support with technical questions?

Of course. Our support team, the E-Commerce Competence Center, is available to assist you with any technical questions you may have. We are here to ensure that your experience with SmartGate Flex is a smooth one.

Can I combine my existing logistics partners for first-mile deliveries with SGF?

Yes, SGF is designed to be flexible and can be easily integrated into existing logistics structures. We will work with you to create a seamless solution. Your partner will inject the shipments into our SmartGate when exporting to Switzerland and will also pick up the returns there. It's that easy.

We work with standard interfaces to all common store systems and ERP systems and offer individual integration options via API and data upload

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