Reverse logistics management proposal: Free template

Reverse logistics management proposal: Free template

Customize this free reverse logistics management proposal with Cobrief

Open this free reverse logistics management proposal in Cobrief and start editing it instantly using AI. You can adjust the tone, structure, and content based on your client’s return volumes, product categories, or fulfillment model. You can also use AI to review your draft — spot gaps, tighten language, and improve clarity before sending.

Once you're done, send, download, or save the proposal in one click — no formatting or setup required.

This template is fully customizable and built for real-world use — ideal for proposing solutions that streamline returns, reduce waste, or recover value from returned goods. Whether you’re working with e-commerce brands, retailers, or manufacturers, this version gives you a structured head start and removes the guesswork.

What is a reverse logistics management proposal?

A reverse logistics management proposal outlines your plan for managing the flow of goods back from the customer — including returns processing, refurbishing, recycling, resale, or proper disposal. It typically includes return authorization procedures, condition grading workflows, warehouse routing, and reporting metrics.

This type of proposal is often used by logistics providers, returns technology platforms, sustainability consultants, and in-house operations teams — especially when clients are facing high return rates or operational inefficiencies.

Use this proposal to:

  • Reduce time and cost associated with returns.
  • Improve recovery value through resale, refurbishing, or parts harvesting.
  • Set up clear RMA and routing rules for smoother reverse flow.
  • Help businesses meet sustainability and compliance targets.

This proposal helps clients see returns as an opportunity to recapture margin and build customer loyalty — not just a cost center.

Why use Cobrief to edit your proposal

Instead of copying a static template, you can use Cobrief to tailor and refine your proposal directly in your browser — with AI built in to help along the way.

  • Edit the proposal directly in your browser: No setup or formatting required — just click and start customizing.
  • Rewrite sections with AI: Highlight any sentence and choose from actions like shorten, expand, simplify, or change tone.
  • Run a one-click AI review: Get instant suggestions to improve clarity, fix vague sections, or tighten your message.
  • Apply AI suggestions instantly: Review and accept individual AI suggestions, or apply all improvements across the proposal in one click.
  • Share or export instantly: Send your proposal through Cobrief or download a clean PDF or DOCX version when you’re done.

Cobrief helps you create a polished, persuasive proposal — without wasting time on formatting or second-guessing your copy.

When to use this proposal

This reverse logistics management proposal works well in scenarios like:

  • When return rates are rising and eroding margins or warehouse space.
  • When adding resale, refurbishment, or recycling processes to existing operations.
  • When returns handling is slow, manual, or inconsistent across regions.
  • When building a sustainability or circularity program for consumer goods.
  • When responding to customer dissatisfaction linked to return delays or unclear policies.

Use this proposal to show how structured reverse logistics improves cost recovery, speeds up workflows, and supports customer retention.

What to include in a reverse logistics management proposal

Each section of the proposal is designed to help you explain your offer clearly and professionally. Here's how to use them:

  • Executive summary: Position the project as a way to improve return efficiency, reduce loss, and create a structured, customer-friendly reverse flow.
  • Scope of work: Include return authorization system (RMA), grading workflows, restocking or refurbishment procedures, reverse shipping logistics, disposal/recycling streams, and reporting tools.
  • Timeline: Break into phases — current state assessment, design, pilot launch, and full rollout. Timelines often range from 2–6 weeks depending on volume and facilities.
  • Pricing: Offer fixed-fee for program design, plus optional pricing for technology implementation, warehouse process training, or ongoing oversight.
  • Terms and conditions: Clarify access to return data, facility requirements, reverse freight responsibilities, and limitations on restock/resale value recovery.
  • Next steps: Include a CTA like “Approve to begin return data intake and RMA workflow design” or “Schedule kickoff to align on returns processing KPIs.”

How to write an effective reverse logistics management proposal

Use these best practices to show operational clarity and commercial value:

  • Make the client the focus: Highlight how the reverse flow plan saves money, reduces waste, and improves customer satisfaction.
  • Personalize where it matters: Reference product categories, existing return challenges, or environmental goals.
  • Show results, not just processes: Use examples like “Recovered 60% of returned units for resale” or “Cut return processing time from 10 days to 3.”
  • Be clear and confident: Focus on measurable impact, not vague logistics language.
  • Keep it skimmable: Use structured bullets, clear headers, and outcome-focused language to help ops managers and execs scan easily.
  • End with momentum: Propose a quick win — like a pilot for a high-volume product line — to start proving impact immediately.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

What’s typically included in reverse logistics?

Return shipping, inspection, grading, sorting, restocking, refurbishing, recycling, or disposal — plus reporting and customer communication.

Can I reuse this proposal for different industries?

Yes — just tailor the scope to match the product type (e.g., electronics, apparel, medical devices) and return complexity.

How do I show ROI to clients on reverse logistics?

Focus on value recovery (resale, refurbish), cost avoidance (waste fees, warehouse space), and customer satisfaction improvements.

Do I need client data before proposing a plan?

High-level estimates are possible, but detailed design requires SKUs, return volumes, return reasons, and warehouse capabilities.

Can this integrate with my client’s existing systems?

Yes — just clarify what systems (e.g., WMS, ERP, returns portals) are in place and include integration support in your scope if needed.


This article contains general legal information and does not contain legal advice. Cobrief is not a law firm or a substitute for an attorney or law firm. The law is complex and changes often. For legal advice, please ask a lawyer.