"Free shipping is a marketing cost, not a logistics cost."
J.D.

Why this matters in practice

Account for it in CAC, not COGS, to align incentives correctly.

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Related Operational Failures

This insight often shows up when these failures occur:

Operational Readiness Check

These checklist items can help prevent this situation:

  • Returns policy is clearly accessible

    Reduces pre-purchase anxiety.

  • Fraud rules are reviewed weekly

    Balances risk vs revenue.

  • Refunds are processed within 48 hours

    Builds trust for future purchases.