International customer returns : Case: Varusteleka Oy

This thesis studies the possibilities of outsourcing reverse logistics for a commissioning company. The thesis is divided into four parts; the introduction and theory, current situation, the possible solutions, and discussion.\n\nIn the introduction, the case and case company are introduced. \nThe study aims to evaluate outsourcing reverse logistics and answers the research question: What is the most efficient way to handle customer returns from North America. \n\nThe second part consists of theory. The key concepts are introduced there, as well as the way in which the theory and concepts are applied to this study. \n\nThe third part concerns possible third-party logistics providers. Their service portfolio is presented and evaluated with an eye on suitability to the commissioning company.\n\nIn the fourth part, conclusions are drawn and discussed by the author. From the evaluated 3PL companies none stood out to be the clearly the best option for the commissioning company. However, all of the three should be taken into consideration when deciding how to handle the North American customer returns.