Grading return rate

Grading & ConditionOperations

Grading return rate is the percentage of sold devices returned by buyers due to a mismatch between stated condition and actual condition on arrival.

Grading return rate is the main financial consequence of inconsistent cosmetic assessment. A return on a refurbished device typically costs 15-25% of device value once reverse logistics, re-inspection, and restocking are included, so even a 5% return rate tied to grading inaccuracy can materially erode unit margin. On Back Market, elevated return rates can lead to algorithmic suppression in search results, creating indirect pricing pressure because lower visibility often forces lower prices to maintain sales velocity.

See also