4 Things to Look for in a Recommerce Partner

By Luke Fowler, Director of Partnerships at Tersus Solutions

Starting a recommerce program can be complex—especially for brands trying to build internal systems from the ground up. While outsourcing can ease some of the operational burden, it raises an important question: What should you look for in a recommerce partner?

Based on what we've seen across the industry, here are four essential areas to evaluate when choosing a partner to support your recommerce strategy.

1. Relevant Experience in Recommerce Operations

Traditional 3PLs and warehousing providers often excel at fulfillment logistics, but recommerce brings a different set of challenges. Managing single-SKU inventory, handling irregular item conditions, and navigating reverse logistics require specific operational experience.

Partners who have worked directly in the recommerce space are often better equipped to handle its nuances and can help avoid common pitfalls. Experience with recommerce as a core function—not just an added capability—can make a meaningful difference.

2. Comprehensive Capabilities Under One Roof

Recommerce often requires more than just receiving and shipping. Items may need to be cleaned, repaired, photographed, or otherwise prepared before they’re ready for resale. Working with a partner that provides these services in one location can reduce time, cost, and environmental impact.

Instead of coordinating multiple vendors across different sites, brands benefit from streamlined workflows and better control over product quality and consistency.

3. Flexibility and Willingness to Collaborate

Recommerce programs don’t follow a one-size-fits-all model. Consumer preferences shift, inventory conditions vary, and programs need to evolve over time. It’s helpful to work with a partner that is open to testing, iterating, and adjusting alongside you.

Many brands are still learning what works in this space, so having a collaborative partner who brings insight—and adapts quickly—is often more valuable than one offering a rigid, predefined solution.

4. Stability and Track Record

Recommerce is a growing but still maturing industry, and not every new provider sticks around. Program interruptions due to partner instability—especially when inventory is involved—can be costly and difficult to navigate.

When evaluating a potential partner, consider their business model, operational longevity, and ability to scale responsibly. A stable partner reduces risk and helps ensure continuity as your program grows.

Final Thoughts

Recommerce offers exciting opportunities for brands to extend product life, reduce waste, and engage with customers in new ways. But building a successful program often depends on choosing the right operational partner—one with relevant experience, flexible capabilities, and a long-term outlook.

As the space continues to evolve, collaboration and adaptability will likely become just as important as logistics and fulfillment.