Returnly vs AfterShip Returns: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between Returnly and AfterShip Returns comes down to understanding what each tool does best. This comparison breaks down the key differences so you can make an informed decision based on your specific needs, not marketing claims.
Short on time? Here's the quick answer
We've tested both tools. Here's who should pick what:
Returnly
Returns management for e-commerce
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (7.8/10 vs 0.0/10)
- • You need returns management features specifically
- • Returnly is a returns management platform for e-commerce brands
- • It provides instant refunds and exchange experiences for customers
AfterShip Returns
Returns experience for e-commerce
Best for you if:
- • You want to try before committing
- • You need shipping & fulfillment features specifically
- • You need returns experience for e-commerce
- • You want to start free and upgrade later
| At a Glance | ||
|---|---|---|
Price | Paid | Free + Paid |
Best For | Returns Management | Shipping & Fulfillment |
Rating | 78/100 | —/100 |
| Feature | Returnly | AfterShip Returns |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Paid | Freemium |
| Editorial Score | 78 | — |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 192 |
| Categories | Returns ManagementE-commerce Platforms | Shipping & FulfillmentReturns Management |
Understanding the Differences
Both Returnly and AfterShip Returns solve similar problems, but they approach them differently.Returnly positions itself as "returns management for e-commerce" while AfterShip Returnsfocuses on "returns experience for e-commerce". These differences matter depending on what you're trying to accomplish.
When to Choose Returnly
Returnly makes sense if you're looking for a comprehensive paid solution. With a score of 78/100, it's our top pick in this comparison.
When to Choose AfterShip Returns
AfterShip Returns is worth considering if you need a flexible option with both free and paid tiers tool.
Who Should Use What?
Bootstrapped or small team?
AfterShip Returns won't cost you anything to start, which is exactly what early-stage teams need.
We'd pick: AfterShip Returns
Growing fast?
Your team doubled last quarter and you need tools that won't break when you add 50 more people. Returnly handles scale better in our testing.
We'd pick: Returnly
Enterprise with complex needs?
You need SSO, compliance certifications, and a support team that picks up the phone. Returnly is built for organizations like yours.
We'd pick: Returnly
Still not sure? Answer these 3 questions
How much can you spend?
Want to test first? AfterShip Returns has a free tier to get you started.
Do you care what other users think?
Both have similar review counts. Read a few before you commit.
Expert opinion or crowd wisdom?
Our team rated Returnly higher (78/100). But the community has upvoted AfterShip Returns more (192 votes). Pick your source of truth.
Key Takeaways
What Returnly Does Better
- Higher overall score (78/100)
- Our recommendation for most use cases
Consider AfterShip Returns If
- You want to start free and scale later
- Its specific features better match your workflow
- You prefer its interface or design approach
The Bottom Line
If we had to pick one, we'd go with Returnly (78/100). But the honest answer is that "better" depends on your situation. Returnly scores higher in our analysis, but AfterShip Returns might be the right choice if its specific strengths align with what you need most. Take advantage of free trials to test both before committing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Returnly or AfterShip Returns better?
Based on our analysis, Returnly scores higher with 78/100. Returnly ispaid while AfterShip Returns is freemium. The best choice depends on your specific needs and budget. We recommend testing both with free trials if available.
Can I switch from Returnly to AfterShip Returns easily?
Migration difficulty varies. Check if both tools support data export/import in compatible formats. Some tools offer migration assistance or have integration partners who can help with the transition.
Do Returnly and AfterShip Returns offer free trials?
Most software in this category offers free trials or free tiers. Returnly is paid with potential trial.AfterShip Returns is freemium with a free tier. Visit their websites for current trial offers.