Factors Influencing Intentions to Return Express Delivery Packages for Next Use in A Developing Country

Abstract

The rapid growth of the e-commerce and logistics industries has generated considerable express packaging waste, which is steadily harming the environment. Thus, achieving a sustainable e-commerce system has become crucial. This study aims to identify the factors that affect intentions to return Express Delivery Packages (EDPs) for next use by applying the extended Theory of Planned Behaviour (TPB) in a developing country context. The research data were gathered through an online survey in Thailand. In total, 426 responses were obtained using convenience sampling. This paper presents the constructed model and results of the empirical data analysis which utilized a Covariance-Based Structural Equation Modelling (CB-SEM) approach. The results reveal that attitude, subjective norms, perceived behavioral control, and awareness of consequences, significantly impact intentions. Surprisingly, the hypotheses for convenience, incentive, and risk perception, did not affect intentions to return. The contributions to the literature on reverse logistics include improving understanding of the consumer perspective as well as providing insights to the government and express delivery operators for understanding the relative magnitude of factors that lead to intentions to return EDPs, which can provide guidance in forming strategies that will encourage the involvement of more enviormentally friendly practises, in line with circular goals.