Returns processing: processes for returning ordered goods
Goods and merchandise that have already made their way to the recipient or are on their way there and are taken back by the shipper are referred to as returns. This aspect plays a major role not only in online retailing, where end customers in particular send a wide variety of goods back and forth. Even in B2B business, returns have to be processed and managed, which sometimes leads to problems.
The reasons for returns processing are either physical or contractual (quality losses, incorrect deliveries, etc.). The client for a return can be both the sender and the recipient.
The process of a return
The basis for the handling of returns are so-called return slips. They are used for the allocation in the warehouse and the registration of so incoming goods and commodities. Subsequently, a quality inspection takes place, which, in case of a positive outcome, leads to a restocking of the goods. With the help of the so-called RMA process (Return Merchandise/Material Authorization), companies are able to bring more structure into returns processing and, in particular, reduce errors and optimize processes.
