Return Processing Statuses

The WeSupply Labs platform offers a robust system for merchants to manage their return processes. Understanding the different statuses in the return process can help you streamline your operations and provide better customer service. Here's a step-by-step guide to understanding the return statuses on the WeSupply Labs platform:

1. **Approved Status**: This status indicates that the return request has been approved by the merchant. This does not necessarily mean that the merchant has received the returned item. It's a signal to the customer that their return request has been accepted and they can proceed with sending the item back. This approval can be based on either an automated or manual return policy. For example, the item is eligible for return and it is within the return window (e.g., 30 days).

2. **Received Status**: Once the customer has sent the item back and it has been received by the merchant, the status changes to "Received". At this point, the item has not yet been inspected.

3. **Controlled Status**: This status indicates that the item is currently undergoing inspection to determine if it qualifies for a return. This process involves checking if the item is in a resellable state. During this phase, the refund amount is also calculated, taking into account any deductions such as shipping costs.

4. **Refunded Status**: This status indicates that the return has been successfully refunded. It means that the customer has received a refund for the returned item(s).

5. **Rejected Status**: When a return is marked as "Rejected," it means that the return request has been declined or denied. This could be due to various reasons, such as not meeting the return policy criteria or the item not being eligible for return.

6. **Archived Status**: Returns that are marked as "Archived" has been moved to a separate section for organizational purposes. Archived returns are typically those that have been resolved or closed and are no longer actively being processed.

7. **Escalated Status**: When a return is marked as "Escalated," it means that the return request has been escalated to a higher level of authority or management for further review or resolution. This status is used when additional attention or intervention is required to address the customer's concerns or issues with the return.

The order of these statuses can sometimes be confusing. You might wonder why an order would be approved for a return before it is received and controlled. This is usually due to the merchant's return policy. Some merchants may have policies that allow for returns to be approved before the item is received and inspected. However, the final refund amount is only determined after the inspection process.

Different merchants may handle this flow in different ways, depending on their specific return policies and procedures. Some may choose to wait until the item has been received and controlled before approving the return, while others may have automated systems in place that allow for pre-approval of returns based on certain criteria.

By understanding these statuses, you can better manage your return process and provide clearer communication to your customers.