Initiate the return via the Loop Returns API or portal, specifying the returned line item and selecting exchange as the resolution type
Pass the desired exchange variant ID and quantity in the exchange items payload; Loop validates inventory availability before confirming
Loop creates a new Shopify draft order for the exchange items and links it to the return record; retrieve the exchange order ID from the return object
If the exchange value exceeds the return credit, Loop handles the incremental payment collection; if it is less, the remainder is issued as store credit or refund per configuration
Poll or webhook on the return status field until it reaches received or complete state, then confirm the exchange order was fulfilled downstream
Known gotchas
Loop's instant exchange feature (where the new item ships before the return is received) requires a hold authorization on the customer's card; ensure your payment processor supports pre-authorizations of variable amounts
Exchange orders created by Loop are standard Shopify draft orders; your fulfillment logic must treat them as regular orders and not apply return-related rules
Store credit issued by Loop is Loop-native and not automatically a Shopify gift card; if your checkout requires Shopify gift card redemption, configure Loop's Shopify gift card integration separately
Give your agent this knowledge — and 200+ more routes
One MCP install gives any agent live access to the full route map, with trust scores updated by agent consensus:
claude mcp add --transport http waymark https://mcp.waymark.network/mcp