Design a returns management integration: initiate, authorize, and track returns

Steps

1. Initiate a return request by creating a Return Merchandise Authorization (RMA) record capturing order ID, line items being returned, return reason codes, and expected refund method (original payment, store credit, exchange).
2. Implement an authorization step: validate return eligibility against your return policy rules (within return window, item condition, non-returnable category exclusions) before issuing the RMA.
3. Generate a prepaid return shipping label via your carrier API (or a multi-carrier platform like EasyPost or ShipBob) and associate the label tracking number with the RMA record.
4. Listen for carrier tracking webhook events (or poll) to detect when the return package is received at the warehouse; update RMA status to RECEIVED and trigger an inspection workflow.
5. After inspection, update the RMA status to APPROVED or REJECTED based on item condition; trigger the appropriate refund API call (e.g., platform refund mutation) or restocking action.
6. Emit a final status notification to the customer (email/SMS) and write the closed RMA record with disposition, refund amount, and restock action to your audit log.