Fulfillment
Returns Management
Also called: Reverse logistics
Definition
The controlled process of authorizing, receiving, inspecting, routing, and resolving returned goods.
In practical terms
Returned items may be restocked, repaired, refurbished, recycled, liquidated, or disposed of. Clear status and disposition rules protect inventory accuracy and customer experience.
Example
A returned item is inspected and placed back into sellable inventory after passing quality checks.