CEP Insight
Returns disposition checklist

Use this worksheet to connect a returned item with inspection evidence, an approved next destination and the value recovered after processing costs. Keep the reported reason separate from the inspected condition.

Owner: ________________________________________
Date: ________________________________________
Return / original order: ________________________________________
Item / SKU: ________________________________________

[ ] 1. Link the return authorization to the original order. Identify the returned item at receipt and record its reference.
    Evidence: ________________________________________
    Responsible owner: ________________________________________
    Open questions / next action: ________________________________________

[ ] 2. Record the customer’s reported reason separately from the condition found at inspection. Use a defined condition grade and retain the inspection evidence.
    Evidence: ________________________________________
    Responsible owner: ________________________________________
    Open questions / next action: ________________________________________

[ ] 3. Check eligibility under applicable product safety, hygiene and other requirements before choosing the item’s next destination.
    Evidence: ________________________________________
    Responsible owner: ________________________________________
    Open questions / next action: ________________________________________

[ ] 4. Select an approved route where appropriate: restocking, repair, resale, recycling or disposal. Assign a named owner to any unresolved exception and record the disposition decision.
    Evidence: ________________________________________
    Responsible owner: ________________________________________
    Open questions / next action: ________________________________________

[ ] 5. Compare expected proceeds with collection, transport, inspection, repair, repacking and selling costs. Include time until availability and the risk of a further price reduction; record expected net recovery.
    Evidence: ________________________________________
    Responsible owner: ________________________________________
    Open questions / next action: ________________________________________

[ ] 6. Connect refund processing to the physical disposition record while retaining the separate controls required by each process.
    Evidence: ________________________________________
    Responsible owner: ________________________________________
    Open questions / next action: ________________________________________

[ ] 7. Use consistent reason codes where relevant for fit, description, damage, fulfillment error and customer preference. Compare reported reasons with inspection evidence and share recurring patterns with the relevant teams.
    Evidence: ________________________________________
    Responsible owner: ________________________________________
    Open questions / next action: ________________________________________

[ ] 8. Review return cycle time, actual recovery after costs and avoidable causes. Assign an owner to improve product descriptions, packing or fulfillment instructions when the evidence supports a change.
    Evidence: ________________________________________
    Responsible owner: ________________________________________
    Open questions / next action: ________________________________________

Disposition / approved route: ________________________________________
Expected proceeds / costs / net recovery: ________________________________________

Review outcome / next action: ________________________________________

Matching guide: A return is an inventory decision
https://cepinsight.com/en/articles/reverse-logistics