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Returns & Reverse Logistics

Returns & Reverse Logistics

Complete reverse logistics management including RMA workflow, return shipment tracking, replacement fulfillment, vendor chargebacks, and scrap/write-off processes for defective or excess inventory.

PostgreSQL
5 Tables
Schema: logistics
Shipment Tracking

Returns Workflow Overview

ISSUE IDENTIFIED
RMA CREATED
APPROVED
SHIPPED
CLOSED
5
Return Processes
RMA
Authorization
Track
Return Shipment
Auto
Chargeback

1. RMA Workflow

1

Return Merchandise Authorization

Create and manage RMA requests for defective, damaged, or excess goods with vendor approval workflow.

logistics.rma_requests

  • rma_number - Unique RMA identifier
  • return_type - DEFECTIVE, DAMAGED, EXCESS, WRONG_ITEM, RECALL
  • return_reason - QUALITY, SPECIFICATION, TRANSIT_DAMAGE, EXPIRED
  • vendor_rma_number - Vendor's reference number
  • expected_credit - Anticipated credit amount

logistics.rma_items

  • defect_code / defect_description - Issue details
  • disposition - RETURN_VENDOR, SCRAP, REWORK, SALVAGE
  • replacement_required - Needs replacement flag
  • credit_required - Needs credit flag

Return Reasons

  • DEFECTIVE Manufacturing defect
  • DAMAGED Transit or handling damage
  • WRONG_ITEM Incorrect shipment
  • EXCESS Over-delivery

Disposition Options

  • • Return to vendor for credit
  • • Scrap with write-off
  • • Rework in-house
  • • Salvage for parts

2. Return Shipment Tracking

1

Shipment Management

Track return shipments to vendors with carrier integration, proof of delivery, and receipt confirmation.

logistics.return_shipments

  • carrier_name / tracking_number - Logistics details
  • ship_date / expected_delivery_date - Timeline
  • shipping_cost / shipping_paid_by - Cost allocation
  • status - PENDING, IN_TRANSIT, DELIVERED, REJECTED
  • receipt_notes - Vendor receipt confirmation

Shipping Cost Rules

Defective/Wrong item returns: Vendor pays shipping. Excess/Customer-caused returns: Buyer pays. Disputed: Held pending resolution.

3. Vendor Chargebacks

1

Chargeback Management

Deduct costs from vendors for quality issues, short shipments, packaging violations, or compliance failures.

logistics.vendor_chargebacks

  • chargeback_type - QUALITY, SHORTAGE, COMPLIANCE, PACKAGING, LATE_DELIVERY
  • reason_code / reason_description - Detailed cause
  • chargeback_amount - Amount to recover
  • deducted_from_invoice_id - Invoice offset

Chargeback Policy

Chargebacks require documented evidence. Vendors have 10 days to dispute. Undisputed chargebacks auto-deduct from next payment.

4. Scrap & Write-Off

1

Scrap Request Management

Manage disposal of damaged, obsolete, or expired inventory with proper approvals and accounting entries.

logistics.scrap_requests

  • scrap_reason - DAMAGED, OBSOLETE, EXPIRED, CONTAMINATED
  • disposal_method - AUCTION, RECYCLE, DESTROY, DONATE
  • salvage_value - Expected recovery value
  • total_value - Write-off amount

Approval Thresholds

ValueApprover
< $1,000Warehouse Manager
$1K - $10KOperations Manager
$10K - $50KFinance Controller
> $50KCFO

Disposal Methods

  • • Auction to highest bidder
  • • Certified recycling vendor
  • • Controlled destruction
  • • Charitable donation

Database Schema Summary

TablePurposeKey Columns
logistics.rma_requestsRMA headersrma_number, return_type, vendor_rma
logistics.rma_itemsRMA line itemsdefect_code, disposition
logistics.return_shipmentsReturn trackingtracking_number, status
logistics.vendor_chargebacksChargeback recordschargeback_type, amount
logistics.scrap_requestsScrap/write-offscrap_reason, disposal_method