What Are Sales Returns in AltheaSuite?
Sales returns in AltheaSuite allow you to reverse a sale and manage the return of products and associated payments. The system supports two types of returns:
- Returns from Invoiced Orders
- Returns from Delivered (but not yet invoiced) Orders
Both processes are seamlessly handled within the Orders module, allowing for full visibility, tracking, and inventory control throughout the return cycle.
Creating a Sales Return from an Invoiced Order
The process begins in the Orders module, where a user can create a new order and select the customer and delivery mode. After identifying the item to return, the user accesses the line item’s context menu and selects Add Sales Return. This action changes the item status to red, signaling that a return process is in motion.
To proceed:
- Select the original QLN (Quick Lookup Number) from the previously invoiced order.
- The system automatically populates the return order with the original item and any related add-ons (like warranties).
- After confirming the items, the new return order is saved.
Once saved, the order appears in Pending Deliveries, where it can be scheduled for pickup using the built-in calendar feature. Once assigned to a trip and loaded onto a delivery truck, the item can be marked as picked up.
Back in the system, the item appears in the Picked Up Items module. From there:
- Retailers can issue a Sales Return.
- A refund or customer credit can be processed.
- Optional restocking or service fees can be applied.
- The item is officially returned to stock, updating inventory in real time.
Handling Returns from Delivered (But Not Yet Invoiced) Orders
If a product has been delivered but not yet invoiced, the return process follows a similar workflow with a few differences:
- Start by creating a new order and selecting the item to return.
- Use the context menu to add a return for the delivered item.
- Link the return to the appropriate QLN from the previous delivery.
- Once confirmed, create and save the new return order.
After scheduling the pickup in Pending Deliveries and completing the trip, the item returns to the Picked Up Items module. Since the item was never invoiced, there’s no need to issue a sales return. Instead, users can move the item directly back to a selected warehouse — whether it’s standard inventory or a designated scratch-and-dent location for damaged goods.
The system updates the inventory records accordingly and notes the return’s origin, maintaining accurate stock and audit trails.
Key Benefits for Retailers
- Improved Inventory Accuracy
Returns are fully tracked and reintegrated into stock, ensuring real-time visibility of product availability. - Streamlined Return Scheduling
AltheaSuite’s calendar and delivery management features simplify the logistics of pickups and returns. - Customer Satisfaction
Fast, transparent returns — with options for refunds or credits — enhance trust and loyalty. - Operational Efficiency
Automating trip creation, return tracking, and inventory updates reduces manual work and minimizes errors. - Financial Clarity
Whether refunding or issuing credits, all financial transactions related to returns are logged, supporting accurate accounting and reporting.
Conclusion
Sales returns are a critical part of the retail experience, and with AltheaSuite’s Orders module, the process is not only efficient but also fully integrated across your delivery, inventory, and financial systems. Whether managing a simple return or handling complex logistics for non-invoiced items, AltheaSuite provides the tools needed to keep your operations agile and your customers happy.
For more information or a personalized walkthrough, book a demo today with an AltheaSuite product expert.
