Return Expiration Period

Managing product returns efficiently is critical for maintaining operational discipline and ensuring fair return policies. The Return Expiration Period feature allows users to set a time-bound window during which a return must be completed. After this expiration period, the system will automatically mark the return as Cancelled, signaling that the return window has closed.

The feature includes:

1. A configurable expiration period field on return records.
2. A scheduled job or automated server action to regularly check open returns and cancel those past their expiration.
3. Status updates and logs for transparency and auditability.

This ensures that outdated or forgotten return requests do not linger in the system, improving data hygiene and aligning with organizational return policies.

Key Benefits

1. Automated Cancellation
   No need to manually track or cancel outdated returns.
2. Policy Enforcement
   Ensures compliance with your company’s return deadlines.
3. Reduced Data Clutter
   Keeps return records clean and relevant by removing stale entries.
4. Customer Transparency
   Prevents confusion by clearly canceling expired return requests.
5. Operational Efficiency
   Saves time for support and inventory teams.

Example Use Case

A customer initiates a return request, and the system sets a 14-day expiration period. If the customer does not ship the product back or the return is not validated within this timeframe, the return is automatically marked as Cancelled. This ensures the return doesn't remain pending indefinitely and stock/invoicing isn’t affected by inactive records.

Conclusion

The Return Expiration Period feature provides an automated and policy-driven mechanism to manage return timeframes in Odoo. By canceling returns after a defined period, it supports accurate inventory management, enforces business rules, and enhances overall operational efficiency.