With Auto-Close, Returnflows can now handle the entire return process automatically — from the moment a package is dropped off or delivered to when it is refunded, exchanged, or a gift card is issued.
⚙️ How Auto-Close works
Once Auto-Close is activated, all returns in Returnflows will automatically close — based on a trigger event and an optional delay.
✅ Choose your trigger
You can choose between two trigger events:
Trigger event | Description |
Package is delivered | Triggered when the return is marked as delivered by the carrier (warehouse delivery) |
Package is handed-in | Triggered when the package is dropped off by the customer at the parcel shop |
⏱ Choose your delay
You can define a delay (in hours) from when the event occurs until the return is actually closed.
This gives your warehouse a buffer to check and report issues if needed.
We recommend a delay of 12–24 hours.
🌟 Example: If "Package is delivered" occurs at 14:00 and you set a 12-hour delay, the return will be auto-closed at 02:00 at night.
🔄 What happens when the return is closed?
Returnflows will automatically perform all necessary actions:
Refunds to original payment method
Sending gift cards
Releasing exchange orders
Updating order status and fulfillment in Shopify
Logging the closure in Return Timeline
You no longer need to click anything — only unbox, check the item, and restock.
🟠 Risks & considerations
While Auto-Close drastically reduces manual handling, it does increase risk:
All returns are processed without staff confirmation
Damaged, incomplete or incorrect returns may still be refunded or exchanged
However, in our experience, the fraud rate is low (1–2%), and the benefits outweigh the risks for most merchants.
🧪 Who is Auto-Close for?
Auto-Close is ideal for:
Merchants with high return volumes
Stores with low risk of fraud/damage
Warehouses that operate with scanning and receive tracking updates
✅ How to enable Auto-Close
Go to Settings → Return Management
Scroll to the Auto Close section
Toggle it ON
Choose your trigger event
Define your delay in hours
Click Save
🌟 Insert Image 1: Auto-Close panel with toggle and delay
🌟 Insert Image 2: Trigger event dropdown (handed-in / delivered)
🤔 FAQs
Can I still review returns manually?
Only if you turn Auto-Close OFF. When it's enabled, all returns will close automatically.
What if a customer returns an empty box?
You can still report and document the case, but it will be too late for Returnflows to stop the refund.
Can I filter which returns Auto-Close applies to?
Not yet — but it’s on our roadmap. Contact us if you have specific needs.
💬 Need help?
Not sure how to set it up — or if Auto-Close is the right fit for your team?
👉 Write to us in the chat. We'll help you configure it and assess your return flow.