Return intake

A return begins with a stock request. The Inventory Clerk identifies the item, the working location and the counterparty location, then records the requested units and when the work is needed. This gives the warehouse a specific record to review before stock moves. A separate return grade points back to that request, so the grade and the eventual movement share the same case.

Use the return reference to recognize the physical return during intake. The request number gives the team an operational key when several packages for the same item arrive on the same day. Before moving a case to review, the clerk checks the item and both locations. A location that is inactive or unsuitable needs attention before it is used in the stock action. The team should agree who checks that information at the receiving bench and who can change it when a label is wrong.

The request owner remains visible across the review and evidence trail. The grade records accepted units separately from requested units. That difference is useful when a case arrives with only part of the expected stock in acceptable condition. The supervisor decides the authorized scope; the clerk does not turn the arrival quantity into an approved inventory increase simply by saving the grade.

• Case identity. Keep the request number, return reference and item together during receiving and review.
• Locations. Confirm the working and counterparty locations before a movement is posted.
• Supporting material. Attach a photo or document to the request when the decision depends on condition or packaging.

Decide how the team assigns return references and request numbers. Name the person who records the package arrival and the supervisor who can resolve a disputed item or destination. Agree when a photo is needed and who checks its link to the right request. Map the location directory before a pilot so the same warehouse is not represented by several informal names.

Suppose a shipment comes back with ten expected units, but only eight appear fit for return to available stock. The clerk opens the request for ten, records the grade with eight accepted units and attaches the condition photo. The supervisor can see the difference before deciding disposition. If the item code or location is wrong, correct the request while it is still open and send the current revision through review. Do not use a posted movement to hide an intake error.

• Open Stock Requests — Find work that still needs review or execution, with owner and required date beside the requested quantity.
• Record Attachments Index — Find the material tied to the request when the grade needs evidence.

Continue with grade review and request release.