Bulk Actions
Process multiple returns efficiently with bulk actions in ReturnMate.
Bulk actions allow you to process multiple returns simultaneously, improving efficiency for high-volume operations.
Available Bulk Actions
| Action | Description |
|---|---|
| Bulk Approve | Approve multiple pending returns |
| Bulk Generate Labels | Create labels for approved returns |
| Bulk Mark Received | Mark multiple returns as received |
| Bulk Process Refunds | Issue refunds for inspected returns |
| Bulk Export | Download return data as CSV |
| Bulk Tag | Add tags to multiple RMAs |
Using Bulk Actions
Selecting Returns
- Navigate to the relevant return list (e.g., Returns → All Returns)
- Use filters to narrow the list
- Select returns using checkboxes:
- Individual checkboxes for specific returns
- Header checkbox to select all on page
- Selected count appears in the action bar
Performing the Action
- With returns selected, click Bulk Actions
- Choose the action from the dropdown
- Review the confirmation dialog
- Confirm to execute
Some bulk actions (like refunds) cannot be undone. Always review your selection carefully before confirming.
Bulk Approve
Approve multiple pending returns at once:
- Go to Returns → Pending Approval
- Filter by criteria (date, reason, value)
- Select returns to approve
- Click Bulk Actions → Approve
- Confirm approval
Best for:
- Approving all returns under a certain value
- Processing overnight queues
- Catching up after delays
Bulk Generate Labels
Create shipping labels for multiple approved returns:
- Go to Returns → Approved (or filter for label-pending)
- Select returns needing labels
- Click Bulk Actions → Generate Labels
- Select carrier and service (applies to all)
- Confirm generation
Notes:
- All selected returns use the same carrier/service
- For different carriers, run separate batches
- Failed labels are flagged for review
Bulk Mark Received
Mark multiple returns as received:
- Go to Returns → In Transit
- Select returns that have arrived
- Click Bulk Actions → Mark Received
- Confirm receipt
Best for:
- Processing a day's delivery manifest
- Quick receiving without detailed inspection
For detailed inspection with photos and condition notes, use individual receiving workflow.
Bulk Process Refunds
Issue refunds for multiple returns:
- Go to Returns → Inspected (or filter for refund-pending)
- Select returns ready for refund
- Click Bulk Actions → Process Refunds
- Review refund summary
- Confirm processing
Checks performed:
- All returns have passed inspection
- No deductions or adjustments needed
- Payment methods support batch refunds
Bulk Export
Export return data for analysis:
- Select returns to export (or export all matching filters)
- Click Bulk Actions → Export
- Choose format (CSV, Excel)
- Select fields to include
- Download file
Common export uses:
- Financial reconciliation
- Return analysis
- Reporting to stakeholders
- Integration with other systems
Bulk Tagging
Add tags to multiple returns:
- Select returns to tag
- Click Bulk Actions → Add Tag
- Select existing tag or create new
- Apply
Tag examples:
high-priorityfraud-reviewholiday-returnsvip-customer
Filtering for Bulk Actions
Effective filtering is key to bulk processing:
Quick Filters
- Status: Pending, Approved, In Transit, etc.
- Date Range: Created, received, or processed date
- Carrier: Filter by shipping carrier
- Reason: Return reason category
Advanced Filters
- Customer: Email or name
- Order Value: Greater/less than amount
- Product: Specific SKUs or categories
- Tags: Custom tags applied
- SLA Status: On track, at risk, breached
Saved Filters
Save frequently used filter combinations:
- Configure your filters
- Click Save Filter
- Name the filter
- Access from Saved Filters dropdown
Bulk Action Limits
Performance Considerations
| Action | Recommended Limit | Maximum |
|---|---|---|
| Approve | 100 at once | 500 |
| Labels | 50 at once | 200 |
| Refunds | 50 at once | 100 |
| Export | 1,000 rows | 10,000 |
For very large batches, consider running multiple smaller batches to avoid timeouts.
Background Processing
Large bulk actions run in the background:
- Action is queued
- Progress indicator shows status
- Notification when complete
- Review results in activity log
Bulk Action Audit Trail
All bulk actions are logged:
- User who performed action
- Date and time
- Number of items affected
- Action type
- Success/failure count
View in Settings → Audit Log → Bulk Actions.
Automation Alternatives
Consider automation for regular bulk tasks:
- Scheduled approvals: Auto-approve at set times
- Triggered labels: Generate on approval
- Automated refunds: Process after inspection
See automation settings in Settings → Returns → Automation.
Best Practices
- Always review selection before confirming
- Use filters to target specific returns
- Save frequently used filter combinations
- Process in manageable batches
- Check audit log after bulk actions
- Consider automation for routine bulk tasks