Replace emailed return authorization numbers on Shopify

Where an email-based authorization process slows down

1. The customer emails an order number and explanation.
2. Staff ask for missing item, size, reason, or photo details.
3. The merchant checks the policy and authorizes the return.
4. Tracking, receipt, and inspection arrive in later messages.
5. The refund, exchange, or store-credit outcome is recorded.

None of those steps is difficult by itself. The cost comes from switching between the inbox, Shopify, shipment details, and internal notes for every request.

Use Shopify native when it already covers the job

Shopify's self-serve returns can collect return requests from customers using new customer accounts, apply return rules, and let the merchant approve or decline the request in Shopify admin. If that is your complete process, use it and install nothing.

Sources: Shopify's self-serve returns overview and setup documentation.

A practical authorization workflow in Opus

1. The customer opens the store's return link and verifies the order with the order number and checkout email.
2. They choose the item, reason, requested outcome, and exchange option, then add evidence when the store requires it.
3. The merchant reviews the request and decides whether it meets the store's policy before the item is returned.
4. The same request tracks the incoming package, receipt, inspection, and final resolution.
5. Approved Shopify outcomes are recorded in Shopify, and the request history remains exportable.

Move one request before changing the whole process

• Keep the current eligibility window and exclusions.
• Save the matching rules in Opus.
• Add the portal link to the storefront or shipping email.
• Submit a synthetic request before publishing the link.
• Process one real request and compare it with the old inbox flow.