Overview
AvantLink provides an automated reversal process for merchants using the AvantLink Merchant Tracking app for Shopify. This feature applies returns that are entered into Shopify to orders tracked in AvantLink, allowing for the reversal of commissions owed to affiliates. Merchants have the option to participate in return processing or opt-out if they prefer to use custom return logic or avoid processing returns altogether. It is recommended Merchants review Limiting Reversals May Positively Impact Affiliate Programs before deciding on a return processing solution. For those opting for custom return logic, batch return files can be submitted.
Shopify Return Logic Details
When a merchant refunds an order in Shopify that event will automatically be sent to AvantLink within a few minutes. AvantLink will reverse the commission for any refunded order in Shopify. AvantLink identifies several types of reversal reasons and the mapping between of refunds between Shopify and AvantLink are listed below:
| Shopify Naming Convention | AvantLink Naming Convention |
| All Shopify cancellations reasons with the exception of fraud | Canceled |
| Shopify cancellations>fraud | Fraud |
| Return | Return |
| Refund | Refund |
In the event an order is partially refunded, AvantLink will process the corresponding partial refund amount.
Merchant returns will be subject to the terms outlined in the merchants contract. This applies in two ways:
- Reversals are subject to a "Reversal Period." Reversal must be applied to orders that occurred within a predetermined number of days from when the order was placed.
- Reversals cannot exceed the "Reversal Limit." The reversal limit is a predetermined percentage that is calculated by the number of reversals divided by the number of orders within a 30 day period.
Return Reporting
Merchants can monitor return processing through various AvantLink Classic Reports. In these reports, returns are labeled as "Adjustments." The Sales Commission Detail report offers detailed, transactional-style reporting, with each transaction listed as a separate line item.