# Set up WMS returns and quarantine locations
URL: https://support.starshipit.com/articles/14700000000045-set-up-wms-returns-and-quarantine-locations
Canonical: https://support.starshipit.com/articles/14700000000045-set-up-wms-returns-and-quarantine-locations
Markdown: https://support.starshipit.com/articles/14700000000045-set-up-wms-returns-and-quarantine-locations.md
Updated: 2026-07-20

> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://support.starshipit.com/llms.txt).

> Create the locations and process rules your team needs to receive, inspect, quarantine, and restock returned stock.

Set up return locations before your team begins processing returned orders. A clear location structure stops uninspected stock from becoming available for new orders.

## Create the locations you need

Create locations that match your physical returns process. Most warehouses need at least:

| Location | Use it for |
| --- | --- |
| **Returns receiving** | Newly returned items waiting for a check. |
| **Quarantine or damaged** | Items that cannot be sold until inspected, repaired or approved. |
| **Sellable storage or pick face** | Items that have passed inspection and can be put back into normal stock. |
| **Write-off area** | Items that will be disposed of or removed from available inventory. |

Use [Set up warehouse locations and work areas](/articles/14700000000033-starshipit-wms-locations-and-warehouse-setup) to create and label the locations. Make the physical labels match the names and barcodes in WMS.

## Decide your default return flow

Choose the destination based on the item’s condition:

* Send unchecked items to **Returns receiving** or **Quarantine**.
* Send approved items to a sellable location only after inspection.
* Keep damaged or unsellable items in a controlled location until they are written off or otherwise resolved.

Document who can approve a stock adjustment or write-off. This gives the warehouse team a clear hand-off when a return cannot be restocked.

## Next step

When a parcel arrives, follow [Process returns in WMS](/articles/14700000000019-processing-returns). After inspection, use [Inspect, restock, quarantine or write off returned stock](/articles/14700000000046-inspect-restock-quarantine-or-write-off-returned-stock) to complete the follow-up work.