# Configure branded returns charges and validation
URL: https://support.starshipit.com/articles/90200000000135-configure-branded-returns-charges-and-validation
Canonical: https://support.starshipit.com/articles/90200000000135-configure-branded-returns-charges-and-validation
Markdown: https://support.starshipit.com/articles/90200000000135-configure-branded-returns-charges-and-validation.md
Updated: 2026-06-15

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

> Configure return charges and order-reference validation for the branded returns portal.

Configure return charges and order-reference validation when your branded returns portal needs extra control over customer return submissions.

## Return reimbursement

Starshipit does not charge customers for returns through the returns portal. If you need to recover return costs, deduct the amount from the refund or charge the customer externally through your payment gateway.

You can configure flat-rate charges based on the refund option selected in the portal.

## Configure return charges

1. Go to **Settings > Returns > Return Charges > Return Option**.
2. Configure the conditions and charges based on return option, origin location, and weight.
3. Click **Save**.

After saving, return charges are applied based on the configured option, destination, and weight conditions.

For table-rate setup patterns, see [Set up Table Rates](/articles/4414357709071-set-up-table-rates).

## Validate returns by order reference

You can let customers search for and submit returns using **TheirRef**, which is the receiver reference. This is useful if you import external order numbers and share those numbers with customers.

1. Go to **Settings > Returns**.
2. In the **Return Validation** section, tick **Validate returns based on order reference**.
3. Click **Save**.

When this setting is enabled, customers can submit returns using order reference. When it is disabled, order-reference validation is not available.

## Verify charges and validation

Submit a test return using the relevant return option, destination, weight, and order reference. Confirm the return is accepted or rejected as expected and that the correct charge is applied.

## Related articles

- [Set up branded returns portal](/articles/4414146875279-set-up-branded-returns-portal)
- [Configure branded returns portal rules](/articles/90200000000133-configure-branded-returns-portal-rules)
- [Returns with Starshipit FAQs](/articles/4414370792591-returns-with-starshipit-faqs)