Return number
The return number or RMA number ( Return Merchandise Authorization or Return Material Authorization ) is an identification number assigned by the supplier for the return of goods. The customer is obliged to request such an identification number before returning the goods so that the goods can be correctly assigned to the supplier. Most of the time, the RMA form also distinguishes between defects that have arisen in the guarantee framework, products that are defective upon arrival ( Dead On Arrival ) and defects caused by the guarantee framework or those caused by the customer.
An obligation on the part of the customer to apply for an RMA number and attach it visibly to a return delivery is not always compatible with applicable law . So the private end user z. B. according to the German distance selling law (in the BGB ) a right of withdrawal that is independent of the prior assignment of an RMA number. The affixing of an RMA number can, however, result from the additional contractual cooperation obligations of the customer. In the case of voluntary services such as a guarantee, the guarantor can B. make a condition.
The RMA process is therefore used for the structured return of the goods. This usually results in faster and less error-prone assignment and processing of the return. Therefore, the RMA process usually serves both parties and should also be observed by the return sender. It is important to always indicate the RMA number or RMA identifier clearly and visibly on the packaging in order to be able to better separate the delivery in the goods receiving department.
