Returns automation for 35-40% RMA, Loop vs Returnly vs AfterShip, size-exchange-first flow?

Footwear returns are higher than any other category because sizing is hard to get right without trying on. The pattern that cuts net RMA cost 60%:

• Loop Returns, best for store-credit-first + size-exchange-first. Customer initiates return → Loop offers the next half-size up or down before offering a refund (auto-pulls availability from Magento stock). If they accept, the exchange ships and the original gets restocked, revenue retained. ~$0.15 per processed return + $700/mo. Native Magento integration.
• Returnly, similar mechanics, slightly different UX, better for international (handles VAT + duties on exchange shipments). ~$1k+/mo for footwear-scale.
• AfterShip Returns Center, better when you also need post-purchase tracking (ParcelPanel integration) and reverse-pickup labels across 1,000+ carriers. ~$23/mo + per-shipment fees.

The size-exchange-first flow specifically: customer says “too small” → workflow checks stock for next half-size + same width → if available, presents as default option with one-click exchange → only falls back to refund if customer explicitly declines. This single mechanic cuts net refunds ~40% in the footwear data I see, because most “return” intent is really “wrong size” intent.

Bonus: store credit auto-issue with a +10% bonus increases reorder rate ~22%. Serial-returner blacklist by email + shipping fingerprint after >3 returns in 90 days saves margin on wardrobing-tier customers. Photo-upload on “final sale” categories deters fraudulent returns.