=== Precise Expressions - Returns & Exchanges Portal Lite ===
Contributors: preciseexpressions
Tags: woocommerce, returns, rma, order tracking, customer portal
Requires at least: 6.0
Tested up to: 6.9
Requires PHP: 7.4
Stable tag: 1.1.0
License: GPLv2 or later
License URI: https://www.gnu.org/licenses/gpl-2.0.html

WooCommerce returns portal with guest lookup, status tracking, and admin workflow. Upgrade to Pro for exchanges and cancellation requests.

== Description ==

Precise Expressions - Returns & Exchanges Portal (Lite) adds a customer-facing returns portal shortcode and an admin RMA workflow for WooCommerce stores.

Lite is focused on return requests. Customers can look up an order, submit a return request, track status, and follow the return workflow from approval through completion.

Key points:

* HPOS-aligned custom tables for RMA data.
* Guest and logged-in lookup by order number and billing email.
* Item-level duplicate prevention for active return pipeline statuses.
* Portal status tracking with secure deep-link support in approval email.
* Admin list and detail screens under WooCommerce > Return & Exchange.
* No external SaaS calls, no tracking, and no upsell content in transactional emails.

=== What Lite includes ===

This plugin is designed for stores that want a structured returns workflow without requiring customer accounts.

Customers can:

* look up an order using order number and billing email
* submit a return request from the front-end portal
* upload images or supporting files with the request
* track the request status from the portal
* follow the approved return flow and mark the return as sent

Store admins can:

* review incoming return requests
* approve or decline requests
* move requests through the return workflow
* view request history, uploaded files, and customer details
* manage return operations from WooCommerce > Return & Exchange

=== Upgrade to Pro ===

Returns & Exchanges Portal Pro adds advanced customer service workflows for stores that need more than standard returns.

Pro features include:

* exchange requests
* order cancellation requests
* approval-gated replacement purchase flow
* linked replacement orders for exchanges
* expanded admin workflow controls
* additional Pro-only settings and workflow automation

Lite is ideal if you only need a structured returns portal.
Pro is designed for stores that also need exchanges and cancellation handling.

== Installation ==

1. Upload the plugin folder to `/wp-content/plugins/`.
2. Activate the plugin through the WordPress Plugins screen.
3. Create a page and add shortcode `[pe_returns_portal]`.
4. Configure settings in WooCommerce > Return & Exchange > Settings.

== Frequently Asked Questions ==

= What is included in Lite? =

Lite supports customer return requests, guest and logged-in order lookup, status tracking, duplicate prevention, uploaded file support, and an admin returns workflow.

= What does Pro add? =

Pro adds exchange requests, order cancellation requests, and advanced workflow handling for replacement purchases and linked exchange orders.

= Is customer email exposed in portal links? =

No. Secure links use a signed, time-limited token and never include raw email addresses.

= Where is RMA data stored? =

RMA data is stored in dedicated plugin tables:

* `{prefix}pe_rma`
* `{prefix}pe_rma_items`
* `{prefix}pe_rma_files`

= Does Lite require a third-party service? =

No. Lite does not rely on an external SaaS platform for core functionality.

== Screenshots ==

1. **Admin Settings Page** Configure the return request settings from one central admin screen. Define the list of return reasons customers can choose from, and control when customers are allowed to submit a return request based on order status and eligibility rules.
2. **Admin Status Management** Review and manage each RMA request through its current status. Admins can approve, decline, mark items as received, or continue reviewing the request as part of the return workflow.
3. **Customer Return Portal** Customers can securely look up their order and start a return request when the order is eligible for returns.
4. **Customer Return Request Form** Example of a populated return request form, showing how customers select items, choose a return reason, and provide supporting details before submitting their request.
5. **Admin RMA Details Page** View the full details of an individual RMA request, including customer information, requested items, return reason, comments, and current status.
6. **Admin RMA Action Area** The lower section of the RMA details page, where admins can review supporting information, update the request status, and manage the return workflow.

== Changelog ==

= 1.1.0 =

* Added duplicate and over-quantity prevention for item return requests.
* Added active pipeline visibility and item lockout in portal.
* Added secure approved-email deep-link button.
* Added cancelled status support and customer cancellation of an existing return request.
* Added status color highlights for completed and declined states.
* Updated admin date display formatting for created and updated columns.
