> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://docs.sourcemedium.com/docs/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

# Loop Returns - Integration Instructions

> Connect Loop Returns to SourceMedium to analyze return rates, outcome mix (exchange vs refund), return reasons by SKU, and post-return retention.

## Follow this integration guide to connect your Loop Returns data to SourceMedium.

Loop Returns is the returns and exchanges platform used by high-volume Shopify brands. SourceMedium syncs Loop return outcomes, reasons, financial amounts, and timing so returns can be analyzed alongside Shopify orders and customers.

### How to connect

SourceMedium connects to Loop Returns with an API key that you create in Loop and paste into SourceMedium.

<Snippet file="connect-access-note.mdx" />

<Steps>
  <Step title="Create an API key in Loop Returns">
    In Loop, go to **Returns Management → Tools & integrations → Developer Tools** and generate an API key. See Loop's guide: [Navigating the developers page](https://help.loopreturns.com/en/articles/1911681-navigating-the-developers-page).
  </Step>

  <Step title="Add the key in SourceMedium">
    Find **Loop Returns** in the connector picker and click **Connect**. Paste the API key and click **Connect**.
  </Step>

  <Step title="Confirm it is connected">
    SourceMedium saves the key and the connection shows **Connected** once syncing starts. If the key is wrong, update it from the same screen.
  </Step>
</Steps>

<Snippet file="api-key-security-note.mdx" />

### What data syncs

Data can include:

* return outcome, such as exchange, refund, credit, upsell, or combined outcomes
* refunded, exchanged, and upsell amounts
* return timing
* return reasons
* returned SKUs and exchanged products
* links back to the original Shopify order and customer where available

### Questions you can answer

* What percentage of our returns result in an exchange vs a refund?
* Which SKUs and variants have the highest return rates this season?
* What are the top return reasons this quarter, broken down by parent and sub-reason?
* How does return timing (days to return) differ between exchange and refund outcomes?
* Do customers who exchange rather than refund have higher 90-day repeat purchase rates?
* What is our net return cost as a percentage of gross revenue by month?
* How many orders have more than one return over their lifetime?
* Which acquisition channels produce orders with the lowest return rates?

### Notes

* Loop Returns can provide return and exchange details that are not always visible in Shopify refund records.
* A single Shopify order can have more than one return event.
* Historical data is available from the date your Loop Returns account was created.