Identify the role on each channel
A brand selling its own inventory, a marketplace operator and a seller using another platform have different responsibilities. Map who invoices the customer, holds inventory, receives payment and handles complaints for every channel.
Connect the order to the settlement
Reconcile gross orders, cancellations, returns, discounts, platform fees and net bank receipts. A marketplace settlement alone is not a complete sales ledger, particularly when returns cross reporting periods.
Review product and customer information
Check product-specific permissions and packaging declarations alongside online listings. Terms, delivery information, returns and grievance handling should reflect the actual process and current consumer rules, including relevant amendments.
Track the wider operating footprint
- Warehouses and fulfilment arrangements need a location and stock-ownership map.
- Employees and outsourced logistics require clear responsibilities.
- Customer and marketing data need a documented access and vendor model.
- Imports, own-brand packaging and regulated products may create additional workstreams.
A common mismatch
A product returned after the platform has paid the seller affects stock, customer refund and settlement reconciliation. Keep the original order reference across all three records rather than posting only the later bank deduction.
Compare the records for each channel
| Channel role | Starting records | Operational question |
|---|---|---|
| Own website seller | Customer order, invoice, payment-provider settlement and dispatch record | How does each payment connect to delivery, cancellation or refund? |
| Seller on a marketplace | Platform agreement, order report, fees, deductions and return reports | Which adjustments explain the difference between orders and bank receipts? |
| Marketplace operator | Seller agreements, customer terms, transaction flows and seller settlements | Which entity performs each step and how are seller funds reconciled? |
Record fulfilment separately from the selling channel. Using a third-party warehouse does not, by itself, explain who owns the goods or contracts with the customer.
Connect the customer journey and the books
Consumer and ecommerce compliance support starts with the actual listing, purchase, return and complaint process. Supply representative screens and the operating instructions used by the support team so the review can compare published terms with practice.
Inventory accounting support connects stock receipts, movements and returns. Keep a list of exceptions such as goods returned but not yet inspected, refunds awaiting settlement and deductions under dispute, with an owner for each follow-up.
References and official procedures
Source material consulted 1 October 2026. Check the applicable instrument, period and portal instructions for the actual assignment.
Kosha.Services · Updated 2 October 2026