Description
Code 44s are specifically for the freight charges for returned merchandise. These charges are the supplier's liability if the supplier agreement states that the supplier will pay for shipping for returned goods. If your supplier agreement allows for merchandise to be returned then the freight charges are considered valid by Walmart. If your supplier agreement does not allow for freight to be returned then the claim is invalid and can be disputed.
Because code 44s are for freight charges related to a return, they will always come across on a claim that also includes a return deduction (like a code 92, 93, 94, or 95). These deductions should typically be disputed along with the return itself.
How to Prevent Valid Code 44s
Since 44s are for the freight charges on returned goods, focus on reducing customer returns to reduce the occurrence of 44s.
Can it be Disputed?
Yes, you can dispute code 44s if your supplier agreement does not allow for returns to be shipped back to the supplier. In this case, you can dispute by proving that a return should not have been shipped to you in the first place.
Otherwise, dispute the code 44 with the invalid return code that caused it.
How to Dispute Invalid Code 44s
Where you dispute a code 44 depends on where it came from. In either case, Walmart's expectation is that the code 44 will be disputed along with the return deduction from the same claim (like code 94).
Returns from location 9462:
When the return deduction is issued from Walmart location 9462, this indicates that it is a Returns Center claim.
Returns Center claims have a dedicated dispute process, which Walmart outlines here.
In summary, to dispute these deductions you must:
Download and review the backup details and documentation from APIS.
Fill out the Defective Merchandise, Handling Fee, and RTV Freight Claim Form with the claim number, invoice date, amount you are disputing, and the reason for the dispute.
Include the backup details and documentation for each claim.
Submit your claim by creating a case with Partner Support and selecting Returns > Returns Chargebacks > Defective Merchandise, Handling, and RTV Freight Expense Claims. You must include the documentation and forms mentioned above for your claim to be reviewed.
Other returns:
If the location is something other than 9462, then use the Accounts Payable Dispute Portal to submit your dispute. Be sure to include all claim lines together when disputing (i.e. - 94, 60, 44, 120)
If the APDP dispute is rejected, you can escalate to your buyer, especially if the code 44 deduction violates your supplier agreement.
Supporting Documentation:
Proof that the return generating the handling charges was invalid
OR
If disputing because your merchandise should not be returned, then provide the supplier agreement showing that the merchandise should not be returned to the supplier