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Attention Amazon sellers! Starting this June, a new wrinkle is being added to the returns process. Amazon will be implementing a returns processing fee for sellers in most product categories (excluding apparel and shoes) that incur high return rates. This move aims to offset the operational costs associated with handling customer returns and potentially encourage sellers to take steps that might reduce unnecessary returns. Why the Change?Returns are a fact of life in e-commerce, but they can also be a logistical and financial burden for both sellers and Amazon. Processing returned items – inspecting them, restocking them, or disposing of them if damaged – incurs costs. Amazon hopes this new fee will incentivize sellers to:
What You Need to KnowThe specifics of how Amazon will define a "high return rate" and calculate the fee haven't been officially announced yet. However, it's wise to start considering the potential impact on your business. Here are some proactive steps you can take:
The Road AheadWhile the full impact of the returns processing fee remains to be seen, it's clear that Amazon is aiming to streamline its returns process and potentially reduce overall waste. By being proactive and focusing on strategies to minimize returns, sellers can navigate this change and continue to thrive on the Amazon marketplace.
Amazon Account Suspended? Your 2025 Guide to ReinstatementStay calm. Read the suspension notice to identify the exact reason (e.g., high ODR, Section 3, related accounts, IP infringement). Draft a professional Plan of Action (POA) that clearly states the root cause, corrective actions already taken, and long-term preventative measures. Submit the POA via the Appeal button in Seller Central with supporting documents (valid invoices, supplier information, KYC, shipping and refund records).
Suspended or under review? Our attorneys craft winning Plans of Action and manage escalations.
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An Amazon seller account suspension can halt your business overnight. Whether it’s due to performance metrics, policy violations, or intellectual property complaints, the path to reinstatement is navigable with the right strategy. This 2025 guide from AMZ Sellers Attorney® shows exactly how to analyze the issue, prepare a strong POA, submit a clean appeal, and prevent future suspensions. What You’ll Learn
Why Did My Amazon Account Get Suspended?Amazon protects buyer trust. Common triggers include performance metric failures (Order Defect Rate over 1%, Late Shipment Rate over 4%, Pre-fulfillment Cancel Rate over 2.5%, low Valid Tracking Rate), policy violations (counterfeits, prohibited products, review manipulation, drop shipping violations), IP complaints (trademark, copyright, patent), identity/verification issues, and broad Section 3 actions under the Business Solutions Agreement. Types of Amazon Suspensions Explained
Immediate Steps After a Suspension Notice
Warning: Creating a new account while suspended is a severe violation and complicates reinstatement.
Step 1: Analyze Your Suspension Reason
Step 2: Gather Evidence Amazon Accepts
Step 3: Craft a Winning Plan of Action (POA)Your POA should be precise, accountable, and evidence-backed. How to Structure Your POA
Sample POA (ODR Suspension)Dear Amazon Seller Performance, Submitting Your Appeal & What to Expect
Escalation Options for Denied Appeals
Prevent Future Suspensions
FAQs: Your Top Suspension Questions Answered
Q: What's the first thing I should do if my Amazon account is suspended?
Do not rush an appeal. Read the notice, identify the exact reason, gather evidence, and then submit a concise POA with root cause, corrective actions, and prevention.
Q: How long does reinstatement take?
Simple cases can resolve in 3–7 days; Section 3, related accounts, or IP complaints may take weeks and multiple submissions.
Q: Will I recover withheld funds?
Usually released after reinstatement or after the risk window (often ~90 days). Severe violations can risk forfeiture.
Q: Can I call Amazon to lift the suspension?
No. Suspensions are handled in writing via the Appeal button and case messaging with Seller Performance/Account Health.
Q: My appeal was denied—now what?
Read the denial carefully, revise the POA to address feedback, strengthen evidence, and resubmit. Consider expert help after 2–3 denials.
Don’t Let a Suspension Derail Your BusinessWith AMZ Sellers Attorney®, you have a trusted partner to navigate Amazon’s appeals process. Schedule a free consultation to get back to selling. Get Your Free Consultation Now |
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