Amazon's Stricter Supply Chain Documentation Requirements: What Sellers Need to Know

Amazon's Stricter Requirements for Providing Supply Chain Documentation to Authenticate Listings

Amazon has tightened its requirements for providing supply chain documentation to authenticate listings. This initiative aims to combat counterfeit products and ensure customer trust. While beneficial for marketplace integrity, these new policies present hurdles for sellers, particularly those with suppliers who are hesitant to reveal their own sources.

What Are Amazon's New Documentation Requirements?

Sellers must now provide detailed supply chain documentation to verify their listings. These documents should create a clear trail from the manufacturer to the seller, confirming product authenticity. This includes invoices, purchase orders, letters of authorization, and certificates of authenticity.

Types of Documentation Amazon Will Accept

• Invoices: Invoices should include the supplier's full details and a comprehensive list of products, with quantities and prices.
• Purchase Orders: These documents need to detail the supplier information and the specific products purchased.
• Supplier Agreements: Contracts outlining the terms of the business relationship between the seller and the supplier, including sourcing and distribution.
• Certificates of Authenticity: For branded items, this serves as proof of product genuineness from the manufacturer.
• Letters of Authorization: A letter from the manufacturer or authorized distributor, granting the seller permission to sell the product. This helps verify that the products are sourced from legitimate channels.

Challenges Sellers Face with the New Requirements

These stricter requirements pose challenges for sellers, especially those whose suppliers are unwilling to disclose their sources due to competitive concerns. Suppliers may not always provide detailed invoices that meet Amazon's standards, leading to listing removals or account suspensions even if the products are legitimate.

What to Do When Facing Listing Removal or Account Suspension

If you encounter listing removal or account suspension due to inauthentic concerns, take these steps:

1. Gather All Available Documentation

Collect all possible documents, including invoices, letters of authorization, and purchase orders. Ensure they are clear and include as much information as possible.

2. Communicate with Your Supplier

Request more detailed documentation from your supplier. Highlight the importance of providing comprehensive information to comply with Amazon's requirements.

3. Contact AMZ Sellers Attorney® for Assistance

Consulting with AMZ Sellers Attorney® can help you navigate Amazon's policies and prepare a strong appeal. We can identify gaps in your documentation and assist in crafting a response to resolve the issue effectively. For a free consultation, contact us here.

4. Prepare a Detailed Plan of Action (POA)

Include a detailed Plan of Action in your appeal, outlining steps taken to address Amazon's concerns and ensure future compliance with supply chain documentation requirements.

5. Submit Your Appeal and Monitor for Updates

Submit your appeal through Amazon's channels and monitor for any updates. Patience is key as the review process can take time.

Conclusion

Amazon's stricter documentation requirements aim to enhance marketplace integrity but can be challenging for sellers. Understanding what documentation Amazon accepts and taking proactive steps can help you navigate these challenges. If you face listing removal or suspension, quick and strategic action, supported by AMZ Sellers Attorney®, can help you appeal successfully and maintain your business's standing.