Having your inventory automatically removed by Amazon can be frustrating, especially if you’re unsure about the cause. Understanding why this happens and how to prevent it is crucial to maintaining smooth operations as an Amazon seller. Below, we’ve outlined the most common reasons why Amazon might automatically remove your inventory and the steps you can take to prevent it from happening again.
Amazon default setting is that all Inventory should be removed after being at the warehouse after 365. You need to either change this setting or turn off auto removals of Fulfillable Inventory.
For Book Sellers, we recommend that you turn Auto-removals of Fulfillable Inventory OFF. Or you risk items that are about to go into a sales season be removed right be for it starts, and once it is removed you will not be able to ship it back to FBA for 90 days as per Amazon Policy.
Cause: Amazon may automatically remove listings that are inactive or have expired. For example, if you’ve had a book listed for sale but it hasn’t sold in a while, or if the listing expired and you haven’t updated it, Amazon may remove the listing.
Solution: Regularly check your listings and ensure they are active. If your listings are expiring, update them or create new ones as needed.
Cause: Amazon enforces strict guidelines about the products sold on its platform. If you are selling items that violate Amazon’s policies—such as counterfeit goods, items that infringe on trademarks, or restricted products—your inventory may be removed.
Solution: Review Amazon’s product policies and guidelines to ensure that the items you are listing comply. If your inventory is removed due to policy violations, correct the issue and submit an appeal if necessary.
Cause: If your account performance metrics fall below Amazon’s standards (e.g., order defect rate, late shipment rate, or pre-fulfillment cancel rate), Amazon may remove your inventory to protect customers and maintain marketplace quality.
Solution: Monitor your account performance metrics in your Seller Central account. Address any issues promptly, and ensure that your shipments are processed on time, and customer complaints are resolved quickly.
Cause: If your products are not properly prepared for FBA (Fulfillment by Amazon), or if there’s an issue with labeling or packaging, Amazon may remove the inventory.
Solution: Ensure that all your items comply with FBA requirements, including correct labeling, packaging, and shipping guidelines. If needed, consult with a prep service like EasyBookPrep to handle inventory preparation.
Cause: If your Amazon seller account expires, becomes invalid, or faces suspension, any inventory linked to that account may be automatically removed.
Solution: Keep your Amazon seller account in good standing by following Amazon’s policies and resolving any account health issues. Regularly monitor your account for expiration or suspension notices.
Cause: Amazon monitors pricing behavior and may remove listings or inventory if they detect price gouging or unfair pricing practices. This typically happens during times of high demand, such as the holiday season or during crises.
Solution: Ensure your pricing is competitive and aligns with Amazon’s fair pricing policies. Avoid drastic price increases without justification, especially on essential products.
Cause: Some products are restricted from being sold on Amazon due to legal regulations, category limitations, or other factors. If you inadvertently list restricted products, Amazon may remove your inventory.
Solution: Familiarize yourself with Amazon’s restricted product list. Check if your inventory falls under restricted categories and ensure that you only sell products that comply with Amazon’s regulations.
Turn off Auto Removal of your Fulfillable Inventory: This means that you must manually remove your Inventory (or risk paying high Long Term Storage Fees when they have been there too long…)
Regularly Update Your Listings: Ensure that your listings are active, accurate, and comply with Amazon’s rules.
Monitor Your Account Health: Keep an eye on your seller account metrics and address any issues promptly.
Follow FBA Guidelines: Ensure your products meet Amazon’s FBA preparation requirements.
Ensure Compliance: Regularly review Amazon’s product policies to ensure your inventory remains compliant.
Appeal If Necessary: If your inventory is removed and you believe it was an error, submit an appeal through Seller Central to resolve the issue.
Amazon’s auto-removal of inventory is often a result of policy violations, performance issues, or compliance errors. By understanding the common causes and implementing the necessary steps, you can minimize the chances of your inventory being removed. Stay proactive about listing maintenance, account health, and FBA compliance, and always follow Amazon’s guidelines.
If you’re struggling with inventory removals, feel free to reach out to EasyBookPrep. We can help ensure your books are properly prepared for Amazon FBA, keeping your inventory in good standing.
