Amazon is implementing two significant updates to its FBA reimbursement policies, aiming to streamline the process while requiring sellers to be more proactive.

1. Proactive Reimbursements for Lost Inventory (Effective November 1, 2024):

• Amazon will automatically reimburse sellers for items reported lost in fulfillment centers. This reduces the need for manual claims, aiming to save sellers time.
• Manual claims are still necessary for specific cases, including “empty box” issues, removal claims, and certain customer return issues where automated reimbursement isn’t received.
• Benefit: A more seamless and time-saving process for sellers.
• Challenge: Sellers must still diligently monitor their accounts and verify automated reimbursements, as discrepancies may occur, and not all cases will be automatically covered.

2. Shortened Claim Windows (Effective October 23, 2024):

• To ensure faster resolution, Amazon is drastically shortening the timeframes for filing manual reimbursement claims. Sellers must act swiftly to avoid missing out on potential reimbursements.
• New Deadlines:
  • Fulfillment Center Operations Claims (lost/damaged items): Must be filed within 60 days of the loss/damage report.
  • FBA Customer Returns Claims: Must be filed between 60 and 120 days after the customer refund or replacement date (allowing time for returns).
  • Removal Claims for Items Lost in Transit: Must be filed between 15 and 75 days from the shipment creation date.
  • Carrier-Damaged Returns: Must be filed within 45 days from the return date.
• Impact: Sellers need to adapt their processes to these tighter deadlines to ensure timely recovery of losses.

These changes emphasize the importance of vigilant inventory tracking and prompt action from FBA sellers.

Source:

• Update on Reimbursement Automation and Eligibility Window to file reimbursement claims – Amazon Seller Central