Overview

Starting in July 2024, Amazon requires a minimum 30‑day return period for the majority of products sold through its marketplace. The rules differ for Fulfillment by Amazon (FBA) and Fulfillment by Merchant (FBM) sellers, affecting who pays for return shipping, how reimbursements are calculated, and which fees can be applied. Sellers need to understand these mechanics to safeguard profit margins and keep performance metrics such as Order Defect Rate (ODR) within acceptable limits.

Key Points

• Standard 30‑day window — Buyers may request a return up to 30 days after delivery for most items; holiday‑season listings enjoy an extended 90‑day window.
• FBA reimbursement structure — Amazon credits the seller for the product price, applicable taxes, and the original outbound shipping cost, then subtracts any eligible restocking fee.
• FBM return obligations — The merchant is responsible for providing a return label (or approving a buyer‑generated one), processing the full refund, and verifying that the returned unit is in a sellable state.
• Restocking fee allowances — Categories such as consumer electronics, large appliances, and fine jewelry may charge a restocking fee ranging from 15 % to 20 % of the item’s list price.
• ODR impact — Late refunds, damaged‑goods reports, or mis‑classified returns can push a seller’s Order Defect Rate above the 1 % ceiling, triggering account warnings or suspension.
• Condition classification rules — Returns labeled “new” must arrive in original packaging, without scratches, dents, or any buyer‑added markings; otherwise Amazon classifies them as “used,” which reduces the reimbursement amount.

How Amazon Return Process Works for Sellers

1. Customer initiates return — The buyer selects “Return or Replace Items” from their order details, chooses a reason, and picks a return method. Example: A customer who bought a wireless speaker discovers it won’t power on and files a return request on day 10.
2. Amazon routes the request —