Overview

Amazon maintains specific restrictions on the sale of postage meters, postage stamps, and related supplies through its marketplace. These rules are designed to prevent fraud and ensure compliance with federal postal regulations. Sellers who deal in philatelic items or mailing supplies need to understand exactly what is permitted and what is prohibited to avoid listing removals or account issues.

Key Points / What Sellers Need to Know

• Postage meter sales and leases are prohibited — Amazon does not allow the sale or lease of postage meters on its platform. This applies to all postage meter hardware regardless of brand or condition.

• Postage meter supplies are restricted — Related supplies such as postage meter tape and ink cartridges for postage meters are also not permitted for sale on the marketplace.

• Most postage stamps cannot be sold — Unused postage stamps, including current USPS stamps intended for mailing use, are generally prohibited. This prevents potential fraud and counterfeiting concerns.

• Collectible stamps have specific requirements — Sellers may list collectible stamps, but must include detailed information such as the stamp's origin, year of issue, condition, authenticity status, and a clear image of the stamp itself.

• USPS Forever stamps face extra restrictions — USPS U.S. Forever stamps are restricted on the platform, with a narrow exception for stamps that are mounted or framed specifically for memorabilia and display purposes.

• Reproductions must be clearly labeled — Any stamp reproductions, replicas, copies, or fakes may only be sold if they are explicitly identified as such in both the product title and description, and include a clear image of any relevant markings.

What Is Allowed

Sellers can list collectible and philatelic stamps on Amazon provided they meet certain disclosure requirements. Each listing must include comprehensive details about the stamp being offered, including its country of origin, approximate year of issue, condition assessment, and an honest statement about authenticity — even if the seller is uncertain whether the stamp is genuine. A clear, high-resolution image of the stamp must accompany the listing. USPS Forever stamps that have been mounted or framed as memorabilia items represent the only exception to the broader restriction on modern postage stamps.