How to Fix Error 18304: Brand Authorization Required for Selling Branded Products
Error 18304 blocks a branded SKU until the seller uploads brand‑authorization proof (e.g., a distributor invoice dated within the last 90 days). The notice shows an exact due date; missing it triggers automatic removal. Amazon typically processes the submission in 24–48 hours and restores the listing.
Overview
Amazon displays error 18304 when a seller tries to list a branded item without the required authorization documentation. The notice includes a deadline, after which the listing can be removed. Sellers must act quickly to keep branded offers visible and avoid revenue loss.
Key Points
- Authorization required — Amazon only allows listings for gated brands after the seller submits proof such as a distributor invoice or a brand‑owner letter.
- Strict deadline — The error message cites an exact due date; missing it triggers automatic removal of the affected SKU.
- Multiple triggers — The error can stem from missing brand approval, incomplete paperwork, or an unfinished brand‑verification workflow.
- Feed report pinpointing — By opening the feed processing summary, sellers can see the exact ASIN and brand that generated the error.
- Permanent gating — Some categories (e.g., luxury shoes, designer apparel) stay gated indefinitely, meaning approval is always mandatory regardless of sales history.
- Revenue impact — Offers flagged with 18304 are hidden from shoppers, eliminating any chance of sales until the issue is resolved.
How to Resolve Error 18304
- Locate the offending listing — Open the latest feed processing summary report, find the row marked with error 18304, and note the ASIN and brand (e.g., ASIN B07XYZ1234, brand “Adidas”).
- Collect acceptable proof — Gather one of the following for the identified brand:
- A recent invoice (within the last 90 days) from an authorized distributor showing the SKU.
- A signed letter of authorization from the brand owner granting resale rights.
- A brand‑owner registration certificate uploaded in the Brand Registry portal.
- Validate documentation format — Ensure the files meet Amazon’s specifications: PDF or high‑resolution JPEG, legible text, and the seller’s name or business entity clearly visible.
Analysis & Recommendations
Why This Matters
Listings flagged with error 18304 are hidden from shoppers, halting sales until proof is accepted. The deadline is precise, and failure results in automatic SKU removal, potentially costing days of revenue. Fast resolution (24–48 h) restores visibility and sales.
Key Takeaways
- Error 18304 appears when a gated brand lacks uploaded authorization such as a distributor invoice or brand‑owner letter.
- Amazon requires the invoice to be dated within the last 90 days and submitted as PDF or high‑resolution JPEG.
- The error notice includes an exact due date; missing it automatically removes the SKU from the storefront.
- After uploading via Performance → Brand Approval, Amazon processes the request in 24–48 hours and the listing reactivates.
Recommended Actions
- →In Seller Central, go to Inventory → Add Products via Upload → Feed Processing Report, locate the row with error 18304 to note the ASIN and brand.
- →Gather a recent (≤90 days) authorized distributor invoice or signed brand letter in PDF/JPEG format, ensuring the seller name is visible.
- →Submit the documents via Performance → Brand Approval, select the brand, upload the files, and set a calendar reminder for the error’s due date.
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