Overview

Selling internationally through Amazon FBA means navigating the complexities of importing and exporting inventory across borders. Amazon has strict rules about who bears responsibility in this process — and the company makes it clear that it will not act as your importer or exporter of record under any circumstances. Understanding these obligations before you ship is essential to avoid costly refusals, delays, and returned shipments.

Key Points / What Sellers Need to Know

• Amazon will never serve as your Importer of Record (IOR) — Any FBA shipment that lists Amazon as the IOR will be refused and returned at the seller's expense, with no exceptions, regardless of shipment size, value, or origin.
• Amazon will not act as Exporter of Record (EOR) — Sellers must either serve as the EOR themselves or contract with a customs broker or freight forwarder to take on that role.
• Delivered Duty Paid (DDP) shipping is mandatory — All FBA shipments must use DDP terms. Any shipment arriving at a fulfillment center with collect charges for duties, taxes, or shipping will be refused outright.
• Hire a logistics provider early — Amazon recommends contacting a customs broker or freight forwarder as soon as you sign up for FBA in a new marketplace, since the paperwork process takes time.
• You are fully responsible for compliance — Sellers must ensure all imported goods comply with applicable laws, and prohibited or restricted products cannot be imported without proper permits and authorizations.

Working With Customs Brokers and Freight Forwarders

When expanding to international marketplaces, most sellers find it practical to hire a customs broker or freight forwarder rather than handling every step of the import and export process independently. These logistics providers bring specialized expertise in moving goods across borders efficiently and in compliance with local regulations. However, sellers must engage these providers directly — Amazon cannot make arrangements on your behalf. When working with a broker, you will typically need to complete a Power of Attorney form authorizing them to act as your agent in the customs process, register as an Importer of Record with the relevant customs authorities, and agree to their terms and conditions outlining responsibility for the goods at each stage of transit.