Key takeaways
- Compare sent, received and adjusted quantities.
- Keep invoices and shipment records.
- File specific, evidence-backed claims in time.
- Recoveries are not guaranteed.
Where problems occur
Inventory can go missing or be damaged during inbound transit, at receiving, while stored in a fulfillment center or during customer returns processing. Each situation has its own eligibility rules, which are set by Amazon and updated from time to time.
Spotting discrepancies
Compare inbound shipments received against what you sent, review inventory ledger reports for adjustments and examine returns that were not restocked. Look for patterns across products or time periods that suggest a systematic issue.
Gather evidence
Collect proof of inventory ownership and quantity, such as supplier invoices, packing lists and shipment tracking. For damage, photographs and descriptions may help. Organized evidence speeds the process.
- Supplier invoices and proof of purchase
- Packing lists and shipment IDs
- Inventory ledger and adjustment records
- Photos where relevant
File accurate claims
Submit claims through the tools and cases Amazon provides, citing identifiers, quantities, dates and evidence. Be specific and factual. Respect any time limits for claims, which are set by Amazon.
Manage expectations
Outcomes are decided by Amazon, and not every claim is approved. Do not build financial forecasts around expected recoveries. Treat reimbursement as an occasional correction rather than a business model.
Be cautious with third-party services
Some services offer to file claims for a share of recoveries. Evaluate the fee structure, data access required and track record. Never share credentials and grant only the permissions needed.
A worked example
A seller reviews the inventory ledger and sees that several units of a product were adjusted as lost. They gather invoices proving the units were purchased, confirm the quantity received and file a claim with the identifiers and evidence. Amazon reviews the case and reimburses part of the claim.
Common mistakes
Common errors include missing claim windows, filing vague claims and lacking proof of cost. Another is auditing only once a year. A quarterly review catches more within the allowed window.
Building a quarterly claims routine
Schedule a quarterly review of inventory adjustments, inbound discrepancies and unrestocked returns. Export the reports, filter for lost or damaged quantities and compare with your records. Group issues by type and shipment so you can submit organized claims.
Record each claim with its date, amount, evidence and outcome. After a few cycles you will see which kinds of claims succeed and which are not worth the effort.
Prevention reduces the need to claim
The cheapest claim is the one you never have to file. Use sturdy cartons, protective packaging and accurate labels so inventory is less likely to be damaged or misrouted. Keep photographs of how a typical carton is packed, which helps if damage in transit is disputed.
Track discrepancy rates by supplier, carrier and shipment type. If one route or one supplier is responsible for most problems, address the cause with that party rather than only claiming after the fact.
Frequently asked questions
How far back can I claim?
Windows are set by Amazon and can change. Check current guidance and act promptly.
Will every claim be paid?
No. Amazon decides based on its policies and the evidence.
This guide is general information. Amazon's fees, policies and program rules change and vary by marketplace, so confirm current details in Seller Central and, for tax or legal questions, with a qualified adviser.