What is the Amazon Restocking Fee?

Amazon restocking fee, also referred to as restocking fees on Amazon, can be a valuable tool to help recoup some of the costs associated with returned items. 

These costs can add up quickly and can include processing the return, inspecting the item’s condition, repacking it for resale, and potential lost sales opportunities while the item is out of stock. 

Restock fee Amazon helps sellers offset these expenses and can contribute to a healthier bottom line. 

Amazon Restocking Fee

Restocking fee Amazon is a charge applied to a customer’s refund when a returned item does not meet Amazon’s return policy guidelines. 

This fee helps sellers offset some of the costs associated with processing returns, such as restocking the item, inspecting its condition, and potentially repacking it for resale. 

How Much is the Amazon Restocking Fee?

The amount of the restocking fee on Amazon can vary depending on the reason for the return and the condition of the returned item. 

Amazon allows sellers to charge a restocking fee of up to 50% of the original sale price in some cases. However, there are specific guidelines that must be met before a restocking fee can be applied. 

When Can I Charge Amazon Restocking Fees?

If a customer returns an item outside of the standard return window (typically 30 days for most categories), sellers can charge a restocking fee of up to 20%). 

When it comes to opened or used items, if a customer changes their mind about a purchase and returns an opened or used item, a restocking fee of up to 50% can be applied. This includes items with damaged or missing packages. 

When I Can’t Charge an Amazon Restocking Fee

If the seller made a mistake with the other, such as sending the wrong item or an item in the wrong condition, they cannot charge a restocking fee. 

If the returned item is defective or damaged upon arrival, the seller cannot charge a restocking fee. The customer is entitled to a full refund. 

If the seller’s product description was inaccurate and did not match the actual item received, the customer can return the item for a full refund without a restocking fee. 

Amazon Restocking Fees Return Period Breakdown

Amazon return restocking fee depends on when the customer returns the item relative to the standard return window (which is typically 30 days for most categories on Amazon). 

Within the Return Window

If a customer returns an item within the designated return window and the return aligns to Amazon’s return policy guidelines (e.g., the item is in original, unopened packaging), no restocking fee will be applied. The customer will receive a full refund for the purchase price of the item. 

Outside Return Window

If a customer returns an item after the standard return window has closed, sellers have the option to charge a restocking fee of up to 20%. This can help offset some of the costs associated with processing late returns, such as re-stoking the item and potentially updating inventory records. 

Opened/Unused Items (anytime)

If a customer changes their mind about a purchase and returns an opened or used item, regardless of the timeframe, sellers can charge a restocking fee of up to 50%. 

This is because opened or used items may be more difficult to resell at full price, and the seller may have incurred additional costs such as repacking the item. 

Return Scenario	Restocking Fee
Within Return Window (Item in Original, Unopened Packaging)	No restocking fee
Outside Return Window	Up to 20% restocking fee
Change of Mind – Opened/Used Items (anytime)	Up to 50% restocking fee

Factors Influencing Amazon Restocking Fee

The specific percentage of the restocking fee you can charge depends on the category of the returned item and your account privileges. 

Amazon sellers with a professional selling plan generally have more flexibility in setting restocking fees within the permitted guidelines. 

How to Process a Restocking Fee on Amazon

When processing a customer return, sellers have the option to apply a restocking fee through their Seller Central account if the return meets the criteria outlined above. 

Amazon provides clear instructions within the returns management section of Seller Central. 

Amazon restocking fees can be a valuable tool for sellers to recoup some of the costs associated with returned items. Understanding when and how to apply these fees in accordance with Amazon’s guidelines is crucial for maximizing profitability and maintaining a positive customer experience. 

Amazon FBA Fees 2024