Amazon Implements Stricter Shipment Policies Starting February 1, 2024
Amazon Implements Stricter Shipment Policies Starting February 1, 2024
In a significant move towards enhancing efficiency and reliability in its Fulfillment by Amazon (FBA) service, Amazon has recently announced a comprehensive update to its shipment policies.
The changes, set to be effective from February 1, 2024, signify a strategic shift in the e-commerce giant's approach to managing shipment workflows.
This blog post will delve into the key alterations in the FBA shipment policy and the rationale behind Amazon's decision.
Key Changes in the FBA Shipment Policy:
Amazon's updated policy revolves around the automatic closure of FBA shipments that fail to arrive within specified timeframes. The following details outline the key changes:
Domestic Shipments:
Automatic closure will occur if shipments originating from US addresses have not arrived 45 days after the shipment creation date.
International Shipments:
Shipments from outside the US will be automatically closed if they haven't arrived within 75 days after the shipment creation date.
Multiple-Destination Shipping Plans:
Shipments that are part of a multiple-destination shipping plan must arrive within 30 days of the first shipment in that plan arriving.
Rationale Behind the Policy Update:
Amazon's decision to update the automatic closure policy for FBA shipments is rooted in its commitment to refining the efficiency and reliability of its logistics and supply chain. The primary objectives include:
Reducing Delays in the FBA Process:
The new policy aims to expedite the FBA process by automatically closing shipments that exceed specified timeframes.
Improving Accuracy and Predictability:
By enforcing stricter timelines, Amazon intends to enhance the accuracy and predictability of shipment arrivals, benefiting both sellers and customers.
Enhancing Seller and Customer Experience:
The overarching goal is to provide a more seamless and reliable experience for both sellers and customers, aligning with Amazon's customer-centric approach.
Exemptions and Recommendations:
Recognizing the inherent complexities of logistics, Amazon has incorporated exemptions to prevent unnecessary auto closures beyond the sellers' control. These exemptions apply to shipments delayed due to unforeseen circumstances such as weather-related issues or port congestion.
Amazon strongly recommends that sellers send each shipment to Amazon as soon as possible after creation. This proactive approach is expected to facilitate more efficient receiving of shipments, reducing the likelihood of automatic closures.
Additional Resources:
Sellers seeking more in-depth information on this policy update and its implications can refer to the "Deleted, misrouted, and incomplete shipments" section on Amazon's official website. This section provides valuable insights into handling various shipment scenarios and understanding the nuances of the updated policy.
Please also reach out to Proboxx HERE to find out how you can manage your shipments with this new policy announcement.