Amazon Sellers Guide to FBA Lost Inventory Reimbursement

This article details the Amazon FBA lost inventory claim process, covering steps such as downloading inventory reports, processing data, and opening cases for appeal. It shares key techniques for successful claims, aiming to help Amazon sellers recover losses caused by FBA lost inventory and protect their rights. The guide provides practical advice on navigating the complexities of the claims process and maximizing the chances of reimbursement for missing or damaged items within the FBA program.

Have you ever encountered mysterious disappearances of inventory in your Amazon FBA warehouse? These unexplained losses can accumulate into significant financial impacts if left unaddressed. Many sellers overlook the potential for FBA claim reimbursements, resulting in substantial lost revenue over time. This guide details the Amazon FBA lost inventory claim process to help sellers recover losses and protect their rights.

Why FBA Claims Matter

While Amazon's FBA service provides convenience, inventory occasionally becomes lost or damaged during storage or fulfillment. When Amazon is responsible for these losses, sellers have the right to file reimbursement claims. However, Amazon typically doesn't initiate compensation automatically—sellers must proactively submit claims. Regular inventory audits and prompt reporting of discrepancies are essential for minimizing losses.

Step-by-Step FBA Claim Process

Follow this operational guide to efficiently process FBA inventory claims:

Step 1: Download Inventory Reports

Log into Amazon Seller Central and navigate to "Reports"
Under "Inventory and Sales Reports," select "Inventory"
Click "Reconciliation"
Download the inventory report (TST format) for your desired investigation period (e.g., quarterly 3-month data)

Step 2: Data Processing

Transfer TST file data to an Excel spreadsheet
Filter the "Reason" column for "E" (Damaged) and "M" (Missing) items
Organize the filtered data to identify claim-worthy inventory losses

Important Considerations:

For substantial losses, submit claims in batches of approximately five items each
Avoid submitting multiple claim groups simultaneously to facilitate Amazon's review process
Excessive claim submissions may trigger comprehensive warehouse investigations, potentially delaying reimbursements

Step 3: File Your Claim

Access the "Get Support" interface in Seller Central
Navigate to "Fulfillment by Amazon" → "Investigate"
Select "Lost/Damaged FBA Inventory"
Complete the claim form with detailed loss information and supporting documentation (purchase invoices, shipping records, etc.)
Submit the claim and await Amazon's response

Keys to Successful Claims

Policy Knowledge: Understand Amazon's specific FBA reimbursement policies to ensure claim compliance.

Data Analysis: Develop proficiency in processing inventory reports to accurately identify legitimate claims.

Claim Communication: Craft clear, concise claim submissions with logical organization and sufficient evidentiary support.

Timeliness: Submit claims promptly and follow up appropriately based on Amazon's responses.

Important Notes

Amazon doesn't guarantee full reimbursement for all claimed losses. Some cases may receive partial compensation or notifications that reimbursement already occurred through other financial adjustments. If dissatisfied with Amazon's response, sellers may appeal—though the approach significantly impacts success rates. Professional assistance may prove valuable for complex cases.

FBA inventory claims require both persistence and technical understanding. Mastering this process helps sellers recover rightful compensation and maintain profitability. This guide provides Amazon sellers with essential knowledge for addressing FBA inventory discrepancies effectively.