TikTok Shop's US marketplace is implementing sweeping changes to its logistics framework, aiming to resolve persistent delivery challenges that have plagued sellers and frustrated customers. The platform will completely phase out merchant self-shipping (Seller Shipping) in favor of standardized official logistics solutions.
Key Policy Changes
The new regulations establish a clear timeline for transitioning all sellers to TikTok's official logistics network:
- Cross-border sellers: Self-shipping functionality will gradually deactivate starting December 15, 2025, with complete termination by December 31, 2025. Mandatory adoption of TikTok Shipping, FBT (Fulfillment by TikTok), or CBT solutions will be enforced.
- Local sellers: A staged transition will occur between February 25 and March 31, 2026. New merchants joining after February 9 will automatically enroll in official logistics programs.
The platform will exclusively permit logistics fulfillment through TikTok-approved channels, including:
- Fulfillment by TikTok (FBT)
- Upgraded TikTok Shipping services
Notably, the policy explicitly prohibits third-party logistics solutions such as USPS offline channels and Amazon FBA's multi-channel distribution. Violations may trigger order cancellations, financial penalties, traffic restrictions, or store suspensions.
Strategic Rationale
This logistics restructuring mirrors established ecommerce platforms' approaches to standardized fulfillment. By eliminating variable third-party shipping performance, TikTok aims to:
- Improve delivery time consistency
- Reduce excessive return rates
- Enhance overall customer satisfaction
- Prevent shipping fraud through centralized data control
Merchant Adaptation Strategies
Sellers must proactively adjust operations to comply with the new logistics framework:
- Thoroughly evaluate official logistics options (cost structures, processing timelines, geographic coverage)
- Optimize inventory management for TikTok's fulfillment network requirements
- Establish operational workflows aligned with TikTok Shipping protocols
The transition presents both challenges and opportunities for merchants to streamline operations and potentially improve customer retention through more reliable order fulfillment.