Many Amazon sellers have experienced this nightmare scenario: after carefully preparing inventory shipments, products mysteriously disappear in Amazon's fulfillment centers. When attempting to file claims, sellers often face closed investigations and performance warnings instead of solutions. One seller's recent experience highlights this systemic issue—after shipping 1,008 units, they received only 282 upon arrival. Amazon closed their investigation citing an "invalid BOL" (Bill of Lading) while issuing a performance warning. Is this warehouse mismanagement or something more concerning?
Case Study: Missing Inventory and Performance Penalties
This seller's experience reflects a growing pattern in Amazon's seller communities. The core issues include:
- Significant receiving discrepancies: Large variances between shipped and received quantities disrupt sales and inventory management.
- Protracted investigations: Shipment inquiries often take weeks or months to resolve, freezing sales and capital.
- Opaque resolution processes: Vague responses from Amazon support frequently result in unfavorable outcomes for sellers.
- Performance warning threats: Attempting to resolve issues may trigger account warnings that jeopardize store operations.
Adding to the confusion, some sellers note inconsistencies in Amazon's Proof of Delivery (POD) documentation—sometimes missing Amazon's receiving stamp, while other shipments from the same freight forwarder include it. This raises questions about either delivery verification protocols or potential internal fulfillment center issues.
Seller Experiences: Systemic Challenges in FBA Operations
Other sellers report similar frustrations:
- "Amazon showed transfer records for my missing 100 units, then closed the case claiming no inventory was found—now I'm stuck in endless follow-ups."
- "My shipment shows as 'received' but nothing has been listed for sale in 40+ days. Every case gets the same response: 'still in transfer.' How can transfers take six weeks?"
These cases reveal fundamental problems in Amazon's FBA system:
- Lack of transparency: Sellers struggle to track shipment statuses in real time.
- Inconsistent processes: Receiving, transfers, and listing procedures appear arbitrary.
- Ineffective support: Template responses fail to address specific issues.
- Flawed reimbursement systems: Unclear standards and bureaucratic hurdles complicate valid claims.
Data-Driven Solutions: Building Successful Claim Cases
To navigate these challenges, sellers must prioritize comprehensive documentation. Key evidence includes:
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Commercial invoices:
These must clearly show:
- Product details (ASIN/SKU, brand names)
- Invoice type (backdated invoices require purchase date annotations predating shipment creation)
- Complete buyer/seller information (names, addresses)
- Packing lists: Must match both shipped quantities and invoice details.
- Transportation records: Carrier documents and tracking data proving shipment transit.
- Proof of Delivery: PODs must include Amazon's receiving stamp with accurate date/quantity verification.
Successful Claim Strategies: Lessons from the Field
The seller referenced earlier ultimately secured reimbursement through persistent case filings and detailed inquiries. This highlights two critical success factors:
- Tenacious communication: Multiple well-documented cases increase resolution chances.
- Meticulous documentation: Presenting complete evidence chains strengthens claims.
Risk Management: Warehouse Selection and Timing
The case also underscores operational risks—the shipment went to SCK4 during Amazon's January 14 warehouse closures, potentially exacerbating loss risks. Sellers should consider:
- Facility reputation: Research warehouses' operational histories and loss rates.
- Shipping timing: Avoid peak periods and known closure dates.
Performance Warning Appeals: Damage Control Strategies
When facing warnings:
- Analyze the warning's specific allegations.
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Prepare a structured appeal including:
- A factual incident summary
- Supporting documentation
- Concrete preventive measures
- Maintain professional tone—avoid emotional language.
- If initially rejected, refine your appeal or consult specialists.
Proactive Measures for FBA Sellers
To mitigate FBA operational risks:
- Implement rigorous documentation practices.
- Monitor shipment statuses proactively.
- Select fulfillment centers strategically.
- Structure appeals carefully to avoid account penalties.
- Consider professional support for complex cases.
As Amazon's marketplace grows increasingly complex, sellers must develop equally sophisticated operational safeguards to protect their businesses.