Secrets to avoid costly FBA mistakes most Amazon sellers overlook
Dec 17, 2024
12 mins
Dec 17, 2024
12 mins
Dec 17, 2024
12 mins
TL;DR
FBA mistakes silently chip away at your profits if not addressed promptly.
Amazon reimburses lost or damaged inventory, but not always the full value.
Tracking reimbursements yourself takes hours, making FBA reimbursement services a huge time-saver.
Regularly audit inventory health, FBA fees, and returns to spot discrepancies early.
Filing claims on time ensures you don’t lose out on potential reimbursements.
Let services like Refunzo automate the process and ensure no money is left on the table.
There’s a secret hiding in your Amazon seller account.
It’s not a new marketing trick or some untapped revenue stream.
It’s the hidden cost of FBA mistakes.
Most Amazon sellers overlook these errors—until it’s too late.
Lost inventory, miscalculated fees, damaged goods—each one silently chips away at your profits. And the worst part? You might not even know it’s happening.
But here’s the good news: once you know what to look for, you can stop these costly mistakes in their tracks.
And that’s exactly what this blog is about.
Let’s look into the secrets most Amazon sellers miss and how you can use them to protect your bottom line.
Quick guide
If I am reimbursed, should I really care about FBA mistakes?
How to optimize your process to avoid FBA mistakes
Regularly review your inventory health
Perform regular FBA fee audits
File claims promptly for damaged or lost inventory
Stay on top of FBA return processes
Use tools to track shipments and spot discrepancies early
Stay ahead of Amazon’s claim deadlines
Hire FBA reimbursement services for extra protection
Why timing is everything
Stop FBA mistakes from costing you big
If I am reimbursed, should I really care about FBA mistakes?
Yes, you should absolutely care.
Sure, Amazon does reimburse sellers for lost, damaged, or mishandled inventory. But here’s the catch—they rarely reimburse you for the full amount.
And that’s a big deal.
When Amazon loses or damages your product, they don’t just cut you a check for the retail price you’d sell it for. Instead, they calculate a “reasonable reimbursement value.” What does that mean?
They look at the average selling price of your item over the last 90 days, then subtract fees—like fulfillment fees, shipping costs, and any other charges. So, if you think you’re getting $30 back for a $30 product, you’re in for a surprise.
Let’s say you sell a product for $30. After Amazon deducts their fees and applies their formula, you might only get $20 back. That’s a loss of $10 per item. Now imagine that over hundreds of units—it adds up fast.
But that’s not the only reason you should care.
Tracking down those Amazon FBA reimbursements is a task in itself. It’s not as simple as noticing a lost item and getting paid. You have to find the discrepancy, file a claim, and wait for Amazon’s response. This process takes time—hours of work, in fact.
And it’s not just once or twice.
If you’re managing your account yourself, you’ll need to comb through reports regularly, identify missing or damaged items, and ensure that each claim is filed correctly. This means checking inventory adjustment reports, shipment records, and reconciliation reports, then cross-referencing them with your sales.
It’s not a one-time thing. It’s an ongoing task, especially during busy periods like Prime Day or the holiday season when mistakes happen more frequently.
But if you use Amazon FBA reimbursement services, they handle this process for you. They catch every error and file claims on your behalf.
It saves you time and ensures that no potential reimbursement slips through the cracks.
Another point to consider: Amazon has strict deadlines. You only have a certain amount of time to file a claim—sometimes as little as 60 days for lost or damaged items. If you miss that window, you miss your money.
Even worse, not every mistake is obvious. Sometimes, inventory errors don’t show up until you look deeper into your reports. If you’re not paying attention, you might not even realize Amazon owes you money.
On top of that, think about the hidden costs.
Lost inventory can lead to stockouts. A product that should’ve been available for purchase isn’t—and that’s a sale you miss. Then there’s the customer experience. Delayed or damaged items can lead to unhappy customers, higher return rates, and even negative reviews.
It’s more than just the product’s value—it’s your reputation on the line.
Staying on top of FBA mistakes isn’t just about getting back a few dollars—it’s about protecting your bottom line, saving time, and keeping your business running smoothly.
How to optimize your process to avoid FBA mistakes
1) Regularly review your inventory health
To optimize your process and avoid FBA mistakes, the first step is getting organized.
That might sound basic, but it’s crucial.
Start by creating a clear system to track your inventory from the moment it leaves your hands until it’s safely in Amazon’s fulfillment center.
If you’re not monitoring every step, that’s when things can slip.
Stay on top of stock levels by using real-time tracking tools. Set alerts for low stock or discrepancies.
The more you automate, the fewer errors.
It’s also about keeping your listings accurate. Wrong dimensions or incorrect weights? That’s a recipe for overcharged fees or worse—missed sales due to out-of-stock issues.
Double-check everything before you hit submit.
Another key is training your team.
Make sure everyone involved in packing, shipping, and managing your FBA account knows the process inside out. Fewer human errors mean fewer FBA mistakes.
Finally, stay proactive. Don’t wait for Amazon to flag a problem.
Regularly audit your account, review reports, and file claims fast if you catch an issue.
2) Perform regular FBA fee audits
Performing regular FBA fee audits might not sound exciting, but it’s essential.
Amazon doesn’t always get it right.
They charge fees based on your product’s size, weight, and storage time, but sometimes those calculations are off. And those small overcharges? They add up quickly.
Start by reviewing your FBA fee reports regularly. Look for any discrepancies between what Amazon is charging and what your product specs actually are.
Are you being billed for the wrong weight class? Paying extra storage fees because your dimensions are off?
Don’t wait for Amazon to correct these mistakes.
Audit those fees yourself every few months to catch any hidden costs that are quietly draining your profits.
And if something doesn’t look right? File a claim immediately.
This simple habit can save you hundreds, if not thousands, over the long run.
3) File claims promptly for damaged or lost inventory
Filing claims promptly for damaged or lost inventory isn’t just a good idea—it’s essential.
Amazon has strict deadlines, and if you miss them, your opportunity for reimbursement is gone for good.
When you spot an issue—whether it's a missing item, damaged goods, or a return that never made it back—don’t delay. Jump on it immediately.
Start by reviewing your inventory reports regularly. The moment you see a discrepancy, gather your documentation—shipment IDs, product SKUs, dates, and any relevant data—and submit your claim to Amazon.
Waiting too long only increases the chances of missing the reimbursement window. And let's face it, that’s money you’ve worked too hard to lose.
So make it a habit. Keep an eye on your stock, and act fast when something goes wrong.
Because when it comes to recovering lost or damaged inventory, speed matters.
4) Stay on top of FBA return processes
When a customer sends something back, it’s not always a smooth ride from their hands to your inventory. Returns can get lost, damaged, or stuck in processing limbo for weeks.
If you’re not monitoring this process closely, you might not notice when items don’t make it back to your sellable stock. And that’s money slipping through the cracks.
Make a habit of checking your returns regularly.
Track what’s been returned, inspect for damage, and ensure it’s back in inventory quickly. If something doesn’t show up, it’s time to file a claim with Amazon.
Returns are a normal part of selling, but mishandled returns? They’re a problem you can’t afford to ignore.
By keeping a close watch, you’ll avoid surprises and protect your profits.
5) Use tools to track shipments and spot discrepancies early
Using tools to track shipments and spot discrepancies early is one of the smartest moves you can make as an Amazon seller.
Why? Because shipments are where things often go wrong—items get lost, miscounted, or delayed before they even hit Amazon’s shelves.
If you’re not paying attention, those small discrepancies can add up fast.
But here’s the thing—manually tracking every shipment is a massive time drain. And mistakes can easily slip by unnoticed.
That’s where automated tools come in.
They help you monitor every shipment in real-time, flagging any issues like missing units or discrepancies between what you shipped and what Amazon received.
Instead of spending hours combing through reports, you get alerts as soon as something’s off. You can then take action fast, filing claims before the window closes and avoiding costly mistakes.
These tools take the guesswork out of shipment tracking and keep your inventory in check—so nothing slips through the cracks.
6) Stay ahead of Amazon’s claim deadlines
Staying ahead of Amazon’s claim deadlines is critical if you want to recover lost or damaged inventory.
Amazon has strict rules about when you can file a claim—and once that deadline passes, your chance to get reimbursed is gone.
The tricky part?
These deadlines aren’t always easy to track, especially when you’re juggling hundreds of other tasks.
For instance, for items lost in the fulfillment center, you only have 60 days to file a claim. And for customer returns, you need to wait at least 60 days but no more than 120.
Miss these windows, and you’re leaving money on the table.
The best way to stay on top of it all? Set reminders or use tools that alert you as deadlines approach. That way, you never miss the chance to file a claim and recover your lost inventory.
By staying proactive and organized, you ensure that Amazon’s mistakes don’t end up costing you.
7) Hire FBA reimbursement services for extra protection
Hiring FBA reimbursement services adds an extra layer of protection to your business.
With all the moving parts involved in Amazon’s fulfillment process, mistakes are inevitable.
And while you can track some of these errors yourself, it’s time-consuming—and let’s be honest, easy to miss something. FBA reimbursement services can handle that heavy lifting for you.
They monitor your account, find discrepancies, and file claims before you even realize there’s a problem. Plus, these services keep an eye on Amazon’s strict deadlines and ensure you’re never late to the game.
For example, platforms like Refunzo provide real-time tracking and automated claim filing, saving you the hassle of manually chasing down every lost or damaged item. They make sure nothing slips through the cracks, so you can focus on growing your sales, not managing errors.
Hiring a service like this means you’re not only covering your bases—you’re optimizing your entire reimbursement process without lifting a finger. Let the experts catch what you might miss, and keep your business running smoothly.
Why timing is everything
When it comes to filing Amazon FBA refund reimbursement, timing is everything.
Amazon has strict deadlines for when you can submit a claim, and if you miss those windows, you lose your chance to get your money back. No second chances.
Once the deadline passes, so does your opportunity to recover any lost or damaged inventory.
If you’re not paying attention to the clock, you could be throwing away hundreds, or even thousands, of dollars. And the worst part? You might not even know it.
Amazon’s reimbursement process isn’t set up to wait around for you.
For example, claims for lost or damaged items in Amazon’s fulfillment centers need to be filed within just 60 days. That’s a big shift from the previous policy, where you had up to 18 months to spot an issue and file a claim.
With customer returns, the window is also tight. You can only file between 60 and 120 days after the return is processed. If you jump the gun and file before 60 days, your claim gets rejected. If you wait too long and file after 120 days? Same result—no reimbursement.
Then there are removal orders. You have just 15 to 75 days to claim any inventory lost during the removal process. That’s a small window, especially if you’re juggling hundreds of other tasks.
But it’s not just about meeting the deadlines. The sooner you file a claim, the faster you can get your money back. Waiting too long to spot an issue or file a claim means waiting longer for your reimbursement to hit your account.
It’s not just about the dollars either. The longer you wait, the harder it becomes to track down the details Amazon needs to process your claim. Missing records, delayed reports, or incomplete documentation can drag out the process or lead to outright rejection.
Timing also matters when it comes to keeping your cash flow steady.
Lost or damaged inventory is money tied up that you could be using to restock, market, or invest in growing your business.
Filing your claims promptly ensures you recover that capital faster and keeps your operations moving smoothly.
This is why staying on top of your account is critical. Regularly checking your reports, catching mistakes early, and filing claims the moment you spot an issue—this is how you stay ahead.
Tools and services that automate this process are invaluable.
They can track your account in real-time, flag issues before they become costly, and make sure you don’t miss a claim window. By leveraging these tools, you ensure your timing is always right.
Because when it comes to Amazon reimbursements, the clock is always ticking. Don’t let missed deadlines or delayed claims leave your money on the table. Be proactive, act fast, and recover what’s yours.
Stop FBA mistakes from costing you big
The truth is, FBA mistakes are inevitable.
No matter how organized or efficient Amazon’s system may seem, things slip through the cracks.
Inventory gets lost, damaged, or mislabeled, and that’s money out of your pocket.
Every delay in spotting these mistakes is a potential hit to your bottom line, and if you’re not acting fast enough, those losses can pile up.
But here’s the thing—you don’t have to accept those losses. By staying proactive, optimizing your processes, and filing claims on time, you can recover what’s rightfully yours.
It’s not just about saving money; it’s about protecting your business from unnecessary setbacks.
Why leave money on the table when you don’t have to?
Yes, Amazon reimburses, but only if you take the steps to claim what’s owed. Waiting around, assuming everything will work itself out, isn’t an option. You need to be on top of every claim, every deadline, and every opportunity to recover lost funds.
That’s where expert Amazon seller reimbursement services like Refunzo can help.
Refunzo tracks every potential error, flags missed reimbursements and handles the claims process for you. It’s your safety net, ensuring you don’t miss a thing—so you can focus on scaling your business, not tracking down lost inventory.
TL;DR
FBA mistakes silently chip away at your profits if not addressed promptly.
Amazon reimburses lost or damaged inventory, but not always the full value.
Tracking reimbursements yourself takes hours, making FBA reimbursement services a huge time-saver.
Regularly audit inventory health, FBA fees, and returns to spot discrepancies early.
Filing claims on time ensures you don’t lose out on potential reimbursements.
Let services like Refunzo automate the process and ensure no money is left on the table.
There’s a secret hiding in your Amazon seller account.
It’s not a new marketing trick or some untapped revenue stream.
It’s the hidden cost of FBA mistakes.
Most Amazon sellers overlook these errors—until it’s too late.
Lost inventory, miscalculated fees, damaged goods—each one silently chips away at your profits. And the worst part? You might not even know it’s happening.
But here’s the good news: once you know what to look for, you can stop these costly mistakes in their tracks.
And that’s exactly what this blog is about.
Let’s look into the secrets most Amazon sellers miss and how you can use them to protect your bottom line.
Quick guide
If I am reimbursed, should I really care about FBA mistakes?
How to optimize your process to avoid FBA mistakes
Regularly review your inventory health
Perform regular FBA fee audits
File claims promptly for damaged or lost inventory
Stay on top of FBA return processes
Use tools to track shipments and spot discrepancies early
Stay ahead of Amazon’s claim deadlines
Hire FBA reimbursement services for extra protection
Why timing is everything
Stop FBA mistakes from costing you big
If I am reimbursed, should I really care about FBA mistakes?
Yes, you should absolutely care.
Sure, Amazon does reimburse sellers for lost, damaged, or mishandled inventory. But here’s the catch—they rarely reimburse you for the full amount.
And that’s a big deal.
When Amazon loses or damages your product, they don’t just cut you a check for the retail price you’d sell it for. Instead, they calculate a “reasonable reimbursement value.” What does that mean?
They look at the average selling price of your item over the last 90 days, then subtract fees—like fulfillment fees, shipping costs, and any other charges. So, if you think you’re getting $30 back for a $30 product, you’re in for a surprise.
Let’s say you sell a product for $30. After Amazon deducts their fees and applies their formula, you might only get $20 back. That’s a loss of $10 per item. Now imagine that over hundreds of units—it adds up fast.
But that’s not the only reason you should care.
Tracking down those Amazon FBA reimbursements is a task in itself. It’s not as simple as noticing a lost item and getting paid. You have to find the discrepancy, file a claim, and wait for Amazon’s response. This process takes time—hours of work, in fact.
And it’s not just once or twice.
If you’re managing your account yourself, you’ll need to comb through reports regularly, identify missing or damaged items, and ensure that each claim is filed correctly. This means checking inventory adjustment reports, shipment records, and reconciliation reports, then cross-referencing them with your sales.
It’s not a one-time thing. It’s an ongoing task, especially during busy periods like Prime Day or the holiday season when mistakes happen more frequently.
But if you use Amazon FBA reimbursement services, they handle this process for you. They catch every error and file claims on your behalf.
It saves you time and ensures that no potential reimbursement slips through the cracks.
Another point to consider: Amazon has strict deadlines. You only have a certain amount of time to file a claim—sometimes as little as 60 days for lost or damaged items. If you miss that window, you miss your money.
Even worse, not every mistake is obvious. Sometimes, inventory errors don’t show up until you look deeper into your reports. If you’re not paying attention, you might not even realize Amazon owes you money.
On top of that, think about the hidden costs.
Lost inventory can lead to stockouts. A product that should’ve been available for purchase isn’t—and that’s a sale you miss. Then there’s the customer experience. Delayed or damaged items can lead to unhappy customers, higher return rates, and even negative reviews.
It’s more than just the product’s value—it’s your reputation on the line.
Staying on top of FBA mistakes isn’t just about getting back a few dollars—it’s about protecting your bottom line, saving time, and keeping your business running smoothly.
How to optimize your process to avoid FBA mistakes
1) Regularly review your inventory health
To optimize your process and avoid FBA mistakes, the first step is getting organized.
That might sound basic, but it’s crucial.
Start by creating a clear system to track your inventory from the moment it leaves your hands until it’s safely in Amazon’s fulfillment center.
If you’re not monitoring every step, that’s when things can slip.
Stay on top of stock levels by using real-time tracking tools. Set alerts for low stock or discrepancies.
The more you automate, the fewer errors.
It’s also about keeping your listings accurate. Wrong dimensions or incorrect weights? That’s a recipe for overcharged fees or worse—missed sales due to out-of-stock issues.
Double-check everything before you hit submit.
Another key is training your team.
Make sure everyone involved in packing, shipping, and managing your FBA account knows the process inside out. Fewer human errors mean fewer FBA mistakes.
Finally, stay proactive. Don’t wait for Amazon to flag a problem.
Regularly audit your account, review reports, and file claims fast if you catch an issue.
2) Perform regular FBA fee audits
Performing regular FBA fee audits might not sound exciting, but it’s essential.
Amazon doesn’t always get it right.
They charge fees based on your product’s size, weight, and storage time, but sometimes those calculations are off. And those small overcharges? They add up quickly.
Start by reviewing your FBA fee reports regularly. Look for any discrepancies between what Amazon is charging and what your product specs actually are.
Are you being billed for the wrong weight class? Paying extra storage fees because your dimensions are off?
Don’t wait for Amazon to correct these mistakes.
Audit those fees yourself every few months to catch any hidden costs that are quietly draining your profits.
And if something doesn’t look right? File a claim immediately.
This simple habit can save you hundreds, if not thousands, over the long run.
3) File claims promptly for damaged or lost inventory
Filing claims promptly for damaged or lost inventory isn’t just a good idea—it’s essential.
Amazon has strict deadlines, and if you miss them, your opportunity for reimbursement is gone for good.
When you spot an issue—whether it's a missing item, damaged goods, or a return that never made it back—don’t delay. Jump on it immediately.
Start by reviewing your inventory reports regularly. The moment you see a discrepancy, gather your documentation—shipment IDs, product SKUs, dates, and any relevant data—and submit your claim to Amazon.
Waiting too long only increases the chances of missing the reimbursement window. And let's face it, that’s money you’ve worked too hard to lose.
So make it a habit. Keep an eye on your stock, and act fast when something goes wrong.
Because when it comes to recovering lost or damaged inventory, speed matters.
4) Stay on top of FBA return processes
When a customer sends something back, it’s not always a smooth ride from their hands to your inventory. Returns can get lost, damaged, or stuck in processing limbo for weeks.
If you’re not monitoring this process closely, you might not notice when items don’t make it back to your sellable stock. And that’s money slipping through the cracks.
Make a habit of checking your returns regularly.
Track what’s been returned, inspect for damage, and ensure it’s back in inventory quickly. If something doesn’t show up, it’s time to file a claim with Amazon.
Returns are a normal part of selling, but mishandled returns? They’re a problem you can’t afford to ignore.
By keeping a close watch, you’ll avoid surprises and protect your profits.
5) Use tools to track shipments and spot discrepancies early
Using tools to track shipments and spot discrepancies early is one of the smartest moves you can make as an Amazon seller.
Why? Because shipments are where things often go wrong—items get lost, miscounted, or delayed before they even hit Amazon’s shelves.
If you’re not paying attention, those small discrepancies can add up fast.
But here’s the thing—manually tracking every shipment is a massive time drain. And mistakes can easily slip by unnoticed.
That’s where automated tools come in.
They help you monitor every shipment in real-time, flagging any issues like missing units or discrepancies between what you shipped and what Amazon received.
Instead of spending hours combing through reports, you get alerts as soon as something’s off. You can then take action fast, filing claims before the window closes and avoiding costly mistakes.
These tools take the guesswork out of shipment tracking and keep your inventory in check—so nothing slips through the cracks.
6) Stay ahead of Amazon’s claim deadlines
Staying ahead of Amazon’s claim deadlines is critical if you want to recover lost or damaged inventory.
Amazon has strict rules about when you can file a claim—and once that deadline passes, your chance to get reimbursed is gone.
The tricky part?
These deadlines aren’t always easy to track, especially when you’re juggling hundreds of other tasks.
For instance, for items lost in the fulfillment center, you only have 60 days to file a claim. And for customer returns, you need to wait at least 60 days but no more than 120.
Miss these windows, and you’re leaving money on the table.
The best way to stay on top of it all? Set reminders or use tools that alert you as deadlines approach. That way, you never miss the chance to file a claim and recover your lost inventory.
By staying proactive and organized, you ensure that Amazon’s mistakes don’t end up costing you.
7) Hire FBA reimbursement services for extra protection
Hiring FBA reimbursement services adds an extra layer of protection to your business.
With all the moving parts involved in Amazon’s fulfillment process, mistakes are inevitable.
And while you can track some of these errors yourself, it’s time-consuming—and let’s be honest, easy to miss something. FBA reimbursement services can handle that heavy lifting for you.
They monitor your account, find discrepancies, and file claims before you even realize there’s a problem. Plus, these services keep an eye on Amazon’s strict deadlines and ensure you’re never late to the game.
For example, platforms like Refunzo provide real-time tracking and automated claim filing, saving you the hassle of manually chasing down every lost or damaged item. They make sure nothing slips through the cracks, so you can focus on growing your sales, not managing errors.
Hiring a service like this means you’re not only covering your bases—you’re optimizing your entire reimbursement process without lifting a finger. Let the experts catch what you might miss, and keep your business running smoothly.
Why timing is everything
When it comes to filing Amazon FBA refund reimbursement, timing is everything.
Amazon has strict deadlines for when you can submit a claim, and if you miss those windows, you lose your chance to get your money back. No second chances.
Once the deadline passes, so does your opportunity to recover any lost or damaged inventory.
If you’re not paying attention to the clock, you could be throwing away hundreds, or even thousands, of dollars. And the worst part? You might not even know it.
Amazon’s reimbursement process isn’t set up to wait around for you.
For example, claims for lost or damaged items in Amazon’s fulfillment centers need to be filed within just 60 days. That’s a big shift from the previous policy, where you had up to 18 months to spot an issue and file a claim.
With customer returns, the window is also tight. You can only file between 60 and 120 days after the return is processed. If you jump the gun and file before 60 days, your claim gets rejected. If you wait too long and file after 120 days? Same result—no reimbursement.
Then there are removal orders. You have just 15 to 75 days to claim any inventory lost during the removal process. That’s a small window, especially if you’re juggling hundreds of other tasks.
But it’s not just about meeting the deadlines. The sooner you file a claim, the faster you can get your money back. Waiting too long to spot an issue or file a claim means waiting longer for your reimbursement to hit your account.
It’s not just about the dollars either. The longer you wait, the harder it becomes to track down the details Amazon needs to process your claim. Missing records, delayed reports, or incomplete documentation can drag out the process or lead to outright rejection.
Timing also matters when it comes to keeping your cash flow steady.
Lost or damaged inventory is money tied up that you could be using to restock, market, or invest in growing your business.
Filing your claims promptly ensures you recover that capital faster and keeps your operations moving smoothly.
This is why staying on top of your account is critical. Regularly checking your reports, catching mistakes early, and filing claims the moment you spot an issue—this is how you stay ahead.
Tools and services that automate this process are invaluable.
They can track your account in real-time, flag issues before they become costly, and make sure you don’t miss a claim window. By leveraging these tools, you ensure your timing is always right.
Because when it comes to Amazon reimbursements, the clock is always ticking. Don’t let missed deadlines or delayed claims leave your money on the table. Be proactive, act fast, and recover what’s yours.
Stop FBA mistakes from costing you big
The truth is, FBA mistakes are inevitable.
No matter how organized or efficient Amazon’s system may seem, things slip through the cracks.
Inventory gets lost, damaged, or mislabeled, and that’s money out of your pocket.
Every delay in spotting these mistakes is a potential hit to your bottom line, and if you’re not acting fast enough, those losses can pile up.
But here’s the thing—you don’t have to accept those losses. By staying proactive, optimizing your processes, and filing claims on time, you can recover what’s rightfully yours.
It’s not just about saving money; it’s about protecting your business from unnecessary setbacks.
Why leave money on the table when you don’t have to?
Yes, Amazon reimburses, but only if you take the steps to claim what’s owed. Waiting around, assuming everything will work itself out, isn’t an option. You need to be on top of every claim, every deadline, and every opportunity to recover lost funds.
That’s where expert Amazon seller reimbursement services like Refunzo can help.
Refunzo tracks every potential error, flags missed reimbursements and handles the claims process for you. It’s your safety net, ensuring you don’t miss a thing—so you can focus on scaling your business, not tracking down lost inventory.
TL;DR
FBA mistakes silently chip away at your profits if not addressed promptly.
Amazon reimburses lost or damaged inventory, but not always the full value.
Tracking reimbursements yourself takes hours, making FBA reimbursement services a huge time-saver.
Regularly audit inventory health, FBA fees, and returns to spot discrepancies early.
Filing claims on time ensures you don’t lose out on potential reimbursements.
Let services like Refunzo automate the process and ensure no money is left on the table.
There’s a secret hiding in your Amazon seller account.
It’s not a new marketing trick or some untapped revenue stream.
It’s the hidden cost of FBA mistakes.
Most Amazon sellers overlook these errors—until it’s too late.
Lost inventory, miscalculated fees, damaged goods—each one silently chips away at your profits. And the worst part? You might not even know it’s happening.
But here’s the good news: once you know what to look for, you can stop these costly mistakes in their tracks.
And that’s exactly what this blog is about.
Let’s look into the secrets most Amazon sellers miss and how you can use them to protect your bottom line.
Quick guide
If I am reimbursed, should I really care about FBA mistakes?
How to optimize your process to avoid FBA mistakes
Regularly review your inventory health
Perform regular FBA fee audits
File claims promptly for damaged or lost inventory
Stay on top of FBA return processes
Use tools to track shipments and spot discrepancies early
Stay ahead of Amazon’s claim deadlines
Hire FBA reimbursement services for extra protection
Why timing is everything
Stop FBA mistakes from costing you big
If I am reimbursed, should I really care about FBA mistakes?
Yes, you should absolutely care.
Sure, Amazon does reimburse sellers for lost, damaged, or mishandled inventory. But here’s the catch—they rarely reimburse you for the full amount.
And that’s a big deal.
When Amazon loses or damages your product, they don’t just cut you a check for the retail price you’d sell it for. Instead, they calculate a “reasonable reimbursement value.” What does that mean?
They look at the average selling price of your item over the last 90 days, then subtract fees—like fulfillment fees, shipping costs, and any other charges. So, if you think you’re getting $30 back for a $30 product, you’re in for a surprise.
Let’s say you sell a product for $30. After Amazon deducts their fees and applies their formula, you might only get $20 back. That’s a loss of $10 per item. Now imagine that over hundreds of units—it adds up fast.
But that’s not the only reason you should care.
Tracking down those Amazon FBA reimbursements is a task in itself. It’s not as simple as noticing a lost item and getting paid. You have to find the discrepancy, file a claim, and wait for Amazon’s response. This process takes time—hours of work, in fact.
And it’s not just once or twice.
If you’re managing your account yourself, you’ll need to comb through reports regularly, identify missing or damaged items, and ensure that each claim is filed correctly. This means checking inventory adjustment reports, shipment records, and reconciliation reports, then cross-referencing them with your sales.
It’s not a one-time thing. It’s an ongoing task, especially during busy periods like Prime Day or the holiday season when mistakes happen more frequently.
But if you use Amazon FBA reimbursement services, they handle this process for you. They catch every error and file claims on your behalf.
It saves you time and ensures that no potential reimbursement slips through the cracks.
Another point to consider: Amazon has strict deadlines. You only have a certain amount of time to file a claim—sometimes as little as 60 days for lost or damaged items. If you miss that window, you miss your money.
Even worse, not every mistake is obvious. Sometimes, inventory errors don’t show up until you look deeper into your reports. If you’re not paying attention, you might not even realize Amazon owes you money.
On top of that, think about the hidden costs.
Lost inventory can lead to stockouts. A product that should’ve been available for purchase isn’t—and that’s a sale you miss. Then there’s the customer experience. Delayed or damaged items can lead to unhappy customers, higher return rates, and even negative reviews.
It’s more than just the product’s value—it’s your reputation on the line.
Staying on top of FBA mistakes isn’t just about getting back a few dollars—it’s about protecting your bottom line, saving time, and keeping your business running smoothly.
How to optimize your process to avoid FBA mistakes
1) Regularly review your inventory health
To optimize your process and avoid FBA mistakes, the first step is getting organized.
That might sound basic, but it’s crucial.
Start by creating a clear system to track your inventory from the moment it leaves your hands until it’s safely in Amazon’s fulfillment center.
If you’re not monitoring every step, that’s when things can slip.
Stay on top of stock levels by using real-time tracking tools. Set alerts for low stock or discrepancies.
The more you automate, the fewer errors.
It’s also about keeping your listings accurate. Wrong dimensions or incorrect weights? That’s a recipe for overcharged fees or worse—missed sales due to out-of-stock issues.
Double-check everything before you hit submit.
Another key is training your team.
Make sure everyone involved in packing, shipping, and managing your FBA account knows the process inside out. Fewer human errors mean fewer FBA mistakes.
Finally, stay proactive. Don’t wait for Amazon to flag a problem.
Regularly audit your account, review reports, and file claims fast if you catch an issue.
2) Perform regular FBA fee audits
Performing regular FBA fee audits might not sound exciting, but it’s essential.
Amazon doesn’t always get it right.
They charge fees based on your product’s size, weight, and storage time, but sometimes those calculations are off. And those small overcharges? They add up quickly.
Start by reviewing your FBA fee reports regularly. Look for any discrepancies between what Amazon is charging and what your product specs actually are.
Are you being billed for the wrong weight class? Paying extra storage fees because your dimensions are off?
Don’t wait for Amazon to correct these mistakes.
Audit those fees yourself every few months to catch any hidden costs that are quietly draining your profits.
And if something doesn’t look right? File a claim immediately.
This simple habit can save you hundreds, if not thousands, over the long run.
3) File claims promptly for damaged or lost inventory
Filing claims promptly for damaged or lost inventory isn’t just a good idea—it’s essential.
Amazon has strict deadlines, and if you miss them, your opportunity for reimbursement is gone for good.
When you spot an issue—whether it's a missing item, damaged goods, or a return that never made it back—don’t delay. Jump on it immediately.
Start by reviewing your inventory reports regularly. The moment you see a discrepancy, gather your documentation—shipment IDs, product SKUs, dates, and any relevant data—and submit your claim to Amazon.
Waiting too long only increases the chances of missing the reimbursement window. And let's face it, that’s money you’ve worked too hard to lose.
So make it a habit. Keep an eye on your stock, and act fast when something goes wrong.
Because when it comes to recovering lost or damaged inventory, speed matters.
4) Stay on top of FBA return processes
When a customer sends something back, it’s not always a smooth ride from their hands to your inventory. Returns can get lost, damaged, or stuck in processing limbo for weeks.
If you’re not monitoring this process closely, you might not notice when items don’t make it back to your sellable stock. And that’s money slipping through the cracks.
Make a habit of checking your returns regularly.
Track what’s been returned, inspect for damage, and ensure it’s back in inventory quickly. If something doesn’t show up, it’s time to file a claim with Amazon.
Returns are a normal part of selling, but mishandled returns? They’re a problem you can’t afford to ignore.
By keeping a close watch, you’ll avoid surprises and protect your profits.
5) Use tools to track shipments and spot discrepancies early
Using tools to track shipments and spot discrepancies early is one of the smartest moves you can make as an Amazon seller.
Why? Because shipments are where things often go wrong—items get lost, miscounted, or delayed before they even hit Amazon’s shelves.
If you’re not paying attention, those small discrepancies can add up fast.
But here’s the thing—manually tracking every shipment is a massive time drain. And mistakes can easily slip by unnoticed.
That’s where automated tools come in.
They help you monitor every shipment in real-time, flagging any issues like missing units or discrepancies between what you shipped and what Amazon received.
Instead of spending hours combing through reports, you get alerts as soon as something’s off. You can then take action fast, filing claims before the window closes and avoiding costly mistakes.
These tools take the guesswork out of shipment tracking and keep your inventory in check—so nothing slips through the cracks.
6) Stay ahead of Amazon’s claim deadlines
Staying ahead of Amazon’s claim deadlines is critical if you want to recover lost or damaged inventory.
Amazon has strict rules about when you can file a claim—and once that deadline passes, your chance to get reimbursed is gone.
The tricky part?
These deadlines aren’t always easy to track, especially when you’re juggling hundreds of other tasks.
For instance, for items lost in the fulfillment center, you only have 60 days to file a claim. And for customer returns, you need to wait at least 60 days but no more than 120.
Miss these windows, and you’re leaving money on the table.
The best way to stay on top of it all? Set reminders or use tools that alert you as deadlines approach. That way, you never miss the chance to file a claim and recover your lost inventory.
By staying proactive and organized, you ensure that Amazon’s mistakes don’t end up costing you.
7) Hire FBA reimbursement services for extra protection
Hiring FBA reimbursement services adds an extra layer of protection to your business.
With all the moving parts involved in Amazon’s fulfillment process, mistakes are inevitable.
And while you can track some of these errors yourself, it’s time-consuming—and let’s be honest, easy to miss something. FBA reimbursement services can handle that heavy lifting for you.
They monitor your account, find discrepancies, and file claims before you even realize there’s a problem. Plus, these services keep an eye on Amazon’s strict deadlines and ensure you’re never late to the game.
For example, platforms like Refunzo provide real-time tracking and automated claim filing, saving you the hassle of manually chasing down every lost or damaged item. They make sure nothing slips through the cracks, so you can focus on growing your sales, not managing errors.
Hiring a service like this means you’re not only covering your bases—you’re optimizing your entire reimbursement process without lifting a finger. Let the experts catch what you might miss, and keep your business running smoothly.
Why timing is everything
When it comes to filing Amazon FBA refund reimbursement, timing is everything.
Amazon has strict deadlines for when you can submit a claim, and if you miss those windows, you lose your chance to get your money back. No second chances.
Once the deadline passes, so does your opportunity to recover any lost or damaged inventory.
If you’re not paying attention to the clock, you could be throwing away hundreds, or even thousands, of dollars. And the worst part? You might not even know it.
Amazon’s reimbursement process isn’t set up to wait around for you.
For example, claims for lost or damaged items in Amazon’s fulfillment centers need to be filed within just 60 days. That’s a big shift from the previous policy, where you had up to 18 months to spot an issue and file a claim.
With customer returns, the window is also tight. You can only file between 60 and 120 days after the return is processed. If you jump the gun and file before 60 days, your claim gets rejected. If you wait too long and file after 120 days? Same result—no reimbursement.
Then there are removal orders. You have just 15 to 75 days to claim any inventory lost during the removal process. That’s a small window, especially if you’re juggling hundreds of other tasks.
But it’s not just about meeting the deadlines. The sooner you file a claim, the faster you can get your money back. Waiting too long to spot an issue or file a claim means waiting longer for your reimbursement to hit your account.
It’s not just about the dollars either. The longer you wait, the harder it becomes to track down the details Amazon needs to process your claim. Missing records, delayed reports, or incomplete documentation can drag out the process or lead to outright rejection.
Timing also matters when it comes to keeping your cash flow steady.
Lost or damaged inventory is money tied up that you could be using to restock, market, or invest in growing your business.
Filing your claims promptly ensures you recover that capital faster and keeps your operations moving smoothly.
This is why staying on top of your account is critical. Regularly checking your reports, catching mistakes early, and filing claims the moment you spot an issue—this is how you stay ahead.
Tools and services that automate this process are invaluable.
They can track your account in real-time, flag issues before they become costly, and make sure you don’t miss a claim window. By leveraging these tools, you ensure your timing is always right.
Because when it comes to Amazon reimbursements, the clock is always ticking. Don’t let missed deadlines or delayed claims leave your money on the table. Be proactive, act fast, and recover what’s yours.
Stop FBA mistakes from costing you big
The truth is, FBA mistakes are inevitable.
No matter how organized or efficient Amazon’s system may seem, things slip through the cracks.
Inventory gets lost, damaged, or mislabeled, and that’s money out of your pocket.
Every delay in spotting these mistakes is a potential hit to your bottom line, and if you’re not acting fast enough, those losses can pile up.
But here’s the thing—you don’t have to accept those losses. By staying proactive, optimizing your processes, and filing claims on time, you can recover what’s rightfully yours.
It’s not just about saving money; it’s about protecting your business from unnecessary setbacks.
Why leave money on the table when you don’t have to?
Yes, Amazon reimburses, but only if you take the steps to claim what’s owed. Waiting around, assuming everything will work itself out, isn’t an option. You need to be on top of every claim, every deadline, and every opportunity to recover lost funds.
That’s where expert Amazon seller reimbursement services like Refunzo can help.
Refunzo tracks every potential error, flags missed reimbursements and handles the claims process for you. It’s your safety net, ensuring you don’t miss a thing—so you can focus on scaling your business, not tracking down lost inventory.
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