Amazon is the world’s largest e-commerce platform, with millions of sellers competing for customers. However, with strict policies and performance metrics, Amazon enforces high standards to maintain buyer trust. As a result, sellers can face suspensions if they violate rules—sometimes without realizing it.
A suspended Amazon account can be devastating, leading to loss of revenue, unsold inventory, and damaged reputation. That’s why it’s crucial to understand why suspensions happen, how to prevent them, and what to do if your account is deactivated.
In this guide, we’ll cover:
✅ Common reasons for Amazon account suspension
✅ Proven strategies to avoid suspension
✅ How to write a strong Amazon suspension appeal
✅ Expert reinstatement solutions for rejected appeals
By following these guidelines, you can protect your Amazon business and reduce the risk of suspension.
1. Common Reasons for Amazon Account Suspension
Amazon suspends seller accounts for a variety of reasons, but most fall into these categories:
1.1 Violation of Amazon’s Seller Policies
Amazon enforces a strict Seller Code of Conduct, and breaking these rules can lead to an immediate suspension. Common infractions include:
- Listing restricted products without approval.
- Manipulating customer reviews (e.g., fake reviews, incentivized feedback).
- Creating misleading product listings or false advertising.
- Selling counterfeit or inauthentic products.
📌 Tip: Regularly check the Amazon Seller Code of Conduct for updates.
1.2 Poor Seller Performance Metrics
Amazon tracks key performance indicators (KPIs) to measure seller reliability. Falling below these benchmarks increases suspension risk:
📌 Order Defect Rate (ODR) – Must be below 1%.
📌 Late Shipment Rate (LSR) – Must be below 4%.
📌 Valid Tracking Rate (VTR) – Must be above 95%.
A high cancellation rate, excessive returns, or frequent negative feedback can also trigger a suspension.
1.3 Intellectual Property & Trademark Violations
Amazon enforces intellectual property (IP) laws strictly. Sellers may face suspensions for:
- Listing branded products without authorization.
- Using copyrighted images, logos, or brand names without permission.
💡 Solution: If you receive an IP complaint, contact the rights owner and request a retraction before submitting your appeal.
1.4 Linked or Multiple Accounts Without Permission
Amazon prohibits sellers from having more than one seller account unless officially approved. Common mistakes that trigger linked account suspensions include:
✔ Logging into multiple accounts from the same device/IP.
✔ Using the same payment details, phone number, or business address.
✔ Operating an account that was previously suspended.
🔹 How to Avoid It: Always use a dedicated device and IP address for logging into Seller Central.
1.5 Drop Shipping Policy Violations
Amazon allows drop shipping only if sellers follow strict guidelines:
✅ You must be the seller of record (your name should be on all invoices and packing slips).
✅ No third-party fulfillment from unauthorized sources (e.g., AliExpress, Walmart).
Violating these policies can result in immediate suspension.
2. How to Avoid Amazon Account Suspension
Preventing suspension is easier than appealing for reinstatement. Follow these best practices:
2.1 Follow Amazon’s Seller Policies & Guidelines
Amazon regularly updates its rules. Check Seller Central often to stay compliant.
📌 Best Practices:
✔ Source from reputable suppliers and keep valid invoices.
✔ Avoid using stock images that may infringe copyright.
✔ Never ask customers for positive reviews in exchange for incentives.
2.2 Maintain High-Performance Standards
Amazon expects sellers to meet strict performance metrics. Here’s how to stay in good standing:
✔ Ship orders on time to keep your LSR below 4%.
✔ Monitor product quality to avoid high return rates.
✔ Respond to customer inquiries within 24 hours to maintain high customer satisfaction.
📌 Pro Tip: Regularly check your Account Health Dashboard to identify potential issues before they lead to a suspension.
2.3 Use Authentic and Verified Suppliers
Many suspensions occur because Amazon questions product authenticity. To avoid this:
✔ Buy from authorized distributors or brand owners.
✔ Keep invoices for at least 365 days in case Amazon requests verification.
3. What to Do If Your Amazon Account Is Suspended
Even with best practices in place, suspensions can happen. If your account gets suspended:
3.1 Identify the Suspension Reason
Check your Performance Notifications in Seller Central to understand why you were suspended.
3.2 Gather Necessary Documents
Amazon may request:
📌 Supplier invoices to verify authenticity.
📌 Shipping records to dispute late shipment claims.
📌 Legal documents for intellectual property complaints.
3.3 Submit a Strong Plan of Action (POA)
Your POA should include:
🔹 Root Cause Analysis – Explain why the issue occurred.
🔹 Corrective Actions – Detail how you fixed the problem.
🔹 Preventive Measures – Outline steps to prevent future violations.
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