Amazon FBA's New Grade and Resell Return Policy Explained

Amazon has recently introduced a new product return management option for independent sellers using Fulfillment by Amazon (FBA) in the U.S., called "Grade and Resell." This optional program, which was initially available only to retail brands, is now open to independent sellers. It aims to provide a resale channel and streamline the return process, helping sellers reduce return losses while offering consumers more affordable secondhand product options.

Under this program, all items returned to Amazon's return centers will undergo a thorough inspection and testing before being marked as sellable. A detailed condition description will be provided to assist customers in making informed purchasing decisions. For electronic items, power-on tests and factory resets will be conducted.

Following quality checks, each item will be classified into one of four conditions: "Like New," "Very Good," "Good," or "Acceptable." Additionally, the program includes other options available to U.S. FBA sellers, such as product support, which aims to help customers with product setup and other issues to prevent returns; FBA returnless refunds, allowing sellers to issue refunds without requiring customers to return the items; and FBA donations, enabling sellers to donate eligible products to families and individuals in need.

Moreover, reports indicate that 47.1% of consumers consider the convenience of return and refund procedures when shopping online. Among consumers shopping on non-brand websites or mobile apps, 27.9% take convenience into account, while 25% do so when shopping on brand websites or apps.