If you're an Amazon seller using Fulfillment by Amazon (FBA), there may come a time when you need to remove your inventory from Amazon's warehouses. Whether you're discontinuing a product, managing overstock, or switching fulfillment methods, Amazon provides a straightforward process for inventory removal. Here's a comprehensive guide on how to do it.

Reasons to Remove Inventory

1. Overstock: Too much inventory can lead to increased storage fees.

2. Discontinued Products: Products no longer available for sale should be removed.

3. Seasonal Products: Removing seasonal products during off-seasons can save on storage costs.

4. Product Condition: If products are damaged or unsellable, they should be removed.

5. Changing Fulfillment Strategy: Switching from FBA to another fulfillment method.

Steps to Remove Inventory

1. Log in to Your Seller Central Account:

  ● Go to Amazon Seller Central.

2. Navigate to Inventory:

  ● In the main dashboard, hover over the "Inventory" tab and select "Manage Inventory".

3. Select the Items:

  ● In the inventory list, check the boxes next to the items you want to remove.

4. Create a Removal Order:

  ● Click on the "Action on selected" drop-down menu.

  ● Choose "Create removal order".

5. Choose Removal Options:

  ● You will be prompted to choose how you want the inventory handled:

    ● Return to Address: Have the items sent back to your address.
    ● Disposal: Have Amazon dispose of the inventory.
    ● Liquidation: Sell the inventory through Amazon's liquidation program.

6. Enter Return Address (if applicable):

  ● If you're having the items returned, enter the address where you want the inventory sent.

7. Confirm the Order:

  ● Review your removal order details.

  ● Confirm and submit the removal order.

Costs Involved

  ● Removal Fees: Amazon charges a fee per item for removal orders. These fees vary based on the size and weight of the items.

  ● Disposal Fees: If you choose disposal, there will be a disposal fee per item.

Tracking Your Removal Order

1. Go to Removal Orders:

  ● Navigate to the "Inventory" tab.

  ● Select "Removal Order Summary".

2. Monitor Status:

  ● Here you can see the status of your removal orders and track their progress.

Tips for Efficient Inventory Management

1. Regular Audits: Conduct regular inventory audits to identify slow-moving or excess stock.

2. Seasonal Planning: Adjust inventory levels based on seasonal demand.

3. Storage Fees: Keep an eye on Amazon's long-term storage fees to avoid unexpected charges.

Conclusion

Removing inventory from Amazon's FBA warehouses is a straightforward process, but it involves some costs. Regularly managing your inventory and making strategic decisions about removals can help optimize your business operations and reduce unnecessary expenses. Always stay informed about Amazon's policies and fees related to inventory management to make the best decisions for your business.