Reuse boxes for Merchant fulfilled
Hello… I have searched the forums and found conflicting responses.
For merchant fulfilled order is a seller able to ship merchandise in a previously used box?
For example if I have an Amazon branded box that I received from a previous purchase can I reuse the Amazon branded box to ship a package for a merchant fulfilled order?
I understand the box should be reasonable for shipping and able to protect the item, assuming the box is in very good condition can I reuse an Amazon branded box or any other branded box to ship?
If anyone knows where the shipping policy is please share.
Thank you.
Seller_xAhuc74Xv6mQm
Completely appreciate your response! From reading the policy above it definetly is again policy to use a Amazon shipping box, which clearly violate the Logo\Trademark portion.
I just found this which also answers the question about using a branded box.
https://sellercentral.amazon.com/help/hub/reference/G201808410
_ Purchasing products from another online retailer and having that retailer ship directly to customers, if the shipment does not identify you as the seller of record or if anyone other than you (including the other online retailer) appears on packing slips, invoices, or external packaging, it is strictly prohibited without exception; or_*
_ Shipping orders with packing slips, invoices, external packaging, or other information indicating a seller name or contact information other than your own is also strictly prohibited._*
8 replies
Seller_VPTojhikJPGtl
… I wouldn’t. Quite a few people have been suspended for using branded and/or used boxes.
Yeah I hear you, but it’s a risk to even use an Amazon box.
Not a risk I am willing to take for what, saving $0.50 or less per box?
Seller_sUfyk7ajzPzny
For many years, Amazon’s published policy - in a variety of places - specified that only pristine, unused packaging was acceptable.
All such references to that previous requirement were removed some years back.
Nevertheless, there still exists at least one instance of published policy which specifies that prior permission to re-ship in Amazon-branded packaging must be sought and obtained, found in the “Unauthorized Use of Amazon Trademarks” ¶ of the SHC’s (“Seller Help Content”) Amazon Devices: Fair Use and Compatibility Guidelines (link, ‘old-style;’ will redirect to Help Hub Revision Initiative URL @ https://sellercentral.amazon.com/help/hub/reference/200500120) :
"…
Logos, designs and symbols : You may not use the Amazon Logo or any other Amazon-owned graphic symbol, logo, or icon on or in connection with web sites, products, packaging, manuals, promotional/advertising materials, or for any other purpose except pursuant to an express written trademark license from Amazon, such as the Kindle Store Terms. If you are interested in using any of Amazon’s logos, or graphics, please email mfa-product-team@amazon.com to discuss becoming a licensee under the Made for Amazon program.
…"
To be fair, one could split the hair pretty finely on the ‘Amazon Devices-only’ aspect of that help page (how many angels can dance upon the head of a pin?) - but is the risk-vs-reward calculation likely to come out favorably should Amazon look askance?
Methinks not…
Seller_0O69KFvrK41OD
If someone orders a case or close to a case and you ship it in the case box, I don’t think it’s an issue.
Shipping it in an Amazon box I think would be a huge red flag. Knowing Amazon they would go after you for unauthorized use of trademark.
Using say a box from Walmart might make the customer think they are getting a dropshipped order.
Seller_O5II1aDRmKRXI
I only do it when I have access to a craft paper tape dispenser. It cleans the box up. It needs to look presentable.
I agree with never using another retailers box.
Seller_xAhuc74Xv6mQm
Response from AMAZON
After investigation of your concern we would like to inform you that reusing of shipments boxes is not allowed from the sellers.
Using other branded boxed or previously used boxed is not allowed even if it is in good condition. This is to improve the customer experience who are purchasing in Amazon.
We regret any inconvenience caused. We truly understand that some of our guidelines sometimes causes inconvenience to our valued sellers. But as this involves a business decision, we assure you that the guidelines are only with an intention to improve seller experience.
