I sold an NFL board game about 2 years ago through FBA, which I purchased by Retail Arbitrage sourcing method, a common practice that is allowed by Amazon for sellers to acquire inventory as needed, especially for resellers as myself. 60 days ago, Amazon randomly asked for an invoice for that item, but I couldn't provide it, as the item was purchased over 2 years ago. Before deactivation, I had a video interview where support confirmed my identity, business information and to ask about the item, specifically about where the item was sourced from. I explained it was bought at a target store 2 years ago and didn't retain the receipt. It was that specific answer that determined deactivation status for my account.
I have begged amazon, explained how I obtained the item ethically, but I get the same generic answer over and over again, "your account will remain deactivated until you provide proof of purchase". I also haven't been paid anything since deactivation, and wasn't able to request funds until 60-day period, in which i may still be made to wait a full 90 days if the support associate who reviews it doesn't wake up on the wrong side of the bed.
On top of that, over 1000 other unique SKUS are stuck in "irregular account status", which doesn't allow me to liquidate, remove nor destroy any of my inventory until my account reaches a final stage. It feels like all my inventory and money has been hi-jacked by corporate bullies.
Pro-tip from a deactivated seller: Stay on top of your Amazon Emails, they randomly request documents for items you sell or have sold in the past. For Resellers: Erase ALL your sold listings, as any item you have sold defaults to "out of stock" but remains in your store as an item you are currently selling, just without stock. Erase so amazon doesn't assume you are selling the item and wont ask for documentation.
Thankfully, back in late 2024/early 2025, I was mentally preparing myself for a worst-case scenario with amazon and began putting more effort into my Ebay store, which is what I enjoyed more over AMZ anyway. When the hit came, I doubled down on my ebay business and am already making nearly the same in profits without all the headaches that comes with FBA.
DO NOT DEPEND ON AMAZON SOLELY, they have proved time after time that they are for the BUYER and not the SELLER. they will rob the seller before ever thinking of upsetting the customer in any way, shape or form. They are slowly pushing out ALL small sellers as well, especially resellers. 2025 is to consider backup platforms and/or begin your own logistics setup. AMAZON IS NOT YOUR FRIEND.
