Selling on Amazon can be incredibly profitable, but it also comes with strict rules. Amazon enforces clear policies to maintain trust among buyers and sellers. Unfortunately, many new sellers—especially those who rely on eCommerce account management services—unintentionally violate these rules. Even a small mistake can lead to Amazon account suspension, loss of revenue, or permanent removal from the marketplace. In this article, we’ll explore the seven most common Amazon policy violations new sellers make, how they happen, and how to avoid them when using professional account management services.
Common Amazon Policy Violations
Learn about the 7 common Amazon policy violations every new sellers often make and how to avoid them to maintain a successful business on the platform.
1. Listing Inaccurate or Misleading Product Information
One of the most frequent violations is inaccurate product listings. Many sellers, or their hired eCommerce agencies, fail to provide correct details about a product’s size, color, condition, or compatibility. This misrepresentation can lead to poor customer experiences, high return rates, and account warnings.
Example: A seller lists a “genuine leather wallet” that turns out to be synthetic. Even if this was an honest mistake, Amazon treats it as a policy violation under its “Product Detail Page Rules.”
How to avoid it:
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Always verify product details with the supplier before listing.
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Double-check bullet points, descriptions, and images for accuracy.
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Hire Amazon account management services that follow Amazon’s product listing guidelines strictly.
2. Selling Restricted or Prohibited Products
New sellers often violate Amazon’s restricted product policy without realizing it. Certain items—like dietary supplements, beauty products, or branded goods—require prior approval or documentation before listing. Some eCommerce agencies overlook this rule, leading to listing removals or account suspensions.
How to avoid it:
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Review Amazon’s “Restricted Products” list before uploading listings.
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Obtain necessary compliance documents such as safety certificates or brand authorization letters.
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Use professional eCommerce services that conduct compliance checks.
3. Duplicate Listings or Multiple Accounts
Creating duplicate listings or managing multiple seller accounts without Amazon’s approval is a serious policy breach. Some agencies create duplicate accounts for clients to “boost visibility,” but this practice violates Amazon’s fair competition policy.
Consequences: Amazon can permanently suspend all linked accounts if duplicate accounts are detected.
How to avoid it:
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Operate only one seller account unless Amazon explicitly allows another.
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Ensure your account management agency uses legitimate listing optimization—not duplication—for visibility improvements.
4. Manipulating Reviews and Feedback
Fake reviews, incentivized reviews, or using third-party services to inflate ratings are against Amazon’s rules. Many new Amazon sellers unknowingly hire “review generation” services that promise quick results but use unethical tactics.
How to avoid it:
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Never pay or offer free products in exchange for reviews.
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Encourage organic feedback through excellent customer service.
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Partner with reputable account management experts who comply with Amazon’s review policies.
5. Poor Order Fulfillment and Late Shipments
When sellers fail to deliver products on time or cancel orders frequently, it signals unreliability to Amazon. Poor order defect rates (ODR) and late shipment rates can quickly lead to policy warnings or suspension.
Common causes:
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Inexperienced eCommerce agencies not syncing inventory correctly.
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Lack of real-time stock management.
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Delayed order processing.
How to avoid it:
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Use Fulfillment by Amazon (FBA) or ensure your account management service has robust logistics systems.
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Keep your inventory updated daily.
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Monitor performance metrics regularly.
6. Using Copyrighted or Trademarked Content Without Permission
Amazon has a zero-tolerance policy for intellectual property (IP) violations. Sellers who use brand logos, copyrighted images, or unauthorized product names risk legal action and suspension.
Example: Listing a phone case as “Apple iPhone® cover” without authorization violates Apple’s trademark rights.
How to avoid it:
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Only use brand names if you’re an authorized reseller.
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Create original product images and descriptions.
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Ask your eCommerce management team to perform IP compliance checks before publishing listings.
7. Ignoring Customer Complaints or A-to-Z Claims
New sellers often underestimate the importance of customer communication. Ignoring buyer messages, complaints, or A-to-Z Guarantee claims signals poor service quality to Amazon. Even if your account is managed by a third party, you are ultimately responsible.
How to avoid it:
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Respond to all customer inquiries within 24 hours.
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Track A-to-Z claims and resolve disputes professionally.
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Ensure your eCommerce account management services includes proactive customer support.
Final Thoughts
Running a successful Amazon business requires more than great products—it demands strict compliance with Amazon’s policies. Many new sellers rely on eCommerce management services to streamline their operations, but not all agencies understand or follow Amazon’s rules thoroughly.
Before hiring team of Novel Web, a trusted eCommerce management partner, ensure they have a proven track record in compliance, listing accuracy, and customer support. A single violation can cost you your account, while consistent compliance builds trust, visibility, and long-term profitability. By avoiding these 7 common Amazon policy violations, you can protect your business, maintain account health, and achieve steady growth in the world’s largest online marketplace.
