Step-by-Step Guide: Writing a POA for Amazon FBA Shipping Plan Issues

If you’re an Amazon seller, you know that Amazon’s policies almost always favor its buyers. From anti-counterfeiting measures to strict product review rules, Amazon ensures a safe shopping experience for customers, sometimes at the expense of sellers. While this focus on customers is key to their success, it can lead to policy changes that catch sellers off guard. This is why every seller needs to know how to write an Amazon Suspension Plan of Action (POA), especially when policy changes lead to FBA shipping plan issues.

Learn all about Amazon’s FBA shipping process, avoidable shipping mistakes that could lead to account suspensions, and how to write a solid Plan of Action (POA) to get your account back on track in this guide.

What Is an Amazon FBA Shipping Plan?

Amazon’s FBA (Fulfillment by Amazon) program lets you outsource inventory storage, order fulfillment, and customer service to Amazon. You send your products to Amazon fulfillment centers, and they handle the rest, including returns. The first key step is developing a well-detailed and accurate shipping plan. 

The FBA shipping plan outlines the method you’ll use to ship your products to Amazon’s fulfillment centers. It includes product details, quantities, packing instructions, and shipping methods. Creating an error-free shipping plan is vital to avoid issues that could lead to suspension.

Common Amazon FBA Shipping Plan Mistakes

No matter how experienced you are, errors in preparing and shipping products to Amazon can still occur. Here are some common errors that may result in suspension:

1. Incorrect or missing barcode labels: Labels are essential for tracking. Mislabeling or not labeling items correctly can cause Amazon to reject shipments.
2. Obscured or damaged shipping labels: Any damage to labels can result in products being lost or delayed in processing.
3. Shipping ineligible products: Some items, like alcohol or certain restricted categories, are not allowed in FBA.
4. Shipping delays: Failing to follow your shipping schedule can lead to suspension. This was especially problematic during the 2020 shipping fiasco.
5. Deleting shipments from the approved list: Accidentally removing shipments from Amazon’s system can cause major disruptions.

The 2020 Amazon FBA Shipping Fiasco

In August 2020, Amazon introduced a policy that required sellers to adhere strictly to their shipping schedules. However, many sellers received notice of this change nine days after it went into effect. This led to confusion and account suspensions, as sellers were unable to meet the new requirements in time.

Sellers were understandably upset, especially those relying on third-party shipping carriers. They argued that once their shipments were handed off to the carrier, they had little control over delays or missed deadlines.

Writing an Effective Plan of Action (POA) for Amazon Suspensions

If your account is suspended due to a shipping plan issue, your best chance at reinstatement is to submit a well-crafted Suspension Plan of Action (POA). Learn how to craft a compelling Plan of Action (POA): 

1. Identify the root Cause

Amazon expects you to explain why your account was suspended. Be specific and acknowledge the mistake. For example, if your carrier fails to meet the shipping schedule, note this but take responsibility.

2. Implement Immediate Fixes

Next, you must outline the temporary steps you’ve taken to resolve the issue. Have you contacted your carrier to ensure better communication? Have you updated your shipping plan to avoid future delays?

3. Propose Long-Term Solutions

Finally, provide Amazon with a detailed plan for preventing the problem in the future. This could include using Amazon-partnered carriers, better tracking systems, or updating internal processes to avoid missing deadlines.

Sample POA Template

• Root Cause: Our shipment was delayed due to miscommunication with our third-party carrier. We accept full responsibility for the delay.
• Immediate Actions: We’ve contacted our carrier to improve communication and have revised our shipping plan to ensure timely delivery.
• Preventative Measures: Moving forward, we will use Amazon-partnered carriers to guarantee adherence to Amazon’s shipping schedule. We will also monitor shipments more closely and update our shipping plan as needed.

Why Seek Professional Help for Your POA?

Composing a POA can be stressful and time-consuming. Many sellers try to rush through the process and end up making mistakes, reducing their chances of account reinstatement. If you’re unsure about how to approach writing your POA, it’s worth considering professional help.

Final Thoughts: Avoid Shipping Plan Issues with Expert Support

Amazon’s FBA shipping process can be complex, and policy changes can be unexpected. Whether you’re dealing with a suspension or want to avoid one altogether, the key is being proactive and precise in your shipping plans. Should the worst happen and your account gets suspended, a well-written POA can get you back in business quickly.

Call to Action:
Don’t leave your Amazon business to chance. If you’re struggling with suspension issues or need help creating a solid shipping plan, Pro Seller Marketing can assist. Our team of experts specializes in account management, suspension appeals, and FBA optimization. Contact us today and let us help protect your Amazon business!