Inventory discrepancies can occur for various reasons during the complex process of shipping, receiving, and storing FBA inventory. When units appear to be missing, it's crucial for sellers to understand the reconciliation process and know how to effectively investigate and resolve these issues. This guide aims to provide you with the necessary steps and information to navigate the FBA inventory reconciliation process, regardless of the cause of the discrepancy.

Whether you're dealing with a small number of missing units or a larger inventory discrepancy, following these best practices can help streamline the resolution process and potentially recover your inventory or receive appropriate reimbursement. Let's dive into the key steps and requirements for successful inventory reconciliation.

When Can You Request Investigation?

Your shipment must be in "Closed" status before it's eligible for reconciliation. Common reasons your shipment might not be eligible:

• Still being processed by the fulfillment center

• Not yet delivered

• Pending final unit count confirmation

• Additional units found requiring processing

• Shipment already received in full/reconciled

Critical Documentation Requirements

You MUST provide TWO types of documentation:

1. Proof of Inventory Ownership

Supplier invoice showing:

• Purchase date

• Product names (matching missing products)

• Quantity purchased

OR if you're the manufacturer:

Signed packing slip with:

• Packing list date

• Shipment/PO ID

• Product names

• Quantity shipped

• Manufacturer signature/stamp

2. Proof of Delivery

• For LTL/FTL: Documentation showing box count and total weight

• Must be from carrier

• Confirms entire shipment was picked up as expected

Important Document Format Requirements:

• Must be non-editable format (PDF, JPG, PNG, TIFF)

• NO Excel or Word document

• Prices can be hidden/obscured

• Pro forma invoices not accepted

Step-by-Step Reconciliation Process

1. Go to Shipments in Seller Central

2. Click Track shipment

3. Select the Contents tab

4. Review discrepancies

5. Select appropriate action for each "Action Required" item:

• Units not shipped
• Research missing units
• Extra units shipped
• Research extra units

6. Upload required documentation

7. Provide detailed description

8. Preview and submit

Tips for Successful Resolution

When describing your case, include:

• Known discrepancies

• Shipping box details (color, size, markings)

• Product code verification

• Any prep requirements that might have been missed

Timeline Expectations

Reconciliation of shipped inventory usually takes 2 to 30 days. In some cases, it will take up to 60 days. You can track the status of your shipment in the Shipping Queue with the status cycling through in Transit, Delivered, Checked-in, Receiving, and finally closed.

Need Additional Help?

• Monitor your case status via Case Log

• Track shipment status through Shipping Queue

• If you discover new information after submission, contact Seller Support with your case ID

Useful Links:

• Seller University Video on Reconciliation

• FBA Inventory Reimbursement Policy

• How Amazon Receives and Stores Inventory

Lastly, know that you if you are struggling with an FBA Reconciliation investigation request or reimbursement - you are always welcome to raise it here on the forums! Our community of sellers are quick to share their insights, and our team of Community Managers will happily review the details on your behalf to determine how best to assist.

- Bryce