Amazon’s return policy is changing. Starting February 8, 2026, Amazon will require all sellers—even those with high-value products—to use Prepaid Return Labels (APRL). While this move makes returns easier for buyers, it shifts more cost and risk to you as a seller.
This comprehensive update will impact refund timelines, return processing, and inventory protection. Here’s how you can adapt to ensure your high-value SKUs remain profitable.
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What’s Changing in Amazon’s Return Policy?
Amazon’s new policy removes the high-value return exemption. This means all products, including electronics, jewelry, and luxury items, will now be subject to standard return processes.
Key changes:
- Automatic Prepaid Return Labels for all products.
- Refund processing times shortened from 14 days to 7 days.
- Less buyer-seller messaging—buyers won’t contact sellers for labels anymore.
What Does This Mean for Sellers?
- Higher Return Risk for High-Value Items: Fraud risks rise with fewer seller protections.
- Faster Refunds: Less time to inspect returns before issuing refunds.
- Streamlined Operations: No more manual approval of return labels.
How Big Internet Ecommerce Can Help
Our Amazon experts help sellers like you:
- Implement tight controls for high-value SKUs.
- Improve documentation for SAFE-T claims.
- Track return patterns to optimize return cost forecasting.
Want to prepare your high-value products for the new return policy?
Schedule a call to get actionable strategies and tools to protect your margins.
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