Problems With Preparation

Problems With Preparation: Chargeback Prevention Guide

This guide covers the nine prep-related chargeback types Amazon issues when a product isn't packaged to specification before it reaches the fulfillment center — barcode labeling, bagging, boxing, bubble wrap, cap seals, opaque covering, set creation, taping, and suffocation warnings. For each chargeback, you'll find what triggers it, how to avoid it, the current rate card, and the documentation Amazon requires if you need to dispute a charge.


1. Prep — ASIN Stickering Chargeback

You may receive a chargeback if a product doesn't have a valid, scannable ASIN barcode, or if the barcode is linked to an incorrect or inactive ASIN. These chargebacks exist to ensure accurate inventory tracking and prevent mis-scanning at Amazon's fulfillment centers.

What triggers this chargeback

Triggered when a product arrives without a valid, scannable ASIN barcode, or when the barcode is linked to an incorrect or inactive ASIN. Common causes: low-contrast barcodes (light print on light background), multiple visible barcodes causing scanner confusion, a barcode linked to an inactive or different product's ASIN, or a set product using the same barcode as its individual components.

Rate: $0.71/unit (US), €0.30/unit (EU) — US rate subject to adjustment in 2025.

Exceptions

No chargeback if non-compliance was caused by an Amazon catalog error or a confirmed ASIN mismatch introduced by Amazon's system, communicated in writing.

How to avoid this chargeback

  • Ensure every sellable unit has a scannable barcode linked to the correct, active ASIN — verify before shipping.
  • Only one visible barcode per unit. Cover or render unscannable all other barcodes to prevent mis-scanning.
  • Barcode must be readable without opening the package — place on a flat exterior surface with high contrast (black on white).
  • For sets: use a unique set ASIN barcode, different from individual component barcodes — cover all individual item barcodes.

Rate card

Chargeback type Shipment mode Rate Quantity basis
Prep-ASIN Stickering — US All modes $0.71 / unit Non-compliant units
Prep-ASIN Stickering — EU All modes €0.30 / unit Non-compliant units

Required documentation for dispute

Images of barcode

Images showing a scannable barcode on the product exterior, visibly linked to the correct ASIN — high contrast, readable, single barcode visible.

Catalog record

Screenshot of the Vendor Central catalog confirming the barcode is correctly mapped to the active ASIN.

Compliance confirmation

Confirmation that the barcode was valid, active, and compliant at time of shipment — include shipment date and ASIN activation records if available.

Dispute evidence examples

Approved submission

One scannable barcode, high contrast, exterior placement, linked to the correct active ASIN — catalog match confirmed. Old barcode covered, no duplicates visible.

Denied submission

Inactive ASIN barcode — wrong or expired ASIN linked. Duplicate barcode visible and not covered, causing mis-scan. Low-contrast print not reliably scannable.


2. Prep — Bagging Chargeback

You may receive a chargeback if a product requiring a bag was not bagged, or was not properly bagged per Amazon's packaging requirements. These chargebacks exist to protect product integrity, prevent contamination, and ensure a consistent customer experience.

What triggers this chargeback

Triggered when a product that requires a bag arrives without a bag or with improper bagging: bags not fully sealed, bags thinner than the 1.5 mil minimum, barcodes not scannable through the bag, missing suffocation warnings on bags with openings ≥ 5 inches, or bags extending more than 3 inches beyond the product dimensions. Adult products require opaque bags or shrink wrap. Liquids at risk of leakage need a cap seal in addition to bagging.

Rates (effective Jul 21, 2025): US Standard $0.85/unit, US Oversized $1.50/unit, CA Standard $1.22 CAD/unit, CA Oversized $2.15 CAD/unit, EU €0.55/unit. Oversized = >18×14×8 in or >20 lbs.

Exceptions

No chargeback if non-compliance was caused by an Amazon processing error or confirmed ambiguity in Amazon's packaging requirements, communicated in writing. Note: missing a suffocation warning may result in a chargeback even if the bag is otherwise compliant.

How to avoid this chargeback

  • Use a transparent bag (minimum 1.5 mil thickness) that fully encloses the item; adult products must use opaque bags or shrink wrap.
  • Seal the bag securely with tape or an adhesive strip. Bag must not extend more than 3 inches beyond the product dimensions.
  • Barcode must be scannable through the bag without opening it — only one scannable barcode should be visible.
  • Add a suffocation warning if the bag opening is ≥ 5 inches, and a cap seal for liquids at risk of leakage.

Rate card

Chargeback type Shipment mode Rate Quantity basis
Prep-Bagging — US Standard All modes $0.85 / unit Non-compliant units
Prep-Bagging — US Oversized All modes $1.50 / unit Non-compliant units
Prep-Bagging — CA Standard All modes $1.22 CAD / unit Non-compliant units
Prep-Bagging — CA Oversized All modes $2.15 CAD / unit Non-compliant units
Prep-Bagging — EU All modes €0.55 / unit Non-compliant units

Required documentation for dispute

PO / shipping label

Copy of the purchase order, shipping label, or packing slip confirming shipment details, including PO number, ASIN, and destination.

Product images

Images showing the product in compliant packaging — product visible inside the bag, with a scannable barcode and a clear view of the bag's size and condition.

Compliance details

Evidence of bag thickness (min 1.5 mil), barcode visibility, and suffocation warning placement — confirming the bag meets all Amazon requirements.

Dispute evidence examples

Approved submission

Transparent bag, fully sealed, product completely enclosed. Scannable barcode visible through the bag without opening. Suffocation warning printed (opening ≥ 5 inches). Bag thickness ≥ 1.5 mil, within 3 inches of product size.

Denied submission

No images provided — unable to verify bagging compliance. Bag not sealed / product partially exposed. Barcode not visible or scannable through bag. Missing suffocation warning or bag thinner than 1.5 mil.


3. Prep — Boxing Chargeback

You may receive a chargeback if your shipment's original packaging does not sufficiently protect the product from damage during shipment. These chargebacks exist to maintain product integrity, reduce damage rates, and ensure a consistent customer experience.

What triggers this chargeback

Triggered when the original packaging doesn't sufficiently protect the product — for example, a box that isn't six-sided, collapses under pressure, exposes part of the item, lacks a scannable exterior barcode, or isn't properly sealed with tape, glue, or staples. Items over 10 lb must use a double-wall corrugated box.

Rates (effective Jul 21, 2025): EU €0.77/unit, US Standard $2.11/unit, US Oversized $3.00/unit, CA Standard $3.02 CAD/unit, CA Oversized $4.30 CAD/unit. Oversized = >18×14×8 in or >20 lbs.

Exceptions

No chargeback if non-compliance was caused by an Amazon processing error or routing guide ambiguity confirmed in writing by Amazon. Note: returning a product to its original box does not count as a boxing chargeback.

How to avoid this chargeback

  • Use a strong, six-sided box that fully encloses and secures the item — no part exposed, and it must not collapse under pressure.
  • Ensure a scannable barcode (UPC, GTIN, or ASIN) is visible on the outside of the box.
  • Seal with tape, glue, or staples. Confirm fragile items pass the 3-foot drop test.
  • Products over 10 lb must use a double-wall corrugated box.

Rate card

Chargeback type Shipment mode Rate Quantity basis
Prep-Boxing — EU All modes €0.77 / unit Non-compliant units
Prep-Boxing — US Standard All modes $2.11 / unit Non-compliant units
Prep-Boxing — US Oversized All modes $3.00 / unit Non-compliant units
Prep-Boxing — CA Standard All modes $3.02 CAD / unit Non-compliant units
Prep-Boxing — CA Oversized All modes $4.30 CAD / unit Non-compliant units

Required documentation for dispute

PO or shipping label

Copy of the purchase order or shipping label confirming shipment details, including PO number, ASIN, and destination fulfillment center.

Photos / packaging evidence

Photos showing the item fully boxed with a visible, scannable barcode on the outside, and evidence that the original packaging meets Amazon's requirements (sufficient protection, sealed, no exposed parts).

Dispute evidence examples

Approved submission

Six-sided box, fully sealed with tape — item completely enclosed. Scannable ASIN/UPC barcode clearly visible on the outside. PO and shipping label included, matching ASIN and destination.

Denied submission

No photos provided — unable to confirm proper boxing or prep. Barcode not visible on the outside of the box, or box was open-topped / exposed. Submission missing PO or shipping label with matching ASIN information.


4. Prep — Bubble Wrap Chargebacks (General, Internal, External)

You may receive a chargeback if your fragile, collectible, or loose-piece products were not properly bubble-wrapped. A product secured only with tape is considered insufficiently protected. This covers three related chargeback types: General (product not wrapped at all, or only taped), Internal (components inside a multi-piece product or set are not individually wrapped, allowing them to damage each other), and External (the outer wrap of the entire unit is missing or insufficient, exposing the product to impact/damage).

What triggers these chargebacks

Triggered when fragile, collectible, or loose-piece products arrive without proper bubble wrap protection. Key triggers: fewer than 2 layers of wrap, exposed product surfaces, void space inside the package, a barcode covered by wrap (not scannable without opening), or internal components not individually wrapped within a set.

Rates (effective Jul 21, 2025): General (EU) €0.78/unit. Internal & External: US Standard $1.50/unit, US Oversized $2.50/unit, CA Standard $2.15 CAD/unit, CA Oversized $3.58 CAD/unit. Oversized = >18×14×8 in or >20 lbs.

Exceptions

No chargeback if non-compliance was caused by an Amazon processing error or confirmed ambiguity in Amazon's prep requirements, communicated in writing. Note: tape-only is never accepted as a substitute for bubble wrap and will trigger a chargeback.

How to avoid these chargebacks

  • Apply a minimum of 2 layers of bubble wrap on every unit; wrap each item in a set individually.
  • Provide full coverage with no exposed parts, and wrap internal components separately to prevent them from damaging each other.
  • Eliminate all void space — fill gaps to prevent movement. Package must pass the 3-foot drop test.
  • Barcode must be scannable without unwrapping — apply an external barcode label if wrap covers the original.

Rate card

Chargeback type Shipment mode Rate Quantity basis
Prep-Bubble Wrap — EU All modes €0.78 / unit Non-compliant units
Prep-Internal Bubble Wrap — US Standard All modes $1.50 / unit Non-compliant units
Prep-Internal Bubble Wrap — US Oversized All modes $2.50 / unit Non-compliant units
Prep-Internal Bubble Wrap — CA Standard All modes $2.15 CAD / unit Non-compliant units
Prep-Internal Bubble Wrap — CA Oversized All modes $3.58 CAD / unit Non-compliant units
Prep-External Bubble Wrap — US Standard All modes $1.50 / unit Non-compliant units
Prep-External Bubble Wrap — US Oversized All modes $2.50 / unit Non-compliant units
Prep-External Bubble Wrap — CA Standard All modes $2.15 CAD / unit Non-compliant units
Prep-External Bubble Wrap — CA Oversized All modes $3.58 CAD / unit Non-compliant units

Required documentation for dispute

Photos of prep

Photos showing the product bubble-wrapped properly with barcode visible on the exterior — at least 2 layers, full coverage, no exposed surfaces.

PO / shipping label

Copy of the purchase order or shipping label confirming PO number, ASIN, and destination fulfillment center.

Prep evidence

Evidence that the product was securely prepped and did not require Amazon to add bubble wrap — internal prep checklist, prep service records, or warehouse photos.

Dispute evidence examples

Approved submission

2+ layers of bubble wrap — full coverage, no exposed parts. Barcode label applied on exterior, scannable without unwrapping. No void space — item fully secured inside wrap.

Denied submission

Only 1 thin layer — minimum 2 layers required. Corners exposed — no full coverage. Large void space — item can shift and break in transit.


5. Prep — Cap Seal Chargeback

You may receive a chargeback if a liquid, paste, gel, or cream product (4.2 oz / 125 mL or more) was not properly sealed with a cap seal to prevent leakage and damage during shipment. This applies to non-hazardous, non-fragile products with specific lid types.

What triggers this chargeback

Triggered when a qualifying liquid product arrives without a cap seal, or with an improperly applied seal that doesn't prevent leakage. Applies to liquid, paste, gel, or cream products ≥ 4.2 oz (125 mL), non-hazardous, non-fragile, with a twist/screw top, clip-on, flip top, or hand pump lid. A cap seal is still required even with a secondary seal, unless the pump has a locking mechanism.

Rates (effective Jul 21, 2025): US Standard $0.95/unit, US Oversized $1.36/unit, CA Standard $1.36 CAD/unit, CA Oversized $1.95 CAD/unit. Oversized = >18×14×8 in or >20 lbs.

Application by lid type: Twist/screw top — wrap seal horizontally around the cap/neck junction, lid tightened fully first. Flip top & clip-on — apply seal vertically over the opening. Hand pump — apply vertically over the pump, secure both sides. Multiple openings — apply a separate cap seal to each opening.

Exceptions

No chargeback if the product has a secondary seal and a locking mechanism on the pump — both conditions must be met to qualify for the exemption. If the pump lacks a locking mechanism, a cap seal is still required even with a secondary seal.

How to avoid this chargeback

  • Tighten the lid fully before applying the cap seal — a loose lid will leak even with a seal.
  • Apply the cap seal in the correct orientation for the lid type — horizontal for screw tops, vertical for flips and pumps.
  • For multiple openings, apply a separate cap seal to each — one seal is not sufficient.
  • Ensure the barcode remains visible and scannable after the cap seal is applied.

Rate card

Chargeback type Shipment mode Rate Quantity basis
Prep-Cap Seal — US Standard All modes $0.95 / unit Non-compliant units
Prep-Cap Seal — US Oversized All modes $1.36 / unit Non-compliant units
Prep-Cap Seal — CA Standard All modes $1.36 CAD / unit Non-compliant units
Prep-Cap Seal — CA Oversized All modes $1.95 CAD / unit Non-compliant units

Required documentation for dispute

Photos of cap seal

Photos showing the product with cap seal properly applied and barcode clearly visible — seal must cover the lid/cap fully in the correct orientation for the lid type.

PO / shipping label

Copy of the purchase order or shipping label confirming PO number, ASIN, and destination fulfillment center.

Secondary seal evidence

If applicable, evidence that the item had a secondary seal or was properly prepped to prevent leakage — photos confirming seal condition at time of shipment.

Dispute evidence examples

Approved submission

Cap seal applied horizontally over twist top — lid tightened first. Seal fully covers cap and neck, preventing leakage. Barcode clearly visible and scannable on exterior.

Denied submission

No cap seal applied — lid not secured. Liquid leakage risk that can damage other items in shipment. Cap not tightened before sealing.


6. Prep — Opaque Covering Chargeback

You may receive a chargeback if a product that requires an opaque cover — due to nudity, provocative positions, or vulgar language — was not properly bagged using a non-transparent, black opaque bag. These chargebacks exist to prevent inappropriate content from being visible during fulfillment and delivery.

What triggers this chargeback

Triggered when a product requiring an opaque cover arrives in a transparent or clear bag instead of the required black, opaque bag. Common violations: using a standard clear poly bag instead of black opaque packaging, missing a scannable exterior barcode on the opaque bag, or failing to add a suffocation warning when the bag opening is 5 inches or larger.

Rates (effective Jul 21, 2025): US Standard $1.10/unit, US Oversized $2.29/unit, CA Standard $1.58 CAD/unit, CA Oversized $3.28 CAD/unit. Oversized = >18×14×8 in or >20 lbs.

Exceptions

No chargeback if non-compliance was caused by an Amazon processing error or confirmed ambiguity in Amazon's adult product requirements, communicated in writing. Note: both the opaque covering requirement and the barcode/warning requirements must be met — failure in any one triggers a chargeback.

How to avoid this chargeback

  • Use black, opaque bags (or black shrink wrap) — the product must be completely hidden, with no part visible through the packaging.
  • Apply a scannable item identifier barcode (UPC, EAN, ASIN) on the outside of the opaque bag; add an ASIN sticker if not otherwise scannable.
  • Add a suffocation warning if the bag opening is 5 inches or more (measured flat).
  • Ensure the bag is fully sealed to prevent the product from being exposed during handling or shipping.

Rate card

Chargeback type Shipment mode Rate Quantity basis
Prep-Opaque Covering — US Standard All modes $1.10 / unit Non-compliant units
Prep-Opaque Covering — US Oversized All modes $2.29 / unit Non-compliant units
Prep-Opaque Covering — CA Standard All modes $1.58 CAD / unit Non-compliant units
Prep-Opaque Covering — CA Oversized All modes $3.28 CAD / unit Non-compliant units

Required documentation for dispute

Photos of packaged product

Photos showing the product properly opaque-bagged or shrink-wrapped in black, non-transparent packaging — barcode clearly scannable on the exterior, suffocation warning visible if applicable.

PO / shipping label

Copy of the purchase order or shipping label confirming PO number, ASIN, and destination fulfillment center.

Dispute evidence examples

Approved submission

Black opaque bag — product completely hidden, no content visible. Scannable barcode applied on the exterior. Suffocation warning present (bag opening ≥ 5 inches).

Denied submission

Clear/transparent bag — adult content visible through packaging. No exterior barcode — product cannot be scanned. Suffocation warning missing when required for this bag size.


7. Prep — Set Creation Chargeback

You may receive a chargeback if products that contain two or more units are not packaged together as a set before arriving at the fulfillment center. Items that arrive separated, unlabeled, or with uncovered individual barcodes will trigger this chargeback.

What triggers this chargeback

Triggered when products that should be sold together as a set arrive not packaged together as a single unit — components loose or separated, missing "Sold as set" label, or individual item barcodes not covered (causing scanner confusion with the set ASIN). The packaging must also meet Amazon's applicable prep standard (bagging, boxing, or bubble wrap), and the set must have its own unique barcode.

Rates (effective Jul 21, 2025): US Standard $1.75/unit, US Oversized $2.35/unit, CA Standard $2.51 CAD/unit, CA Oversized $3.36 CAD/unit. Oversized = >18×14×8 in or >20 lbs.

Exceptions

No chargeback if non-compliance was caused by an Amazon processing error or confirmed issue with Amazon's set creation instructions, communicated in writing. Note: if packaging separates during transit due to insufficient sealing, a chargeback may still apply even if the set was originally packed correctly.

How to avoid this chargeback

  • Label the set with "Sold as set", "Ready to ship", or "This is a set. Do not separate." — visible on the exterior.
  • Package all components together as a single complete unit using a bag, box, bubble wrap, or heat-sealed shrink wrap.
  • Apply one unique set ASIN barcode, different from individual item barcodes — cover all others.
  • Ensure packaging meets Amazon's requirements for the selected prep type.

Rate card

Chargeback type Shipment mode Rate Quantity basis
Prep-Set Creation — US Standard All modes $1.75 / unit Non-compliant units
Prep-Set Creation — US Oversized All modes $2.35 / unit Non-compliant units
Prep-Set Creation — CA Standard All modes $2.51 CAD / unit Non-compliant units
Prep-Set Creation — CA Oversized All modes $3.36 CAD / unit Non-compliant units

Required documentation for dispute

Images of packaged set

Images showing all components packaged together as a single unit, with the "Sold as set" label clearly visible and the set ASIN barcode scannable — individual barcodes covered.

PO / shipping label

Copy of the purchase order or shipping label confirming PO number, set ASIN, and destination fulfillment center.

Dispute evidence examples

Approved submission

All items secured together in shrink wrap — single complete unit. "Sold as set" label visible on exterior. Individual barcodes covered — only the set ASIN barcode scannable.

Denied submission

Items separated — not packaged together as a set. No "Sold as set" label on either item. Individual item barcodes exposed, causing mis-scanning.


8. Prep — Taping Chargeback

You may receive a chargeback if your products were not properly secured for shipment. These chargebacks exist to prevent product damage, ensure secure transit, and maintain fulfillment center efficiency.

What triggers this chargeback

Triggered when products arrive not properly secured for shipment: open flaps, unsealed side seams, unsecured openings, or any part of the unit that hasn't been adequately taped or sealed. Barcodes placed around corners are also a common trigger — they must be on a flat, exterior surface to be scannable. Units eligible for stickerless commingled inventory must be labeled with an Amazon item label.

Rate: €0.40 per unit.

Exceptions

No chargeback if non-compliance was caused by an Amazon processing error or confirmed ambiguity in Amazon's taping requirements, communicated in writing. Note: a barcode placed on a corner or folded surface is a common dispute denial reason — always verify before shipping.

How to avoid this chargeback

  • Ensure all openings are properly secured — tape all flaps, seams, and openings. Use an H-tape pattern on top and bottom for maximum security.
  • Place the barcode on a flat exterior surface — avoid placing it around corners.
  • For units requiring additional packaging, ensure the barcode remains scannable from the outside.
  • Label stickerless commingled inventory units with an Amazon item label — no exceptions.

Rate card

Chargeback type Shipment mode Rate Quantity basis
Prep-Taping (Lack of Taping) All modes €0.40 / unit Non-compliant units

Required documentation for dispute

Images of secured unit

Photos showing the product with securely taped or sealed openings and a scannable barcode on the exterior — flat surface, not on a corner, clearly readable.

PO / shipping label

Copy of the purchase order or shipping label confirming shipment details, including PO number, ASIN, and destination fulfillment center.

Dispute evidence examples

Approved submission

All flaps and seams fully taped — no open edges. Barcode on flat exterior surface, scannable without opening. H-tape pattern used on top and bottom for full security.

Denied submission

Top flaps open — not sealed or taped. Barcode placed on corner — cannot scan reliably. Side seam unsecured — product exposed during transit.


9. Prep — Suffocation Warning Chargeback

You may receive a chargeback if a product that requires a bag is missing the required suffocation warning — either printed on the bag or attached as a label. These chargebacks exist to protect consumer safety and ensure compliance with Amazon's mandatory packaging standards.

What triggers this chargeback

Triggered when a product requiring a bag with a suffocation warning arrives with the warning missing, illegible, or non-compliant. Applies when the bag opening is ≥ 5 inches (measured flat). The warning must use the exact required language, be placed prominently, printed in a legible font size appropriate for the bag width, and use contrasting colors. A warning that's present but too small, low-contrast, or incorrectly worded may still trigger a chargeback.

Rates (effective Jul 21, 2025): US Standard $0.71/unit, US Oversized $1.10/unit, CA Standard $1.02 CAD/unit, CA Oversized $1.58 CAD/unit. Oversized = >18×14×8 in or >20 lbs.

Required warning text (exact language)

"WARNING: To avoid danger of suffocation, keep this plastic film away from babies and children. Do not use this bag in cribs, beds, carriages, or play pens. This bag is not a toy."

Exceptions

No chargeback if non-compliance was caused by an Amazon processing error or confirmed ambiguity in Amazon's packaging requirements, communicated in writing.

How to avoid this chargeback

  • Use a transparent bag (min 1.5 mil) and ensure the suffocation warning is printed on the bag or attached as a label in a prominent, legible location.
  • Seal the bag securely. The warning must use contrasting color and a legible font size appropriate for the bag width.
  • Barcode must be scannable through the bag without opening it — both the warning and barcode must be clearly visible from the exterior.

Rate card

Chargeback type Shipment mode Rate Quantity basis
Prep-Suffocation Warning — US Standard All modes $0.71 / unit Non-compliant units
Prep-Suffocation Warning — US Oversized All modes $1.10 / unit Non-compliant units
Prep-Suffocation Warning — CA Standard All modes $1.02 CAD / unit Non-compliant units
Prep-Suffocation Warning — CA Oversized All modes $1.58 CAD / unit Non-compliant units

Required documentation for dispute

Images of warning

Clear images showing the suffocation warning and barcode visible through the bag or applied on the outside — warning must be legible, prominent, and in a contrasting color.

PO / shipping label

Copy of the purchase order or shipping label confirming PO number, ASIN, and destination fulfillment center.

Compliance details

Bag thickness (min 1.5 mil) and placement of warning — confirm the warning meets Amazon's font size, contrast, and exact text requirements.

Dispute evidence examples

Approved submission

Suffocation warning clearly printed on bag — prominent and legible, with the exact required warning text present in contrasting colors. Barcode visible through transparent sealed bag.

Denied submission

No suffocation warning on bag — required label missing. Required exact warning text not present. No contrasting print — warning not visible or legible.


For more information on this topic download the attached one-pagers at the bottom of this article.

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