Understanding Restricted Product Violations on Amazon — Insights from CJ Rosenbaum
Over the years, I have helped many Amazon sellers who were suspended for listing products they did not realize were restricted.
Amazon’s restricted product policy is one of the most complex and often misunderstood. Even legitimate sellers can find their listings removed if Amazon’s system flags a product for compliance concerns.
WHAT ARE RESTRICTED PRODUCT VIOLATIONS?
When an item appears for sale or to have been sold on Amazon does not adhere to Amazon's internal policy or compliance with federal regulations it constitutes a Restricted Product Violation.
The following examples represent categories of Restricted Products:
Medicated or Supplement Products: These items include both prescription drugs and over-the-counter medications. These types of items require authorization prior to being sold on Amazon.
Electronics & Surveillance Devices: Products that can be used as surveillance devices, including those that utilize hidden cameras or can record.
Hazardous & Controlled Substances: Dangerous goods include pesticides, chemicals, and flammable items.
Counterfeit or Trademark Violations: Selling products that have a Brand associated with them, regardless of whether or not they were produced by the Brand owner, constitutes infringement of Intellectual Property Rights (IPR).
COMMON REASONS FOR RESTRICTED PRODUCT SUSPENSIONS
Based on reviewing many cases involving restricted products, most of the violations I've seen stem from either policy confusion or automated flagging instead of people intentionally breaking the rules.
Typical issues include:
Product is listed in the wrong category (e.g., listing “vitamins” in the “herbal supplement” category).
Using specific keywords and/or claims that are compliance flags (e.g., “healthcare,” “treatment,” and “cure” all cause compliance flags).
Uploading documentation (e.g., certifications and/or safety reports) for items that require them.
Having some items flagged due to failing to know that although exactly the same item may be classified differently on each of these marketplaces, the rules change for the same item.
Many times, legitimate products can be flagged as well. So, if you find yourself with a flagged product, simply continue to provide factual evidence showing that you comply.
HOW TO PREVENT RESTRICTED PRODUCT VIOLATIONS
1. Check Amazon’s Restricted Product List Regularly
Amazon frequently changes their restricted product list so make sure to review it before adding any new products.
2. Obtain Necessary Approvals Early
You should submit your safety compliance documents to Amazon before you start selling an item so you will not run into problems later.
3. Monitor Policy Updates
Amazon changes its published policy wording all of the time so sellers should be aware that this is happening each month.
4. Keep Documentation Organized
If you need to provide proof to Amazon of your items’ invoices, compliance certifications, or additional correspondence then maintain all of that information in one folder for easy access.
5. Audit Listings Quarterly
Review product descriptions to see if any statements or claims made could classify a product as a restricted item due to medical, safety, or performance-based claims made about that product.
Frequently Asked Questions
These occur when sellers list products requiring approval or prohibited under Amazon policies.