Amazon RMA — Everything Sellers Need To Know

As an Amazon seller, dealing with returns is essential to offering quality customer care. RMA number helps you accurately track the returns. That is why it's necessary to understand how RMA numbers work and how to use them to process returns efficiently and accurately. 

In this post, we'll discuss everything you need to know about Amazon RMA numbers, including their advantages, how to get them, and how to use them.

What Is Amazon RMA Number?

An Amazon Return Merchandise Authorization (RMA) number is a unique identifier assigned by Amazon to track return requests for replacement, repair, or refund. 

When a buyer wants to return a product to an Amazon seller, they must submit an RMA request. Amazon will then issue the buyer with an RMA number, which the buyer must include when shipping the product back.

The RMA number is important for both the buyer and the seller. For the buyer, it helps to ensure that their return is processed quickly and accurately. For the seller, it helps to track returns and prevent fraud.

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Related: Amazon Return Policy for Sellers - All You Need To Know

How Does RMA Work on Amazon?

On Amazon, FBA and FBM sellers have different return policies. For FBA sellers, Amazon handles returns automatically. For FBM sellers, Amazon may automatically authorize returns, or sellers may manually authorize returns. The RMA number helps track the return through the entire process in both cases.

Amazon RMA process for FBA sellers step-by-step

Step 1. The customer initiates a return request.

Step 2. Amazon's automated system processes the request.

Step 3. Amazon evaluates the request to determine if it aligns with the return policy. If the request is in compliance with the Amazon return window, the return request is approved.

Step 4. Amazon generates an RMA and a prepaid return label for the customer.

Step 5. The customer ships the item back to Amazon using the prepaid return label.

Step 6. Amazon receives the returned item and inspects it. After that, one of the options happens:

• If the item is in sellable condition, it is returned to inventory for future orders. Amazon refunds the seller a part of the referral fee and the variable closing fees associated with the product;
• If the product is unsellable because of Amazon’s fault, it is not added to inventory. Amazon also refunds the seller the selling price + part of the referral fee + taxes.
• If the defect is caused by the seller, then the product is not added to the inventory, and Amazon refunds the seller the full referral fee + the variable closing fees.

Amazon RMA process for FBM sellers step-by-step

Step 1. The customer initiates a return request.

Step 2. Amazon may automatically authorize the return request (if within the Amazon return window); otherwise, sellers may manually authorize the return request.

Step 3. If the return request is authorized, Amazon issues an RMA number, and the customer ships the item back to the seller. 

Step 4. The seller receives the returned item and inspects it. After that, one of the options happens:

• If the item is in sellable condition, the seller refunds the customer and relists the item for sale.
• If the product is unsellable, the seller may refund the customer or offer the customer a replacement product.

Step 5. If the seller authorizes the return request manually, they can either use an RMA number suggested by Amazon or generate their own RMA.

Related: How to Reduce Your Amazon Return Rate

Advantages of Amazon RMA

Amazon RMA is a valuable tool for both buyers and sellers. 

Convenience

Amazon RMA is a convenient way for buyers to return defective, damaged, or otherwise not-as-described products. Buyers can initiate a return request through their Amazon account, and Amazon will provide them with a prepaid shipping label and RMA number that helps track the return.

Peace of mind

Amazon RMA can give buyers peace of mind, knowing that they can return a product if they are not satisfied with it. That can help buyers feel more confident when making purchases on Amazon.

Reduced returns

Amazon RMA can help sellers reduce the number of returns. By tracking the returned products using RMA, sellers can identify the problematic items or listings. That way, they can quickly detect the problem and reduce the number of returns in the future. 

Improved product quality

Amazon RMA can help sellers improve their product quality. By reviewing returned products, sellers can identify and fix problems with their products. That can help sellers improve the quality.

How to Find RMA Number on Amazon?

There are a few ways to find your Amazon RMA number.

Finding RMA for sellers

You can find an RMA number in your Seller Central. Go to Manage Returns > Return Authorization Number.

Finding RMA for buyers

Buyers can locate their RMA number under Orders > Return or Replace Items > Return Authorization Number. They can also find the RMA on the Return Authorization Slip.

Finding lost RMA 

If you have lost your RMA number, contact Amazon customer service, and they will be able to provide you with your RMA number.

What Is the Difference between RMA, RA, and RGA?

RMA, RA, and RGA are all terms used in the context of product returns. They have slightly different meanings, but they are often used interchangeably. In general, RMA is the most common term used to refer to the process of returning products. RA and RGA are more specific terms that are used in certain situations.

RMA

RMA stands for Return Merchandise Authorization. This process allows buyers to return products to merchants for replacement, repair, or refund.

RA

RA stands for Return Authorization. It is a more general term that can be used to refer to any type of authorization to return a product.

RGA

RGA stands for Return Goods Authorization. It is a specific type of RA that is used for returning defective or damaged products.

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FAQ

What is RMA in Amazon return?

RMA stands for Return Merchandise Authorization. It is a process that lets buyers quickly return products to sellers for replacement, repair, or refund.

How does Amazon RMA work?

On Amazon, buyers initiate a return request if they are unhappy with the item they purchased. Amazon will then issue a return authorization number (RMA) and instructions on returning the product.

How do I get a return merchandise authorization from Amazon?

Sellers can find an RMA number in Seller Central under Manage Returns > Return Authorization Number. Buyers can find an RMA number under Orders > Return or Replace Items > Return Authorization Number or on the Return Authorization Slip.

What is the RMA number for orders?

An RMA, or Return Merchandise Authorization number, is a unique identifier assigned by Amazon to track return requests for replacement, repair, or refund.

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, the RMA number helps ensure your returns are processed smoothly and efficiently. Keep track of RMA numbers so that you can quickly identify and process returns. 

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