Amazon Updates Return Policy: Prepaid Return Labels Now Required for All US Sellers

Amazon has announced an important update that directly affects all US seller-fulfilled orders. As of February 8, 2026, sellers are now required to use Amazon Prepaid Return Labels (APRL) for customer returns, regardless of item value.

For many sellers, especially those handling high-value products, this marks a shift in how returns are managed. In this post, we break down what’s changed, why it matters, and the practical steps sellers should take to stay compliant and protect their operations.

At Xtended.GH, our goal is simple: help sellers navigate backend changes like this smoothly, so you can stay focused on growing your brand.

What’s New in This Update

Amazon has removed the high-value item exemption from its prepaid return label policy.

Effective February 8, 2026:

• All seller-fulfilled US orders must use Amazon Prepaid Return Labels (APRL)

• The rule applies regardless of product value

• Labels are automatically provided through Buy Shipping Services

• Buyers no longer need to message sellers to initiate returns

What hasn’t changed

Some category exemptions still apply, including:

• Handmade

• Certified pre-owned watches

• Non-physical items

• Dangerous goods

• Extra-large or heavy items

• Items already ineligible for prepaid return labels

Official Amazon references:

• Prepaid returns for seller-fulfilled orders

• SAFE-T reimbursement claims for seller-fulfilled orders

Why This Matters

This update is about standardization and speed, but it also introduces new operational considerations for sellers.

Key impacts:

• Faster refunds: Refund cycle reduced from 14 days to 7 days

• Less buyer-seller messaging: Amazon automates the return flow

• Higher compliance expectations: Manual return handling is no longer an option

• Increased exposure for high-value items: Sellers must rely on SAFE-T claims when issues arise

For sellers without a structured backend process, this change can quickly lead to missed claims, delayed reimbursements, or policy violations.

Pro Tips from Xtended.GH

From a backend operations perspective, here’s what sellers should prioritize:

1. Audit your return workflows

   Ensure all seller-fulfilled SKUs are correctly routed through Buy Shipping Services.

2. Document high-value shipments properly

   Clear order records, tracking, and condition notes strengthen SAFE-T claims.

3. Monitor refund timelines closely

   With faster refunds, response windows for disputes and claims are tighter.

4. Train teams on SAFE-T usage

   Knowing when and how to file matters just as much as filing itself.

5. Review exemption eligibility regularly

   Category status can change, don’t assume exemptions still apply.

How Xtended.GH Can Help

At Xtended.GH, we support sellers where it matters most: backend marketplace operations.

For this update, we help by:

• Reviewing and optimizing seller-fulfilled return workflows

• Ensuring APRL compliance across listings and order processes

• Supporting SAFE-T claim preparation with accurate documentation

• Monitoring refunds, returns, and compliance risks

• Reducing operational friction caused by policy changes

Get in Touch

Selling online and feeling stretched by constant marketplace updates? Let us handle the backend while you focus on growing your brand. Book an appointment.

Final Thoughts

Amazon’s prepaid return label expansion is a reminder that compliance is no longer optional, it’s operational. Sellers who adapt quickly will experience smoother returns, fewer disputes, and better customer trust. Those who don’t risk delays, penalties, and lost revenue.

With the right backend structure, this update doesn’t have to be disruptive. It can be an opportunity to run a cleaner, more resilient operation.