Cut Amazon Storage Costs in Germany
15 October 2025
Optimizing E-commerce with 3PL in Germany
15 October 2025For Amazon FBA sellers in Germany, understanding the difference between returns and removals is crucial for managing inventory efficiently and avoiding unnecessary costs. While both processes involve products leaving the Amazon fulfillment center, they serve different purposes and have very different implications for your business.
In this article, we will explain how Amazon returns and removals work in Germany, highlight their differences, and share practical tips on when to use each option.
What Are Amazon Returns?
Amazon returns happen when a customer sends back an item they purchased. The process is largely driven by Amazon’s customer-friendly return policies, which are especially important in Germany, where consumer rights are highly regulated.
Who initiates it? The customer.
When does it happen? Typically within 30 days (sometimes longer, depending on Amazon’s policy).
What happens next? Returned products are inspected by Amazon. Based on their condition, they may be:
Returned to your sellable inventory.
Marked as unsellable and held in the warehouse.
Marked as damaged or defective.
Key point: Returns are unavoidable in e-commerce. However, you can minimize their impact by monitoring return reasons and improving product quality or descriptions.
What Are Amazon Removals?
Amazon removals occur when you, the seller, request items to be taken out of Amazon’s warehouse. This usually happens when stock is not selling, is seasonal, or is at risk of incurring long-term storage fees.
Who initiates it? The seller.
When does it happen? Anytime you decide to create a removal order.
What happens next? Amazon processes your request and either:
Ships the items back to you (Return to Address).
Disposes of the items (if you choose disposal).
Key point: Removals give sellers control over excess or problematic stock and help reduce costs linked to slow-moving products.
Amazon Returns vs. Removals: Key Differences
Here’s a breakdown of the main differences:
| Factor | Returns | Removals |
|---|---|---|
| Initiated by | Customer | Seller |
| Purpose | Dissatisfied or wrong product | Inventory management |
| Costs | Return processing fees (can vary) | Removal fees (per unit) |
| Inventory outcome | Can return to sellable stock or become unsellable | Items shipped back or disposed of |
| Control | No (driven by customer) | Full (driven by seller) |
When to Choose Removals Instead of Returns
While you cannot avoid customer returns, you can strategically use removals to protect your profit margins. Consider creating a removal order if:
Products are not selling and risk incurring long-term storage fees.
Seasonal items won’t be in demand until the following year.
You want to inspect inventory quality before reselling.
You’re planning to liquidate or sell through another channel.
Best Practices for Managing Returns and Removals in Germany
Track return reasons to identify recurring product or listing issues.
Act early with removals before long-term storage fees apply.
Use local partners in Germany who can receive and reprocess returned or removed items for resale.
Communicate clearly in product listings to reduce return rates.
