2025 Amazon EU Return Policy Update
Amazon has officially shortened the return window for many of its key European markets including Germany, France, Italy, Spain, and the UK. Effective June 23, 2025, the standard 30-day voluntary return window has been replaced with a 14-day legal withdrawal period.
This shift affects all sellers whether you fulfill through FBA (Fulfilled by Amazon) or FBM (Fulfilled by Merchant) and requires updates to your product pages, operations, and customer service policies.
What's Changed
- Old Policy: 30-day voluntary return period
- New Policy: 14-day legal withdrawal period (EU-wide standard)
- Effective Date: June 23, 2025
- Applies to: Consumer electronics, home goods, appliances, office supplies, personal care, and more
This policy aligns with the EU Consumer Rights Directive and is intended to provide a uniform, legally compliant return standard across Amazon marketplaces in the European Union and UK.
What Items Are Excluded from Returns
Even within the 14-day window, certain products are not eligible for return. These include:
- Opened hygiene and health products such as razors or face masks
- Unsealed software, video games, DVDs, or music CDs
- Custom or personalized items
- Perishable goods like food or beverages
- Digital content that has been downloaded or streamed
- Subscriptions, completed services, alcohol, or magazines
Tip: Clearly list these exceptions on your product detail pages, packaging inserts, and post-purchase emails to avoid confusion or disputes.
Why Did Amazon Make This Change
- Compliance with EU law and standardization across countries
- Reduction in return shipping and handling costs
- Prevention of return policy abuse such as try-and-return behavior
- Operational streamlining and feedback from sellers
Impact on Sellers: What to Expect
Benefits
- Faster inventory turnover
- Reduced return shipping and processing costs
- Fewer instances of return abuse
Challenges
- Shorter response windows for customer service
- Higher risk of A-to-Z claims if buyers are unaware
- Need for clearer communication of return deadlines
Seller Action Plan: What You Should Do Now
| Area | Recommended Action |
|---|---|
| Product Pages | Clearly state the 14-day return window and non-returnable items |
| Packaging | Include return instructions and deadlines inside the box |
| Customer Service | Train staff on new timelines and EU-specific rules |
| Shipping & Logistics | Review return addresses and settings (especially for FBM) |
| Content Optimization | Add more images, descriptions, and usage info to reduce return rates |
Long-Term Strategies
- Offer refund without return for low-cost items
- Send reminder emails with return deadline info
- Use return data to improve product quality and reduce complaints
- Maintain transparent and customer-friendly return policies
Frequently Asked Questions (Q&A)
Q1: Does this policy apply to all Amazon EU marketplaces
Yes. The 14-day return window applies to Germany, France, Italy, Spain, and the UK.
Q2: Can I still offer a longer return period as a seller
Yes. You may offer a longer window voluntarily, but 14 days is the new default.
Q3: Are FBA and FBM sellers both affected
Yes. The change applies to both fulfillment methods.
Q4: What happens if I don’t update my return policy
You may face more A-to-Z claims, lower customer satisfaction, and compliance issues.
Q5: Do I need to provide return labels under this new policy
Yes. Sellers are expected to facilitate returns, including providing return instructions and labels when applicable.
Q6: How should I communicate this to customers
Update your product listings, FAQs, emails, and packaging with clear return timelines and exclusions.
