Inauthentic Item Suspension Appeals
Accused of selling inauthentic items on Amazon? This is one of the most serious allegations a seller can face. Our legal team specializes in proving product authenticity and crafting winning appeals to restore your selling privileges.
What Does "Inauthentic" Really Mean?
Amazon's "inauthentic" policy violation doesn't always mean counterfeit. Understanding what triggers this complaint is key to building your defense.
Common Triggers
Customer Perception Issues
Product doesn't match expectations, damaged packaging, or differs from listing description.
Missing Documentation
Unable to provide invoices from authorized distributors or direct from brand.
Supply Chain Concerns
Products sourced from retail arbitrage, liquidation, or unclear wholesale channels.
Competitor Complaints
Competing sellers or brand owners filing complaints to eliminate competition.
Packaging Differences
International versions, missing inserts, or packaging that differs from US versions.
Critical Understanding
Inauthentic ≠ Counterfeit
Many sellers receive inauthentic complaints for completely genuine products. The issue is often documentation or customer perception, not actual counterfeiting.
The Burden Is On You
Amazon presumes the complaint is valid. You must prove your products are authentic through documentation and a compelling appeal.
One Complaint Can Suspend
Unlike performance metrics, a single inauthentic complaint can result in immediate account-level or ASIN-level suspension.
Documentation That Wins Appeals
The right documentation is essential for proving authenticity. Here's what Amazon wants to see—and what actually works.
Supplier Invoices
- ✓365 days of purchase history
- ✓Supplier contact information
- ✓Matching quantities to sales
- ✓Dated within relevant period
Pro Tip: Invoice must show supplier name, address, phone, and website. PO numbers alone are insufficient.
Authorization Letters
- ✓Direct from brand or distributor
- ✓Company letterhead
- ✓Specific product authorization
- ✓Current and dated
Pro Tip: Letters from the brand owner carry the most weight. Distributor letters work if they show chain of title.
Product Photos
- ✓Original product images
- ✓Packaging and labeling
- ✓Serial numbers/batch codes
- ✓Manufacturing details
Pro Tip: Show your actual inventory. Include any authenticity features like holograms or security codes.
Supply Chain Documentation
- ✓Shipping records
- ✓Customs documentation
- ✓LOA from distributor
- ✓Certificate of authenticity
Pro Tip: Document every step from manufacturer to your warehouse. Gaps raise red flags.
Quality Control Records
- ✓Inspection checklists
- ✓Testing results
- ✓Return analysis
- ✓Complaint resolution logs
Pro Tip: Shows Amazon you take authenticity seriously and have systems to prevent issues.
Communication Records
- ✓Emails with suppliers
- ✓Order confirmations
- ✓Payment receipts
- ✓Account statements
Pro Tip: Corroborating evidence strengthens your invoice documentation.
Our Inauthentic Defense Process
We've developed a proven methodology for defending against inauthentic allegations that addresses Amazon's concerns directly.
Case Analysis
We review your suspension notice, identify the specific complaint type, and analyze the affected ASINs.
Document Audit
We evaluate your existing documentation and identify gaps that need to be filled before appealing.
Supply Chain Review
We examine your sourcing to build the strongest possible authenticity narrative.
Appeal Development
We craft a comprehensive POA that proves authenticity and demonstrates preventive measures.
Why Documentation Alone Isn't Enough
Many sellers submit invoices and get rejected. That's because Amazon isn't just looking for documents—they want to understand your business practices and see genuine commitment to authenticity.
Our appeals combine proper documentation with a compelling narrative that addresses the root cause and demonstrates your commitment to selling only genuine products.
Preventing Future Inauthentic Claims
Once reinstated, protecting your account from future claims is essential. Here are the practices we recommend.
✓Best Practices
- ✓Source directly from brands or authorized distributors
- ✓Maintain complete invoice records for all inventory
- ✓Request authorization letters proactively
- ✓Inspect all products before listing
- ✓Ensure listings accurately describe products
- ✓Respond quickly to any customer authenticity concerns
- ✓Keep detailed records of all supplier communications
- ✓Consider brand registry for your own products
✕Avoid These Risks
- ✕Sourcing from unverified liquidation lots
- ✕Buying from sellers on platforms like eBay or Alibaba
- ✕Selling products without proper invoices
- ✕Ignoring customer complaints about authenticity
- ✕Mixing inventory from different sources
- ✕Selling grey market or international versions
- ✕Continuing to list ASINs with previous complaints
- ✕Using commingled inventory (FBA)
Prove Your Authenticity, Save Your Business
An inauthentic complaint can destroy years of hard work. Don't risk your account with a DIY appeal. Our legal team knows exactly what Amazon needs to see and how to present it.