Price Gouging Suspension Appeals
Amazon's fair pricing policy can flag sellers during demand surges or market fluctuations. Our legal team helps sellers navigate these allegations and get back to selling—even when pricing decisions were completely legitimate.
Understanding Amazon's Fair Pricing Policy
Amazon actively monitors pricing to protect customers from unfair prices. But their algorithms can flag legitimate pricing decisions, especially during market volatility.
What Amazon Monitors
Price Compared to Recent History
Sudden increases from your own recent selling price trigger review.
Price vs. Other Sellers
Significantly higher prices than other offers on the same ASIN.
Price vs. Off-Amazon
Prices much higher than the same product on other websites.
Item + Shipping Total
Combined price including shipping, not just the item price alone.
Category Benchmarks
Unusual pricing patterns within specific product categories.
Common Misconceptions
"I can charge whatever I want"
While you set your prices, Amazon reserves the right to remove offers or suspend accounts for prices they deem unfair to customers.
"Supply and demand justifies my prices"
Amazon's policy restricts price increases during emergencies and high-demand periods, even if economically justified.
"My costs increased"
While legitimate, you'll need to document cost increases and price changes proportionally—not use them as cover for excessive markup.
Legitimate Reasons Sellers Get Flagged
Many sellers are incorrectly flagged for price gouging when they have valid business reasons for their pricing.
Increased Supplier Costs
Wholesale prices increased, requiring retail price adjustments to maintain margins.
Shipping Cost Changes
Carrier rate increases, especially during peak seasons or from international sources.
Limited Supply
Discontinued products or limited inventory where scarcity naturally increases value.
Product Improvements
New version or bundled items that justify higher prices than predecessor.
Repricing Tool Errors
Automated repricing software malfunctions causing unintended price spikes.
Currency Fluctuations
Exchange rate changes affecting imported goods pricing.
Our Price Gouging Defense Strategy
We build comprehensive appeals that document your pricing rationale and demonstrate policy compliance.
Price History Analysis
We analyze your pricing history, market conditions, and competitive landscape to understand the full context.
Cost Documentation
We compile invoices, shipping records, and supplier communications that justify your pricing decisions.
Market Comparison
We research competitive pricing to show your prices align with market reality.
Appeal Development
We craft a detailed appeal explaining your pricing, providing documentation, and committing to compliance.
Key Documentation We Gather
- Supplier invoices showing cost increases
- Shipping carrier rate change notices
- Historical pricing data from your account
- Competitor pricing screenshots
- Market analysis showing price trends
- Product improvement documentation
- Repricing tool settings and logs
- Currency exchange rate records
Preventing Price Gouging Flags
Protect your account with these pricing best practices that keep you compliant while maintaining profitability.
Do This
- ✓Make gradual price adjustments over time
- ✓Keep detailed records of cost changes
- ✓Monitor competitor pricing regularly
- ✓Set repricing tool limits and floors
- ✓Review prices before high-demand events
- ✓Document legitimate reasons for increases
- ✓Consider Amazon's view of fair pricing
- ✓Adjust prices before issues arise
Avoid This
- ✕Sudden large price increases (50%+)
- ✕Pricing far above market during emergencies
- ✕Ignoring fair pricing warnings
- ✕Unlimited repricing tool settings
- ✕Price spikes during disasters/pandemics
- ✕Prices significantly above retail competitors
- ✕Excessive shipping charges to boost profit
- ✕Ignoring price-related account health alerts
Emergency Period Pricing
During declared emergencies (natural disasters, pandemics, etc.), Amazon enforces stricter pricing policies. Many states also have price gouging laws that can result in legal consequences beyond Amazon suspension. If you sell essential items, consult with us before making any price changes during emergency periods.
Wrongly Accused of Price Gouging?
Don't let Amazon's algorithms destroy your legitimate business. Our legal team will build a compelling case demonstrating your pricing compliance and get your account reinstated.