Effective February 8, 2026, all US sellers must use the Amazon Prepaid Return Label (APRL) program for customer returns regardless of item value. This change eliminates the previous high-value exemption to create a more consistent return experience for faster refund processing and reduced customer service requirements.
The APRL program automatically provides customers with prepaid return shipping labels through Buy Shipping Services. This streamlined process reduces the refund cycle time from 14 to 7 days and eliminates the need for buyer-seller messaging.
Existing category exemptions will continue to apply, including Handmade, certified preowned watches, non-physical items, dangerous goods, and extra-large or heavy items. Additionally, items that are ineligible for prepaid return labels will remain exempt from this requirement.
We understand you may have concerns about high-value returns. When we issue a refund to a buyer and you believe it wasn’t your fault, you can file a claim for reimbursement through the Seller Assurance for E-Commerce Transactions (SAFE-T) program.
To learn more about how to file a SAFE-T claim, go to Reimbursement for seller-fulfilled orders.
For more information about the APRL program, go to Prepaid returns for seller-fulfilled orders.
Stay compliant with the Prepaid Return Labels Policy using our Amazon Account Management, Amazon Seller Central Services, Amazon Account Audit, Amazon Marketing Services, and Amazon SEO Consultant solutions to protect performance and reduce return-related risks.
