Return Fraud on Amazon: What Sellers Need to Know (and How to Fight Back)

Returns are part of doing business on Amazon. But not all returns are honest — and for sellers, that can mean serious losses.

From fake non-delivery claims to item swaps and partial returns, return fraud is a growing problem that eats into your margins and puts your account at risk.

In this post, we’ll break down the most common types of Amazon return fraud, how to spot them, and what you can do to protect your store and your profits.

Why Amazon Sellers Need to Worry About Return Fraud

• The average Amazon return rate is 13%–20%

• Around 7% of all returns involve fraud

• Amazon’s customer-first policies make it hard for sellers to win disputes

Common Types of Return Fraud on Amazon

1. False Non-Delivery Claims

The buyer receives the product, but claims it never arrived. Amazon often auto-refunds the order with little to no investigation.

2. Partial Returns

The customer orders multiple units, uses or keeps part of the order, and returns the rest — claiming a full refund.

3. Item Swaps

A customer purchases a new item, but returns a used, damaged, or entirely different product in its place.

Can Return Fraud Be Prevented? Unfortunately, sellers have limited control — but you can take steps to minimize abuse:

• Track every package with verified delivery (preferably with signature)

• Use branded packaging to make swaps more obvious

• Inspect all returns before issuing refunds

• Report fraudulent behavior to Amazon and file disputes

While Amazon doesn’t always side with sellers, having documentation improves your chances of a successful reversal.

How Hardway Enterprises Handles Returns Smarter When you partner with Hardway Enterprises, you don’t just get logistics — you get protection:

• Returns are tracked, inspected, and processed according to your policies

• You get photo documentation of returned items

• We help identify fraudulent patterns before they become costly

Don’t waste time chasing fake returns — let us handle it.

Final Thoughts Return fraud is a frustrating (but real) part of selling on Amazon. With the right fulfillment process and a proactive team behind you, you can reduce your exposure and keep your margins healthy.

Want a fulfillment partner that protects your business from costly returns? Talk to Hardway Enterprises today.