Amazon Renewed: What it is and How it Works

Amazon Renewed: What it is and How it Works

Amazon Renewed now offers a safe haven for barely used items, which are the culprits of many an A to Z claim and the banes of an ecommerce seller.

What does Amazon Renewed actually mean? Is it worth the investment for your brand? Let's take a look at the latest Amazon offering.

What is a renewal product?

Amazon defines a renewed product as a high-quality item of like-new quality that has been either refurbished, used, or opened-box. Pre-owned products are items that have been previously owned but still function properly, even though they might have cosmetic issues like scratches or dents. Refurbished products are products that have been restored in like-new condition. Open-box products are usually unopened , but not in their original packaging.

Are you looking for a seriously damaged water bottle or a scuffed-brown pair of shoes in the returns section? They won't do the trick. However, a used item can be considered an Amazon Renewed product if it is as good as new, functional, and comes with all the accessories that a customer would expect to find if they were buying it new.

What does Amazon Renewed actually mean?

Amazon Renewed is an exclusive program that allows Amazon sellers to sell their preowned, refurbished or open-box products at a discounted price.

Your brand must meet Amazon's performance standards to become an Amazon Renewed seller. This means that your products must be certified and tested to look and function like new.

An Amazon Renewed product qualifies for refurbishment. This includes a diagnostic test, replacement or inspection of defective parts, thorough cleaning, inspection, and repackaging if necessary.

Pros of Amazon Renewed Amazon Renewed has high entry standards, making it an exclusive program that offers less competition and greater opportunity to move products you have returned.

Amazon Renewed's key advantage is its ability to reach new consumers. Customers who aren't ready to pay full price for a product can be converted into new customers, which could lead to more repeat sales.

Amazon will back all Amazon Renewed products with a guarantee of 90 days. The following disclaimer is from Amazon's site: "This product was professionally inspected, tested and certified by Amazon-qualified suppliers. You can expect minimal scratches and dents. The battery should have at least 80% capacity. The box may be generic, and the accessories may not be original. However, they will still be compatible and fully functional. If you aren't satisfied with the product, you can request a replacement or refund within 90-days of receipt.

Cons of Amazon Renewed Amazon Renewed may be a good option for some brands but it might not be right for you. You should also consider the impact that selling through Amazon Renewed could have on your brand's image.

Brands might not want customers to feel their products are "renewed." Luxury items are more likely to be this than other products.

Amazon Renewed has another drawback: renewed products can appear in search alongside new products. Customers will need to be able to distinguish renewed products from the new ones.

Amazon Renewed could also allow you to have your brand listed.

Arbitrage sellers will most likely purchase the products at a discounted price from Amazon Renewed and sell them on eBay or Facebook Marketplace for a higher price than the retail price.