As we move into 2026, Amazon sellers are seeing a rare mix of changes: fee adjustments, returns/refunds policy updates, and a major barcode requirement shift coming March 31, 2026. Whether you sell via FBA or FBM, these updates can affect your margins, operational workload, and—most importantly—your risk of preventable issues like inbound label problems, stranded inventory, and return disputes.
Below is a practical, seller-focused overview of Amazon's key 2026 changes, covering fees, return policies, and upcoming barcode requirements that directly impact seller operations.
1) Europe: Amazon Announces Fee Reductions in 2026 (Good News for Margin)
Amazon has announced one of its largest fee reductions for sellers in its European stores in 2026, with an average reduction of about 0.15 British pounds or 0.17 euro per unit sold. Some changes began December 15, 2025, with additional adjustments scheduled for February 1, 2026.
What to do next (EU sellers):
Recalculate profit on your best-selling SKUs and consider price testing (a small price drop can increase conversion while keeping profit steady).
If you're competing in lower-price segments, verify whether your category/price point benefits most from the changes described in Amazon's update.
2) US: FBA Fulfillment Fees Change Starting January 15, 2026
On the US marketplace, Amazon 2026 update introduces changes to FBA fulfillment fees effective January 15, 2026. According to Amazon's own guidance, the average per-unit increase is approximately eight cents, with variations depending on size tier and price band.
What to do next (US FBA sellers):
• Run a quick SKU-by-SKU margin check (don't rely on the average number).
• Pay special attention to standard-size items in certain price bands, SKUs with thin contribution margins, and products with higher return rates, as returns and fee increases can compound quickly.
3) FBM: Refund Processing Window Expands to 4 Calendar Days (Effective Jan 26, 2026)
For seller-fulfilled (FBM) returns, Amazon is updating the refund process: starting January 26, 2026, the window extends from 2 business days to 4 calendar days before automated refunds trigger.
This change can reduce “refund panic,” especially when returns arrive around weekends or holidays.
What to do next (FBM sellers):
• Update your internal SOPs and customer-service workflows so inspections and decisions happen inside the new 4-day window.
• Train your team to document return condition quickly (photos and notes), so you're ready if there's a dispute.
4) US FBM Returns: APRL High-Value Exemption Removed (Effective Feb 8, 2026)
Amazon is also tightening consistency in returns for seller-fulfilled orders: effective February 8, 2026, US sellers must use the Amazon Prepaid Return Label (APRL) program regardless of item value, removing the previous high-value exemption referenced by sellers.
What to do next (US FBM sellers):
• Review your high-ticket SKUs and ensure you have tighter controls for:
✔️Serial number tracking
✔️Tamper seals
✔️Condition documentation
• Re-check your return analytics. High-value items with frequent returns may need pricing, packaging, or listing improvements.
5) The “Quiet” Change That Can Hurt the Most: Amazon Barcode Requirements Shift on March 31, 2026
Separate from fees and returns, Amazon has published a major barcode update for FBA:
Starting March 31, 2026, barcode requirements are changing. In general terms, Amazon indicates that brand owners can continue using manufacturer barcodes without stickers, while resellers will need to use Amazon barcodes for inventory sent to fulfillment centers.
This matters because barcode/label errors can lead to:
• Inbound delays
• Unplanned prep fees
• Inventory being received incorrectly
• Stranded listings and lost sales time
If you're anywhere near the reseller side of the line—or you mix sourcing models—this is a “do not ignore” update.
Why Amazon Sellers Need an Online Barcode Generator in 2026
Amazon sellers frequently generate barcodes for products, cartons, and internal logistics. With Amazon's stricter 2026 rules on fulfillment, returns, and barcode compliance, a professional online barcode generator is essential.
Our Amazon FBA and FNSKU barcode generator helps sellers achieve speed, accuracy, and compliance effortlessly. It lets you easily:
Convert your existing UPC, EAN, FNSKU, or other valid IDs into high-quality, scannable barcode images for:
• Unit labels (FBA)
• Carton labels (shipping)
• Internal warehouse bins and pick/pack control
Export and print barcodes quickly for:
• Small batch launches
• Variation-heavy catalogs
• Prep center handoffs
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