Sean Vandenberg

Amazon Seller | Documented Cases

Shine Armor Policy Case

đź“„ Enforcement Error: Shine Armor Transparency Removal Fees (ASIN B07LHB3B2Q)

Overview:
In March 2024, Amazon received multiple FBA shipments of Shine Armor Fortify Quick Coat (ASIN B07LHB3B2Q). The brand later enrolled in Transparency, and enforcement began **after** this inventory was received. Despite that, Amazon flagged the ASIN for “Not as Described,” removed it, and forced inventory removal — charging over $1,400 in fees. No buyer complaints or return triggers were present. While the ASIN was eventually reinstated, the inventory was never restored or reimbursed.

đź“… Timeline of Events

  • March 2024: All Shine Armor inventory received by FBA prior to Transparency enforcement date.
  • September 2024: ASIN flagged “Not as Described” without buyer return, message, or documented claim.
  • Sept–Dec 2024: Over a dozen appeals filed; no acknowledgement or review.
  • Dec 2024: Executive escalation reinstates the ASIN — but too late; inventory already marked for removal.

đź“Ś Submitted Documentation

  • FBA shipment records confirming inbound receipt before March 31, 2024
  • Support transcripts confirming removal could not be halted
  • Case log and executive emails confirming ASIN reinstatement
  • Reimbursement request ignored; no path to restore inventory

⚠️ Core Issues Identified

  • “Not as Described” flag applied despite no buyer return or report
  • Transparency block enforced **retroactively** on valid inventory
  • ASIN reinstated, but inventory forcibly removed and not recoverable
  • Reimbursement denied despite full seller compliance and internal error

🧾 Evidence Summary

FBA Shipment Received
FBA Shipment Received
Figure 1: Multiple FBA shipments received before Transparency enforcement date.
Transparency Enforcement
Figure 2: Transparency enforcement notification — applied **after** inventory receipt.
Figure 3: After many emails, cases, appeals — finally, Amazon reinstates the ASIN on
Dec 28, 2024.
Support Denial
Figure 4: Support declines to intervene or reimburse removal — despite open appeal.
Figure 5: Executive reimbursement request submitted — never answered.

đź“‚ Case Metadata

  • ASIN: B07LHB3B2Q
  • Brand: Shine Armor
  • Case ID: 17860528831
  • Status: Unresolved – Inventory removed and reimbursement denied

đź“Ž Additional Documentation

đźš© Procedural Violations

  • Removal fees assessed **after enforcement was overturned**
  • Transparency block applied **retroactively** to inventory already processed
  • Support offered no override mechanism or remediation for legacy stock
  • Appeals and reimbursement requests ignored or deflected

đź“Ś Final Status (June 10, 2025)

A second executive escalation was submitted. Amazon has referred the issue to technical support without addressing the core policy breach or inventory loss. Case now escalated toward arbitration under Section 18 of the BSA.

đź’ˇ Legal Position

  • Amazon collected removal fees after acknowledging wrongful enforcement
  • Amazon failed to protect inventory received under previously valid conditions
  • No reimbursement path or remediation protocol was offered despite reversal

This case illustrates a breakdown in Amazon’s enforcement and reimbursement systems. Inventory received in good faith — prior to a policy change — should not be penalized retroactively. Amazon’s actions resulted in unrecoverable losses despite confirmed compliance and reinstatement.