What is Stranded Inventory Within Amazon?

20th March, 2025

Here we’ll be outlining what it means, and how you can put your business in the best position possible to not be affected by it.

What does it mean?
Inventory going into ‘stranded’ status means that the items are not sellable. This can be for a short period of time, and you need to take an action to resolve it, or you may never be able to sell that item again. These usually happen because of either an incorrect labelling or processing, or by a brand wanting unknown sellers to stop selling their brand.

How can you avoid it?
A lot of products sold on Amazon are by third-party sellers who are selling branded products, and these have the risk of receiving an Intellectual Property (IP) claim from the brand. You can keep an eye out for these brands to avoid, and using third party software such as Keepa and Seller Amp SAS, as they give you a heads up that a brand is known for handing out IP claims.

What actions can you take moving forward?
Selling your own branded products gives you a better chance of the items not becoming stranded, as you do not have to get any authorisation from the brand. Selling your own brand is also known as Private Label (PL). Another solution is to work with the brand themself and have authorisation to sell their products.

Getting help from a mentor can be beneficial if you’re unsure which brands to begin selling, and which to avoid. At Express Prep, we’d recommend selling brands that you’re confident there is not a high risk of a potential IP claim, and therefore to keep your account in the best condition standing possible. Please give us a follow on X and you’ll keep up to date with all things Amazon.

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