3 Copy Mistakes That Could Get Your Amazon Listing Shut Down (and How to Fix It)

Amazon has strict policies, and not everyone knows what they are on any given Sunday. To stay compliant, it's important you stay on top of them.

Even just a slight change in Amazon's terms could mean your listing is suddenly out of compliance. Then, their bots scan your content and BAM... product not in compliance. Your listing is shut down.

Luckily, your copy is one of the key places to protect your listings, and keep them active.

"Hey Mr. Amazon Bot. I swear, those claims are verified."

COPY MISTAKE #1

Your Product Description Contains Inaccuracies

Accuracy is key on Amazon. Ensure your product descriptions are crystal clear and accurate. Double-check for any potential inaccuracies or misleading information that could confuse customers or violate Amazon's policies.

To do this...

1. Make sure you familiarize yourself with Amazon's Product Listing Guidelines.

2. Then, conduct a detailed audit of your product descriptions. Ensure specifics like size, color, material, and functionality are accurate and represented.

3. Revise your product descriptions based on your findings. Make sure to avoid subjective language or exaggerated claims.

4. Use bullet points to highlight key features and benefits, breaking up text and enhancing readability.

5. Keep an eye on your customer feedback. This can be an early warning sign for missing details, and can help you adjust claims based on existing concerns.

Remember, accurate product descriptions are not just about compliance with Amazon’s policies; they're also about building trust and credibility with your customers. Stay on top of this.

MISTAKE #2 

Your Listing Contains Copyrighted Claims or Statements

Intellectual property (IP) rights are taken seriously on Amazon. If you use phrases, terms, or content that Amazon finds somewhere else, you could get flagged for an IP violation.

The trouble is, IP violations aren't always obvious. Sometimes, you're mistakenly using a trademark that you thought was safe to use. Best do your due diligence.

If you're concerned about this, start here...

1. Run your content through an IP-violation detecting software, such as Copyscape, Grammarly, Turnitin, TinEye, Google Reverse Image Search, MarkMonitor, BrandShield, Brandwatch, Corsearch, or Clarivate.

2. Familiarize yourself with the basics of IP law, including what constitutes a content violation.

3. Get permission to use that content or terminology. If you think the IP holder might let you use their trademark or patent, ask them! Just make sure you keep that letter or certificate ready to show Amazon later.

4. Keep monitoring your listings for compliance. Perhaps the toughest step, but unless you've copyrighted your own content, you'll need to periodically run it through an IP checker to make sure nothing has changed.

5. Too complex? Hire an expert. The best protection always comes from the pros. If you're treading on murky ground with your products, consult with an IP attorney or specialist near you. They can help you navigate the maze of IP law.

IP violations can be scary, and unintentional. Luckily, with these steps, you should stay in the clear. Just stay on top of it!

MISTAKE #3

Amazon Thinks You're Exaggerating Product Benefits

Even if your product miraculously cures baldness, you can't say that. Amazon needs you to temper those claims.

This means, no fancy or hyperbolic promises, or medical claims that don't have documentation. Stick to the facts, be clear, and keep it simple.

This also applies to results that don't match customer experiences! If your product reviews express a difference between promises and expectations, this could also get you flagged.

Make sure what you're stating in your descriptions is the truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the truth.

In the end, Amazon just wants you to play by the rules. Don't run the ball of bounds, and your listings should remain protected. Still, keep up with Amazon's policies! They can change quickly. Regularly review your listings to make sure you're still in compliance, even just weeks or months later.

By being vigilant and proactive, you can avoid triggering those Amazon robots and keep your listings live, healthy and selling.

Feel stressed trying to maintain these steps? Our experts have put in the 10,000 hours needed to keep your listings at an A+ rating, prevent counterfeiters, get negative reviews removed, and more. The best part is, you can hire them free.