How to handle long-term inventory on Amazon?

Perhaps sellers may not be aware of how expensive storage fees can be when inventory accumulates. When inventory planning is not optimal or product sales are not satisfactory, it may result in inventory buildup or prolonged storage at Amazon fulfillment centers. Prolonged inventory buildup can lead to exceeding storage limits over time, and certain items may become over-aged inventory.

This can prevent Amazon from providing sufficient storage space for popular items. Therefore, in addition to paying monthly inventory storage fees, sellers may also incur additional fees for over-aged inventory. Additionally, there may be excess inventory storage fees for inventory exceeding the allotted limit. So, how can sellers clear long-term inventory and reduce costs? The following steps can be considered:

1.Direct Removal of Inventory:
For products that are not selling well and result in long-term inventory, compare the costs of long-term storage fees and removal fees before taking any action. Choose the option with the lowest cost. However, it's important to note that by submitting a removal request before Amazon's inventory cleanup, you can avoid long-term storage fees, and the items can still be sold until the inventory is actually cleared.

2.Sell on Multiple Platforms:
Many sellers operate not only on the Amazon platform but also on other cross-border e-commerce platforms. Selling long-term inventory on these platforms can be an alternative. However, sellers may not accurately estimate their profits through this method, and there is a possibility of loss. Nevertheless, it's a viable option to sell inventory before the need for clearance arises.

3.Discount and Price Reduction:
Sellers often struggle with choosing between direct price reductions and discount promotions. Discounts can attract customers looking for a good deal, while direct price drops may convey a negative perception of product quality. Sellers may find both methods similar, but discounting requires more finesse. For example, buyers often prefer discounts ending in 5 or 0, such as 15% off or 30% off.

4.Internal Lightning Deals (ld):
If the long-term inventory meets the criteria for internal Lightning Deals, it's a direct and quick way to clear stock. However, not all sellers may have access to this option.

5.Bundle Sales:
Sellers can analyze the best-selling products in their store and pair them with slow-moving inventory for bundle sales. However, the products must have a relevant connection to be paired effectively.

6.New Product Giveaways:
Connecting long-term inventory with new products can add more value than simply removing the stock. If there is a connection between the inventory and new products, they can be offered as free gifts or at a significant discount on the new product's listing page. This is similar to bundle sales but with the emphasis on setting the inventory as low-discount or even free.