Units designated as unavailable for sale within the Amazon Fulfillment by Amazon (FBA) system constitute its held stock. This stock is generally categorized into several sub-types, including those being actively processed for customer orders, those undergoing internal movement within a fulfillment center, and those pending investigation due to reported damage or discrepancies. As an example, if a seller ships 100 units to Amazon, and the FBA inventory screen shows 90 available and 10 in a held state, it indicates that those 10 units are not yet ready to be sold.
Understanding this portion of the inventory is crucial for effective supply chain management and sales forecasting. Monitoring its levels allows sellers to proactively address potential issues, such as identifying patterns of damage or delays in processing. Accurate tracking and management contribute to optimized stock levels, preventing both stockouts and the accumulation of stagnant holdings. Furthermore, managing this element plays a critical role in maintaining accurate sales projections and informed business decisions.