This arrangement involves a product being offered for sale on the Amazon platform by an independent seller. While the item is listed on Amazon.com, the entity responsible for the sale is not Amazon itself, but rather a separate business or individual. Amazon handles the fulfillment process, meaning it stores, packs, and ships the product directly to the customer from its warehouses.
This model is beneficial because it expands product selection for consumers and provides independent sellers access to Amazon’s vast customer base and established logistics network. Historically, it has allowed smaller businesses to compete with larger retailers by leveraging Amazon’s infrastructure, creating a more diverse and competitive marketplace. This method streamlines delivery and enhances customer trust due to the reliable shipping experience associated with Amazon.