Vendor Velocity Reports on Amazon’s Q4 2025 Supply Chain Strategy for Vendors

Vendor Velocity is sharing critical insights from Amazon’s recent communication to its vendors, outlining strategic measures to optimize supply chain operations for the 2025 holiday season. Amazon’s directive aims to ensure robust in-stock rates and efficient inventory management, and Vendor Velocity is here to break down the key points for its clients.

Amazon’s Pull-Forward Ordering Plan

To streamline shipment flows and bolster supply chain efficiency during the fourth quarter, Amazon plans to issue purchase orders earlier for select products. According to the announcement, these orders, covering most of the anticipated Q4 demand, are expected to roll out in September and October. Vendors are advised to cross-reference their internal forecasts with Amazon’s projected demand data in Vendor Central to prepare effectively.

Logistics and Shipping Guidance

Amazon’s communication includes specific instructions for vendors to ensure smooth operations:

• Collect Vendors: Shipments must be routed early and ready by 8 a.m. local time on the freight-ready date. Any transportation delays or issues should be reported promptly through Vendor Central.

• Prepaid Vendor Carriers: For appointment delays or rescheduling, vendors can request callbacks via Carrier Central or use the click-to-call feature in the Amazon Relay app.

Key Preparation Steps

Amazon has outlined several steps vendors should take to handle the anticipated increase in purchase orders:

• Update Warehouse Information: Vendors must verify warehouse addresses, operating hours, and night/weekend availability in Vendor Central. Special equipment needs for freight pickup and any planned warehouse outages should be reported at least 30 days in advance.

• Ensure Data Accuracy: Keeping contact and catalog details up to date is essential for seamless operations.

• Monitor Inventory Metrics: Regularly reviewing confirmation rates, forecasts, and on-hand quantities will help vendors stay aligned with demand.

• Signal Product Availability: Vendors should update product availability in Vendor Central or via EDI, highlighting items nearing end-of-life or with limited supply to support accurate purchase orders.

• Adhere to Guidelines: Amazon emphasizes compliance with its ASN and labeling standards (pages 65-72 for ASN guidelines, pages 28-42 for carton labeling, and pages 47-49 for pallet labeling).

• Plan for Safety Stock: Vendors should account for long-lead order products to maintain sufficient inventory.

• Confirm Orders Promptly: Purchase orders must be acknowledged within 24 hours, with shipments processed quickly.

• Secure Early Shipping Appointments: Coordinating with carriers to book the earliest possible slots is critical.

Vendor Velocity’s Take

Vendor Velocity encourages its clients to act swiftly on Amazon’s recommendations to capitalize on the Q4 opportunity. By aligning inventory strategies and logistics now, vendors can position themselves for a successful holiday season. The Vendor Velocity team advises leveraging Amazon’s Vendor Central tools for real-time insights and support to navigate these requirements effectively.

For further assistance or tailored guidance on optimizing your operations for Amazon’s Q4 strategy, reach out through the Vendor Velocity Portal. Stay proactive, and let’s make this holiday season a success.