Amazon has two separate rating systems, and buyers often mix them up. Knowing which is which helps you ask for the right thing and fix the right problems.
Product reviews
- About the product itself: quality, fit, how well it works.
- Shown on the product page, so every seller of that product shares them.
- Affect how many shoppers click and buy.
Seller feedback
- About you as the seller: delivery, packaging, communication and accuracy.
- Shown on your seller profile as a rating and a count.
- Negative feedback counts toward your order defect rate, one of Amazon's account health measures.
- Buyers can leave it for a limited time after the order, currently 90 days.
When feedback is about the wrong thing
For FBA orders Amazon handles delivery, so when feedback is only about fulfillment, Amazon may strike it through and note that it takes responsibility. Feedback that is purely a product review can also be reported for removal under Amazon's guidelines.
One request covers both
The Request a Review email asks the buyer for a product rating and for seller feedback, so one request per order covers both systems.
Improving each
- Product reviews: accurate listings, good quality control, clear instructions.
- Seller feedback: fast dispatch, valid tracking, careful packaging and quick, polite replies.