We have changed our Condition Guidelines today to specify the appropriate condition for listing Books and CDs that have remainder markings. In doing so, we hope to minimize buyer disappointment and set clearer expectations for offerings of overstock, remainders, and cut-outs.

For Books and Music, we have revised our condition guidelines to state that remainders should be listed as "Used - Like New". In addition, the presence of remainder marks should be noted in the listing comments.

Many overstock items are liquidated new and unmarked by distributors. In the case of Books and CDs, however, a publisher or label may mark remaining stock before selling it at a discount. Remainder markings indicate that the item cannot be returned by the re-seller. Books are commonly marked with stamps or permanent markers on the bottom edge, while CDs or cassettes may have a cut in the spine.

Up to now, sellers have listed these items as "New" or as "Used - Like New" or "Used - Very Good". Although overstock items with remainder marks may not have been previously owned, they are not in pristine condition. Many buyers who receive items with remainder marks do not accept them as new or as suitable to give as gifts. Many sellers would agree that the item is almost new but has a cosmetic flaw.

Below are the new statements as they appear on the Condition Guidelines page.

*****

Like New: An apparently unread copy in perfect condition. Dust cover is intact, with no nicks or tears. Spine has no signs of creasing. Pages are clean and are not marred by notes or folds of any kind. Book may contain a remainder mark on an outside edge but this should be noted in listing comments.

*****

Music

Like New: An apparently unopened CD or cassette in perfect condition (although it may be out of its original wrapping). The jewel case or cassette case has no scratches or scuffing. The liner notes, inclusions, and/or sleeve are in perfect condition. The CD or tape itself is unmarked, with no sign of wear. CD or cassette case may have a remainder cut-out on the spine but this should be noted in listing comments.

*****

We expect that these changes to the policies published in our Help pages will help to improve the buyer and seller experience in our Books and Music stores.

Thank you for selling on Amazon.com.