Why does MerchantSpring data differ from Amazon?

It is common to see differences between MerchantSpring and Amazon reports. In most cases, this is expected and is caused by differences in how data is processed, timed, and attributed.

MerchantSpring retrieves data from Amazon’s APIs, which may not always match what is displayed in Amazon’s user interface at the same moment.

Why This Happens

Data Timing Differences

Amazon dashboards may update faster than API data. MerchantSpring reflects the data available via APIs, which can lag behind.

Financial Event Processing

Profitability reports rely on financial events such as refunds, fees, and adjustments, which may be posted days or weeks after the original sale.

Attribution Windows (Advertising)

Advertising sales are attributed based on Amazon’s attribution model, which may assign conversions after the initial click.

Date Type Differences

Different reports may use:

• order date

• shipment date

• financial posted date

This can lead to differences across reports.

Steps to Investigate

1. Confirm the same date range is being used
2. Check whether the report uses order date or financial date
3. Allow time for recent data to update
4. Review whether refunds or adjustments have been posted

Notes / Caveats / Tips

• Small discrepancies are normal, especially for recent data
• Reports become more stable over longer time periods
• Advertising and financial data often update after the initial transaction