Rakuten RMS Update: New Guidelines and Features for Sellers

Rakuten RMS Update: New Guidelines and Features for Sellers

Are you a Rakuten seller? Stay updated with the latest changes to the Rakuten Merchant Server (RMS) guidelines, services, and features. Starting December 9, 2024, Rakuten will implement significant updates, including new functionalities, policy revisions, and service enhancements.

This blog highlights the essential updates every Rakuten seller needs to know to stay compliant and maximize business potential.

🚀 What’s New in Rakuten RMS?

1. New “LINE Notification Message” Feature Rakuten introduces the LINE Notification Message feature under its R-SNS services.
   • Purpose: Send notifications related to orders and shipping.
   • Effective Date: December 9, 2024.
   • Action Required: View the “LINE Notification Message” Terms.
2. Updated Guidelines Across Multiple Services Revisions impact the following areas:
   • R-SNS Terms of Use: Now supports notifications related to orders and shipping.
   • Delivery Quality Guidelines: Enhanced support for additional order management systems (OMS).
   • Brand Guidelines: Broader eligibility for brand approvals, now including individual proprietors.
   • Advertising Guidelines: Relaxed rules for linking to search results under specified conditions.
   • Rakuten Super Logistics Terms: Minor policy clarifications.
3. Prohibited Items List Update Rakuten has updated its Prohibited Items List targeting products unsuitable for youth.
   • Compliance Deadline: December 27, 2024.
   • Grace Period: Newly added items exempt from penalties until March 31, 2025.
   • Check the updated Prohibited Items List.

📋 Detailed Breakdown of RMS Guideline Updates

1. R-SNS Terms of Use This update allows order and shipping notifications through social media platforms like LINE.
   • Before: The service focuses solely on introducing products through social media.
   • After: Includes notifications related to orders and shipping.
   Check the full R-SNS Terms of Use.
2. Delivery Quality Guidelines Rakuten’s “Strongest Next-Day Delivery” label now supports additional OMS systems. Read the Guidelines for the Delivery Quality Improvement System.
3. Brand Guidelines Eligibility Expanded: Individual proprietors with over a year of experience can now apply for brand approval. Updated Policy: Restrictions lifted for brands denied approval in the past three months, provided issues are resolved. View full Brand Guidelines.
4. Advertising Guidelines New flexibility for linking to search result pages, as specified in the advertising media guide. Learn more about Advertising Guidelines.
5. Rakuten Super Logistics (RSL) & Affiliate Terms New clauses address fee adjustments due to economic changes. Offsetting debts against Rakuten fees is prohibited. Read the Rakuten Super Logistics Terms.

✅ How to Prepare for These Changes

To ensure compliance and maintain smooth operations on Rakuten, take the following steps:

1. Review the New Policies:
   • LINE Notification Message Terms
   • R-SNS Terms of Use
   • Delivery Quality Guidelines
   • Brand Guidelines
   • Advertising Guidelines
   • Prohibited Items List
2. Update Your Operations: Implement necessary adjustments to OMS systems, product listings, and advertising strategies.
3. Contact Rakuten Support:
   • Email: ichiba-asn-contact@mail.rakuten.com
   • Include your store details:
     • Store Name
     • Store URL
     • Company Overview Page

🌐 Maximize Your Rakuten Selling Potential

These updates demonstrate Rakuten’s commitment to enhancing seller experiences and improving marketplace quality. Stay informed, adapt to the changes, and keep your business thriving.

For more information, visit the Rakuten RMS Support Portal.