Amazon to stop accepting nonessential products for shipment during coronavirus crisis

In attempt to slow the spreading of the novel coronavirus across the U.S., Amazon will block shipments of nonessential products.

The move is in response to a significant increase in orders for necessities, according to Business Insider.

Amazon on Tuesday told sellers and vendors that it would accept only shipments of “household staples, medical supplies, and other high-demand products” to its warehouse until April 5 to deal with the high demand of those products amid the coronavirus crisis.

Products that can be shipped to Amazon include canned beans, diapers, dog food, disinfecting wipes, medical supplies and various household goods.

Items like jeans, phone cases and other non-essentials will not be allowed.

The company reportedly sent an email to sellers stating that it has now prioritized shipments in these six categories: baby products, health and household (including personal-care appliances); beauty and personal care; grocery; industrial and scientific; pet supplies.

Amazon’s move also comes off the heels of a Monday announcement that it was hiring an addition 100,000 employees for its warehouse and delivery networks, and would be raising pay by $2 per hour through April. The company said the coronavirus has caused an “unprecedented” increase in demand for this time of year.

The Seattle-based company warned customers this week that deliveries may take longer than usual.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.