Amazon typically charges your card when your order begins the shipping process. When you place an order, Amazon may first place an authorization hold (often a small amount like $1) to confirm funds are available, but the actual charge usually happens when the item ships. For items shipped directly by Amazon, your card is charged at or just before shipping. If the item is sold by a third-party seller, the charge timing may vary—some third-party sellers charge your card immediately after purchase, while others charge it closer to the shipping date. For pre-orders, Amazon generally charges your card only when the item is ready to ship or on the official release date. Subscription payments are charged at or near the renewal date. In summary:
- Authorization hold may appear immediately after checkout.
- Actual charge happens when the order ships.
- Third-party sellers might charge immediately after purchase or at shipping.
- Pre-orders are charged at release or shipping.
- Subscriptions are charged at renewal.
This approach is designed to secure payments while ensuring you are only charged when your order is being fulfilled and shipped.
