AMAZON COM INC, 10-Q filed on 4/27/2018
Quarterly Report
v3.8.0.1
Document and Entity Information - shares
3 Months Ended
Mar. 31, 2018
Apr. 18, 2018
Document And Entity Information [Abstract]    
Document Type 10-Q  
Amendment Flag false  
Document Period End Date Mar. 31, 2018  
Document Fiscal Year Focus 2018  
Document Fiscal Period Focus Q1  
Entity Registrant Name AMAZON COM INC  
Entity Central Index Key 0001018724  
Current Fiscal Year End Date --12-31  
Entity Filer Category Large Accelerated Filer  
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding   485,226,904
v3.8.0.1
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows - USD ($)
$ in Millions
3 Months Ended 12 Months Ended
Mar. 31, 2018
Mar. 31, 2017
Mar. 31, 2018
Mar. 31, 2017
Statement of Cash Flows [Abstract]        
CASH, CASH EQUIVALENTS, AND RESTRICTED CASH, BEGINNING OF PERIOD $ 21,856 $ 19,934 $ 16,301 $ 12,781
OPERATING ACTIVITIES:        
Net income 1,629 724 3,938 2,583
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash from operating activities:        
Depreciation of property and equipment, including internal-use software and website development, and other amortization, including capitalized content costs 3,671 2,435 12,714 8,725
Stock-based compensation 1,182 792 4,605 3,223
Other operating expense, net 56 42 216 157
Other expense (income), net (184) (40) (437) (10)
Deferred income taxes 141 (22) 134 (279)
Changes in operating assets and liabilities:        
Inventories 2,220 947 (2,309) (1,249)
Accounts receivable, net and other 1,029 965 (4,716) (2,872)
Accounts payable (10,216) (6,865) 3,749 3,935
Accrued expenses and other (2,225) (1,404) (538) 1,277
Unearned revenue 906 807 838 2,057
Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities (1,791) (1,619) 18,194 17,547
INVESTING ACTIVITIES:        
Purchases of property and equipment, including internal-use software and website development (3,098) (2,148) (12,905) (8,539)
Proceeds from property and equipment incentives 371 287 1,981 1,122
Acquisitions, net of cash acquired, and other (13) (45) (13,939) (146)
Sales and maturities of marketable securities 2,677 1,910 10,444 5,350
Purchases of marketable securities (470) (1,354) (11,846) (7,997)
Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities (533) (1,350) (26,265) (10,210)
FINANCING ACTIVITIES:        
Proceeds from long-term debt and other 125 21 16,332 630
Repayments of long-term debt and other (202) (40) (1,463) (192)
Principal repayments of capital lease obligations (2,015) (832) (5,981) (3,891)
Principal repayments of finance lease obligations (72) (37) (235) (155)
Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities (2,164) (888) 8,653 (3,608)
Foreign currency effect on cash, cash equivalents, and restricted cash 248 224 733 (209)
Net increase (decrease) in cash, cash equivalents, and restricted cash (4,240) (3,633) 1,315 3,520
CASH, CASH EQUIVALENTS, AND RESTRICTED CASH, END OF PERIOD 17,616 16,301 17,616 16,301
SUPPLEMENTAL CASH FLOW INFORMATION:        
Cash paid for interest on long-term debt 282 4 607 292
Cash paid for interest on capital and finance lease obligations 129 61 387 220
Cash paid for income taxes, net of refunds 513 246 1,224 520
Property and equipment acquired under capital leases 2,270 1,888 10,020 6,717
Property and equipment acquired under build-to-suit leases $ 741 $ 1,200 $ 3,081 $ 2,057
v3.8.0.1
Consolidated Statements of Operations - USD ($)
shares in Millions, $ in Millions
3 Months Ended
Mar. 31, 2018
Mar. 31, 2017
Income Statement [Abstract]    
Net product sales $ 31,605 $ 23,734
Net service sales 19,437 11,980
Total net sales 51,042 35,714
Operating expenses:    
Cost of sales 30,735 22,440
Fulfillment 7,792 4,697
Marketing 2,699 1,920
Technology and content 6,759 4,813
General and administrative 1,067 795
Other operating expense, net 63 44
Total operating expenses 49,115 34,709
Operating income 1,927 1,005
Interest income 80 39
Interest expense (330) (139)
Other income (expense), net 239 48
Total non-operating income (expense) (11) (52)
Income before income taxes 1,916 953
Provision for income taxes (287) (229)
Net income $ 1,629 $ 724
Basic earnings per share $ 3.36 $ 1.52
Diluted earnings per share $ 3.27 $ 1.48
Weighted-average shares used in computation of earnings per share:    
Basic (in shares) 484 477
Diluted (in shares) 498 490
v3.8.0.1
Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income - USD ($)
$ in Millions
3 Months Ended
Mar. 31, 2018
Mar. 31, 2017
Statement of Comprehensive Income [Abstract]    
Net income $ 1,629 $ 724
Other comprehensive income (loss):    
Foreign currency translation adjustments, net of tax of $(13) and $21 59 187
Net change in unrealized gains (losses) on available-for-sale debt securities:    
Unrealized gains (losses), net of tax of $(1) and $9 (44) (2)
Reclassification adjustment for losses (gains) included in “Other income (expense), net,” net of tax of $0 and $0 2 3
Net unrealized gains (losses) on available-for-sale debt securities (42) 1
Total other comprehensive income (loss) 17 188
Comprehensive income $ 1,646 $ 912
v3.8.0.1
Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Parenthetical) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
3 Months Ended
Mar. 31, 2018
Mar. 31, 2017
Statement of Comprehensive Income [Abstract]    
Foreign currency translation adjustments, tax $ 21 $ (13)
Unrealized gains (losses), tax 9 (1)
Reclassification adjustment for losses (gains) included in “Other income (expense), net,” tax $ 0 $ 0
v3.8.0.1
Consolidated Balance Sheets - USD ($)
$ in Millions
Mar. 31, 2018
Dec. 31, 2017
Current assets:    
Cash and cash equivalents $ 16,676 $ 20,522
Marketable securities 8,287 10,464
Inventories 13,840 16,047
Accounts receivable, net and other 12,026 13,164
Total current assets 50,829 60,197
Property and equipment, net 52,331 48,866
Goodwill 13,388 13,350
Other assets 9,814 8,897
Total assets 126,362 131,310
Current liabilities:    
Accounts payable 25,172 34,616
Accrued expenses and other 16,691 18,170
Unearned revenue 6,182 5,097
Total current liabilities 48,045 57,883
Long-term debt 24,640 24,743
Other long-term liabilities 22,214 20,975
Commitments and contingencies (Note 3)
Stockholders’ equity:    
Preferred stock, $0.01 par value: Authorized shares - 500 Issued and outstanding shares - none 0 0
Common stock, $0.01 par value: Authorized shares - 5,000 Issued shares - 507 and 508 Outstanding shares - 484 and 485 5 5
Treasury stock, at cost (1,837) (1,837)
Additional paid-in capital 22,563 21,389
Accumulated other comprehensive loss (467) (484)
Retained earnings 11,199 8,636
Total stockholders’ equity 31,463 27,709
Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity $ 126,362 $ 131,310
v3.8.0.1
Consolidated Balance Sheets (Parenthetical) - $ / shares
Mar. 31, 2018
Dec. 31, 2017
Statement of Financial Position [Abstract]    
Preferred stock, par value (in usd per share) $ 0.01 $ 0.01
Preferred stock, authorized shares 500,000,000 500,000,000
Preferred stock, issued shares 0 0
Preferred stock, outstanding shares 0 0
Common stock, par value (in usd per share) $ 0.01 $ 0.01
Common stock, authorized shares 5,000,000,000 5,000,000,000
Common stock, issued shares 508,000,000 507,000,000
Common stock, outstanding shares 485,000,000 484,000,000
v3.8.0.1
Accounting Policies
3 Months Ended
Mar. 31, 2018
Accounting Policies [Abstract]  
Accounting Policies
ACCOUNTING POLICIES
Unaudited Interim Financial Information
We have prepared the accompanying consolidated financial statements pursuant to the rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) for interim financial reporting. These consolidated financial statements are unaudited and, in our opinion, include all adjustments, consisting of normal recurring adjustments and accruals necessary for a fair presentation of our consolidated balance sheets, operating results, and cash flows for the periods presented. Operating results for the periods presented are not necessarily indicative of the results that may be expected for 2018 due to seasonal and other factors. Certain information and footnote disclosures normally included in financial statements prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States (“GAAP”) have been omitted in accordance with the rules and regulations of the SEC. These consolidated financial statements should be read in conjunction with the audited consolidated financial statements and accompanying notes in Item 8 of Part II, “Financial Statements and Supplementary Data,” of our 2017 Annual Report on Form 10-K.
Prior Period Reclassifications
Certain prior period amounts have been reclassified to conform to the current period presentation, including the addition of restricted cash to cash and cash equivalents on the consolidated statements of cash flows as a result of the adoption of new accounting guidance.
Principles of Consolidation
The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of Amazon.com, Inc., its wholly-owned subsidiaries, and those entities in which we have a variable interest and of which we are the primary beneficiary, including certain entities in India and China and that support our seller lending financing activities (collectively, the “Company”). Intercompany balances and transactions between consolidated entities are eliminated. The financial results of Whole Foods Market, Inc. (“Whole Foods Market”) have been included in our consolidated financial statements from the date of acquisition on August 28, 2017.
Use of Estimates
The preparation of financial statements in conformity with GAAP requires estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities, revenues and expenses, and related disclosures of contingent liabilities in the consolidated financial statements and accompanying notes. Estimates are used for, but not limited to, income taxes, commitments and contingencies, valuation of acquired intangibles and goodwill, stock-based compensation forfeiture rates, vendor funding, and inventory valuation. Actual results could differ materially from those estimates.
Earnings per Share
Basic earnings per share is calculated using our weighted-average outstanding common shares. Diluted earnings per share is calculated using our weighted-average outstanding common shares including the dilutive effect of stock awards as determined under the treasury stock method. In periods when we have a net loss, stock awards are excluded from our calculation of earnings per share as their inclusion would have an antidilutive effect.
The following table shows the calculation of diluted shares (in millions):
  
Three Months Ended 
 March 31,
 
2017
 
2018
Shares used in computation of basic earnings per share
477

 
484

Total dilutive effect of outstanding stock awards
13

 
14

Shares used in computation of diluted earnings per share
490

 
498


Revenue
Revenue is measured based on the amount of consideration that we expect to receive, reduced by estimates for return allowances, promotional discounts, and rebates. Revenue also excludes any amounts collected on behalf of third parties, including sales and indirect taxes. In arrangements where we have multiple performance obligations, the transaction price is allocated to each performance obligation using the relative stand-alone selling price. We generally determine stand-alone selling prices based on the prices charged to customers or using expected cost plus a margin.
A description of our principal revenue generating activities is as follows:
Retail sales - We offer consumer products through our online and physical stores. Revenue is recognized when control of the goods is transferred to the customer, which generally occurs upon our delivery to the carrier or the customer.
Third-party seller services - We offer programs that enable sellers to sell their products on our websites and their own branded websites, and fulfill orders through us. We are not the seller of record in these transactions. The commissions and any related fulfillment and shipping fees we earn from these arrangements are recognized as the services are rendered.
Subscription services - Our subscription sales include fees associated with Amazon Prime memberships and access to content including audiobooks, e-books, digital video, digital music, and other non-AWS subscription services. Prime memberships provide our customers with access to an evolving suite of benefits that represent a single stand-ready obligation. Subscriptions are paid for at the time of or in advance of delivering the services. Revenue from such arrangements is recognized over the subscription period.
AWS - Our AWS sales arrangements include global sales of compute, storage, database, and other service offerings. Revenue is allocated to the services provided based on stand-alone selling prices and is recognized as the services are rendered. Sales commissions we pay in connection with contracts that exceed one year are capitalized and amortized over the contract term.
Other - Other revenue primarily includes sales of advertising services and is recognized as the services are rendered.
Return Allowances
Return allowances, which reduce revenue and cost of sales, are estimated using historical experience. Liabilities for return allowances are included in “Accrued expenses and other” and were $468 million and $349 million as of December 31, 2017 and March 31, 2018. Included in “Inventories” on our consolidated balance sheets are assets totaling $406 million and $259 million as of December 31, 2017 and March 31, 2018, for the rights to recover products from customers associated with our liabilities for return allowances.
Cost of Sales
Cost of sales primarily consists of the purchase price of consumer products, digital media content costs, including video and music, packaging supplies, sortation and delivery centers and related equipment costs, and inbound and outbound shipping costs, including where we are the transportation service provider. Shipping costs to receive products from our suppliers are included in our inventory, and recognized as cost of sales upon sale of products to our customers. Payment processing and related transaction costs, including those associated with seller transactions, are classified in “Fulfillment” on our consolidated statements of operations.
Vendor Agreements
We have agreements with our vendors to receive funds primarily for cooperative marketing efforts, promotions, incentives, and volume rebates. We generally consider these amounts received from vendors to be a reduction of the prices we pay for their goods, including property and equipment, or services, and are recorded as a reduction of the cost of inventory, cost of services, or cost of property and equipment. Volume rebates typically depend on reaching minimum purchase thresholds. We evaluate the likelihood of reaching purchase thresholds using past experience and current year forecasts. When volume rebates can be reasonably estimated, we record a portion of the rebate as we make progress towards the purchase threshold.
Accounts Receivable, Net and Other
Included in “Accounts receivable, net and other” on our consolidated balance sheets are amounts primarily related to customers, sellers, and vendors. As of December 31, 2017 and March 31, 2018, customer receivables, net, were $6.4 billion and $6.3 billion, seller receivables, net, were $692 million and $610 million, and vendor receivables, net, were $2.6 billion and $1.7 billion. Seller receivables are amounts due from sellers related to our seller lending program, which provides funding to sellers primarily to procure inventory.
We estimate losses on receivables based on known troubled accounts and historical experience of losses incurred. Receivables are considered impaired and written-off when it is probable that all contractual payments due will not be collected in accordance with the terms of the agreement. The allowance for doubtful accounts was $348 million and $416 million as of December 31, 2017 and March 31, 2018.
Unearned Revenue
Unearned revenue is recorded when payments are received or due in advance of performing our service obligations and is recognized over the service period. Unearned revenue primarily relates to prepayments of Amazon Prime memberships and AWS services. Our total unearned revenue as of December 31, 2017 was $6.1 billion, of which $2.3 billion was recognized as revenue during the three months ended March 31, 2018, including adjustments related to the new revenue recognition guidance. Included in “Other long-term liabilities” on our consolidated balance sheets was $1.0 billion and $1.1 billion of unearned revenue as of December 31, 2017 and March 31, 2018.
Additionally, we have performance obligations, primarily related to AWS, associated with commitments in customer contracts for future services that have not yet been recognized in our financial statements. For contracts with original terms that exceed one year, the amount of revenue not yet recognized was $12.4 billion as of March 31, 2018. The weighted average remaining life of these contracts is 3.2 years. However, the timing of revenue recognition is largely driven by customer activity, some of which can extend beyond the original contractual term.
Accrued Expenses and Other
Included in “Accrued expenses and other” on our consolidated balance sheets are amounts primarily related to unredeemed gift cards, customer liabilities, leases and asset retirement obligations, current debt, acquired digital media content, and other operating expenses.
As of December 31, 2017 and March 31, 2018, our liabilities for unredeemed gift cards were $3.0 billion and $1.7 billion. We reduce the liability for a gift card when redeemed by a customer. The portion of gift cards that we do not expect to be redeemed is recognized based on customer usage patterns.
Accounting Pronouncements Recently Adopted
In May 2014, the FASB issued an Accounting Standards Update (“ASU”) amending revenue recognition guidance and requiring more detailed disclosures to enable users of financial statements to understand the nature, amount, timing, and uncertainty of revenue and cash flows arising from contracts with customers. We adopted this ASU on January 1, 2018 for all revenue contracts with our customers using the modified retrospective approach and increased retained earnings by approximately $650 million. The adjustment primarily relates to the unredeemed portion of our gift cards, which are now recognized over the expected customer usage period rather than waiting until gift cards expire or when the likelihood of redemption becomes remote. Other changes relate to our accounting for revenue related to Amazon-branded electronic devices sold through retailers, which are now recognized upon sale to the retailer rather than to end customers, and the recognition and classification of Amazon Prime memberships, which are now accounted for as a single performance obligation and recognized ratably over the membership period as service sales. Previously, Prime memberships were considered to be arrangements with multiple deliverables and were allocated among product sales and service sales. Other changes relate primarily to the presentation of revenue. Certain advertising services are now classified as revenue rather than a reduction in cost of sales, and sales of apps, in-app content, and certain digital media content are presented on a net basis.
The impact of applying this ASU for the three months ended March 31, 2018 primarily resulted in a decrease in product sales and an increase in service sales driven by a reclassification of Prime membership fees of approximately $845 million, which are now accounted for as a single performance obligation and recognized over the membership period. Service sales also increased by approximately $560 million due to the reclassification of certain advertising services that were previously classified as a reduction of cost of sales.
In January 2016, the FASB issued an ASU that updates certain aspects of recognition, measurement, presentation, and disclosure of financial instruments. Under this ASU, certain equity investments will be measured at fair value with changes recognized in net income. We adopted this ASU in Q1 2018 with no material impact to our consolidated financial statements.
In October 2016, the FASB issued an ASU amending the accounting for income taxes. The new guidance requires the recognition of the income tax consequences of an intercompany asset transfer, other than transfers of inventory, when the transfer occurs. For intercompany transfers of inventory, the income tax effects will continue to be deferred until the inventory has been sold to a third party. We adopted this ASU in Q1 2018 with an increase of approximately $250 million to retained earnings and deferred tax assets net of valuation allowances.
In November 2016, the FASB issued an ASU amending the presentation of restricted cash within the consolidated statements of cash flows. The new guidance requires that restricted cash be added to cash and cash equivalents on the consolidated statements of cash flows. We adopted this ASU in Q1 2018 on a retrospective basis with the following impacts to our consolidated statements of cash flows (in millions):
Three Months Ended March 31, 2017
Previously Reported
 
Adjustments
 
As Revised
Operating activities
$
(1,590
)
 
$
(29
)
 
$
(1,619
)
Investing activities
(1,616
)
 
266

 
(1,350
)
Financing activities
(914
)
 
26

 
(888
)
Net change in cash, cash equivalents, and restricted cash
$
(4,120
)
 
$
263

 
$
(3,857
)
Twelve Months Ended March 31, 2017
Previously Reported
 
Adjustments
 
As Revised
Operating activities
$
17,634

 
$
(87
)
 
$
17,547

Investing activities
(10,798
)
 
588

 
(10,210
)
Financing activities
(3,657
)
 
49

 
(3,608
)
Net change in cash, cash equivalents, and restricted cash
$
3,179

 
$
550

 
$
3,729


Accounting Pronouncements Not Yet Adopted
In February 2016, the FASB issued an ASU amending the accounting for leases. The new guidance requires the recognition of lease assets and liabilities for operating leases with terms of more than 12 months, in addition to those currently recorded, on our consolidated balance sheets. Presentation of leases within the consolidated statements of operations and consolidated statements of cash flows will be generally consistent with the current lease accounting guidance. The ASU is effective for reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2018, with early adoption permitted. We plan to adopt this ASU beginning in Q1 2019. We are continuing to evaluate the impact and expect the ASU will have a material impact on our consolidated financial statements, primarily to the consolidated balance sheets and related disclosures.
v3.8.0.1
Cash, Cash Equivalents, and Marketable Securities
3 Months Ended
Mar. 31, 2018
Investments, Debt and Equity Securities [Abstract]  
Cash, Cash Equivalents, and Marketable Securities
CASH, CASH EQUIVALENTS, RESTRICTED CASH, AND MARKETABLE SECURITIES
As of December 31, 2017 and March 31, 2018, our cash, cash equivalents, restricted cash, and marketable securities primarily consisted of cash, U.S. and foreign government and agency securities, AAA-rated money market funds, and other investment grade securities. Cash equivalents and marketable securities are recorded at fair value. Fair value is defined as the price that would be received to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants at the measurement date. To increase the comparability of fair value measures, the following hierarchy prioritizes the inputs to valuation methodologies used to measure fair value:
Level 1—Valuations based on quoted prices for identical assets and liabilities in active markets.
Level 2—Valuations based on observable inputs other than quoted prices included in Level 1, such as quoted prices for similar assets and liabilities in active markets, quoted prices for identical or similar assets and liabilities in markets that are not active, or other inputs that are observable or can be corroborated by observable market data.
Level 3—Valuations based on unobservable inputs reflecting our own assumptions, consistent with reasonably available assumptions made by other market participants. These valuations require significant judgment.
We measure the fair value of money market funds and equity securities based on quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities. All other financial instruments were valued either based on recent trades of securities in inactive markets or based on quoted market prices of similar instruments and other significant inputs derived from or corroborated by observable market data. We did not hold any cash, cash equivalents, restricted cash, or marketable securities categorized as Level 3 assets as of December 31, 2017 and March 31, 2018.
The following table summarizes, by major security type, our cash, cash equivalents, restricted cash, and marketable securities that are measured at fair value on a recurring basis and are categorized using the fair value hierarchy (in millions):
 
December 31, 2017
 
March 31, 2018
  
Total
Estimated
Fair Value
 
Cost or
Amortized
Cost
 
Gross
Unrealized
Gains
 
Gross
Unrealized
Losses
 
Total
Estimated
Fair Value
Cash
$
9,982

 
$
8,706

 
$

 
$

 
$
8,706

Level 1 securities:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Money market funds
11,343

 
8,663

 

 

 
8,663

Equity securities
53

 
23

 
54

 

 
77

Level 2 securities:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Foreign government and agency securities
620

 
421

 

 
(1
)
 
420

U.S. government and agency securities
4,823

 
3,557

 
1

 
(25
)
 
3,533

Corporate debt securities
4,257

 
3,412

 

 
(19
)
 
3,393

Asset-backed securities
905

 
803

 

 
(8
)
 
795

Other fixed income securities
338

 
285

 

 
(2
)
 
283

Equity securities

 
28

 
5

 

 
33

 
$
32,321

 
$
25,898

 
$
60


$
(55
)
 
$
25,903

Less: Restricted cash, cash equivalents, and marketable securities (1)
(1,335
)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
(940
)
Total cash, cash equivalents, and marketable securities
$
30,986

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
$
24,963

___________________
(1)
We are required to pledge or otherwise restrict a portion of our cash, cash equivalents, and marketable securities as collateral for real estate leases, amounts due to third-party sellers in certain jurisdictions, debt, and standby and trade letters of credit. We classify cash, cash equivalents, and marketable securities with use restrictions of less than twelve months as “Accounts receivable, net and other” and of twelve months or longer as non-current “Other assets” on our consolidated balance sheets. See “Note 3 — Commitments and Contingencies.”
The following table summarizes the contractual maturities of our cash equivalents and marketable fixed-income securities as of March 31, 2018 (in millions):
 
Amortized
Cost
 
Estimated
Fair Value
Due within one year
$
12,969

 
$
12,960

Due after one year through five years
3,434

 
3,400

Due after five years through ten years
248

 
245

Due after ten years
490

 
482

Total
$
17,141

 
$
17,087


Actual maturities may differ from the contractual maturities because borrowers may have certain prepayment conditions.
We also hold equity warrant assets giving us the right to acquire stock of other companies. As of December 31, 2017 and March 31, 2018, these warrants had a fair value of $441 million and $497 million, and are recorded within “Other assets” on our consolidated balance sheets. The related gain (loss) recorded in “Other income (expense), net” was $15 million and $45 million in Q1 2017 and Q1 2018. These assets are primarily classified as Level 2 assets.
The following table provides a reconciliation of the amount of cash, cash equivalents, and restricted cash reported within the consolidated balance sheets to the total of the same such amounts shown in the consolidated statements of cash flows (in millions):
 
December 31, 2017
 
March 31, 2018
Cash and cash equivalents
$
20,522

 
$
16,676

Restricted cash included in accounts receivable, net and other
1,329

 
935

Restricted cash included in other assets
5

 
5

Total cash, cash equivalents, and restricted cash shown in the consolidated statements of cash flows
$
21,856

 
$
17,616

v3.8.0.1
Commitments and Contingencies
3 Months Ended
Mar. 31, 2018
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]  
Commitments and Contingencies
COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES
Commitments
We have entered into non-cancellable operating, capital, and finance leases for equipment and office, fulfillment, sortation, delivery, data center, physical store, and renewable energy facilities. Rental expense under operating lease agreements was $411 million and $791 million for Q1 2017 and Q1 2018.
The following summarizes our principal contractual commitments, excluding open orders for purchases that support normal operations and are generally cancellable, as of March 31, 2018 (in millions): 
 
Nine Months Ended December 31,
 
Year Ended December 31,
 
 
 
 
 
2018
 
2019
 
2020
 
2021
 
2022
 
Thereafter
 
Total
Debt principal and interest
$
669

 
$
2,167

 
$
2,075

 
$
1,832

 
$
2,049

 
$
31,768

 
$
40,560

Capital lease obligations, including interest (1)
4,571

 
5,584

 
3,385

 
794

 
339

 
580

 
15,253

Finance lease obligations, including interest (2)
347

 
473

 
482

 
491

 
493

 
4,095

 
6,381

Operating leases
1,977

 
2,549

 
2,426

 
2,191

 
1,924

 
12,442

 
23,509

Unconditional purchase obligations (3)
2,685

 
3,607

 
3,241

 
3,066

 
2,965

 
7,956

 
23,520

Other commitments (4) (5)
1,469

 
1,280

 
849

 
640

 
488

 
5,265

 
9,991

Total commitments
$
11,718

 
$
15,660

 
$
12,458

 
$
9,014

 
$
8,258

 
$
62,106

 
$
119,214

___________________
(1)
Excluding interest, current capital lease obligations of $5.8 billion and $6.2 billion are recorded within “Accrued expenses and other” as of December 31, 2017 and March 31, 2018, and $8.4 billion and $8.5 billion are recorded within “Other long-term liabilities” as of December 31, 2017 and March 31, 2018.
(2)
Excluding interest, current finance lease obligations of $282 million and $294 million are recorded within “Accrued expenses and other” as of December 31, 2017 and March 31, 2018, and $4.7 billion and $4.8 billion are recorded within “Other long-term liabilities” as of December 31, 2017 and March 31, 2018.
(3)
Includes unconditional purchase obligations related to certain products offered in our Whole Foods Market stores and long-term agreements to acquire and license digital media content that are not reflected on the consolidated balance sheets. For those digital media content agreements with variable terms, we do not estimate the total obligation beyond any minimum quantities and/or pricing as of the reporting date. Purchase obligations associated with renewal provisions solely at the option of the content provider are included to the extent such commitments are fixed or a minimum amount is specified.
(4)
Includes the estimated timing and amounts of payments for rent and tenant improvements associated with build-to-suit lease arrangements and equipment lease arrangements that have not been placed in service and digital media content liabilities associated with long-term digital media content assets with initial terms greater than one year.
(5)
Excludes $2.6 billion of accrued tax contingencies for which we cannot make a reasonably reliable estimate of the amount and period of payment, if any.
Pledged Assets
As of December 31, 2017 and March 31, 2018, we have pledged or otherwise restricted $1.4 billion and $1.0 billion of our cash, cash equivalents, and marketable securities, and certain property and equipment as collateral for real estate leases, amounts due to third-party sellers in certain jurisdictions, debt, and standby and trade letters of credit.
Other Contingencies
In 2016, we determined that we processed and delivered orders of consumer products for certain individuals and entities located outside Iran covered by the Iran Threat Reduction and Syria Human Rights Act or other United States sanctions and export control laws. The consumer products included books, music, other media, apparel, home and kitchen, health and beauty, jewelry, office, consumer electronics, software, lawn and patio, grocery, and automotive products. Our review is ongoing and we have voluntarily reported these orders to the United States Treasury Department’s Office of Foreign Assets Control and the United States Department of Commerce’s Bureau of Industry and Security. We intend to cooperate fully with OFAC and BIS with respect to their review, which may result in the imposition of penalties. For additional information, see Item 5 of Part II, “Other Information — Disclosure Pursuant to Section 13(r) of the Exchange Act.”
We are subject to claims related to various indirect taxes (such as sales, value added, consumption, service, and similar taxes), including in jurisdictions in which we already collect and remit such taxes. If the relevant taxing authorities were successfully to pursue these claims, we could be subject to significant additional tax liabilities. For example, in June 2017, the State of South Carolina issued an assessment for uncollected sales and use taxes for the period from January 2016 to March 2016, including interest and penalties. South Carolina is alleging that we should have collected sales and use taxes on transactions by our third-party sellers. We believe the assessment is without merit. If South Carolina or other states were successfully to seek additional adjustments of a similar nature, we could be subject to significant additional tax liabilities. We intend to defend ourselves vigorously in this matter.
Legal Proceedings
The Company is involved from time to time in claims, proceedings, and litigation, including the matters described in Item 8 of Part II, “Financial Statements and Supplementary Data — Note 7 — Commitments and Contingencies — Legal Proceedings” of our 2017 Annual Report on Form 10-K as supplemented by the following:
In December 2014, Smartflash LLC and Smartflash Technologies Limited filed a complaint against Amazon.com, Inc., Amazon.com, LLC, AMZN Mobile, LLC, Amazon Web Services, Inc. and Audible, Inc. for patent infringement in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Texas. The complaint alleges, among other things, that Amazon Appstore, Amazon Instant Video, Amazon Music, Audible Audiobooks, the Amazon Mobile Ad Network, certain Kindle and Fire devices, Kindle e-bookstore, Amazon’s proprietary Android operating system, and the servers involved in operating Amazon Appstore, Amazon Instant Video, Amazon Music, the Fire TV app, Audible Audiobooks, Cloud Drive, Cloud Player, Amazon Web Services, and Amazon Mobile Ad Network infringe seven related U.S. Patents: Nos. 7,334,720; 7,942,317; 8,033,458; 8,061,598; 8,118,221; 8,336,772; and 8,794,516, all entitled “Data Storage and Access Systems.” The complaint seeks an unspecified amount of damages, an injunction, enhanced damages, attorneys’ fees, costs, and interest. In May 2015, the case was stayed until further notice. In March 2017, in an unrelated lawsuit, the United States Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit entered judgment invalidating all asserted claims of U.S. Patent Nos. 7,334,720; 8,118,221; and 8,336,772. In April 2018, in an unrelated lawsuit, the United States Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit entered judgment invalidating all asserted claims of U.S. Patent Nos. 7,942,317; 8,033,458; 8,061,598; and 8,794,516. We dispute the allegations of wrongdoing and intend to defend ourselves vigorously in this matter.
In October 2017, SRC Labs, LLC and Saint Regis Mohawk Tribe filed a complaint for patent infringement against Amazon Web Services, Inc., Amazon.com, Inc., and VADATA, Inc. in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia. The complaint alleges, among other things, that certain AWS EC2 Instances infringe U.S. Patent Nos. 6,434,687, entitled “System and method for accelerating web site access and processing utilizing a computer system incorporating reconfigurable processors operating under a single operating system image”; 7,149,867, entitled “System and method of enhancing efficiency and utilization of memory bandwidth in reconfigurable hardware”; 7,225,324 and 7,620,800, both entitled “Multi-adaptive processing systems and techniques for enhancing parallelism and performance of computational functions”; and 9,153,311, entitled “System and method for retaining DRAM data when reprogramming reconfigurable devices with DRAM memory controllers.” The complaint seeks an unspecified amount of damages, enhanced damages, interest, and a compulsory on-going royalty. In February 2018, the Virginia district court transferred the case to the United States District Court for the Western District of Washington. We dispute the allegations of wrongdoing and intend to defend ourselves vigorously in this matter.
The outcomes of our legal proceedings and other contingencies are inherently unpredictable, subject to significant uncertainties, and could be material to our operating results and cash flows for a particular period. In addition, for the matters disclosed above that do not include an estimate of the amount of loss or range of losses, such an estimate is not possible or is immaterial, and we may be unable to estimate the possible loss or range of losses that could potentially result from the application of non-monetary remedies.
See also “Note 7 — Income Taxes.”
v3.8.0.1
Acquisitions, Goodwill, and Acquired Intangible Assets
3 Months Ended
Mar. 31, 2018
Business Combinations [Abstract]  
Acquisitions, Goodwill, and Acquired Intangible Assets
ACQUISITIONS, GOODWILL, AND ACQUIRED INTANGIBLE ASSETS
2018 Acquisition Activity
On April 12, 2018, we acquired Ring Inc. for cash consideration of approximately $900 million, net of cash acquired, to expand our product and service offerings. We are currently in the process of estimating the fair values of the assets acquired and liabilities assumed and will include the impact of this acquisition in our Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the period ended June 30, 2018. During the three months ended March 31, 2018, we also acquired certain other companies for an aggregate purchase price of $39 million, net of cash acquired.
We have completed the purchase price allocation for the Whole Foods Market acquisition as of March 31, 2018 with no material adjustments from those disclosed within our 2017 Annual Report on Form 10-K.
v3.8.0.1
Long-Term Debt
3 Months Ended
Mar. 31, 2018
Debt Disclosure [Abstract]  
Long-Term Debt
LONG-TERM DEBT
As of March 31, 2018, we had $24.3 billion of unsecured senior notes outstanding (the “Notes”). As of December 31, 2017 and March 31, 2018, the net unamortized discount and debt issuance costs on the Notes was $99 million. We also have other long-term debt with a carrying amount, including the current portion and borrowings under our credit facility, of $692 million and $542 million as of December 31, 2017 and March 31, 2018. The face value of our total long-term debt obligations is as follows (in millions):
 
December 31, 2017
 
March 31, 2018
2.600% Notes due on December 5, 2019 (2)
1,000

 
1,000

1.900% Notes due on August 21, 2020 (3)
1,000

 
1,000

3.300% Notes due on December 5, 2021 (2)
1,000

 
1,000

2.500% Notes due on November 29, 2022 (1)
1,250

 
1,250

2.400% Notes due on February 22, 2023 (3)
1,000

 
1,000

2.800% Notes due on August 22, 2024 (3)
2,000

 
2,000

3.800% Notes due on December 5, 2024 (2)
1,250

 
1,250

5.200% Notes due on December 3, 2025 (4)
1,000

 
1,000

3.150% Notes due on August 22, 2027 (3)
3,500

 
3,500

4.800% Notes due on December 5, 2034 (2)
1,250

 
1,250

3.875% Notes due on August 22, 2037 (3)
2,750

 
2,750

4.950% Notes due on December 5, 2044 (2)
1,500

 
1,500

4.050% Notes due on August 22, 2047 (3)
3,500

 
3,500

4.250% Notes due on August 22, 2057 (3)
2,250

 
2,250

Credit Facility
592

 
489

Other long-term debt
100

 
53

Total debt
24,942

 
24,792

Less current portion of long-term debt
(100
)
 
(53
)
Face value of long-term debt
$
24,842

 
$
24,739


_____________________________
(1)
Issued in November 2012, effective interest rate of the 2022 Notes was 2.66%.
(2)
Issued in December 2014, effective interest rates of the 2019, 2021, 2024, 2034, and 2044 Notes were 2.73%, 3.43%, 3.90%, 4.92%, and 5.11%.
(3)
Issued in August 2017, effective interest rates of the 2020, 2023, 2024, 2027, 2037, 2047, and 2057 Notes were 2.16%, 2.56%, 2.95%, 3.25%, 3.94%, 4.13%, and 4.33%.
(4)
Consists of $872 million of 2025 Notes issued in December 2017 in exchange for notes assumed in connection with the acquisition of Whole Foods Market and $128 million of 2025 Notes issued by Whole Foods Market that did not participate in our December 2017 exchange offer. The effective interest rate of the 2025 Notes was 3.02%.
Interest on the Notes issued in 2012 is payable semi-annually in arrears in May and November. Interest on the Notes issued in 2014 is payable semi-annually in arrears in June and December. Interest on the Notes issued in 2017 is payable semi-annually in arrears in February and August. Interest on the 2025 Notes is payable semi-annually in arrears in June and December. We may redeem the Notes at any time in whole, or from time to time, in part at specified redemption prices. We are not subject to any financial covenants under the Notes. The proceeds from the November 2012 and the December 2014 Notes were used for general corporate purposes. The proceeds from the August 2017 Notes were used to fund the consideration for the acquisition of Whole Foods Market, to repay notes due in 2017, and for general corporate purposes. The estimated fair value of the Notes was approximately $25.7 billion and $24.5 billion as of December 31, 2017 and March 31, 2018, which is based on quoted prices for our debt as of those dates.
In October 2016, we entered into a $500 million secured revolving credit facility with a lender that is secured by certain seller receivables, which we subsequently increased to $600 million and may from time to time increase in the future subject to lender approval (the “Credit Facility”). The Credit Facility is available for a term of three years, bears interest at the London interbank offered rate (“LIBOR”) plus 1.65%, and has a commitment fee of 0.50% on the undrawn portion. There were $592 million and $489 million of borrowings outstanding under the Credit Facility as of December 31, 2017 and March 31, 2018, with weighted-average interest rates of 2.7% and 2.8% as of December 31, 2017 and March 31, 2018. As of December 31, 2017 and March 31, 2018, we have pledged $686 million and $579 million of our cash and seller receivables as collateral for debt related to our Credit Facility. The estimated fair value of the Credit Facility, which is based on Level 2 inputs, approximated its carrying value as of December 31, 2017 and March 31, 2018.
The other debt, including the current portion, had a weighted-average interest rate of 5.8% and 5.0% as of December 31, 2017 and March 31, 2018. We used the net proceeds from the issuance of this debt primarily to fund certain business operations. The estimated fair value of the other long-term debt, which is based on Level 2 inputs, approximated its carrying value as of December 31, 2017 and March 31, 2018.
In May 2016, we entered into an unsecured revolving credit facility (the “Credit Agreement”) with a syndicate of lenders that provides us with a borrowing capacity of up to $3.0 billion. The Credit Agreement has a term of three years, but it may be extended for up to three additional one-year terms if approved by the lenders. The initial interest rate applicable to outstanding balances under the Credit Agreement is LIBOR plus 0.60%, with a commitment fee of 0.05% on the undrawn portion of the credit facility, under our current credit ratings. If our credit ratings are downgraded these rates could increase to as much as LIBOR plus 1.00% and 0.09%, respectively. There were no borrowings outstanding under the Credit Agreement as of December 31, 2017 and March 31, 2018.
v3.8.0.1
Stockholders' Equity
3 Months Ended
Mar. 31, 2018
Disclosure of Compensation Related Costs, Share-based Payments [Abstract]  
Stockholders' Equity
STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY
Stock Repurchase Activity
In February 2016, the Board of Directors authorized a program to repurchase up to $5.0 billion of our common stock, with no fixed expiration. There were no repurchases of common stock in Q1 2017 or Q1 2018.
Stock Award Activity
Common shares outstanding plus shares underlying outstanding stock awards totaled 504 million as of December 31, 2017 and March 31, 2018. These totals include all vested and unvested stock awards outstanding, including those awards we estimate will be forfeited. Stock-based compensation expense is as follows (in millions):
  
Three Months Ended 
 March 31,
 
2017
 
2018
Cost of sales
$
8

 
$
15

Fulfillment
163

 
244

Marketing
94

 
161

Technology and content
441

 
631

General and administrative
86

 
132

Total stock-based compensation expense
$
792

 
$
1,183


The following table summarizes our restricted stock unit activity for the three months ended March 31, 2018 (in millions):
 
Number of Units
 
Weighted-Average
Grant-Date
Fair Value
Outstanding as of December 31, 2017
20.1

 
$
725

Units granted
0.7

 
1,464

Units vested
(1.1
)
 
440

Units forfeited
(0.6
)
 
750

Outstanding as of March 31, 2018
19.1

 
$
769

Scheduled vesting for outstanding restricted stock units as of March 31, 2018, is as follows (in millions):
 
Nine Months Ended December 31,
 
Year Ended December 31,
 
 
 
 
 
2018
 
2019
 
2020
 
2021
 
2022
 
Thereafter
 
Total
Scheduled vesting—restricted stock units
6.0

 
7.2

 
3.7

 
1.8

 
0.2

 
0.2

 
19.1


As of March 31, 2018, there was $6.0 billion of net unrecognized compensation cost related to unvested stock-based compensation arrangements. This compensation is recognized on an accelerated basis with approximately half of the compensation expected to be expensed in the next twelve months, and has a weighted-average recognition period of 1.1 years. The estimated forfeiture rate as of December 31, 2017 and March 31, 2018 was 28%. Changes in our estimates and assumptions relating to forfeitures may cause us to realize material changes in stock-based compensation expense in the future.
v3.8.0.1
Income Taxes
3 Months Ended
Mar. 31, 2018
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]  
Income Taxes
INCOME TAXES
Our tax provision or benefit from income taxes for interim periods is determined using an estimate of our annual effective tax rate, adjusted for discrete items, if any, that are taken into account in the relevant period. Each quarter we update our estimate of the annual effective tax rate, and if our estimated tax rate changes, we make a cumulative adjustment.
Our quarterly tax provision, and our quarterly estimate of our annual effective tax rate, is subject to significant variation due to several factors, including variability in accurately predicting our pre-tax and taxable income and loss and the mix of jurisdictions to which they relate, intercompany transactions, the applicability of special tax regimes, changes in how we do business, acquisitions (including integrations) and investments, audit-related developments, changes in our stock price, changes in our deferred tax assets and liabilities and their valuation, foreign currency gains (losses), changes in statutes, regulations, case law, and administrative practices, principles, and interpretations related to tax, accounting, and other areas, including European Union state aid rules, and relative changes of expenses or losses for which tax benefits are not recognized. Additionally, our effective tax rate can be more or less volatile based on the amount of pre-tax income or loss. For example, the impact of discrete items and non-deductible expenses on our effective tax rate is greater when our pre-tax income is lower.
The 2017 Tax Act was signed into law on December 22, 2017. The 2017 Tax Act significantly revised the U.S. corporate income tax by, among other things, lowering the statutory corporate tax rate from 35% to 21%, eliminating certain deductions, imposing a mandatory one-time tax on accumulated earnings of foreign subsidiaries, introducing new tax regimes, and changing how foreign earnings are subject to U.S. tax. The 2017 Tax Act also enhanced and extended through 2026 the option to claim accelerated depreciation deductions on qualified property. We have not completed our determination of the accounting implications of the 2017 Tax Act on our tax accruals. However, we have reasonably estimated the effects of the 2017 Tax Act and recorded provisional amounts in our financial statements as of December 31, 2017. We recorded a provisional tax benefit for the impact of the 2017 Tax Act of approximately $789 million. This amount was primarily comprised of the remeasurement of federal net deferred tax liabilities resulting from the permanent reduction in the U.S. statutory corporate tax rate to 21% from 35%, after taking into account the mandatory one-time tax on the accumulated earnings of our foreign subsidiaries. The amount of this one-time tax is not material. As we complete our analysis of the 2017 Tax Act, collect and prepare necessary data, and interpret any additional guidance issued by the U.S. Treasury Department, the IRS, and other standard-setting bodies, we may make adjustments to the provisional amounts. Those adjustments may materially impact our provision for income taxes in the period in which the adjustments are made.
For 2018, we estimate that our effective tax rate will be favorably affected by the impact of excess tax benefits from stock-based compensation and the U.S. federal research and development credit and adversely affected by losses incurred in certain foreign jurisdictions for which we may not realize a tax benefit. Losses for which we may not realize a related tax benefit, primarily due to losses of foreign subsidiaries, reduce our pre-tax income without a corresponding reduction in our tax expense, and therefore increase our effective tax rate. We record valuation allowances against the deferred tax assets associated with losses for which we may not realize a related tax benefit.
Our income tax provision for the three months ended March 31, 2017 was $229 million, which included $122 million of net discrete tax benefits primarily attributable to excess tax benefits from stock-based compensation, partially offset by the estimated impact of audit-related developments. Our income tax provision for the three months ended March 31, 2018 was $287 million, which included $368 million of net discrete tax benefits primarily attributable to excess tax benefits from stock-based compensation.
Cash paid for income taxes, net of refunds was $246 million and $513 million in Q1 2017 and Q1 2018.
As of December 31, 2017 and March 31, 2018, tax contingencies were $2.3 billion and $2.6 billion. We expect the total amount of tax contingencies will grow in 2018. In addition, changes in state, federal, and foreign tax laws may increase our tax contingencies. The timing of the resolution of income tax examinations is highly uncertain, and the amounts ultimately paid, if any, upon resolution of the issues raised by the taxing authorities may differ from the amounts accrued. It is reasonably possible that within the next 12 months we will receive additional assessments by various tax authorities or possibly reach resolution of income tax examinations in one or more jurisdictions. These assessments or settlements could result in changes to our contingencies related to positions on tax filings on prior years’ tax filings.
We are under examination, or may be subject to examination, by the Internal Revenue Service (“IRS”) for the calendar year 2005 and thereafter. These examinations may lead to ordinary course adjustments or proposed adjustments to our taxes or our net operating losses with respect to years under examination as well as subsequent periods. As previously disclosed, we have received Notices of Proposed Adjustment (“NOPAs”) from the IRS for transactions undertaken in the 2005 and 2006 calendar years relating to transfer pricing with our foreign subsidiaries. The IRS is seeking to increase our U.S. taxable income by an amount that would result in additional federal tax of approximately $1.5 billion, subject to interest. On March 23, 2017, the U.S. Tax Court issued its decision regarding the issues raised in the IRS NOPAs. The Tax Court rejected the approach from the IRS NOPAs in determining transfer pricing adjustments in 2005 and 2006 for the transactions undertaken with our foreign subsidiaries and adopted, with adjustments, our suggested approach. In September 2017, the IRS appealed the decision to the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit. We will continue to defend ourselves vigorously in this matter. If the Tax Court decision were reversed on appeal or if the IRS were to successfully assert transfer pricing adjustments of a similar nature to the NOPAs for transactions in subsequent years, we could be subject to significant additional tax liabilities.
In October 2014, the European Commission opened a formal investigation to examine whether decisions by the tax authorities in Luxembourg with regard to the corporate income tax paid by certain of our subsidiaries comply with European Union rules on state aid. On October 4, 2017, the European Commission announced its decision that determinations by the tax authorities in Luxembourg did not comply with European Union rules on state aid. Based on that decision the European Commission announced an estimated recovery amount of approximately €250 million, plus interest, for the period May 2006 through June 2014, and ordered Luxembourg tax authorities to calculate the actual amount of additional taxes subject to recovery. Luxembourg computed an initial recovery amount, consistent with the European Commission’s decision, that we deposited into escrow in March 2018, subject to adjustment pending conclusion of all appeals. In December 2017, Luxembourg appealed the European Commission’s decision. We believe the European Commission’s decision to be without merit and will consider our legal options, including an appeal. We are also subject to taxation in various states and other foreign jurisdictions including Canada, China, Germany, India, Japan, Luxembourg, and the United Kingdom. We are under, or may be subject to, audit or examination and additional assessments by the relevant authorities in respect of these particular jurisdictions primarily for 2008 and thereafter.
v3.8.0.1
Segment Information
3 Months Ended
Mar. 31, 2018
Segment Reporting [Abstract]  
Segment Information
SEGMENT INFORMATION
We have organized our operations into three segments: North America, International, and AWS. We allocate to segment results the operating expenses “Fulfillment,” “Marketing,” “Technology and content,” and “General and administrative” based on usage, which is generally reflected in the segment in which the costs are incurred. The majority of technology infrastructure costs are allocated to the AWS segment based on usage. The majority of the remaining non-infrastructure technology costs are incurred in the U.S. and are allocated to our North America segment. The results of Whole Foods Market are included in our North America and International segments based on physical location. There are no internal revenue transactions between our reportable segments. These segments reflect the way our chief operating decision maker evaluates the Company’s business performance and manages its operations.
North America
The North America segment primarily consists of amounts earned from retail sales of consumer products (including from sellers) and subscriptions through North America-focused websites. This segment includes export sales from these websites.
International
The International segment primarily consists of amounts earned from retail sales of consumer products (including from sellers) and subscriptions through internationally-focused websites. This segment includes export sales from these internationally-focused websites (including export sales from these sites to customers in the U.S., Mexico, and Canada), but excludes export sales from our North American websites.
AWS
The AWS segment consists of amounts earned from global sales of compute, storage, database, and other service offerings for start-ups, enterprises, government agencies, and academic institutions.
Information on reportable segments and reconciliation to consolidated net income is as follows (in millions):
 
Three Months Ended 
 March 31,
 
2017
 
2018
North America
 
 
 
Net sales
$
20,992

 
$
30,725

Operating expenses
20,396

 
29,576

Operating income
$
596

 
$
1,149

 
 
 
 
International
 
 
 
Net sales
$
11,061

 
$
14,875

Operating expenses
11,542

 
15,497

Operating income (loss)
$
(481
)
 
$
(622
)
 
 
 
 
AWS
 
 
 
Net sales
$
3,661

 
$
5,442

Operating expenses
2,771

 
4,042

Operating income
$
890

 
$
1,400

 
 
 
 
Consolidated
 
 
 
Net sales
$
35,714

 
$
51,042

Operating expenses
34,709

 
49,115

Operating income
1,005

 
1,927

Total non-operating income (expense)
(52
)
 
(11
)
Provision for income taxes
(229
)
 
(287
)
Net income
$
724

 
$
1,629



Net sales by groups of similar products and services, which also have similar economic characteristics, is as follows (in millions):
  
Three Months Ended 
 March 31,
 
2017
 
2018
Net Sales:
 
Online stores (1)
$
22,826

 
$
26,939

Physical stores (2)

 
4,263

Third-party seller services (3)
6,438

 
9,265

Subscription services (4)
1,939

 
3,102

AWS
3,661

 
5,442

Other (5)
850

 
2,031

Consolidated
$
35,714

 
$
51,042

____________________________
(1)
Includes product sales and digital media content where we record revenue gross. We leverage our retail infrastructure to offer a wide selection of consumable and durable goods that includes media products available in both a physical and digital format, such as books, music, videos, games, and software. These product sales include digital products sold on a transactional basis. Digital product subscriptions that provide unlimited viewing or usage rights are included in Subscription services.
(2)
Includes product sales where our customers physically select items in a store.
(3)
Includes commissions, related fulfillment and shipping fees, and other third-party seller services.
(4)
Includes annual and monthly fees associated with Amazon Prime membership, as well as audiobook, e-book, digital video, digital music, and other non-AWS subscription services.
(5)
Primarily includes sales of advertising services, as well as sales related to our other service offerings.
v3.8.0.1
Accounting Policies (Policies)
3 Months Ended
Mar. 31, 2018
Accounting Policies [Abstract]  
Unaudited Interim Financial Information
Unaudited Interim Financial Information
We have prepared the accompanying consolidated financial statements pursuant to the rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) for interim financial reporting. These consolidated financial statements are unaudited and, in our opinion, include all adjustments, consisting of normal recurring adjustments and accruals necessary for a fair presentation of our consolidated balance sheets, operating results, and cash flows for the periods presented. Operating results for the periods presented are not necessarily indicative of the results that may be expected for 2018 due to seasonal and other factors. Certain information and footnote disclosures normally included in financial statements prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States (“GAAP”) have been omitted in accordance with the rules and regulations of the SEC. These consolidated financial statements should be read in conjunction with the audited consolidated financial statements and accompanying notes in Item 8 of Part II, “Financial Statements and Supplementary Data,” of our 2017 Annual Report on Form 10-K.
Prior Period Reclassifications
Prior Period Reclassifications
Certain prior period amounts have been reclassified to conform to the current period presentation, including the addition of restricted cash to cash and cash equivalents on the consolidated statements of cash flows as a result of the adoption of new accounting guidance.
Principles of Consolidation
Principles of Consolidation
The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of Amazon.com, Inc., its wholly-owned subsidiaries, and those entities in which we have a variable interest and of which we are the primary beneficiary, including certain entities in India and China and that support our seller lending financing activities (collectively, the “Company”). Intercompany balances and transactions between consolidated entities are eliminated. The financial results of Whole Foods Market, Inc. (“Whole Foods Market”) have been included in our consolidated financial statements from the date of acquisition on August 28, 2017.
Use of Estimates
Use of Estimates
The preparation of financial statements in conformity with GAAP requires estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities, revenues and expenses, and related disclosures of contingent liabilities in the consolidated financial statements and accompanying notes. Estimates are used for, but not limited to, income taxes, commitments and contingencies, valuation of acquired intangibles and goodwill, stock-based compensation forfeiture rates, vendor funding, and inventory valuation. Actual results could differ materially from those estimates.
Earnings per Share
Earnings per Share
Basic earnings per share is calculated using our weighted-average outstanding common shares. Diluted earnings per share is calculated using our weighted-average outstanding common shares including the dilutive effect of stock awards as determined under the treasury stock method. In periods when we have a net loss, stock awards are excluded from our calculation of earnings per share as their inclusion would have an antidilutive effect.
Revenue Recognition, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Revenue
Revenue is measured based on the amount of consideration that we expect to receive, reduced by estimates for return allowances, promotional discounts, and rebates. Revenue also excludes any amounts collected on behalf of third parties, including sales and indirect taxes. In arrangements where we have multiple performance obligations, the transaction price is allocated to each performance obligation using the relative stand-alone selling price. We generally determine stand-alone selling prices based on the prices charged to customers or using expected cost plus a margin.
A description of our principal revenue generating activities is as follows:
Retail sales - We offer consumer products through our online and physical stores. Revenue is recognized when control of the goods is transferred to the customer, which generally occurs upon our delivery to the carrier or the customer.
Third-party seller services - We offer programs that enable sellers to sell their products on our websites and their own branded websites, and fulfill orders through us. We are not the seller of record in these transactions. The commissions and any related fulfillment and shipping fees we earn from these arrangements are recognized as the services are rendered.
Subscription services - Our subscription sales include fees associated with Amazon Prime memberships and access to content including audiobooks, e-books, digital video, digital music, and other non-AWS subscription services. Prime memberships provide our customers with access to an evolving suite of benefits that represent a single stand-ready obligation. Subscriptions are paid for at the time of or in advance of delivering the services. Revenue from such arrangements is recognized over the subscription period.
AWS - Our AWS sales arrangements include global sales of compute, storage, database, and other service offerings. Revenue is allocated to the services provided based on stand-alone selling prices and is recognized as the services are rendered. Sales commissions we pay in connection with contracts that exceed one year are capitalized and amortized over the contract term.
Other - Other revenue primarily includes sales of advertising services and is recognized as the services are rendered.
Revenue Recognition, Allowances [Policy Text Block]
Return Allowances
Return allowances, which reduce revenue and cost of sales, are estimated using historical experience. Liabilities for return allowances are included in “Accrued expenses and other” and were $468 million and $349 million as of December 31, 2017 and March 31, 2018. Included in “Inventories” on our consolidated balance sheets are assets totaling $406 million and $259 million as of December 31, 2017 and March 31, 2018, for the rights to recover products from customers associated with our liabilities for return allowances.
Cost of Sales, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Cost of Sales
Cost of sales primarily consists of the purchase price of consumer products, digital media content costs, including video and music, packaging supplies, sortation and delivery centers and related equipment costs, and inbound and outbound shipping costs, including where we are the transportation service provider. Shipping costs to receive products from our suppliers are included in our inventory, and recognized as cost of sales upon sale of products to our customers. Payment processing and related transaction costs, including those associated with seller transactions, are classified in “Fulfillment” on our consolidated statements of operations.
Cost of Sales, Vendor Allowances, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Vendor Agreements
We have agreements with our vendors to receive funds primarily for cooperative marketing efforts, promotions, incentives, and volume rebates. We generally consider these amounts received from vendors to be a reduction of the prices we pay for their goods, including property and equipment, or services, and are recorded as a reduction of the cost of inventory, cost of services, or cost of property and equipment. Volume rebates typically depend on reaching minimum purchase thresholds. We evaluate the likelihood of reaching purchase thresholds using past experience and current year forecasts. When volume rebates can be reasonably estimated, we record a portion of the rebate as we make progress towards the purchase threshold.
Receivables, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Accounts Receivable, Net and Other
Included in “Accounts receivable, net and other” on our consolidated balance sheets are amounts primarily related to customers, sellers, and vendors. As of December 31, 2017 and March 31, 2018, customer receivables, net, were $6.4 billion and $6.3 billion, seller receivables, net, were $692 million and $610 million, and vendor receivables, net, were $2.6 billion and $1.7 billion. Seller receivables are amounts due from sellers related to our seller lending program, which provides funding to sellers primarily to procure inventory.
We estimate losses on receivables based on known troubled accounts and historical experience of losses incurred. Receivables are considered impaired and written-off when it is probable that all contractual payments due will not be collected in accordance with the terms of the agreement.
Revenue Recognition, Deferred Revenue [Policy Text Block]
Unearned Revenue
Unearned revenue is recorded when payments are received or due in advance of performing our service obligations and is recognized over the service period. Unearned revenue primarily relates to prepayments of Amazon Prime memberships and AWS services. Our total unearned revenue as of December 31, 2017 was $6.1 billion, of which $2.3 billion was recognized as revenue during the three months ended March 31, 2018, including adjustments related to the new revenue recognition guidance. Included in “Other long-term liabilities” on our consolidated balance sheets was $1.0 billion and $1.1 billion of unearned revenue as of December 31, 2017 and March 31, 2018.
Additionally, we have performance obligations, primarily related to AWS, associated with commitments in customer contracts for future services that have not yet been recognized in our financial statements. For contracts with original terms that exceed one year, the amount of revenue not yet recognized was $12.4 billion as of March 31, 2018. The weighted average remaining life of these contracts is 3.2 years. However, the timing of revenue recognition is largely driven by customer activity, some of which can extend beyond the original contractual term.
Accrued Expenses And Other, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Accrued Expenses and Other
Included in “Accrued expenses and other” on our consolidated balance sheets are amounts primarily related to unredeemed gift cards, customer liabilities, leases and asset retirement obligations, current debt, acquired digital media content, and other operating expenses.
As of December 31, 2017 and March 31, 2018, our liabilities for unredeemed gift cards were $3.0 billion and $1.7 billion. We reduce the liability for a gift card when redeemed by a customer. The portion of gift cards that we do not expect to be redeemed is recognized based on customer usage patterns.
Accounting Pronouncements Recently Adopted and Accounting Pronouncements Not Yet Adopted
Accounting Pronouncements Recently Adopted
In May 2014, the FASB issued an Accounting Standards Update (“ASU”) amending revenue recognition guidance and requiring more detailed disclosures to enable users of financial statements to understand the nature, amount, timing, and uncertainty of revenue and cash flows arising from contracts with customers. We adopted this ASU on January 1, 2018 for all revenue contracts with our customers using the modified retrospective approach and increased retained earnings by approximately $650 million. The adjustment primarily relates to the unredeemed portion of our gift cards, which are now recognized over the expected customer usage period rather than waiting until gift cards expire or when the likelihood of redemption becomes remote. Other changes relate to our accounting for revenue related to Amazon-branded electronic devices sold through retailers, which are now recognized upon sale to the retailer rather than to end customers, and the recognition and classification of Amazon Prime memberships, which are now accounted for as a single performance obligation and recognized ratably over the membership period as service sales. Previously, Prime memberships were considered to be arrangements with multiple deliverables and were allocated among product sales and service sales. Other changes relate primarily to the presentation of revenue. Certain advertising services are now classified as revenue rather than a reduction in cost of sales, and sales of apps, in-app content, and certain digital media content are presented on a net basis.
The impact of applying this ASU for the three months ended March 31, 2018 primarily resulted in a decrease in product sales and an increase in service sales driven by a reclassification of Prime membership fees of approximately $845 million, which are now accounted for as a single performance obligation and recognized over the membership period. Service sales also increased by approximately $560 million due to the reclassification of certain advertising services that were previously classified as a reduction of cost of sales.
In January 2016, the FASB issued an ASU that updates certain aspects of recognition, measurement, presentation, and disclosure of financial instruments. Under this ASU, certain equity investments will be measured at fair value with changes recognized in net income. We adopted this ASU in Q1 2018 with no material impact to our consolidated financial statements.
In October 2016, the FASB issued an ASU amending the accounting for income taxes. The new guidance requires the recognition of the income tax consequences of an intercompany asset transfer, other than transfers of inventory, when the transfer occurs. For intercompany transfers of inventory, the income tax effects will continue to be deferred until the inventory has been sold to a third party. We adopted this ASU in Q1 2018 with an increase of approximately $250 million to retained earnings and deferred tax assets net of valuation allowances.
In November 2016, the FASB issued an ASU amending the presentation of restricted cash within the consolidated statements of cash flows. The new guidance requires that restricted cash be added to cash and cash equivalents on the consolidated statements of cash flows. We adopted this ASU in Q1 2018 on a retrospective basis with the following impacts to our consolidated statements of cash flows (in millions):
Three Months Ended March 31, 2017
Previously Reported
 
Adjustments
 
As Revised
Operating activities
$
(1,590
)
 
$
(29
)
 
$
(1,619
)
Investing activities
(1,616
)
 
266

 
(1,350
)
Financing activities
(914
)
 
26

 
(888
)
Net change in cash, cash equivalents, and restricted cash
$
(4,120
)
 
$
263

 
$
(3,857
)
Twelve Months Ended March 31, 2017
Previously Reported
 
Adjustments
 
As Revised
Operating activities
$
17,634

 
$
(87
)
 
$
17,547

Investing activities
(10,798
)
 
588

 
(10,210
)
Financing activities
(3,657
)
 
49

 
(3,608
)
Net change in cash, cash equivalents, and restricted cash
$
3,179

 
$
550

 
$
3,729


Accounting Pronouncements Not Yet Adopted
In February 2016, the FASB issued an ASU amending the accounting for leases. The new guidance requires the recognition of lease assets and liabilities for operating leases with terms of more than 12 months, in addition to those currently recorded, on our consolidated balance sheets. Presentation of leases within the consolidated statements of operations and consolidated statements of cash flows will be generally consistent with the current lease accounting guidance. The ASU is effective for reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2018, with early adoption permitted. We plan to adopt this ASU beginning in Q1 2019. We are continuing to evaluate the impact and expect the ASU will have a material impact on our consolidated financial statements, primarily to the consolidated balance sheets and related disclosures.
v3.8.0.1
Accounting Policies (Tables)
3 Months Ended
Mar. 31, 2018
Accounting Policies [Abstract]  
Calculation of Diluted Shares
The following table shows the calculation of diluted shares (in millions):
  
Three Months Ended 
 March 31,
 
2017
 
2018
Shares used in computation of basic earnings per share
477

 
484

Total dilutive effect of outstanding stock awards
13

 
14

Shares used in computation of diluted earnings per share
490

 
498

Schedule of New Accounting Pronouncements and Changes in Accounting Principles [Table Text Block]
We adopted this ASU in Q1 2018 on a retrospective basis with the following impacts to our consolidated statements of cash flows (in millions):
Three Months Ended March 31, 2017
Previously Reported
 
Adjustments
 
As Revised
Operating activities
$
(1,590
)
 
$
(29
)
 
$
(1,619
)
Investing activities
(1,616
)
 
266

 
(1,350
)
Financing activities
(914
)
 
26

 
(888
)
Net change in cash, cash equivalents, and restricted cash
$
(4,120
)
 
$
263

 
$
(3,857
)
Twelve Months Ended March 31, 2017
Previously Reported
 
Adjustments
 
As Revised
Operating activities
$
17,634

 
$
(87
)
 
$
17,547

Investing activities
(10,798
)
 
588

 
(10,210
)
Financing activities
(3,657
)
 
49

 
(3,608
)
Net change in cash, cash equivalents, and restricted cash
$
3,179

 
$
550

 
$
3,729

v3.8.0.1
Cash, Cash Equivalents, and Marketable Securities (Tables)
3 Months Ended
Mar. 31, 2018
Investments, Debt and Equity Securities [Abstract]  
Fair Value by Major Security Type
The following table summarizes, by major security type, our cash, cash equivalents, restricted cash, and marketable securities that are measured at fair value on a recurring basis and are categorized using the fair value hierarchy (in millions):
 
December 31, 2017
 
March 31, 2018
  
Total
Estimated
Fair Value
 
Cost or
Amortized
Cost
 
Gross
Unrealized
Gains
 
Gross
Unrealized
Losses
 
Total
Estimated
Fair Value
Cash
$
9,982

 
$
8,706

 
$

 
$

 
$
8,706

Level 1 securities:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Money market funds
11,343

 
8,663

 

 

 
8,663

Equity securities
53

 
23

 
54

 

 
77

Level 2 securities:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Foreign government and agency securities
620

 
421

 

 
(1
)
 
420

U.S. government and agency securities
4,823

 
3,557

 
1

 
(25
)
 
3,533

Corporate debt securities
4,257

 
3,412

 

 
(19
)
 
3,393

Asset-backed securities
905

 
803

 

 
(8
)
 
795

Other fixed income securities
338

 
285

 

 
(2
)
 
283

Equity securities

 
28

 
5

 

 
33

 
$
32,321

 
$
25,898

 
$
60


$
(55
)
 
$
25,903

Less: Restricted cash, cash equivalents, and marketable securities (1)
(1,335
)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
(940
)
Total cash, cash equivalents, and marketable securities
$
30,986

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
$
24,963

___________________
(1)
We are required to pledge or otherwise restrict a portion of our cash, cash equivalents, and marketable securities as collateral for real estate leases, amounts due to third-party sellers in certain jurisdictions, debt, and standby and trade letters of credit. We classify cash, cash equivalents, and marketable securities with use restrictions of less than twelve months as “Accounts receivable, net and other” and of twelve months or longer as non-current “Other assets” on our consolidated balance sheets. See “Note 3 — Commitments and Contingencies.”
Investments Classified by Contractual Maturity Date
The following table summarizes the contractual maturities of our cash equivalents and marketable fixed-income securities as of March 31, 2018 (in millions):
 
Amortized
Cost
 
Estimated
Fair Value
Due within one year
$
12,969

 
$
12,960

Due after one year through five years
3,434

 
3,400

Due after five years through ten years
248

 
245

Due after ten years
490

 
482

Total
$
17,141

 
$
17,087

Reconciliation of cash, cash equivalents, and restricted cash [Table Text Block]
The following table provides a reconciliation of the amount of cash, cash equivalents, and restricted cash reported within the consolidated balance sheets to the total of the same such amounts shown in the consolidated statements of cash flows (in millions):
 
December 31, 2017
 
March 31, 2018
Cash and cash equivalents
$
20,522

 
$
16,676

Restricted cash included in accounts receivable, net and other
1,329

 
935

Restricted cash included in other assets
5

 
5

Total cash, cash equivalents, and restricted cash shown in the consolidated statements of cash flows
$
21,856

 
$
17,616

v3.8.0.1
Commitments and Contingencies (Tables)
3 Months Ended
Mar. 31, 2018
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]  
Principal Contractual Commitments, Excluding Open Orders for Purchases
The following summarizes our principal contractual commitments, excluding open orders for purchases that support normal operations and are generally cancellable, as of March 31, 2018 (in millions): 
 
Nine Months Ended December 31,
 
Year Ended December 31,
 
 
 
 
 
2018
 
2019
 
2020
 
2021
 
2022
 
Thereafter
 
Total
Debt principal and interest
$
669

 
$
2,167

 
$
2,075

 
$
1,832

 
$
2,049

 
$
31,768

 
$
40,560

Capital lease obligations, including interest (1)
4,571

 
5,584

 
3,385

 
794

 
339

 
580

 
15,253

Finance lease obligations, including interest (2)
347

 
473

 
482

 
491

 
493

 
4,095

 
6,381

Operating leases
1,977

 
2,549

 
2,426

 
2,191

 
1,924

 
12,442

 
23,509

Unconditional purchase obligations (3)
2,685

 
3,607

 
3,241

 
3,066

 
2,965

 
7,956

 
23,520

Other commitments (4) (5)
1,469

 
1,280

 
849

 
640

 
488

 
5,265

 
9,991

Total commitments
$
11,718

 
$
15,660

 
$
12,458

 
$
9,014

 
$
8,258

 
$
62,106

 
$
119,214

___________________
(1)
Excluding interest, current capital lease obligations of $5.8 billion and $6.2 billion are recorded within “Accrued expenses and other” as of December 31, 2017 and March 31, 2018, and $8.4 billion and $8.5 billion are recorded within “Other long-term liabilities” as of December 31, 2017 and March 31, 2018.
(2)
Excluding interest, current finance lease obligations of $282 million and $294 million are recorded within “Accrued expenses and other” as of December 31, 2017 and March 31, 2018, and $4.7 billion and $4.8 billion are recorded within “Other long-term liabilities” as of December 31, 2017 and March 31, 2018.
(3)
Includes unconditional purchase obligations related to certain products offered in our Whole Foods Market stores and long-term agreements to acquire and license digital media content that are not reflected on the consolidated balance sheets. For those digital media content agreements with variable terms, we do not estimate the total obligation beyond any minimum quantities and/or pricing as of the reporting date. Purchase obligations associated with renewal provisions solely at the option of the content provider are included to the extent such commitments are fixed or a minimum amount is specified.
(4)
Includes the estimated timing and amounts of payments for rent and tenant improvements associated with build-to-suit lease arrangements and equipment lease arrangements that have not been placed in service and digital media content liabilities associated with long-term digital media content assets with initial terms greater than one year.
(5)
Excludes $2.6 billion of accrued tax contingencies for which we cannot make a reasonably reliable estimate of the amount and period of payment, if any.
v3.8.0.1
Long-Term Debt (Tables)
3 Months Ended
Mar. 31, 2018
Debt Disclosure [Abstract]  
Long-Term Debt Obligations
The face value of our total long-term debt obligations is as follows (in millions):
 
December 31, 2017
 
March 31, 2018
2.600% Notes due on December 5, 2019 (2)
1,000

 
1,000

1.900% Notes due on August 21, 2020 (3)
1,000

 
1,000

3.300% Notes due on December 5, 2021 (2)
1,000

 
1,000

2.500% Notes due on November 29, 2022 (1)
1,250

 
1,250

2.400% Notes due on February 22, 2023 (3)
1,000

 
1,000

2.800% Notes due on August 22, 2024 (3)
2,000

 
2,000

3.800% Notes due on December 5, 2024 (2)
1,250

 
1,250

5.200% Notes due on December 3, 2025 (4)
1,000

 
1,000

3.150% Notes due on August 22, 2027 (3)
3,500

 
3,500

4.800% Notes due on December 5, 2034 (2)
1,250

 
1,250

3.875% Notes due on August 22, 2037 (3)
2,750

 
2,750

4.950% Notes due on December 5, 2044 (2)
1,500

 
1,500

4.050% Notes due on August 22, 2047 (3)
3,500

 
3,500

4.250% Notes due on August 22, 2057 (3)
2,250

 
2,250

Credit Facility
592

 
489

Other long-term debt
100

 
53

Total debt
24,942

 
24,792

Less current portion of long-term debt
(100
)
 
(53
)
Face value of long-term debt
$
24,842

 
$
24,739


_____________________________
(1)
Issued in November 2012, effective interest rate of the 2022 Notes was 2.66%.
(2)
Issued in December 2014, effective interest rates of the 2019, 2021, 2024, 2034, and 2044 Notes were 2.73%, 3.43%, 3.90%, 4.92%, and 5.11%.
(3)
Issued in August 2017, effective interest rates of the 2020, 2023, 2024, 2027, 2037, 2047, and 2057 Notes were 2.16%, 2.56%, 2.95%, 3.25%, 3.94%, 4.13%, and 4.33%.
(4)
Consists of $872 million of 2025 Notes issued in December 2017 in exchange for notes assumed in connection with the acquisition of Whole Foods Market and $128 million of 2025 Notes issued by Whole Foods Market that did not participate in our December 2017 exchange offer. The effective interest rate of the 2025 Notes was 3.02%.
v3.8.0.1
Stockholders' Equity (Tables)
3 Months Ended
Mar. 31, 2018
Disclosure of Compensation Related Costs, Share-based Payments [Abstract]  
Stock-Based Compensation Expense
Stock-based compensation expense is as follows (in millions):
  
Three Months Ended 
 March 31,
 
2017
 
2018
Cost of sales
$
8

 
$
15

Fulfillment
163

 
244

Marketing
94

 
161

Technology and content
441

 
631

General and administrative
86

 
132

Total stock-based compensation expense
$
792

 
$
1,183


Nonvested Restricted Stock Units Activity
Common shares outstanding plus shares underlying outstanding stock awards totaled 504 million as of December 31, 2017
Nonvested Share Activity
Scheduled vesting for outstanding restricted stock units as of March 31, 2018, is as follows (in millions):
 
Nine Months Ended December 31,
 
Year Ended December 31,
 
 
 
 
 
2018
 
2019
 
2020
 
2021
 
2022
 
Thereafter
 
Total
Scheduled vesting—restricted stock units
6.0

 
7.2

 
3.7

 
1.8

 
0.2

 
0.2

 
19.1

v3.8.0.1
Segment Information (Tables)
3 Months Ended
Mar. 31, 2018
Segment Reporting [Abstract]  
Information on Reportable Segments and Reconciliation to Consolidated Net Income
Information on reportable segments and reconciliation to consolidated net income is as follows (in millions):
 
Three Months Ended 
 March 31,
 
2017
 
2018
North America
 
 
 
Net sales
$
20,992

 
$
30,725

Operating expenses
20,396

 
29,576

Operating income
$
596

 
$
1,149

 
 
 
 
International
 
 
 
Net sales
$
11,061

 
$
14,875

Operating expenses
11,542

 
15,497

Operating income (loss)
$
(481
)
 
$
(622
)
 
 
 
 
AWS
 
 
 
Net sales
$
3,661

 
$
5,442

Operating expenses
2,771

 
4,042

Operating income
$
890

 
$
1,400

 
 
 
 
Consolidated
 
 
 
Net sales
$
35,714

 
$
51,042

Operating expenses
34,709

 
49,115

Operating income
1,005

 
1,927

Total non-operating income (expense)
(52
)
 
(11
)
Provision for income taxes
(229
)
 
(287
)
Net income
$
724

 
$
1,629

Disaggregation of Revenue
Net sales by groups of similar products and services, which also have similar economic characteristics, is as follows (in millions):
  
Three Months Ended 
 March 31,
 
2017
 
2018
Net Sales:
 
Online stores (1)
$
22,826

 
$
26,939

Physical stores (2)

 
4,263

Third-party seller services (3)
6,438

 
9,265

Subscription services (4)
1,939

 
3,102

AWS
3,661

 
5,442

Other (5)
850

 
2,031

Consolidated
$
35,714

 
$
51,042

____________________________
(1)
Includes product sales and digital media content where we record revenue gross. We leverage our retail infrastructure to offer a wide selection of consumable and durable goods that includes media products available in both a physical and digital format, such as books, music, videos, games, and software. These product sales include digital products sold on a transactional basis. Digital product subscriptions that provide unlimited viewing or usage rights are included in Subscription services.
(2)
Includes product sales where our customers physically select items in a store.
(3)
Includes commissions, related fulfillment and shipping fees, and other third-party seller services.
(4)
Includes annual and monthly fees associated with Amazon Prime membership, as well as audiobook, e-book, digital video, digital music, and other non-AWS subscription services.
(5)
Primarily includes sales of advertising services, as well as sales related to our other service offerings.
v3.8.0.1
Accounting Policies - Calculation of Diluted Shares (Details) - shares
shares in Millions
3 Months Ended
Mar. 31, 2018
Mar. 31, 2017
Accounting Policies [Abstract]    
Shares used in computation of basic earnings per share 484 477
Total dilutive effect of outstanding stock awards 14 13
Shares used in computation of diluted earnings per share 498 490
v3.8.0.1
Accounting Policies Return Allowances (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
Mar. 31, 2018
Dec. 31, 2017
Accounting Policies [Abstract]    
Contract with Customer, Refund Liability $ 349 $ 468
Contract with Customer, Right to Recover Product $ 259 $ 406
v3.8.0.1
Accounting Policies Accounts Receivable, Net and Other (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
Mar. 31, 2018
Dec. 31, 2017
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]    
Accounts receivable, net and other $ 12,026 $ 13,164
Allowance for Doubtful Accounts Receivable, Current 416 348
Customer Receivables, net    
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]    
Accounts receivable, net and other 6,300 6,400
Seller Receivables, net    
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]    
Accounts receivable, net and other 610 692
Vendor Receivables, net    
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]    
Accounts receivable, net and other $ 1,700 $ 2,600
v3.8.0.1
Accounting Policies Unearned Revenue (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Billions
3 Months Ended
Mar. 31, 2018
Dec. 31, 2017
Accounting Policies [Abstract]    
Unearned revenue   $ 6.1
Unearned revenue, revenue recognized from beginning balance $ 2.3  
Unearned revenue, noncurrent 1.1 $ 1.0
Remaining performance obligation, contracts exceeding one year $ 12.4  
Remaining performance obligation, expected timing of satisfaction, weighted average remaining life 3 years 2 months  
v3.8.0.1
Accounting Policies -Accrued Expenses and Other (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Billions
Mar. 31, 2018
Dec. 31, 2017
Accounting Policies [Abstract]    
Unredeemed gift certificates $ 1.7 $ 3.0
v3.8.0.1
Accounting Policies Revenue, Initial Application Period Cumulative Effect Transition (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
3 Months Ended
Mar. 31, 2018
Mar. 31, 2017
Revenue, Initial Application Period Cumulative Effect Transition [Line Items]    
Net service sales $ 19,437 $ 11,980
Net product sales 31,605 23,734
Cost of sales 30,735 $ 22,440
Difference between Revenue Guidance in Effect before and after Topic 606 [Member] | Subscription Services [Member]    
Revenue, Initial Application Period Cumulative Effect Transition [Line Items]    
Net service sales 845  
Net product sales (845)  
Difference between Revenue Guidance in Effect before and after Topic 606 [Member] | Other Services [Member]    
Revenue, Initial Application Period Cumulative Effect Transition [Line Items]    
Net service sales 560  
Cost of sales $ 560  
v3.8.0.1
Accounting Policies - Accounting Pronouncements Recently Adopted (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
3 Months Ended 12 Months Ended
Mar. 31, 2018
Mar. 31, 2017
Mar. 31, 2018
Mar. 31, 2017
Jan. 01, 2018
New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Line Items]          
Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities $ (1,791) $ (1,619) $ 18,194 $ 17,547  
Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities (533) (1,350) (26,265) (10,210)  
Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities (2,164) (888) 8,653 (3,608)  
Net change in cash, cash equivalents, and restricted cash   (3,857)   3,729  
Accounting Standards Update 2014-09 [Member]          
New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Line Items]          
New Accounting Pronouncement or Change in Accounting Principle, Cumulative Effect of Change on Equity or Net Assets         $ 650
Accounting Standards Update 2016-16 [Member]          
New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Line Items]          
New Accounting Pronouncement or Change in Accounting Principle, Cumulative Effect of Change on Equity or Net Assets $ 250   $ 250    
Accounting Standards Update 2016-18 [Member]          
New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Line Items]          
Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities   (29)   (87)  
Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities   266   588  
Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities   26   49  
Net change in cash, cash equivalents, and restricted cash   263   550  
Scenario, Previously Reported [Member]          
New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Line Items]          
Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities   (1,590)   17,634  
Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities   (1,616)   (10,798)  
Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities   (914)   (3,657)  
Net change in cash, cash equivalents, and restricted cash   $ (4,120)   $ 3,179  
v3.8.0.1
Cash, Cash Equivalents, and Marketable Securities - Fair Values on Recurring Basis (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
Mar. 31, 2018
Dec. 31, 2017
Total Estimated Fair Value    
Cash equivalents and marketable securities $ 17,087  
Cost or Amortized Cost    
Cash equivalents and marketable securities 17,141  
Recurring    
Schedule of Investments [Line Items]    
Cash 8,706 $ 9,982
Total Estimated Fair Value    
Cash, cash equivalents and short-term investments 25,903 32,321
Less: Restricted cash, cash equivalents, and marketable securities (940) (1,335)
Total cash, cash equivalents, and marketable securities 24,963 30,986
Cost or Amortized Cost    
Cash, cash equivalents and short-term investments 25,898  
Gross Unrealized Gains    
Short-term investments 60  
Gross Unrealized Losses    
Short-term investments (55)  
Recurring | Level 1 securities    
Total Estimated Fair Value    
Equity securities 77 53
Cost or Amortized Cost    
Equity securities 23  
Gross Unrealized Gains    
Equity securities 54  
Gross Unrealized Losses    
Equity securities 0  
Recurring | Level 1 securities | Money market funds    
Schedule of Investments [Line Items]    
Money market funds 8,663 11,343
Recurring | Level 2 securities    
Total Estimated Fair Value    
Equity securities 33 0
Cost or Amortized Cost    
Equity securities 28  
Gross Unrealized Gains    
Equity securities 5  
Gross Unrealized Losses    
Equity securities 0  
Recurring | Level 2 securities | Foreign government and agency securities    
Total Estimated Fair Value    
Cash equivalents and marketable securities 420 620
Cost or Amortized Cost    
Cash equivalents and marketable securities 421  
Gross Unrealized Gains    
Cash equivalents and marketable securities 0  
Gross Unrealized Losses    
Cash equivalents and marketable securities (1)  
Recurring | Level 2 securities | U.S. government and agency securities    
Total Estimated Fair Value    
Cash equivalents and marketable securities 3,533 4,823
Cost or Amortized Cost    
Cash equivalents and marketable securities 3,557  
Gross Unrealized Gains    
Cash equivalents and marketable securities 1  
Gross Unrealized Losses    
Cash equivalents and marketable securities (25)  
Recurring | Level 2 securities | Corporate debt securities    
Total Estimated Fair Value    
Cash equivalents and marketable securities 3,393 4,257
Cost or Amortized Cost    
Cash equivalents and marketable securities 3,412  
Gross Unrealized Gains    
Cash equivalents and marketable securities 0  
Gross Unrealized Losses    
Cash equivalents and marketable securities (19)  
Recurring | Level 2 securities | Asset-backed securities    
Total Estimated Fair Value    
Cash equivalents and marketable securities 795 905
Cost or Amortized Cost    
Cash equivalents and marketable securities 803  
Gross Unrealized Gains    
Cash equivalents and marketable securities 0  
Gross Unrealized Losses    
Cash equivalents and marketable securities (8)  
Recurring | Level 2 securities | Other fixed income securities    
Total Estimated Fair Value    
Cash equivalents and marketable securities 283 $ 338
Cost or Amortized Cost    
Cash equivalents and marketable securities 285  
Gross Unrealized Gains    
Cash equivalents and marketable securities 0  
Gross Unrealized Losses    
Cash equivalents and marketable securities $ (2)  
v3.8.0.1
Cash, Cash Equivalents, and Marketable Securities - Contractual Maturities (Details)
$ in Millions
Mar. 31, 2018
USD ($)
Amortized Cost  
Due within one year $ 12,969
Due after one year through five years 3,434
Due after five years through ten years 248
Due after ten years 490
Cash equivalents and marketable securities 17,141
Estimated Fair Value  
Due within one year 12,960
Due after one year through five years 3,400
Due after five years through ten years 245
Due after ten years 482
Cash equivalents and marketable securities $ 17,087
v3.8.0.1
Cash, Cash Equivalents, and Marketable Securities - Additional Information (Details) - Warrant - USD ($)
$ in Millions
3 Months Ended
Mar. 31, 2018
Mar. 31, 2017
Dec. 31, 2017
Investments, Warrant Assets      
Gain (loss) on warrant assets $ 45 $ 15  
Level 2 assets      
Investments, Warrant Assets      
Fair value of warrant assets $ 497   $ 441
v3.8.0.1
Cash, Cash Equivalents, and Marketable Securities Reconciliation to Cash Flow (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
Mar. 31, 2018
Dec. 31, 2017
Mar. 31, 2017
Dec. 31, 2016
Mar. 31, 2016
Reconciliation to Cash Flow [Abstract]          
Cash and cash equivalents $ 16,676 $ 20,522      
Restricted cash included in accounts receivable, net and other 935 1,329      
Restricted cash included in other assets 5 5      
Total cash, cash equivalents, and restricted cash shown in the consolidated statements of cash flows $ 17,616 $ 21,856 $ 16,301 $ 19,934 $ 12,781
v3.8.0.1
Commitments and Contingencies - Commitments (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
3 Months Ended
Mar. 31, 2018
Mar. 31, 2017
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]    
Rental expense under operating lease agreements $ 791 $ 411
v3.8.0.1
Commitments and Contingencies - Principal Contractual Commitments Excluding Open Orders (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
Mar. 31, 2018
Dec. 31, 2017
Debt principal and interest    
Nine Months Ended December 31, 2018 $ 669  
Year Ended December 31, 2019 2,167  
Year Ended December 31, 2020 2,075  
Year Ended December 31, 2021 1,832  
Year Ended December 31, 2022 2,049  
Thereafter 31,768  
Total 40,560  
Capital lease obligations, including interest    
Nine Months Ended December 31, 2018 4,571  
Year Ended December 31, 2019 5,584  
Year Ended December 31, 2020 3,385  
Year Ended December 31, 2021 794  
Year Ended December 31, 2022 339  
Thereafter 580  
Total 15,253  
Current capital lease obligations 6,200 $ 5,800
Noncurrent capital lease obligations 8,500 8,400
Finance lease obligations, including interest    
Nine Months Ended December 31, 2018 347  
Year Ended December 31, 2019 473  
Year Ended December 31, 2020 482  
Year Ended December 31, 2021 491  
Year Ended December 31, 2022 493  
Thereafter 4,095  
Total 6,381  
Current finance lease obligations 294 282
Noncurrent finance lease obligations 4,800 4,700
Operating leases    
Nine Months Ended December 31, 2018 1,977  
Year Ended December 31, 2019 2,549  
Year Ended December 31, 2020 2,426  
Year Ended December 31, 2021 2,191  
Year Ended December 31, 2022 1,924  
Thereafter 12,442  
Total 23,509  
Unconditional purchase obligations    
Nine Months Ended December 31, 2018 2,685  
Year Ended December 31, 2019 3,607  
Year Ended December 31, 2020 3,241  
Year Ended December 31, 2021 3,066  
Year Ended December 31, 2022 2,965  
Thereafter 7,956  
Total 23,520  
Other commitments    
Nine Months Ended December 31, 2018 1,469  
Year Ended December 31, 2019 1,280  
Year Ended December 31, 2020 849  
Year Ended December 31, 2021 640  
Year Ended December 31, 2022 488  
Thereafter 5,265  
Total 9,991  
Accrued tax contingencies 2,600 $ 2,300
Total commitments    
Nine Months Ended December 31, 2018 11,718  
Year Ended December 31, 2019 15,660  
Year Ended December 31, 2020 12,458  
Year Ended December 31, 2021 9,014  
Year Ended December 31, 2022 8,258  
Thereafter 62,106  
Total $ 119,214  
v3.8.0.1
Commitments and Contingencies - Pledged Assets (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Billions
Mar. 31, 2018
Dec. 31, 2017
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]    
Pledged assets $ 1.0 $ 1.4
v3.8.0.1
Acquisitions, Goodwill, and Acquired Intangible Assets - Additional Information (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
3 Months Ended 12 Months Ended
Apr. 12, 2018
Mar. 31, 2018
Mar. 31, 2017
Mar. 31, 2018
Mar. 31, 2017
Business Acquisition [Line Items]          
Payments to acquire businesses, net of cash acquired   $ 13 $ 45 $ 13,939 $ 146
Acquisition of Certain Other Companies          
Business Acquisition [Line Items]          
Aggregate purchase price   $ 39      
Subsequent Event [Member] | Ring, Inc [Member]          
Business Acquisition [Line Items]          
Payments to acquire businesses, net of cash acquired $ 900        
v3.8.0.1
Long-Term Debt - Additional Information (Details)
1 Months Ended
Oct. 31, 2016
USD ($)
May 31, 2016
USD ($)
extension
Mar. 31, 2018
USD ($)
Dec. 31, 2017
USD ($)
Debt Instrument [Line Items]        
Borrowings outstanding     $ 24,792,000,000 $ 24,942,000,000
Face value of long-term debt     24,739,000,000 24,842,000,000
Senior Notes        
Debt Instrument [Line Items]        
Debt Instrument, Unamortized Discount (Premium), Net     99,000,000 99,000,000
Borrowings outstanding     24,300,000,000  
Estimated fair value of notes     24,500,000,000 25,700,000,000
Senior Notes | 5.200% Notes due on December 3, 2025 (4)        
Debt Instrument [Line Items]        
Borrowings outstanding     1,000,000,000 1,000,000,000
Credit Facility | Revolving Credit Facility        
Debt Instrument [Line Items]        
Borrowings outstanding     489,000,000 592,000,000
Credit Facility | Revolving Credit Facility | October 2016 Revolving Credit Facility        
Debt Instrument [Line Items]        
Maximum Borrowing Capacity $ 500,000,000   600,000,000  
Credit term 3 years      
Commitment fee percentage 0.50%      
Borrowings outstanding     $ 489,000,000 $ 592,000,000
Weighted average interest rate     2.80% 2.70%
Collateral amount     $ 579,000,000 $ 686,000,000
Credit Facility | Revolving Credit Facility | October 2016 Revolving Credit Facility | LIBOR        
Debt Instrument [Line Items]        
Basis spread on variable rate (as a percent) 1.65%      
Credit Facility | Revolving Credit Facility | May 2016 Revolving Credit Facility        
Debt Instrument [Line Items]        
Maximum Borrowing Capacity   $ 3,000,000,000    
Credit term   3 years    
Commitment fee percentage   0.05%    
Borrowings outstanding     0 0
Line Of Credit Facility, Number Of Extensions | extension   3    
Line Of Credit Facility, Additional Term   1 year    
Credit Facility | Revolving Credit Facility | May 2016 Revolving Credit Facility | Downgraded Credit Ratings [Member]        
Debt Instrument [Line Items]        
Commitment fee percentage   0.09%    
Credit Facility | Revolving Credit Facility | May 2016 Revolving Credit Facility | LIBOR        
Debt Instrument [Line Items]        
Basis spread on variable rate (as a percent)   0.60%    
Credit Facility | Revolving Credit Facility | May 2016 Revolving Credit Facility | LIBOR | Downgraded Credit Ratings [Member]        
Debt Instrument [Line Items]        
Basis spread on variable rate (as a percent)   1.00%    
Amazon.com, Inc. | 5.200% Notes due on December 3, 2025 (4)        
Debt Instrument [Line Items]        
Borrowings outstanding       872,000,000
Whole Foods Market, Inc. | 5.200% Notes due on December 3, 2025 (4)        
Debt Instrument [Line Items]        
Borrowings outstanding       128,000,000
Line of Credit and Other Long-term Debt        
Debt Instrument [Line Items]        
Borrowings outstanding     542,000,000 692,000,000
Other Long-term Debt        
Debt Instrument [Line Items]        
Borrowings outstanding     $ 53,000,000 $ 100,000,000
Weighted average interest rate     5.00% 5.80%
v3.8.0.1
Long-Term Debt - Long-Term Debt Obligations (Details) - USD ($)
Mar. 31, 2018
Dec. 31, 2017
Oct. 31, 2016
May 31, 2016
Debt Instrument [Line Items]        
Total debt $ 24,792,000,000 $ 24,942,000,000    
Less current portion of long-term debt (53,000,000) (100,000,000)    
Face value of long-term debt 24,739,000,000 24,842,000,000    
Senior Notes        
Debt Instrument [Line Items]        
Total debt $ 24,300,000,000      
Senior Notes | 2.600% Notes due on December 5, 2019 (2)        
Debt Instrument [Line Items]        
Stated interest rate 2.60%      
Total debt $ 1,000,000,000 1,000,000,000    
Effective interest rates 2.73%      
Senior Notes | 1.900% Notes due on August 21, 2020 (3)        
Debt Instrument [Line Items]        
Stated interest rate 1.90%      
Total debt $ 1,000,000,000 1,000,000,000    
Effective interest rates 2.16%      
Senior Notes | 3.300% Notes due on December 5, 2021 (2)        
Debt Instrument [Line Items]        
Stated interest rate 3.30%      
Total debt $ 1,000,000,000 1,000,000,000    
Effective interest rates 3.43%      
Senior Notes | 2.500% Notes due on November 29, 2022 (1)        
Debt Instrument [Line Items]        
Stated interest rate 2.50%      
Total debt $ 1,250,000,000 1,250,000,000    
Effective interest rates 2.66%      
Senior Notes | 2.400% Notes due on February 22, 2023 (3)        
Debt Instrument [Line Items]        
Stated interest rate 2.40%      
Total debt $ 1,000,000,000 1,000,000,000    
Effective interest rates 2.56%      
Senior Notes | 2.800% Notes due on August 22, 2024 (3)        
Debt Instrument [Line Items]        
Stated interest rate 2.80%      
Total debt $ 2,000,000,000 2,000,000,000    
Effective interest rates 2.95%      
Senior Notes | 3.800% Notes due on December 5, 2024 (2)        
Debt Instrument [Line Items]        
Stated interest rate 3.80%      
Total debt $ 1,250,000,000 1,250,000,000    
Effective interest rates 3.90%      
Senior Notes | 5.200% Notes due on December 3, 2025 (4)        
Debt Instrument [Line Items]        
Stated interest rate 5.20%      
Total debt $ 1,000,000,000 1,000,000,000    
Effective interest rates 3.02%      
Senior Notes | 3.150% Notes due on August 22, 2027 (3)        
Debt Instrument [Line Items]        
Stated interest rate 3.15%      
Total debt $ 3,500,000,000 3,500,000,000    
Effective interest rates 3.25%      
Senior Notes | 4.800% Notes due on December 5, 2034 (2)        
Debt Instrument [Line Items]        
Stated interest rate 4.80%      
Total debt $ 1,250,000,000 1,250,000,000    
Effective interest rates 4.92%      
Senior Notes | 3.875% Notes due on August 22, 2037 (3)        
Debt Instrument [Line Items]        
Stated interest rate 3.875%      
Total debt $ 2,750,000,000 2,750,000,000    
Effective interest rates 3.94%      
Senior Notes | 4.950% Notes due on December 5, 2044 (2)        
Debt Instrument [Line Items]        
Stated interest rate 4.95%      
Total debt $ 1,500,000,000 1,500,000,000    
Effective interest rates 5.11%      
Senior Notes | 4.050% Notes due on August 22, 2047 (3)        
Debt Instrument [Line Items]        
Stated interest rate 4.05%      
Total debt $ 3,500,000,000 3,500,000,000    
Effective interest rates 4.13%      
Senior Notes | 4.250% Notes due on August 22, 2057 (3)        
Debt Instrument [Line Items]        
Stated interest rate 4.25%      
Total debt $ 2,250,000,000 2,250,000,000    
Effective interest rates 4.33%      
Credit Facility | Revolving Credit Facility        
Debt Instrument [Line Items]        
Total debt $ 489,000,000 592,000,000    
Credit Facility | October 2016 Revolving Credit Facility | Revolving Credit Facility        
Debt Instrument [Line Items]        
Maximum Borrowing Capacity 600,000,000   $ 500,000,000  
Credit Facility | May 2016 Revolving Credit Facility | Revolving Credit Facility        
Debt Instrument [Line Items]        
Maximum Borrowing Capacity       $ 3,000,000,000
Other long-term debt        
Debt Instrument [Line Items]        
Total debt $ 53,000,000 $ 100,000,000    
v3.8.0.1
Stockholders' Equity - Additional Information (Details) - USD ($)
shares in Millions
3 Months Ended
Mar. 31, 2018
Dec. 31, 2017
Feb. 29, 2016
Class of Stock [Line Items]      
Common shares outstanding plus underlying outstanding stock awards 504    
Net unrecognized compensation cost related to unvested stock-based compensation arrangements $ 6,000,000,000    
Compensation cost expected to be expensed in next twelve months, percentage 50.00%    
Net unrecognized compensation cost related to unvested stock-based compensation arrangements, weighted average recognition period (in years) 1 year 1 month    
Estimated forfeiture rate 28.00% 28.00%  
February 2016 Program      
Class of Stock [Line Items]      
Stock repurchase, authorized amount     $ 5,000,000,000
v3.8.0.1
Stockholders' Equity - Stock-based Compensation Expense (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
3 Months Ended
Mar. 31, 2018
Mar. 31, 2017
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Compensation Cost [Line Items]    
Total stock-based compensation expense $ 1,183 $ 792
Cost of sales    
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Compensation Cost [Line Items]    
Total stock-based compensation expense 15 8
Fulfillment    
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Compensation Cost [Line Items]    
Total stock-based compensation expense 244 163
Marketing    
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Compensation Cost [Line Items]    
Total stock-based compensation expense 161 94
Technology and content    
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Compensation Cost [Line Items]    
Total stock-based compensation expense 631 441
General and administrative    
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Compensation Cost [Line Items]    
Total stock-based compensation expense $ 132 $ 86
v3.8.0.1
Stockholders' Equity - Restricted Stock Unit Activity (Details) - Restricted Stock Units
shares in Millions, $ in Millions
3 Months Ended
Mar. 31, 2018
USD ($)
shares
Number of Units  
Beginning balance (in shares) | shares 20.1
Units granted (in shares) | shares 0.7
Units vested (in shares) | shares (1.1)
Units forfeited (in shares) | shares (0.6)
Ending balance (in shares) | shares 19.1
Weighted-Average Grant-Date Fair Value  
Beginning balance | $ $ 725
Units granted | $ 1,464
Units vested | $ 440
Units forfeited | $ 750
Ending balance | $ $ 769
v3.8.0.1
Stockholders' Equity - Scheduled Vesting for Outstanding Restricted Stock Units (Details) - Restricted Stock Units - shares
shares in Millions
Mar. 31, 2018
Dec. 31, 2017
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]    
Nine Months Ended December 31, 2018 6.0  
Year Ended December 31, 2019 7.2  
Year Ended December 31, 2020 3.7  
Year Ended December 31, 2021 1.8  
Year Ended December 31, 2022 0.2  
Thereafter 0.2  
Total 19.1 20.1
v3.8.0.1
Income Taxes (Details)
€ in Millions, $ in Millions
3 Months Ended 12 Months Ended
Oct. 04, 2017
EUR (€)
Mar. 31, 2018
USD ($)
Dec. 31, 2017
USD ($)
Mar. 31, 2017
USD ($)
Mar. 31, 2018
USD ($)
Mar. 31, 2017
USD ($)
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]            
Provision for income taxes   $ 287   $ 229    
Discrete tax benefits   368   122    
Cash taxes paid, net of refunds   513   $ 246 $ 1,224 $ 520
Tax contingencies   2,600 $ 2,300   $ 2,600  
Income Tax Examination [Line Items]            
Provisional tax benefit for impact of the Act     $ 789      
Internal Revenue Service (IRS) | Domestic Tax Authority [Member]            
Income Tax Examination [Line Items]            
Tax examination, estimate of additional tax expense   $ 1,500        
Luxembourg Tax Administration [Member] | Foreign Tax Authority [Member]            
Income Tax Examination [Line Items]            
Tax examination, estimate of additional tax expense | € € 250          
v3.8.0.1
Segment Information - Reportable Segments and Reconciliation to Consolidated Net Income (Details)
$ in Millions
3 Months Ended 12 Months Ended
Mar. 31, 2018
USD ($)
segment
Mar. 31, 2017
USD ($)
Mar. 31, 2018
USD ($)
Mar. 31, 2017
USD ($)
Segment Reporting [Abstract]        
Number of operating segments | segment 3      
Segment Reporting Disclosure [Line Items]        
Net sales $ 51,042 $ 35,714    
Operating expenses 49,115 34,709    
Operating income (loss) 1,927 1,005    
Total non-operating income (expense) (11) (52)    
Provision for income taxes (287) (229)    
Net income 1,629 724 $ 3,938 $ 2,583
North America        
Segment Reporting Disclosure [Line Items]        
Net sales 30,725 20,992    
Operating expenses 29,576 20,396    
Operating income (loss) 1,149 596    
International        
Segment Reporting Disclosure [Line Items]        
Net sales 14,875 11,061    
Operating expenses 15,497 11,542    
Operating income (loss) (622) (481)    
AWS        
Segment Reporting Disclosure [Line Items]        
Net sales 5,442 3,661    
Operating expenses 4,042 2,771    
Operating income (loss) $ 1,400 $ 890    
v3.8.0.1
Segment Information Disaggregation of Revenue - USD ($)
$ in Millions
3 Months Ended
Mar. 31, 2018
Mar. 31, 2017
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]    
Net sales $ 51,042 $ 35,714
Online stores (1)    
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]    
Net sales 26,939 22,826
Physical stores (2)    
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]    
Net sales 4,263 0
Third-party seller services (3)    
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]    
Net sales 9,265 6,438
Subscription services (4)    
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]    
Net sales 3,102 1,939
AWS    
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]    
Net sales 5,442 3,661
Other (5)    
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]    
Net sales $ 2,031 $ 850