Executives at Vevor, a major tools seller on Amazon, are accused of soliciting a “contract killing” targeting the owner of a US warehouse company, Egreen Transport Corp., according to a recently withdrawn lawsuit. The dispute stems from a multi-million dollar feud over storage fees and alleged harassment.

Escalating Dispute Over Storage Fees

The legal battle began in the spring of last year when approximately $55 million worth of Vevor’s tools and merchandise were held at Egreen’s warehouses in California, Georgia, and New Jersey. Court documents indicate a disagreement over unpaid storage costs quickly escalated.

Allegations of Harassment and Threats

By summer, Egreen accused Vevor of vandalism, including damage to offices and a Tesla owned by an executive. The lawsuit, filed in California state court in October, also alleges Vevor hired individuals impersonating police officers and issued death threats against Egreen’s owner. These accusations prompted criminal investigations in both the US and China.

Alleged Attempt to Obtain Information

Ahead of the July 4th weekend, a Vevor executive allegedly attempted to bribe an Egreen employee at a California warehouse for information about the company’s owner. According to an Egreen source, the executive offered “enough money for a down payment on a home.” A former Vevor employee corroborated this account.

'Contract Killing' Threats Surface

Days later, advertisements appeared on Facebook and other social media platforms containing “contract killing threats against Egreen’s owner and his family,” as stated in Egreen’s complaint. The ads reportedly offered up to $5 million for the owner’s death or $200,000 for his address.

Lawsuit Withdrawn, Investigations Continue

The lawsuit was withdrawn on February 17th “without prejudice,” meaning it could be refiled. Vevor was never formally served with the complaint. In a statement, Vevor’s parent company, HK Sishun Trade Co., vehemently denied the allegations, calling them “false and deeply irresponsible.”

Amazon Involvement and Response

Egreen’s attorney alerted Amazon to Vevor’s alleged threats in July. Amazon acknowledged the information but stated it was “not in a position of a court or law enforcement agency” and could not take immediate action. Despite facing recalls and lawsuits related to product quality, Vevor remains active on Amazon.

Criminal Investigations Underway

The allegations have triggered a criminal investigation by law enforcement in both California and Shanghai. Investigators searched Vevor’s US headquarters in Rancho Cucamonga, California, in November, uncovering evidence that led to an “investigative lead” for Shanghai police. Police advised Egreen’s executive to hire private security.

Vevor's Expansion Despite Controversy

Despite the ongoing legal issues, Vevor has continued to expand its presence, opening its first US store in Houston in February and announcing a sponsorship deal with the Houston Rockets in March. The company has reportedly generated over $500 million in yearly sales on Amazon.

Background of the Dispute

Egreen initially claimed it was owed $48 million in unpaid storage and legal fees. Vevor, in turn, accused Egreen of demanding unjustified rate increases and interfering with its business operations. The companies began their partnership in 2020, with Egreen handling Vevor’s US logistics. The relationship deteriorated by late 2024, with both sides blaming the other in court documents.