How to prepare products for FBA shipment

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Preparing products for FBA (Fulfillment by Amazon) shipment is a critical step to ensure that your inventory meets Amazon’s requirements and reaches their fulfillment centers safely. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you prepare your products for FBA shipment:

1. Understand Amazon’s Packaging and Labeling Requirements

Amazon has strict rules to ensure that all products can be efficiently processed and stored at their warehouses.

Packaging Requirements:

  • Secure Packaging: Products must be packed securely to avoid damage during transit.
  • Box Dimensions and Weight:
    • Individual boxes must not exceed 25 inches on any side unless pre-approved.
    • Boxes should weigh no more than 50 lbs. If heavier, label as “Team Lift.”
  • Materials: Use durable boxes, cushioning materials (e.g., bubble wrap), and strong tape.
  • Safety Measures: Items that may cause harm (e.g., sharp edges or liquids) must be properly enclosed and sealed.

Labeling Requirements:

  • Every item must have an Amazon barcode (FNSKU) or manufacturer barcode (UPC/EAN).
  • Labels must be scannable and not obstructed by seams or edges.
  • If you use manufacturer barcodes, ensure that they are unique to your product.

2. Choose the Right Packaging Type

There are two main packaging methods for FBA shipments:

  1. Individual Products:
    • Each product is packed and labeled separately.
    • Suitable for shipments with multiple SKUs.
  2. Case-Packed Products:
    • All units in a case are the same SKU.
    • Ensure the case pack meets Amazon’s requirements for consistency.

3. Label Your Products

Steps to Label Products:

  1. Generate Labels:
    • Log in to Seller Central.
    • Go to “Inventory” > “Manage FBA Inventory” and select your products.
    • Click “Print Item Labels” to download the FNSKU labels.
  2. Print and Apply Labels:
    • Use a laser printer or label printer for clear printing.
    • Place the labels over the original manufacturer barcodes to avoid scanning errors.
    • Avoid placing labels on seams or rounded surfaces.
  3. Amazon Labeling Service:
    • If you prefer, Amazon can label your products for a fee. Select this option in your shipment plan.

4. Protect Your Products

Depending on the product type, different protective measures are required:

Fragile Items:

  • Use bubble wrap or padded envelopes.
  • Mark packages as “Fragile” if necessary.

Liquid Products:

  • Seal liquids in a leak-proof container.
  • Use double-sealed bags for added protection.

Sharp or Hazardous Items:

  • Cover sharp edges with protective materials.
  • Adhere to Amazon’s rules for hazardous materials.

Clothing and Fabrics:

  • Place items in clear, sealed polybags.
  • Include suffocation warnings on polybags larger than 5 inches.

5. Pack and Organize the Shipment

Steps to Pack:

  1. Use Sturdy Boxes:
    • Boxes should be clean, undamaged, and free of old labels.
    • Avoid overpacking or leaving excess empty space.
  2. Distribute Weight Evenly:
    • Heavy items should go at the bottom.
    • Use packing materials like air pillows or kraft paper to fill gaps.
  3. Seal the Box:
    • Use high-quality packing tape to secure the box.
    • Seal all openings to prevent tampering or damage.
  4. Attach Shipment Labels:
    • Print labels through your shipment plan in Seller Central.
    • Place one label on the top and one on the side of the box.
    • Ensure the labels are scannable and not on box seams.

6. Follow Amazon’s Pallet Guidelines (For Large Shipments)

If your shipment is large enough to require pallets, follow these guidelines:

  • Use standard 40″x48″ pallets.
  • Ensure pallets are stackable, if applicable.
  • Shrink-wrap pallets securely.

7. Verify Compliance with FBA Prep Guidelines

Amazon may refuse or delay inventory that doesn’t meet their standards. To ensure compliance:

  • Refer to Amazon’s FBA Product Prep Requirements page.
  • Review your shipment using the Prep Checklist provided in Seller Central.

8. Ship to Amazon Fulfillment Centers

After your products are packed and labeled:

  1. Finalize your shipment plan in Seller Central.
  2. Choose a carrier through Amazon’s partnered carrier program or a third-party logistics provider.
  3. Monitor the shipment status in “Manage FBA Shipments”.

Tips for Efficient FBA Preparation

  1. Invest in Quality Materials:
    • Durable boxes, reliable tape, and appropriate protective supplies are essential.
  2. Use a Barcode Printer:
    • A dedicated label printer like Dymo or Zebra ensures high-quality, scannable barcodes.
  3. Outsource Prep Tasks:
    • Consider using an FBA Prep Service to handle labeling, packing, and compliance.
  4. Batch Processing:
    • Prepare similar items together to save time and ensure uniformity.

By following these steps, you’ll ensure your products meet Amazon’s requirements, reducing the risk of delays or rejections. Proper preparation not only protects your inventory but also ensures a smooth transition into Amazon’s fulfillment network, giving your customers a seamless shopping experience.

Categories: Digital Marketing