What is Amazon FBA?
Amazon FBA is a logistics service where Amazon takes care of storage, packaging, shipping, and even customer service for your products. This allows sellers to focus on growing their business while leveraging Amazon’s extensive fulfillment network.
However, to take advantage of this service, sellers must follow Amazon’s strict guidelines for packaging, labeling, and palletization to avoid delays, fines, or rejected shipments.
1. Amazon FBA Packaging Requirements
Amazon has specific rules for FBA packaging to ensure the safety of products during transportation and storage. Non-compliance can result in returned shipments or additional fees.
1.1 General Packaging Rules
- Damage-Free Products: Ensure that all items are intact and free of defects before packaging.
- Quality Cartons: Use sturdy, six-sided corrugated cardboard boxes. Avoid damaged, contaminated, or previously used cartons unless they are in excellent condition.
- Internal Cushioning: Use acceptable materials such as air pillows, foam sheets, or wrapping paper to protect the contents. Avoid loose materials like polystyrene peanuts.
- Sealing: Use strong adhesive tape for sealing boxes. Avoid staples or nylon fiber tape.
1.2 Box Size and Weight Restrictions
- Weight Limit:
- For the USA: No single box should exceed 22kg.
- For the EU: The limit is 15kg.
- Heavier boxes (over 15kg/22kg) must have a visible “Heavy Package” label on all sides, at least 8cm in size.
- Size Limit: Boxes should not exceed 63.5cm on any side unless the product itself exceeds these dimensions. Oversized items must be placed on pallets.
1.3 Special Considerations
- Waterproofing: For product types like electronics or appeals, ensure the packaging is waterproof to protect against moisture during transit.
- Bundling: Avoid bundling multiple boxes with elastic bands or packing tape, as this can lead to rejection.
2. Amazon FBA Labeling Requirements
Proper labeling is crucial for inventory tracking and warehouse management. All products, cartons, and pallets sent to Amazon FBA must have clear, scannable labels.
2.1 Product Labels
- Barcodes: Every product must have a unique barcode—either a UPC, EAN, ISBN, or Amazon’s FNSKU.
- Label Placement: Ensure the barcode is clearly visible, scannable, and not covered by other labels or packaging.
- Label Size: Use a 1″ x 2″ (2.54cm x 5.08cm) label for product barcodes.
- Clarity: Print labels in black ink with a white background to ensure they remain legible during scanning.
2.2 Box Labels
Each shipping carton must have an Amazon FBA box label that includes:
- The box ID number.
- The product quantity inside the box.
- The destination warehouse address.
2.3 Label Placement
- Place the label on a flat surface of the box (not over seams or edges).
- Ensure the label is readable and not obscured by tape or damage.
2.4 “Made in China” Label
When shipping from China to the USA, Europe, or other countries, all products and cartons must have a visible “Made in China” label to comply with customs regulations. Failure to include this label may result in customs delays or returns.
3. Amazon FBA Pallet Requirements
For bulk or oversized shipments, pallets are an efficient way to deliver goods to Amazon FBA warehouses. However, Amazon has strict pallet requirements to ensure safety and uniformity.
3.1 Pallet Dimensions
- Standard Size: Pallets should measure 48″ x 40″ (121.9cm x 101.6cm).
- Height Limit: The total height, including the pallet, should not exceed 72″ (183cm).
3.2 Pallet Stability
- Secure Wrapping: Use durable shrink wrap to secure items on the pallet. Ensure all products are stable and won’t shift during transport.
- Weight Limit: The maximum weight for a pallet is 1500 lbs (680kg).
3.3 Pallet Labels
Each pallet must feature:
- A 4″x6″ (10.16cm x 15.24cm) white label with the FNSKU barcode.
- Information about the contents of each box.
- The warehouse destination and shipment number.
Read this guide for Amazon Box Size requirement
4. FBA Shipping Requirements
Shipping to Amazon FBA warehouses requires careful planning and adherence to Amazon’s shipping requirements.
4.1 Choosing Shipping Methods
- Sea Freight: Cost-effective for large shipments but slower (15–30 days).
- Air Freight: Faster (5–7 days) but more expensive.
- Rail Freight: A balance between speed and cost, ideal for shipments to Europe (10–15 days).
4.2 Partnering with Freight Forwarders
Working with a reliable freight forwarder ensures smooth customs clearance, proper documentation, and compliance with Amazon FBA requirements.
5. FAQs About Amazon FBA Packaging, Labeling, and Palletization
1. What happens if my packaging doesn’t meet Amazon’s standards?
Non-compliant shipments may be rejected, delayed, or fined. Always double-check Amazon’s guidelines before shipping.
2. What size should Amazon FBA labels be?
- Product labels: Minimum size of 1″ x 2″.
- Box labels: Standard 4″x6″ format.
3. Can I reuse old boxes for FBA shipments?
Yes, but only if the boxes are in excellent condition with no damage or branding from previous shipments.
4. How do I label oversized items?
Oversized items must have overweight labels (for boxes over 15kg/22kg) and be placed on pallets.
Conclusion: Your Amazon FBA Compliance Checklist
Adhering to Amazon FBA packaging, labeling, box, and pallet requirements is critical to ensuring smooth delivery and avoiding costly delays. By following these guidelines:
- You ensure your products pass Amazon’s warehouse inspections.
- You reduce the risk of fines or rejections.
- You provide customers with a better shopping experience.
Whether you’re shipping from China or another country, partnering with a reliable freight forwarder and staying up to date on Amazon’s latest requirements will place you ahead of the game.
