Selling through Fulfillment by Amazon (FBA) can be a game-changer — but to fully benefit from Amazon’s logistics network, your products must meet specific guidelines. These requirements help Amazon efficiently store, handle, and deliver products to customers while ensuring safety and compliance.
Whether you’re a first-time seller or scaling your business, this guide will walk you through the essential Amazon FBA guidelines to follow.
1. FBA Product Preparation Guidelines
Proper preparation ensures your items are received without delays or penalties. Amazon requires that all products meet packaging, labeling, and safety standards.
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Packaging | Items must be individually packaged and sealed. No loose products. Use boxes or polybags when necessary. |
| Polybag Rules | Polybags must be transparent and have a barcode visible through the bag. If the opening is larger than 5″, suffocation warnings are mandatory. |
| Box Limits | Boxes cannot exceed 25 inches on any side unless approved. Weight must not exceed 50 lbs (standard) or 30 lbs for multiple units unless labeled as “Team Lift.” |
| Fragile Items | Must be bubble-wrapped or foam-cushioned. Fragile labels may be required. |
| Expiration Dates | Must be in MM-DD-YYYY format and printed in 36-point font on the unit. Minimum 105 days shelf life remaining at check-in. |
2. FBA Labeling Requirements
Amazon uses labels to identify, track, and fulfill inventory efficiently. Incorrect labeling can result in lost or rejected inventory.
| Labeling Type | Key Details |
|---|---|
| FNSKU Labels | Each product must have an Amazon barcode (FNSKU). This is different from a standard UPC. |
| Placement | Place the FNSKU label on a flat surface of the packaging, not over a seam or corner. |
| Label Size | Typically 1″ x 2″. Must be scannable and clear. |
| Print Quality | Use high-quality thermal printers or laser printers. No inkjet. |
🧠 Tip: If you prefer, you can pay Amazon to label items for you (FBA Label Service).
3. FBA Shipment & Carton Guidelines
When sending inventory to Amazon, it must be packed according to their shipping and carton policies.
| Guideline | Details |
|---|---|
| Shipment Plan | You must create a shipment plan in Seller Central before shipping. Amazon may divide your inventory across multiple warehouses. |
| Carton Labeling | Each shipping box needs a unique FBA shipment label (4″ x 6″) generated from Seller Central. |
| Pallet Shipments | If shipping pallets, follow Amazon’s pallet configuration: 4-way access, shrink-wrapped, no overhang, standard 40″x48″ dimensions. |
| Carrier Options | Use Amazon-partnered carriers when possible for better rates and smoother check-in. |
4. Prohibited and Restricted Products
Certain products are restricted or require special approval to sell through FBA.
| Category | Examples |
|---|---|
| Hazardous Materials (Hazmat) | Batteries, flammable liquids, aerosol sprays |
| Prohibited Items | Weapons, illegal drugs, recalled products |
| Approval Required | Supplements, cosmetics, children’s toys, medical devices |
🔎 Always check the FBA Dangerous Goods (Hazmat) Program and Amazon’s restricted products list before listing items.
5. Inventory Management Guidelines
Once in Amazon’s warehouse, your inventory is tracked and managed through Seller Central.
| Best Practices | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| Monitor Inventory Health | Avoid long-term storage fees by removing slow-moving products. |
| Use Restock Recommendations | Amazon provides forecasts to help you avoid stockouts. |
| Manage Aged Inventory | Remove unsold stock before it incurs extra fees (after 365+ days). |
| Understand Inbound Performance Metrics | Poor shipment prep can hurt your seller account health. |
6. Amazon FBA Compliance Checklist
Before sending inventory, use this simple checklist:
- Product meets all FBA packaging rules
- Product is labeled with FNSKU or UPC
- Shipment plan is created in Seller Central
- Boxes are within size and weight limits
- Shipping labels are printed and applied properly
- Cartons are packed and taped securely
- Prohibited products are excluded
- Expiration dates (if applicable) are clearly printed
7.Common Mistakes with Amazon FBA (And How to Avoid Them)
Many new (and even experienced) sellers make errors that can lead to delays, additional fees, or even account suspensions. Knowing these common mistakes will help you stay compliant and profitable.
| Mistake | What Happens | How to Avoid It |
|---|---|---|
| Incorrect or Missing Labels | Products are rejected or misrouted at the fulfillment center. | Always use Amazon’s FNSKU label and ensure it is properly placed, scannable, and not covered by packaging. |
| Sending Prohibited or Restricted Items | Your shipment may be destroyed or returned. Your account may be flagged. | Check Amazon’s Restricted Products List and ensure your products are approved for FBA. |
| Overweight or Oversized Boxes | You may incur penalty fees or risk rejection at the warehouse. | Follow the weight and size limits: 50 lbs max (unless labeled as “Team Lift”); avoid oversized packaging. |
| Missing Shipment Plan | Inventory arrives at the wrong location or is not received. | Always create a shipment plan in Seller Central before sending inventory. Never skip this step. |
| Poor Packaging or Prep | Items may be damaged or rejected. Amazon may apply unplanned prep fees. | Follow packaging guidelines. Use bubble wrap, polybags, and carton sealing where needed. |
| Ignoring Inventory Health | Long-term storage fees can reduce profits. | Monitor inventory age, sales velocity, and use Amazon’s Restock and Removal recommendations. |
| Underestimating Costs | You lose money due to hidden FBA fees. | Use the FBA Revenue Calculator to estimate all fees (fulfillment, storage, prep) before pricing products. |
| No Freight Forwarder for Imports | Shipments from China or abroad may get delayed or rejected by customs. | Partner with a reliable freight forwarder who understands Amazon FBA regulations and DDP shipping. |
💡 Pro Tip: Keep a personal FBA prep checklist for every shipment to catch mistakes before they cost you.
8.The Importance of a Freight Forwarder in FBA Shipping
When shipping your products to Amazon fulfillment centers — especially from overseas — a reliable freight forwarder is essential. They help ensure your goods arrive on time, meet Amazon’s requirements, and clear customs without delays.
| Function | Why It Matters | How It Helps Your FBA Business |
|---|---|---|
| International Shipping Coordination | Overseas transport involves multiple carriers, ports, and procedures. | A freight forwarder plans the entire route (air, sea, rail, or combined), ensuring smooth delivery from your supplier to Amazon’s warehouse. |
| Customs Clearance & Compliance | Incorrect paperwork or misclassified goods can cause delays or fines. | They handle import/export documentation and customs brokerage — making sure your shipment meets all legal requirements. |
| FBA Prep & Labeling Support | Amazon has strict labeling, packaging, and palletizing rules. | Many freight forwarders offer FBA prep services or partner with third parties to ensure your products are compliant. |
| Cost Efficiency | Shipping costs can vary depending on method, volume, and destination. | They help choose the most economical and time-sensitive method (like sea freight vs. air) — saving you money. |
| Time-Saving Logistics Management | Coordinating shipments yourself is time-consuming and risky. | Freight forwarders handle everything from factory pickup to warehouse delivery, allowing you to focus on selling. |
| DDP/DAP Shipping Support | Amazon requires clear delivery terms to avoid refused shipments. | Forwarders familiar with FBA delivery terms (DDP or DAP) ensure the shipment arrives with duties and taxes handled in advance. |
✅ Pro Tip: Work with a freight forwarder experienced in Amazon FBA shipments to reduce delays, rejections, or extra charges at Amazon’s receiving centers.
Final Thoughts: Follow the Rules, Grow Your Sales
Amazon FBA offers a powerful platform to scale your business — but success depends on strictly following the rules. Proper packaging, labeling, and shipping are not just best practices — they’re requirements. Following these Amazon FBA guidelines helps ensure:
- Faster check-in at fulfillment centers
- Lower chances of delays or rejections
- A more efficient, profitable FBA business
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FAQ:
Q1:What happens if my shipment doesn’t follow FBA guidelines?
Amazon may refuse the shipment, charge unplanned prep fees, or delay receiving. Repeat violations can affect your seller account.
Q2:Can Amazon prep my inventory for me?
Yes. Amazon offers FBA Prep Services for a fee — including labeling, bagging, and bubble-wrapping.
Q3:Do I need a freight forwarder to ship to FBA warehouses?
If you’re importing products from overseas (e.g., China), a freight forwarder is highly recommended. They handle customs clearance, labeling, and delivery to Amazon.
Q4:What is FNSKU?
| It’s a unique Amazon barcode that identifies your product as yours. Every product sent to FBA must have it unless enrolled in Stickerless Commingled Inventory. |