Amazon FBA Shipping: The Complete 2026 Guide
Shipping inventory to Amazon's Fulfillment by Amazon (FBA) warehouses is one of the most critical — and often most confusing — parts of running an Amazon business. This guide covers everything from prep requirements to cost optimization.
How Amazon FBA Inbound Shipping Works
- Create a shipping plan in Seller Central
- Prep and label your products per Amazon's requirements
- Pack into cases meeting Amazon's box content requirements
- Ship to assigned fulfillment centers (often multiple)
- Track and confirm delivery and check-in
Amazon FBA Shipping Methods
| Method | Best For | Transit | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Small Parcel (SPD) | Under 6 boxes | 3–5 days | $3–$8/box |
| LTL (Less Than Truckload) | 6–15 pallets | 5–10 days | $150–$400/pallet |
| FTL (Full Truckload) | 15+ pallets | 3–7 days | $1,800–$4,500 |
| Amazon Partnered Carrier | Any size | Varies | Discounted rates |
Prep Requirements
Amazon requires specific prep for different product types:
- Poly bagging: Required for textiles, plush, items with loose parts
- Bubble wrap: Required for fragile items (glass, ceramics)
- Suffocation warning: Required on poly bags with 5"+ opening
- Overboxing: Required for items that could be damaged in transit
- Taping: Seal any openings that could expose the product
- Expiration dates: Must be visible and in MM-DD-YYYY or MM-YYYY format
FNSKU Labels
Every unit sent to FBA must have an FNSKU barcode:
- Covers any existing manufacturer barcode
- Must be scannable (test with barcode reader)
- Minimum 1" x 2" label size
- Place on flat surface, not on seams or curves
- Use thermal labels for durability (no inkjet in humid warehouses)
Box Content Information
Amazon requires you to provide box content details:
- 2D Barcodes: Scan-ready labels on each box listing contents
- Manual entry: Enter contents in Seller Central (slower check-in)
- None: Amazon charges $0.15/unit processing fee
Shipping to Multiple Fulfillment Centers
Amazon's Inventory Placement Service (IPS) allows you to ship to a single FC, but at additional cost:
| Size Tier | IPS Fee Per Unit |
|---|---|
| Standard Size | $0.30 |
| Large Standard | $0.40 |
| Large Bulky | $1.30 |
| Extra Large | $1.50+ |
Without IPS, Amazon splits shipments across 3–6 fulfillment centers based on demand forecasting.
Carrier Selection Tips
- Amazon Partnered Carriers offer discounted rates but less flexibility
- Third-party carriers like Indray Inc provide better service for FTL/LTL
- Always get BOL signed at delivery — Amazon FC receiving can be slow
- Book delivery appointments through Carrier Central
- Track your shipments — late deliveries can affect IPI score
Common FBA Shipping Mistakes
- Sending units without FNSKU labels
- Exceeding box weight limits (50 lbs max for standard)
- Not booking delivery appointments for LTL/FTL
- Ignoring Amazon's case pack requirements
- Shipping to wrong fulfillment center
- Missing expiration date labels
Cost Optimization Strategies
- Consolidate shipments to reduce per-unit shipping costs
- Use FTL for large sends — much cheaper per pallet than LTL
- Time shipments strategically — avoid peak season surcharges
- Optimize packaging to reduce dimensional weight charges
- Work with a freight broker experienced in Amazon FBA
Need FBA Shipping Help?
Indray Inc ships 100+ FBA loads per week to Amazon fulfillment centers nationwide. Get a quote for your next FBA shipment.
