As an Amazon seller, you know that success hinges on efficiency. You’ve found a great product, optimized your listing, and now it’s time to get your inventory to Amazon’s fulfillment centers. But what happens next can either make or break your business.
Many sellers, especially new ones, overlook the critical importance of proper FBA (Fulfillment by Amazon) prep. While it might seem like a simple step, mistakes in this stage can lead to costly fees, delayed shipments, and even inventory being returned or disposed of.
Here are some of the most common FBA prep mistakes and how to avoid them:
1. Incorrect Labeling Every single unit of your product needs a scannable barcode, whether it’s an FNSKU or a manufacturer barcode. Mismatched or improperly placed labels can cause Amazon to reject your shipment, requiring a costly and time-consuming manual correction.
2. Inadequate Packaging Packaging is your product’s first line of defense. Items that are fragile or sold as a set need to be securely packaged to withstand the rigors of shipping and handling. This includes using poly bags for textiles, bubble wrap for delicate items, and “Sold as a Set” labels for bundled products. Failure to do so can result in items being separated or damaged, leading to customer returns and negative reviews.
3. Commingled Inventory While commingling your inventory can be convenient, it also poses a risk. If another seller sends in poor-quality or counterfeit products with the same manufacturer barcode, it could be mixed with your own. This can lead to customer complaints and damage your seller reputation, even if your products are perfect.
4. Not Following Amazon’s Specific Requirements Amazon has a detailed and strict set of requirements for packaging and shipping. These include everything from box dimensions and weight limits to expiration date formats and specific warnings on poly bags. Ignoring these rules can lead to your shipment being refused or your inventory being held up.
5. Underestimating the Time and Effort Required Properly prepping a large shipment can be a full-time job in itself. From receiving inventory and inspecting for defects to labeling and boxing, the process can quickly become overwhelming, taking time away from other critical aspects of your business like marketing and product sourcing.
The Simple Solution: Partnering with an FBA Prep Service
If any of these mistakes sound familiar, or if you simply want to scale your business without the logistical headaches, a professional FBA prep and 3PL fulfillment service like Oz Prep Services can be your most valuable partner.
As a family-owned business, we understand the care and attention your products deserve. We handle all the intricate details of FBA prep—from accurate labeling and secure packaging to ensuring every shipment meets Amazon’s strict guidelines. This allows you to focus on what you do best: growing your brand and finding the next best-selling product.
Ready to take the stress out of FBA prep? Let Oz Prep Services handle the logistics so you can focus on building your e-commerce empire.
