Preventing Costly Errors

Don’t Get Suspended: 5 Critical Mistakes to Avoid When Preparing Your Products for Amazon FBA

The difference between a smooth launch and a costly disaster often comes down to the quality of your product preparation. Amazon’s receiving process has zero tolerance for errors, and simple slips can lead to inventory being stranded, rejected, or worse—a temporary suspension of your shipping privileges.

Here are the top five common Amazon FBA Prep Mistakes that sellers consistently make and how you can avoid them:

1. Incorrect Barcode Application: Using the wrong FNSKU label, a blurred barcode, or placing the label over a seam are primary causes of receiving delays. Mistake to Avoid: Always use high-quality thermal printers and ensure the barcode is applied smoothly to a flat surface, covering any pre-existing UPC codes.
2. Insufficient Packaging Protection: Products are often damaged during transit between the warehouse and the customer. Failing to use proper bubble wrap, dunnage, or robust poly bags for fragile or liquid items is a major risk.
3. Mislabeling as “Case Pack”: Sellers often incorrectly label mixed SKUs in one box as a “Case Pack.” A true Case Pack contains identical items in the manufacturer’s original packaging. Mislabeling leads to incorrect inventory counts at the fulfillment center.
4. Failure to Include Suffocation Warnings: Any plastic poly bag with an opening greater than 5 inches must have a printed suffocation warning. Missing this small detail is a basic, yet frequently cited, compliance violation.
5. Not Performing a Quality Check (QC): Relying solely on your supplier for QC is a dangerous oversight. Missing parts, incorrect colors, or minor defects can lead to negative reviews immediately upon launch. Amazon FBA Prep Mistakes are eliminated when an independent inspection is performed before the item reaches Amazon.

By addressing these common Amazon FBA Prep Mistakes upfront, you save yourself the headache, fees, and time associated with Amazon remediation, ensuring your products are ready to generate revenue instantly.