For FBA sellers, having shipments rejected by Amazon due to packaging issues can be a costly nightmare, potentially leading to fines and sales suspensions. Ensuring proper packaging compliance is crucial for smooth warehouse acceptance and efficient sales operations.
1. FBA Packaging: Mandatory Information Disclosure
Before packaging, verify your shipments contain these required elements:
- Business address: Amazon's primary identification method for your account
- Contact information: Valid phone number or email for communication
- Barcodes: Clearly scannable EAN or FNSKU product identifiers
Special requirements for specific products:
- CE certification: Must be visibly displayed on packaging
- LFGB certification: Requires marking on product or packaging
- Expiration dates: Must appear on both product and packaging
2. Packaging Compliance: Registration and Reporting
As manufacturers or sellers, you're responsible for packaging waste management:
Registration Process
- Register with national packaging authorities (mandatory)
- Failure to register may result in substantial penalties
Licensing Requirements
- Obtain packaging licenses for dual recycling systems
- Select appropriate recycling partners and pay applicable fees
Quantity Reporting
- Submit annual packaging usage reports
- Provide accurate estimates if exact quantities are unavailable
Note: Packaging regulations vary by country—verify local requirements for each marketplace.
3. Packaging Selection: Optimization Strategies
Strategic packaging choices impact both product safety and operational costs:
- Dimensional efficiency: Minimize size and weight without compromising protection
- Material selection: Balance durability with environmental considerations
- Cost analysis: Evaluate total expenses including procurement, shipping, and licensing
- Brand differentiation: Consider customized packaging for market positioning
4. Category-Specific Packaging Requirements
Amazon enforces distinct packaging standards by product type:
- Bulk items: Must ship in consolidated packaging
- Product bundles: Clearly marked "set" or "do not separate"
- Boxed units: Require six-sided rigid containers
- Polybag items: Must be transparent, sealed, and properly labeled
- Perishable goods: Expiration dates required on all components
5. Approved Packaging Materials
Amazon accepts these protective materials:
- Polyethylene foam sheets
- Air pillows
- Bubble wrap
- Full sheet paper
6. FBA Labeling Protocols
Proper labeling prevents costly processing delays:
Carton Labeling
- Automatically generated during shipment creation
- Must be scannable on every box
Pallet Requirements
- Clear identification of sender/receiver information
- "Mixed SKU" labeling for varied inventory
- Plastic wrapping with "do not break" warnings
- Maximum weight: 500kg
- Maximum height: 1.8m (including pallet)
7. Pre-Shipment Verification
Final inspection checklist:
- Complete mandatory information present
- Registration and licensing confirmed
- Label readability verified
- Cost calculations validated
8. FBA Preparation Services
Amazon offers professional preparation services for labeling and packaging, allowing sellers to focus on core business operations.
9. Consequences of Non-Compliance
Failure to meet packaging standards may result in:
- Shipment rejections
- Additional handling fees
- Restricted shipping privileges
10. Ongoing Compliance Management
Regularly review Amazon's updated policies through Seller Central resources to maintain packaging compliance as requirements evolve.