Pro Tips for Saving Money When Sending Product to Amazon Warehouses
When packaging products for Amazon, it’s crucial to follow their guidelines for barcodes, SKUs, and labeling to ensure your inventory is processed smoothly and efficiently. Here are some additional considerations:
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1. Barcode Placement
- FNSKU Barcode: Amazon requires every product to have a unique Fulfillment Network Stock Keeping Unit (FNSKU) barcode. This barcode must be scannable and placed on the outside of the product’s packaging, not obscured by tape, seams, or edges.
- Cover Other Barcodes: Ensure any other barcodes (like manufacturer barcodes) are covered or removed to avoid confusion during the scanning process at Amazon’s fulfillment centers.
2. SKU Labeling
- Consistent SKUs: Maintain consistent SKU labeling across all your products to help with inventory management. Your SKU should be clearly visible on the packaging to ensure it’s easily identified.
- Human-Readable Labels: In addition to barcodes, consider adding human-readable SKU information to the packaging for easier manual identification when needed.
3. Poly Bag and Shrink-Wrap Labeling
- Transparent Packaging: If using poly bags or shrink-wrap, ensure the FNSKU barcode is visible and scannable through the packaging.
- Suffocation Warning: For poly bags with a 5-inch opening or larger, a suffocation warning is required. This can be pre-printed on the bag or added as a label.
4. Multipacks and Bundles
- Single FNSKU: For multipacks or bundles, ensure they are labeled with a single FNSKU and marked as a set. Clearly label them with “Sold as Set” or “Do Not Separate” to prevent Amazon from opening the pack.
- Uniform Packaging: Keep the packaging uniform to avoid confusion. Ensure the bundle or multipack cannot be easily separated without damaging the packaging.
5. Expiration Dates
- Visible Expiration Dates: If your products have expiration dates, they must be clearly labeled in MM-DD-YYYY or MM-YYYY format. The expiration date should be printed on both the individual item and the outer packaging.
- 60-Day Rule: Products must arrive at Amazon with a minimum of 60 days remaining before their expiration date. Amazon may dispose of products that do not meet this requirement.
6. Fragile Items
- Additional Labeling: Label boxes containing fragile items with “Fragile” and “Handle with Care” stickers, even though Amazon does not require this. It can help prevent damage during transit and handling.
- Bubble Wrap and Cushioning: Use bubble wrap and other cushioning materials for fragile items. Ensure the FNSKU barcode is still scannable after the protective wrapping.
7. Box Content Information
- Box ID Labels: Each box sent to Amazon must have an Amazon box ID label. This label is generated when you create a shipment in Seller Central and includes important information for Amazon’s tracking.
- Avoid Mixing SKUs: Avoid mixing SKUs in the same box unless it’s part of a pre-approved bundled item. Mixing SKUs can result in processing delays and errors.
8. Hazmat and Restricted Items
- Proper Labeling: If shipping hazardous materials, ensure they are properly labeled according to Amazon’s Hazmat requirements. Failure to comply can result in fines, delays, or disposal of your products.
- Approval Process: Ensure you’ve received approval from Amazon to ship any restricted items. Unapproved shipments can be rejected and returned at your cost.
9. Over-Boxing
- Multiple Units: When shipping multiple units of a single product, you may over-box the items to reduce the number of shipping labels needed. Just ensure the box meets weight and dimension requirements.
Following these guidelines will help ensure your shipments are compliant with Amazon’s requirements, reducing the risk of delays, fees, or other complications.