Amazon FBA Packaging, Prep & Labeling Requirements: A Complete Guide for Sellers

Sending inventory to Amazon is not just about shipping products,  it’s about preparing them in a way that meets Amazon’s strict fulfillment standards. Incorrect packaging, missing labels, or barcode errors can result in delayed receiving, extra fees, rejected shipments, or even account health issues.

This guide explains the essential packaging, prep, and labeling requirements you must follow when sending products to Amazon FBA.

Why Packaging and Labeling Matter

Amazon fulfillment centers process millions of units daily. To move inventory quickly and accurately, Amazon requires every unit to be:

• Properly packaged

• Clearly labeled with a scannable barcode

• Protected from damage

• Easy to identify and receive

Failure to meet these requirements can result in:

• Shipment delays

• Inventory being returned or repackaged at your expense

• Receiving errors

• Negative impact on account performance

Barcode Types Used by Amazon

Amazon uses three barcode types:

1. Manufacturer Barcode (UPC, EAN, JAN, ISBN)

Used by default when your product is eligible for virtual tracking.

2. Amazon Barcode (FNSKU)

Required when your product is not eligible for manufacturer barcode tracking or when you want Amazon to track your inventory separately.

3. Transparency Code

Used by brand-registered sellers to prevent counterfeiting and protect brand authenticity.

Each unit you send must have one scannable barcode, and any other visible barcode must be covered or removed.

Labeling Requirements

• Labels must be clear, scannable, and undamaged

• Print labels using black ink on white, non-reflective paper

• Label size should be approximately 1” x 2” or larger

• Place labels on a flat, smooth surface

• Avoid placing labels on corners, curves, or seams

• Do not photocopy labels

Each label should include:

• A scannable barcode

• The corresponding FNSKU number

• Product title

• Product condition (New or Used)

Packaging Requirements

Individual Products

Products sold individually but shipped together must still be packaged and labeled as separate units.

Case-Packed Products

Products that are identical in SKU, condition, and quantity and shipped together as a manufacturer case.

Sets and Bundles

Products sold as a set must:

• Be packaged together securely

• Labeled with “Sold as a Set” or “Do Not Separate”

Product Preparation Guidelines

Certain products require extra preparation:

Liquids, Pastes, and Gels

Must be sealed in leak-proof packaging and double-bagged.

Fragile Items (Glass, Ceramic, etc.)

Must be fully bubble-wrapped and protected from breakage.

Apparel, Textiles, Plush Items, Baby Products

Must be bagged in transparent poly bags with suffocation warning labels if the opening is larger than 5 inches.

Sharp Items

Must be fully covered so sharp edges cannot damage packaging or injure handlers.

General Prep Rules

• Remove dust, dirt, and damage before shipping

• Ensure products arrive in sellable condition

• Use secure packaging to prevent movement inside boxes

• Use transparent poly bags unless otherwise required

• Do not use packaging that is too tight or too loose