By SnappyCrate | Updated September 2025

Q4 is the busiest time of the year at Amazon’s fulfillment centers — and that means stricter compliance checks, longer receiving times, and zero tolerance for packaging or labeling errors.

A single mistake on your FBA shipment can lead to rejected pallets, delayed check-in, or even inventory stranded in Amazon’s network during the most profitable selling weeks of the year. In this article, we’ll cover the most common prep mistakes sellers make and show you how to avoid them so your shipments flow smoothly during peak season.

Why Packaging & Labeling Compliance Is Critical in Q4

During the holidays, Amazon FCs are at maximum capacity. Shipments that don’t meet compliance standards slow down their process — and they prioritize compliant shipments over non-compliant ones.

That means:

• Rejected shipments could be delayed for weeks.

• Manual rework fees can eat into profits.

• Late arrivals may cause you to miss Black Friday/Cyber Monday entirely.

Common Packaging Mistakes to Avoid

• Weak or thin cartons that collapse during shipping

• Mixed SKU boxes without proper labeling

• Missing or damaged FNSKU labels

• Oversized or overweight cartons that violate Amazon’s 50 lb. limit

• Insufficient dunnage or protection leading to damaged units

Common Labeling Errors

• Labels printed too light to scan

• FNSKU labels placed on seams or curves, making them unreadable

• Incorrect pallet labels or missing “Do Not Stack” signs

• Applying Amazon labels over old barcodes without covering them fully

Best Practices for Packaging & Labeling Success

✅ Use Sturdy, Q4-Grade Packaging
Opt for double-walled cartons if your items are heavy or fragile. Reinforce with high-quality tape that holds up during extended transit times.

✅ Follow Amazon’s Weight & Size Guidelines
Keep cartons under 50 lbs and within dimensional requirements to avoid rejections.

✅ Print High-Quality Labels
Use a thermal printer for FNSKUs and carton labels to ensure barcodes are clear and scannable.

✅ Separate SKUs and Clearly Mark Mixed Boxes
Avoid confusion at receiving by labeling cartons accurately, especially if they contain multiple SKUs.

✅ Perform a Pre-Ship Compliance Check
Do a quick audit of every carton before sealing — verify FNSKUs, box count, and pallet labels.

🎁 How SnappyCrate Eliminates Prep Errors

SnappyCrate takes the headache out of Q4 compliance by:

• Handling all FBA prep & labeling for you, following Amazon’s latest requirements

• Inspecting every carton before shipment to catch errors before they cause delays

• Building compliant pallets with correct labeling, stretch wrap, and stacking guidelines

• Providing photo verification so you know your shipment meets Amazon standards before it leaves our facility

With SnappyCrate as your prep partner, you can focus on driving sales — while we ensure your products reach Amazon fast, intact, and fully compliant.

👉 Avoid costly delays this holiday season — contact SnappyCrate to set up your Q4 prep today.