By SnappyCrate | Updated July 2025

If you’re an Amazon seller, you already know: sending inventory into FBA isn’t just about slapping on a label and hoping for the best. In 2025, Amazon’s FBA inbound requirements are stricter than ever—with more fees, higher standards, and less tolerance for mistakes. At SnappyCrate, we’ve prepped thousands of FBA shipments and know exactly what it takes to avoid delays, rejections, and added costs.

In this guide, we break down exactly what you need to know about FBA inbound requirements this year—and how a 3PL like us can take this off your plate.


🔄 1. Shipment Creation Starts in Seller Central

Every inbound FBA shipment must begin with a shipment plan created in your Amazon Seller Central dashboard.

You’ll need to:

  • Select Case-Packed or Individual products

  • Upload SKUs with accurate quantities

  • Specify box content (or use 2D barcodes)

  • Choose SPD (Small Parcel Delivery) or LTL/Freight

đź’ˇ Snappy Tip: We can create shipment plans for you, or work with plans you’ve created. If you’re unsure how to allocate units, we’ll guide you to avoid split shipments.


📦 2. Packaging Requirements

FBA has very strict packaging rules. Failing to follow them can result in non-compliance fees or rejected shipments.

  • Each unit must be individually packaged and protected

  • Use poly bags with suffocation warnings for loose items

  • Items must be sealed and not easily opened

  • No pricing or third-party stickers

💡 Snappy Tip: We provide full prep services including poly bagging, bubble wrapping, kitting, and bundling—Amazon-compliant, every time.


đź”– 3. Labeling Requirements

You must label every unit with an FNSKU barcode (not UPC, unless enrolled in the Amazon stickerless program).

  • Labels must be scannable and placed on a flat, visible surface

  • Cover manufacturer barcodes to avoid confusion

  • Box labels must include shipment ID and carrier information

💡 We print and apply both unit-level and carton labels—including 2D box content barcodes—to save you time.


🪵 4. Pallet and Carton Guidelines (For LTL/Freight)

If you’re shipping pallets into Amazon, you must follow strict LTL rules.

Pallet Guidelines:

  • Standard 40″ x 48″ wooden pallet

  • Max height: 72 inches including pallet

  • Max weight: 1500 lbs per pallet

  • Stack evenly and shrink wrap securely

Carton Guidelines:

  • Max 25″ on any side

  • Max 50 lbs per box (or 30 lbs for certain products)

  • Use heavy-duty, double-wall boxes if needed

đź’ˇ Our team builds Amazon-compliant pallets with secure shrink-wrapping, corner guards, and proper labeling.


đź“… 5. Appointment Scheduling

For LTL/Freight shipments, you or your carrier must schedule a delivery appointment through Amazon’s Carrier Central.

  • Amazon often has limited dock appointments

  • Missed appointments may result in refusals or delays

  • Late arrivals = fees and rescheduling

💡 We handle this whole process for you—from BOL to final check-in—so you don’t lose valuable selling time.


đźš« 6. Top Mistakes to Avoid

Many sellers don’t realize how strict Amazon can be until their shipment is delayed or returned. Common mistakes include:

  • Missing or poorly placed labels

  • Overweight boxes

  • Mixed SKUs without box content

  • Incorrect pallet height or configuration

  • Using carriers Amazon doesn’t support

đź’ˇ With SnappyCrate, you never have to worry about these details. Our team checks every shipment for full compliance.


âś… Why Choose SnappyCrate for Your FBA Shipments?

We’re not just a warehouse—we’re a partner in your Amazon success.

  • Amazon-specialized 3PL

  • Real-time visibility and fast turnarounds

  • Inspection, prep, labeling, bundling, and palletization

  • Cost-effective freight solutions

  • Expert support to troubleshoot Seller Central issues


📞 Ready to Ship Smarter?

Let SnappyCrate take the stress out of your FBA inbound shipments.
📍 Based in [Your Location] | 🕒 24–48 hour turnaround

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