By SnappyCrate | Updated August 2025
Even experienced Amazon sellers face the dreaded “rejected shipment” notice. Palletized freight shipments to Amazon FBA are frequently turned away for non-compliance with strict inbound rules.
At SnappyCrate, we see the same mistakes repeated—and we fix them before they cost sellers money. Here’s why Amazon rejects palletized shipments and how to prevent it.
🚫 Top Reasons Amazon Rejects Palletized Shipments
1️⃣ Oversized or Non-Standard Pallets
- Amazon requires standard 40” x 48” wooden GMA pallets.
- Pallets larger than standard size or made of plastic/metal are refused.
✅ Solution: Always use GMA 4-way entry wood pallets in good condition.
2️⃣ Exceeding Pallet Height or Weight Limits
- Max pallet height: 72 inches (including pallet).
- Max pallet weight: 1,500 lbs.
✅ Solution: Re-stack or split pallets to stay within limits.
3️⃣ Poor Shrink Wrapping and Stability
- Unsecured or leaning pallets are flagged as unsafe.
- Torn or loose shrink wrap leads to rejections.
✅ Solution: Use heavy-duty shrink wrap, corner boards, and proper stacking techniques.
4️⃣ Missing or Incorrect Pallet Labels
- Each pallet must have four identical pallet labels (one on each side).
- Labels must match shipment IDs and be clearly visible.
✅ Solution: Print fresh labels and place on the outside of shrink wrap.
5️⃣ Mixed SKU Pallets Without Separation
- Mixing SKUs without clear carton separation causes confusion during check-in.
✅ Solution: Segregate SKUs or clearly mark sections of mixed pallets.
6️⃣ Missed Delivery Appointments
- Carriers that fail to schedule or miss dock appointments will be turned away.
✅ Solution: Always book through Carrier Central or use Amazon-partnered carriers.
🔧 How SnappyCrate Prevents Rejections
- Amazon-compliant pallet building (40×48, max height/weight).
- Secure shrink wrapping with corner protection.
- Correct pallet labeling on all sides.
- Freight appointment scheduling via Carrier Central.
- Pre-shipment quality checks to ensure compliance.
💡 Real Example: Fixing a Rejected Shipment
A seller came to us after their LTL load was refused due to oversized pallets and missing labels. SnappyCrate re-palletized their inventory, applied correct labeling, and rescheduled freight. The shipment was successfully received within 72 hours.
✅ Final Thoughts
Rejected palletized shipments cost you time, money, and sales momentum. With SnappyCrate, every pallet is prepped, wrapped, labeled, and scheduled to Amazon’s exact standards—no surprises at the dock.
📞 Want guaranteed FBA-compliant pallet shipments? Send us a message