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Category Archives: Amazon

🚚 Partnered vs. Non-Partnered Carriers During the Holiday Rush: Which Should You Choose?

By SnappyCrate | Updated September 2025

When every day counts during Q4, choosing the right carrier for your FBA inbound shipments can make or break your season. Amazon gives sellers two main options for shipping into fulfillment centers: partnered carriers (like Amazon Partnered LTL/UPS) or non-partnered carriers (your own chosen freight forwarders and truckers).

The choice affects cost, speed, flexibility, and reliability — especially during the peak holiday rush. In this article, we’ll break down the pros and cons of each, common pitfalls sellers face, and when it makes sense to use one over the other (or even both).


Why Carrier Selection Matters More in Q4

  • Receiving delays can easily stretch from 3–5 days to 10–14 days

  • Missed appointment windows can push delivery back another week

  • Carrier capacity limits can leave you waiting if you don’t book early

Your carrier decision impacts whether your inventory arrives in time for Black Friday, Cyber Monday, and Christmas buyers.


Pros and Cons of Amazon Partnered Carriers

Pros:

  • Lower shipping rates (Amazon-negotiated discounts)

  • Easy to book through Seller Central

  • Smooth check-in process — Amazon is expecting the freight

Cons:

  • Limited flexibility on pickup times

  • Slower transit during peak (due to high demand)

  • Harder to expedite if you’re running behind schedule


Pros and Cons of Non-Partnered Carriers

Pros:

  • Greater control over pickup and delivery times

  • Ability to select faster transit options or dedicated trucks

  • Sometimes easier to secure last-minute capacity

Cons:

  • Higher shipping costs

  • Requires more manual coordination (booking appointments, BOL prep)

  • Risk of longer wait times at FC if appointments aren’t scheduled properly


Best Practices for Choosing Your Carrier in Q4

Book Early
Secure appointments weeks in advance — especially for Amazon partnered LTL.

Use Partnered for Predictable Shipments
For planned inventory shipments sent well before the cut-off dates, Amazon partnered carriers are usually the most cost-effective choice.

Use Non-Partnered for Urgent Replenishment
When you’re running low on stock or cutting it close to a deadline, a non-partnered carrier gives you speed and scheduling flexibility.

Consider a Hybrid Approach
Many sellers split shipments — sending the bulk via partnered carriers and urgent replenishments via private freight to guarantee arrival.


🚀 How SnappyCrate Simplifies Carrier Decisions

At SnappyCrate, we handle both partnered and non-partnered carrier options for you:

  • Early appointment booking to secure capacity before the rush

  • Hybrid solutions — using partnered carriers for planned shipments, private trucks for urgent replenishment

  • End-to-end shipment coordination including paperwork, BOL prep, and pallet compliance

  • Real-time tracking and communication so you always know where your shipment stands

Choosing the wrong carrier strategy can mean missed sales. With SnappyCrate, you’ll get a balanced, cost-effective shipping plan that keeps your inventory moving and your shelves stocked during Q4.

👉 Let us help you book your next holiday shipment — before the cut-off window fills up.

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🎄 FBA Packaging & Labeling Mistakes to Avoid in Peak Season

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.

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🏬 Mastering Amazon’s Holiday Storage Limits: How to Stay Within IPI Rules and Still Stay In Stock

By SnappyCrate | Updated September 2025

Q4 is the most lucrative time of year for Amazon sellers — but it’s also the most challenging when it comes to inventory performance index (IPI) scores and storage limits. Nothing is more frustrating than having plenty of product ready to sell, but Amazon won’t let you send it in because your storage limits are maxed out.

In this article, we’ll break down how Amazon’s IPI system works, why limits tighten during the holidays, and how to stay within compliance without running out of stock.


Why Amazon Tightens Storage in Q4

During peak season, Amazon must balance storage space across millions of sellers. To keep warehouses from overflowing, they restrict how much each account can send in based on IPI score.

  • Sellers with high IPI scores get more generous storage limits.

  • Sellers with low IPI scores may find themselves unable to replenish inventory when they need it most.

That’s why managing IPI and planning storage strategically is so crucial leading up to Q4.


Understanding IPI and Storage Limits

IPI measures how well you manage inventory, with four key factors:

  1. Excess Inventory – Too much slow-moving stock lowers your score.

  2. Sell-Through Rate – The faster you sell, the better your IPI.

  3. Stranded Inventory – Listings that aren’t buyable hurt your performance.

  4. In-Stock Rate – Amazon rewards keeping popular ASINs available.

Your IPI score is updated weekly. If it falls below Amazon’s threshold (typically 400–450), you risk storage limits being applied to your account for the quarter.


Common Mistakes That Lead to Q4 Problems

  • Sending all inventory to FBA too early and clogging storage space.

  • Ignoring slow sellers, which drags down sell-through rates.

  • Waiting too long to clear excess inventory, leaving no room for hot sellers.

  • Not staging backup inventory outside Amazon — leaving no way to respond when limits are imposed.


Best Practices to Stay Compliant and Stocked

Boost Sell-Through Before Q4
Run promotions or price adjustments in September and October to move slow sellers and improve IPI before limits are set.

Use a 3PL for Overflow Inventory
Stage bulk inventory with a provider like SnappyCrate, sending replenishment shipments as space opens up.

Create an ASIN-Level Inventory Strategy
Prioritize your best sellers for FBA space and consider switching slower SKUs to FBM to free up room.

Monitor IPI Weekly
Act quickly if your score dips — remove excess inventory, fix stranded listings, and increase ad spend if needed to improve sell-through.

Send Smaller, More Frequent Shipments
Rather than maxing out your limits in one go, keep a steady flow of product into Amazon so you don’t run out of room for emergency replenishment.


🚀 How SnappyCrate Helps You Maximize Q4 Storage

SnappyCrate gives you the flexibility you need when Amazon restricts space:

  • Overflow warehousing to hold inventory outside FBA

  • On-demand replenishment shipped to Amazon the moment space opens

  • FBM fulfillment options to keep selling even if FBA limits stop you from sending stock

  • Real-time visibility into your inventory, making forecasting easier and more precise

With SnappyCrate, you don’t have to choose between staying within IPI rules and staying in stock — you can do both.

👉 Talk to our team today to set up a storage and replenishment plan that keeps your best sellers available all Q4.

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📦 Avoiding Stockouts During Q4: Smart Inventory Management for Amazon Sellers

By SnappyCrate | Updated September 2025

The holiday season is the biggest revenue opportunity of the year for Amazon sellers — but it also comes with the biggest risks. Nothing kills momentum faster than a stockout during Black Friday, Cyber Monday, or the Christmas rush. When your product sells out, you don’t just lose sales — you also lose ranking, ad efficiency, and customer trust.

Managing inventory in Q4 requires precision planning. In this article, we’ll cover why stockouts happen, how to prevent them, and how a partner like SnappyCrate can help you keep products available when they’re needed most.


Why Stockouts Are So Dangerous During the Holidays

  • Lost ranking: Amazon’s algorithm punishes out-of-stock listings, dropping your organic placement.

  • Wasted ad spend: If inventory runs out mid-campaign, you burn money on clicks with no conversion.

  • Customer trust erosion: Shoppers see “Currently unavailable” and move to your competitor.

  • Delayed momentum recovery: Even after restocking, it can take weeks to regain your previous keyword ranking.


Common Causes of Q4 Stockouts

  • Underestimating demand spikes from promotions like Lightning Deals and coupons

  • Longer Amazon check-in times during peak weeks

  • Storage limits (IPI restrictions) preventing you from sending all inventory at once

  • Shipping delays caused by overwhelmed carriers or port congestion

  • Relying solely on FBA without a backup fulfillment option


Best Practices to Prevent Stockouts

Forecast with Data, Not Hope
Review last year’s Q4 sales and layer in expected growth, ad campaigns, and promotions. Don’t assume flat sales trends — the holiday lift is real.

Use a Safety Stock Buffer
Always keep 10–20% of inventory as a buffer in a 3PL or your own warehouse. If FBA limits hit or shipments are delayed, you’ll have stock ready.

Stagger Shipments into Amazon
Instead of sending everything at once, ship in waves. This reduces risk and helps stay compliant with FBA storage restrictions.

Plan for Longer Check-In Times
During Q4, assume Amazon receiving may take up to 2 weeks or longer. Build this into your replenishment schedule.

Leverage FBM as a Backup
Having a backup FBM (fulfilled by merchant) option — either through your 3PL or internal operations — can help you keep selling if FBA runs dry.


🎄 How SnappyCrate Helps Keep Your Shelves Stocked

At SnappyCrate, we help sellers avoid costly stockouts by:

  • Holding backup inventory in our strategically located 3PL warehouse

  • Offering fast replenishment to FBA when limits or delays hit

  • Enabling FBM fulfillment on demand so you never stop selling

  • Providing real-time visibility into your inventory levels across all channels

Stockouts during Q4 aren’t just inconvenient — they can sink your season. With SnappyCrate as your logistics partner, you’ll have the flexibility and backup support to keep inventory flowing when it matters most.

👉 Don’t risk an “Out of Stock” message this holiday season. Contact SnappyCrate to lock in your Q4 inventory strategy today.

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🎁 The Ultimate FBA Holiday Prep Checklist: How to Get Inventory Ready for Q4

By SnappyCrate | Updated August 2025

The holiday season is the busiest and most profitable time of the year for Amazon sellers—but only if your inventory makes it to FBA on time and in perfect condition. Black Friday and Cyber Monday mark the start of a sales surge that lasts until Christmas, and unprepared sellers often find themselves out of stock, stuck in delays, or hit with costly mistakes.

Here’s your ultimate checklist to get FBA-ready for Q4.

✅ Inventory Forecasting

  • Review last year’s Q4 sales to project demand.

  • Factor in new products, promotions, and marketplace trends.

  • Always order extra buffer stock for fast movers—you don’t want to run out mid-season.

✅ Shipment Timeline Planning

  • Make sure all Black Friday/Cyber Monday inventory arrives at Amazon no later than early November.

  • Build in 1–2 weeks of buffer time for potential Amazon check-in delays.

  • Stage excess inventory in a 3PL warehouse (like SnappyCrate) to drip-feed Amazon as capacity allows.

✅ FBA Packaging & Labeling

  • Confirm UPC, FNSKU, and carton labels are compliant and scannable.

  • Double-check Amazon’s weight and dimension limits—holiday enforcement is especially strict.

  • Use strong packaging with extra tape and reinforcement to withstand peak season handling.

✅ Carrier & Transportation

  • Book freight early—holiday season bottlenecks cause major slowdowns.

  • Compare Amazon partnered vs. non-partnered carriers for best rates and reliability.

  • Use a 3PL to consolidate and palletize shipments properly for Amazon’s requirements.

✅ Storage & Space Management

  • Monitor your IPI score and FBA capacity limits to avoid stranded inventory.

  • Use overflow storage to stage goods until Amazon grants more space.

✅ Risk Management

  • Build redundancy: split shipments across multiple fulfillment centers when possible.

  • Partner with a 3PL for re-labeling, repackaging, or emergency restocking if Amazon rejects or delays your shipment.


🚀 Why SnappyCrate Is Your Q4 Advantage

At SnappyCrate, we specialize in holiday season FBA prep and staging. We help sellers avoid delays with:

  • FBA-compliant labeling, prep, and palletization

  • Early carrier booking and appointment management

  • Overflow storage to keep your goods ready for fast replenishment

  • On-demand restocking to keep your inventory flowing into FBA throughout Q4

Don’t let Q4 chaos eat into your profits. With SnappyCrate, your inventory arrives at Amazon holiday-ready, on time, and fully compliant.

👉 Contact SnappyCrate today to get ahead of the Black Friday rush.

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📦 FBA Box Content Information: What It Is and Why You Must Get It Right

By SnappyCrate | Updated August 2025

Amazon requires sellers to provide box content information for all FBA inbound shipments. Missing or incorrect data can lead to manual processing fees, delayed check-ins, or inventory errors.

At SnappyCrate, we ensure every shipment we handle includes accurate box content details to keep your inventory moving smoothly. Here’s what you need to know.


🔑 What is Box Content Information?

Box content information tells Amazon exactly what’s inside each carton of your shipment. It includes:

  • SKUs (FNSKUs) in each box
  • Quantity of each SKU per box
  • Box weights and dimensions

This allows Amazon to scan fewer units and quickly receive your shipment.


🚨 What Happens if You Skip It?

If you don’t provide box content info:

  • Amazon will manually scan every unit in your shipment.
  • You’ll be charged manual processing fees (per-unit costs add up fast).
  • Your inventory will be delayed, sometimes by days or even weeks.

🖥️ How to Submit Box Content Information

You have three main options in Seller Central:

  1. Manual Entry: Enter details directly into Seller Central.
  2. Upload Spreadsheet: Fill out Amazon’s box content template.
  3. 2D Barcode (Preferred): Print and apply a 2D barcode to each carton.

✅ SnappyCrate uses the 2D barcode method for speed and accuracy.


📏 Amazon’s Box Labeling Rules

  • Each carton must have an Amazon Shipment ID label on two adjacent sides.
  • If using 2D barcodes, apply them next to the shipment label.
  • Labels must be scannable and unobstructed.

⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Mixing SKUs across boxes without uploading correct content.
  • Entering inaccurate SKU quantities per box.
  • Forgetting to reprint labels after repacking.
  • Applying labels over seams or tape, making them unscannable.

💡 How SnappyCrate Handles Box Content for You

  • Generate accurate box content files for every shipment.
  • Print and apply 2D barcode labels.
  • Double-check box weights and dimensions to ensure compliance.
  • Provide photo documentation before shipping to Amazon.

✅ Final Thoughts

Box content accuracy is critical to fast check-ins and avoiding fees. With SnappyCrate, every shipment is correctly documented, labeled, and ready for Amazon—saving you time and preventing costly errors.

📞 Want hands-off FBA compliance? Send us a message

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🪵 Why Amazon Rejects Your Palletized Shipments (and How to Fix It)

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

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📦 Case Packed vs. Individual Units: Which One is Best for FBA Shipments?

By SnappyCrate | Updated August 2025

When creating an Amazon FBA shipment, you’ll be asked to choose between Case Packed and Individual Units. This decision affects how your inventory is prepped, labeled, and received by Amazon fulfillment centers.

At SnappyCrate, we help sellers understand these options and choose the best one for their business. Here’s what you need to know.


🏷️ What is a Case Packed Shipment?

A Case Packed shipment means:

  • All units in a single carton are identical (same SKU).
  • Each case contains the same quantity of units.
  • Cases must be fully sealed and labeled.

✅ Benefits of Case Packed:

  • Faster check-in at FBA (easier for Amazon to receive).
  • Less labeling required if units are pre-labeled by manufacturer.
  • Lower risk of mix-ups or errors.

❌ Limitations:

  • Not suitable for mixed SKU shipments.
  • Requires manufacturers or suppliers to package units consistently.

🛒 What is an Individual Units Shipment?

An Individual Units shipment means:

  • A carton contains different SKUs or varying quantities.
  • Each unit must be individually prepped and labeled.

✅ Benefits of Individual Units:

  • Flexible for mixed shipments.
  • Great for smaller sellers or limited inventory runs.

❌ Limitations:

  • Slower check-in at FBA.
  • Requires meticulous prep and labeling for every single unit.
  • Increased chance of errors if box content isn’t uploaded correctly.

🔑 How Amazon Handles Each Type

  • Case Packed: Amazon scans one unit from each carton and quickly receives the full case.
  • Individual Units: Amazon must scan and receive each unit separately, increasing processing time.

💡 How to Decide Which is Best

  • Use Case Packed if:
    • You have bulk quantities of a single SKU.
    • Your manufacturer/supplier already preps and seals cartons.
  • Use Individual Units if:
    • You are shipping small quantities of multiple SKUs.
    • You need flexibility to combine products in a single shipment.

Many sellers use both methods—Case Packed for high-volume SKUs, Individual for variety shipments.


🚚 How SnappyCrate Simplifies the Process

  • Organize and prep inventory for either shipment type.
  • Generate accurate box content files to avoid Amazon fees.
  • Provide FNSKU labeling and secure packaging.
  • Ensure cartons meet Amazon’s weight and size limits.

✅ Final Thoughts

Choosing between Case Packed vs. Individual Units depends on your inventory mix and supplier setup. With SnappyCrate, you get expert help prepping and shipping both types—so your products arrive FBA-ready and error-free.

📞 Need help deciding the best FBA shipment type? 

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🏷️ How to Prepare and Label Your Products for FBA Like a Pro

By SnappyCrate | Updated August 2025

Proper prep and labeling are non-negotiable when shipping to Amazon FBA. Mistakes can result in delays, added fees, or even rejected shipments. At SnappyCrate, we specialize in FBA-compliant prep to keep your products moving smoothly into Amazon fulfillment centers.

Here’s your step-by-step guide to preparing and labeling products like a pro.


🔑 1. Understand Amazon’s Prep Requirements

Amazon requires every unit to be securely prepped to prevent damage and ensure scannability. Common prep types include:

  • Poly bagging: For loose items, fabric goods, or items that could leak.
  • Bubble wrapping: For fragile or breakable items.
  • Taping: Seal all openings on retail boxes.
  • Kitting/Bundling: Multi-item packs must be labeled as “Sold as Set.”

SnappyCrate handles all prep types, ensuring compliance every time.


🖨️ 2. Print and Apply FNSKU Labels Correctly

Each unit must be labeled with an Amazon FNSKU barcode:

  • Labels must be scannable and placed on a flat, visible surface.
  • Cover all manufacturer UPCs to avoid scanning errors.
  • Use white, non-reflective labels (1″ x 2″ standard size).

💡 Pro Tip: Print labels directly from Seller Central or let SnappyCrate handle printing and application for you.


📦 3. Follow Box Content and Carton Labeling Rules

Every shipment must include box-level details:

  • Provide box content information in Seller Central or use 2D barcodes.
  • Each carton must have Amazon shipment ID labels on two adjacent sides.
  • Avoid damaged or reused boxes that compromise label visibility.

✅ We apply both unit and carton labels in-house, using Amazon-approved printers.


🪵 4. Prep for Specialty Products

Certain products need extra care:

  • Liquids: Double-sealed and bagged to prevent leaks.
  • Sharp items: Must be sheathed or bubble-wrapped.
  • Apparel/fabric: Poly bags with suffocation warnings.
  • Hazmat (dangerous goods): Special paperwork and labeling required.

✅ SnappyCrate is trained in Hazmat compliance and advanced prep.


🚫 Common Prep and Labeling Mistakes to Avoid

  • Using UPC instead of FNSKU labels.
  • Forgetting to cover manufacturer barcodes.
  • Sending unbagged fabric items or unsealed boxes.
  • Mislabeled SKUs causing inventory mix-ups.
  • Illegible or faded labels rejected at check-in.

🔧 How SnappyCrate Simplifies Prep & Labeling

  • Print and apply Amazon-compliant FNSKU labels.
  • Handle all prep work (poly bags, bubble wrap, bundling).
  • Generate box content files and 2D barcodes.
  • Provide photo documentation for quality assurance.
  • Offer 24–48 hour turnaround for fast replenishment.

✅ Final Thoughts

Prep and labeling mistakes cost sellers time, money, and Buy Box position. With SnappyCrate, your inventory arrives at FBA ready to receive—without delays or extra fees.

📞 Ready to hand off your prep and labeling to the experts? Contact SnappyCrate today for worry-free FBA compliance.

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📦 Restock Limits, Capacity Manager & FBA Forecasting: What’s New in 2025

By SnappyCrate | Updated August 2025

In 2025, Amazon sellers face new challenges around restock limits, capacity management, and inventory forecasting. Mismanaging these changes can lead to stockouts, excess fees, or stranded inventory.

At SnappyCrate, we help sellers navigate these evolving policies with smart inventory planning and efficient 3PL services. Here’s what’s new in 2025—and how to stay ahead.


🔑 1. Restock Limits Are Now Dynamic

Amazon’s restock limits now adjust weekly, based on:

  • Your historical sales velocity
  • Inventory age and sell-through rates
  • Capacity Manager bids (more on this below)

✅ What This Means for Sellers:

  • You must track inventory performance constantly.
  • Over-ordering can tie up capital and eat up your restock capacity.
  • Understocking risks stockouts and lower Buy Box wins.

Snappy Tip: We monitor sell-through and help clients stage inventory at our 3PL for faster replenishment.


📊 2. Capacity Manager Is Here to Stay

Amazon’s Capacity Manager allows sellers to request additional storage capacity by bidding on extra space.

How It Works:

  • Submit bids based on how much extra capacity you need.
  • The higher your bid, the better your chances of approval.
  • Fees apply if you don’t use the full space granted.

Snappy Tip: By holding buffer stock at SnappyCrate, you can bid strategically and only ship in what you need.


📅 3. FBA Forecasting Is Critical

With dynamic restock limits, accurate forecasting matters more than ever.

Key Forecasting Best Practices:

  • Analyze seasonal trends and promotions early.
  • Use rolling 90-day forecasts tied to Amazon’s inventory reports.
  • Maintain backup stock at your 3PL for quick replenishment.

SnappyCrate clients benefit from real-time reporting to plan inventory flow efficiently.


🚨 4. Aging Inventory Penalties Are Tougher

Amazon has increased Aged Inventory Surcharge Fees for stock sitting over 181 days.

✅ How to Avoid This:

  • Ship smaller, frequent replenishments from your 3PL.
  • Remove slow-moving SKUs before they accrue charges.
  • Use SnappyCrate’s removal order receiving and resale prep.

💡 5. How SnappyCrate Helps You Stay Ahead

  • Staging inventory at our warehouse to stay within restock limits.
  • Fast prep & ship to replenish FBA within 24–48 hours.
  • Inventory tracking to monitor sell-through and prevent overstock.
  • Removal order handling to quickly re-label and reship slow sellers.

✅ Final Thoughts

Amazon’s inventory policies are evolving fast—but with the right 3PL partner, you can stay agile. SnappyCrate helps sellers balance storage, forecasting, and compliance so they keep products in stock without racking up extra fees.

📞 Ready to master FBA restock limits and capacity management? Send us a message

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