As an Amazon seller, understanding the FBA label requirements is critical to avoiding penalties and ensuring a smooth fulfillment process. However, trying to navigate these requirements can be an overwhelming task, especially for new sellers. In this blog post, we’ll provide a comprehensive guide to help you demystify FBA Label requirements and avoid any unforeseen challenges.
1. What are FBA Label Requirements?
Before delving into the specifics of FBA label requirements, it is important first to define what FBA is. FBA stands for Fulfillment by Amazon, a service that allows sellers to store their products in Amazon fulfillmentcenters. When a product sells, Amazon takes care of the storage, packaging, shipping, and customer service. One of the requirements of FBA is labeling. Products must be labeled properly and adhere to specific guidelines.
2. Labeling Requirements and Guidelines
The labeling requirements for FBA depend on the nature of the product being sold. There are two main types of labels: FNSKU (Fulfillment Network Stock Keeping Unit) and UPC (Universal Product Code). The FNSKU label is unique to each seller and product. When the product is scanned, it identifies who the seller is and which product it is. The UPC, on the other hand, is a universal label that identifies the product to all retailers.
For most products sold on Amazon, FNSKU labeling is required. This means that sellers must affix a label to each unit or outer packaging. If a product already has a UPC, it may be used in place of the FNSKU label. However, this is only if the product is already in the Amazon catalog. Additionally, the UPC must be registered with Amazon for FBA use.
It is important to note that some products have specific labeling requirements. For example, hazardous materials and toys have additional guidelines. It is crucial that sellers follow these guidelines carefully as failure to do so can result in penalties or even immediate suspension of selling privileges.
3. Label Placement
Label placement is just as important as adhering to the correct labeling requirements. The label should be placed on a flat, easily visible surface. The barcode should face outwards to ensure quick and accurate scanning. If the product is a set or bundle, each unit should be labeled with an FNSKU label. Sellers must not cover any existing barcodes or labels on the product.
4. Penalty Fees and Consequences
Failure to comply with FBA label requirements can result in substantial penalty fees and consequences. If the product is received at the Amazon fulfillmentcenter without an appropriate label, the seller risks penalty fees and may be subject to additional processing fees. If the product is sent to the customer without the appropriate labeling, the seller may face customer returns and claims, which can impact their selling metrics.
Amazon may also refuse to accept shipments of non-compliant products in the future. In more extreme cases, Amazon may suspend the seller’s FBA privileges or even remove their account altogether.
5. Resources and Tools Available for Sellers
To ensure compliance with the FBA label requirements, Amazon provides several resources and tools for sellers. The Label Service program can help sellers apply FNSKU labels to their products for a fee. Amazon also offers a Label Preview Tool that allows sellers to preview their label placement and ensure it meets the necessary guidelines.
Amazon’s Seller Central website is another valuable resource for sellers seeking guidance on FBA label requirements. Additionally, seeking guidance from relevant industry associations can also be helpful for navigating the labeling requirements for specific product categories.
Amazon has revolutionized the way we shop, giving us the possibility to get everything we need delivered straight to our doorstep. And as an Amazon seller, you have access to a vast network of potential customers waiting to buy your products. But as with any product, there are some requirements you have to meet to be able to sell on Amazon. FBA label requirements might seem daunting, but in reality, with a bit of guidance, you can easily meet them. In this guide, we will cover everything sellers need to know about FBA label requirements.
First and foremost, FBA (Fulfillment by Amazon) label requirements help identify the products you are selling and distinguish them from other similar items on the platform. FBA labels inform Amazon’s warehouse staff of the product information, such as the item’s unique identification number (ASIN) and your company name or brand. Without the labels, Amazon cannot easily locate, store, or pick and pack your products for customers. So, it is very important to use proper labels for your products.
The second guideline is the use of the right label type. Amazon allows you to choose between two label types: the stickerless, commingled inventory (SCI) or the stickered inventory. The stickered inventory is the most common type where sellers print and apply the labels themselves and then send the products to Amazon for fulfillment. On the other hand, the stickerless commingled inventory involves taking your products to Amazon and Amazon manages everything – from labeling to stocking the inventory. However, items in stickerless commingled inventory are commingled with the same product sold by other sellers. Therefore, you must be extra careful with using correct labeling and barcode for your product if you use stickerless commingled inventory.
The third rule is with regards to the design of the label itself. FBA label requirements state that you must use a laser or thermal transfer printer and white labels to print your label. The labels must measure no less than 2 inches by 1 inch, have a round corner and have sufficient adhesive properties to remain securely in place. In addition, the font size of the barcode must be large enough – at least 0.25 inches – to ensure that the barcode can be read easily by Amazon’s scanning equipment.
The fourth guideline is the content of the FBA label. The barcode and ASIN must be included on the label in the appropriate fields: the top and bottom portions of the label, respectively. The barcodes must be clear, without creases or wrinkles that could affect the readability of the label, and be either Code 128 or Code 39. There should be no text, graphics or any other information on the label. Most importantly, do not combine ASINs on a single label, it must be unique and match with the individual item in the package. By placing ASIN on the label along with inbound shipment labels, it can prevent items from being missorted or lost.
Finally, be mindful of potential exceptions to FBA label requirements. Some items are exempt from these labeling requirements, such as products with a prep-required label which requires further prep by Amazon. In some cases, generic products such as books, DVDs and CDs with a UPC may also be accepted without FBA label requirements. However, these exceptions are case-by-case, and it is imperative for sellers to check with Amazon Seller Support or a knowledgeable FBA prep specialist before assuming that a product does not require labeling.
Conclusion: In conclusion, understanding and complying with FBA label requirements is essential for Amazon sellers. While it may seem like a daunting and complicated task, there are resources available to simplify the process. Careful adherence to labeling guidelines, coupled with the use of available tools and resources, can ensure a smooth and successful fulfillment experience for Amazon sellers.
FBA label requirements may seem overwhelming at first, but they are essential for proper processing of your inventory within Amazon’s fulfillmentcenter network. To reduce the risk of mistakes, make sure to adhere to the guidelines and design and print new labels for each and every unit that you send in. Proper labeling ensures smooth inventory tracking and minimizes the risk of errors down the supply chain. For best results, work with experienced sellers or logistics partners that have detailed knowledge of these requirements and can save you the time and headache of dealing with labeling, shipping and inventory tracking on your own. Remember, by taking the time to understand and follow FBA label requirements, you can help increase customer satisfaction, speed up processing and ultimately grow your business on Amazon.
