Amazon warehouses exist to support its e-commerce operations by enabling faster delivery, better inventory control, and improved customer service. Dropshipme Group has helped many Amazon customers in the USA and EU. Here, we collected several FAQs and shared our insights. Hope this helps more sellers!
1. What is Fulfillment by Amazon (FBA)?
FBA is a service where Amazon stores your inventory and handles packing, shipping, customer service, and returns. Fees include:
- Storage Fees: Monthly charges based on volume; higher in Oct–Dec.
- Fulfillment Fees: Charged per unit, based on size and weight.
- Referral Fees: 8%–15% depending on product category.
- Subscription Fees: $39.99/month for Pro sellers; $0.99 per item for Individual sellers.
2. Shipping Solutions from China to Amazon FBA
Option 1: Direct Shipping
Ship directly from your supplier to Amazon. Fast and cost-effective but less control over quality.
Option 2: Ship to Your Home First
Check products before forwarding to Amazon. Extra cost, but better quality control.
Option 3: Use a China Prep Center
Ship to a prep center first for inspection and labeling, then send to Amazon.
Aspect | Chinese Prep Service Company | American Prep Service Company |
---|---|---|
Location | Located in China, close to factories and suppliers | Located in the US, close to Amazon fulfillment centers |
Services | Often focus on inspection, labeling, and packing before shipment overseas | Offer similar services but also handle returns, repairs, and last-mile prep |
Shipping Timing | Prep happens before international shipping, potentially reducing customs issues | Prep happens domestically, allowing faster replenishment to Amazon warehouses |
Cost | Usually lower service fees due to lower labor costs | Typically higher fees but faster turnaround time |
Control Over Quality | Quality control before shipment reduces defects upfront | Can address issues closer to the customer and Amazon warehouse |
Turnaround Time | Longer overall lead time due to international shipping | Faster processing once inventory arrives in the US |
3. Shipping Methods to Amazon FBA
- Air Freight: 12–15 days; good for 500+ kg; 10–20% cheaper than express.
- Express Shipping: 5–7 days; best for 1–500 kg; simple and fast.
- Sea Freight: 25–40 days; ideal for 2+ CBM or bulky items; most economical.
4. Finding a Reliable Freight Forwarder
If you want to find reliable Freight forwarder, we recommend to go to Alibaba or Google to search Shipping agent or Freight Forwarder. Meanwhile our SourcincgXpro also offer the shipping service and consolidation service.
We offer free inspection service and can help you to make consolidation from different supplier to help you combind products and save cost.
5. Packaging and Labeling Requirements
- Use strong, corrugated boxes (preferably double-walled).
- Size: Max 25″, minimum 6″ x 4″ x 1″. Weight: Max 50 lbs unless labeled “Team Lift.”
- Seal boxes with strong tape. No straps or string.
- Apply two FBA labels per box on flat surfaces.
- Mark boxes with multiple SKUs as “Mixed SKUs.”
- Each product must have an FNSKU barcode. Sets must be labeled “Sold As Set.”
6. Tracking Your Shipment
For express: use tracking ID on courier’s website. For air/sea: ask your forwarder or use airline/container tracking systems using airway bill or B/L number.
7. What If Your Shipment Gets Lost?
If you are finding the shipping agent, and use the Alibaba trade assurance order, you can easily get refund from Alibaba. So it will be better if you supplier can support alibaba Trade Assurance order. It is super important for new seller and also for some big amount order.
- Check “Manage FBA Shipments” in Seller Central.
- Contact Amazon Seller Support and provide shipment ID, tracking info.
- Request an investigation and file a reimbursement claim if necessary.
- Keep all shipping records and proof of delivery.
8. Product Compliance Documentation
- Provide required documents: CE, UL, FCC, MSDS, ingredient lists, licenses, etc.
- Some categories (e.g., toys, food, supplements) have stricter rules.
- Upload documents in English via Seller Central.
- Non-compliance may result in listing removal or account suspension.
Need help shipping from China to Amazon FBA? Contact us at SourcingXpro — your reliable China sourcing partner.