Your First FBA Shipment — Done Right.

Before You Ship Anything

Most first shipments go wrong before a single box is packed. The reason is almost always the same: the listing and prep requirements weren't checked first. Amazon decides how your product must arrive — not you, not your supplier.

Here's what to verify before ordering inventory:

• Gating status — can your account actually sell this brand and category?
• Prep requirements — poly bag, bubble wrap, suffocation label? Check in Seller Central under the ASIN.
• Hazmat review — anything with batteries, liquids or powder can get stuck for weeks.

Creating the Shipment Plan

In Seller Central, go to Send to Amazon. This is where beginners lose money on avoidable fees.

1. Enter accurate carton dimensions and weights — estimates trigger remeasurement fees.
2. Let Amazon split shipments if it wants to. Fighting the split usually costs more than it saves.
3. Use Amazon's partnered carrier for the first shipments — it's usually the cheapest option and problems are easier to resolve.

Labeling

Every unit needs an FNSKU label unless you're using manufacturer barcode tracking. Print on thermal labels, never on plain paper with tape over it — smudged barcodes are the #1 reason for check-in delays.

After the Shipment Arrives

Check-in isn't the finish line. Within the first 48 hours after your inventory goes active:

• Verify the received quantity matches what you sent — discrepancies must be claimed within 60 days.
• Confirm your offer is live and buyable (open the listing in an incognito window).
• Watch your first sessions and adjust price against the Buy Box if needed.

That's the whole system. Boring, repeatable, profitable — exactly how we like it.