Key takeaways
- Accurate product data prevents downstream errors.
- Pick a packing method you can execute consistently.
- Print and apply labels properly.
- Reconcile after receiving.
The idea behind the workflow
The inbound process takes your products, asks how they are packed and then determines where they should be sent. It then guides you through labels, carrier selection and confirmation. Interface details change, so rely on the current screens and help pages while using the principles here.
Start with clean product data
Poor data creates problems at every later step. Confirm that product dimensions, weights, identifiers and prep categories are correct before starting. A wrong dimension can place the item in the wrong fee tier and cause a receiving issue.
Choose how items are packed
You may be asked whether items are packed individually or in cases with multiple units. Case-packed shipments can simplify receiving when each case is uniform and labeled properly, but they have specific requirements about content and labeling. Choose the method your operation can follow reliably.
Review placement and fee information
Check any information shown about how inventory will be distributed, and about any associated fees, before confirming. Because option names and fee structures can change, compare them against the current fee schedule and your margin model.
Print and apply labels
Print labels at the correct size and apply them to the right places. Smudged, folded or covered labels can cause scanning failures. Keep spare labels and a checklist for the packing team.
- Check label size and print quality
- Apply to flat surfaces, not seams
- Remove old labels from reused cartons
- Match carton count to labels
Select a carrier and finalize
Choose a carrier option appropriate to the shipment and finalize details such as dimensions, weights and pickup. Provide accurate dimensions because freight charges and receiving depend on them.
Track and reconcile
Monitor shipment status after dispatch and reconcile quantities when receiving is complete. Keep documentation until the shipment is fully closed.
A worked example
A seller repeatedly experiences scanning failures on cartons. Investigation shows that labels are being applied across carton seams, which causes tears in transit. They change the packing instruction to place labels on flat surfaces and the problem disappears.
Common mistakes
Frequent errors include wrong dimensions, mixing different items in a case that is declared uniform, reusing cartons with old labels and not confirming plan details before finalizing. A one-page checklist for packers prevents most of them.
Training your packing team
Even the best workflow fails if the people packing cartons do not understand it. Run a short walkthrough with printed examples of correct and incorrect labels, a sample packing list and photos of an acceptable carton. Ask new staff to pack a practice shipment under supervision before handling real inventory.
Review any receiving problems with the team rather than only with management, because the people closest to the process usually know why an error occurred and how to prevent it.
Your next three steps
Reduce errors in your packing area.
- Print a one-page guide to correct label placement.
- Check dimensions and weights in the catalog before each shipment.
- Review any receiving discrepancy with the packers who prepared it.
Frequently asked questions
Can I change a shipment after confirming?
Options depend on the stage. Check current Seller Central guidance before acting.
Why do cartons fail scanning?
Common reasons are damaged, covered or misapplied labels.
This guide is general information. Amazon's fees, policies and program rules change and vary by marketplace, so confirm current details in Seller Central and, for tax or legal questions, with a qualified adviser.