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Correct labelling for Amazon FBA (Fulfilment by Amazon) cartons requires a unique shipping label generated in Seller Central for every individual box, along with FNSKU labels on products. Labels must be applied to a flat surface, away from box seams, tape, and corners, without being obscured by stretch wrap that distorts scanning lasers. All previous labels and barcodes must be removed or covered completely, as scanning two conflicting codes causes automated sorting systems to halt the carton immediately.
Which labels are required for FBA cartons and products?
Every single carton included in a shipment to an Amazon FBA fulfilment centre must carry its own dedicated shipping label. This label is generated directly within Seller Central during the creation of the delivery plan. It is this specific identifier that links the physical carton to the pre-announced shipment in Amazon's IT system. Copying a single label and applying it across multiple outer cartons is a severe operational error. When the automated reception system encounters duplicate barcodes, it cannot assign the units to the correct shipment entry, resulting in immediate processing holds.
At the individual product level, correct item identification is mandatory. The standard requirement within the FBA framework is the FNSKU label, which represents the unique stock keeping unit identifier in Amazon's fulfilment network. This label ensures that the product is accurately identified and assigned to the correct seller account. An exception to the mandatory FNSKU application occurs when the seller utilizes manufacturer barcodes in accordance with specific program rules. The exact eligibility criteria for manufacturer barcode tracking are defined directly by Amazon.
Where should you never place labels on an FBA shipment box?
Labels must remain fully readable for both automated high-speed scanners and handheld laser devices used across logistics centres. For this reason, selecting the correct placement surface on the outer carton is critical. Labels should strictly be placed on a flat, smooth side of the carton. Applying a label over an edge, corner, or flap seam causes structural distortion of the barcode, preventing the laser head from obtaining a clear read.
Labels must never be positioned over packaging tape or strapping bands. Clear or patterned tapes reflect laser light and introduce optical read errors. Furthermore, labels must not be covered by stretch wrap or shrink film if that material wrinkles and scatters the scanner light beam. Obsolete markings from previous shipments present an equally serious risk. Old address labels, QR codes, and historical routing barcodes must be entirely removed or covered with opaque tape. A scanner that reads two conflicting codes on a single box will instantly stop the carton on the automated conveyor.
FBA carton labelling step by step
- Generate label files. Download the complete PDF label files for outer carton shipping labels from Seller Central after finalizing the shipment structure and box count.
- Verify product codes. Ensure every individual item inside the box bears a valid FNSKU label or an eligible manufacturer barcode adhering to platform rules.
- Clear box surfaces. Remove all historic address tags, warning stickers, and old barcodes from the outer carton, or obscure them completely using opaque tape.
- Print shipping labels. Print the shipment labels in high resolution, ensuring all lines of the barcode are crisp, dark, and free from smudges or streaks.
- Apply label to carton. Attach the unique shipping label flat onto a side panel, keeping clear of top flap joins, edge seams, and sealing tape.
- Inspect scanning clarity. Perform a visual check to confirm the label lies completely flat and is not obscured by wrinkled plastic wrapping.
Definitions
- FNSKU (Fulfilment Network Stock Keeping Unit): A unique barcode identifier used by Amazon to attribute physical inventory to a specific seller account and listing.
- Seller Central: The online management portal used by merchants to control Amazon sales accounts, create shipment plans, and generate dispatch documentation.
- Shipment Label: An outer box identifier generated in Amazon's system that links an individual shipping carton to a registered delivery plan.
- Laser Scanner: An optical reading device deployed in automated logistics facilities to capture barcode data from moving packages.
Checklist for FBA carton labelling
- Every outer carton carries its own unique shipping label exported from Seller Central.
- No shipping label has been duplicated or applied to more than one physical carton.
- The label is applied flat on a smooth surface, away from outer edges and corners.
- The barcode does not cross box seams, flap joints, or adhesive sealing tape.
- All old barcodes and legacy transport stickers have been completely removed or covered.
- The label surface is free from wrinkling stretch film that disrupts laser readability.
When do these labelling rules not apply?
These specific Seller Central carton labelling rules do not apply to direct-to-consumer orders fulfilled under the FBM (Fulfilment by Merchant) model. Standard carrier transport labels are used for traditional freight and courier shipments that bypass Amazon fulfilment centres entirely. Exceptions regarding FNSKU product labelling also depend on seller participation in commingled inventory programs using manufacturer barcodes, subject to Amazon's platform policies.
The OTSL role
OTSL provides logistical support to sellers delivering goods to Amazon fulfilment centres. At our warehouse facility in Milton Keynes, England, we handle full freight preparation in compliance with marketplace requirements. We offer a dedicated Amazon UK delivery service, which includes labelling cartons and pallets at our Milton Keynes site. We print labels from seller files, apply them in strict accordance with barcode readability rules, and capture photographic confirmation before dispatching cargo to the fulfilment centre. For further details regarding intake requirements, read our guide on Amazon FBA UK deliveries.
